Montclair's Street Safety Initiatives: Community Concerns and Proposed Solutions

Montclair's recent traffic modifications, particularly the one-way designation on Linden Avenue between Orange Road and Willowdale Avenue, have sparked frustration among residents. At a street safety meeting on March 31, 2026, local resident Michael Miller highlighted issues with inadequate signage, stating that drivers often miss the one-way sign, leading to dangerous situations. He emphasized the need for additional stop signs at the intersection of Willowdale and Linden Avenue to enhance safety. Jacob Nieman, the township's Complete Streets Director, acknowledged these concerns and discussed broader strategies aimed at improving traffic safety.

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Nieman outlined the township's ambitious goal to eliminate all roadway deaths and injuries by 2028. He noted a rise in pedestrian fatalities post-pandemic and attributed some of the danger to modern vehicle designs, particularly SUVs and pickup trucks, which pose greater risks to pedestrians. To address these issues, the township is implementing various traffic-calming measures, including "chicaning" on Upper Mountain Avenue, which involves altering road layouts to reduce speeds.

Residents Push for Street Safety as Montclair Rolls Out Fixes

In addition to these changes, the township plans to introduce "demonstration projects" as part of a "Local Safety Action Plan." These temporary installations will include painted curb extensions, flexible bollards, and improved crosswalks at various locations, such as North Fullerton Avenue and Claremont Avenue, and Cedar Avenue and High Street.

Residents Push for Street Safety as Montclair Rolls Out Fixes

Despite the proposed improvements, residents have expressed ongoing concerns about specific intersections, particularly the traffic signal at Watchung Plaza and Park Street. Claire Ciliotta, a local resident, reported multiple accidents since the installation of the signal, urging the county to address these safety issues. Additionally, concerns were raised about the need for a flashing pedestrian signal at the intersection of Orange Road and Hitchcock Place, where children frequently cross.

Residents Push for Street Safety as Montclair Rolls Out Fixes

Nieman acknowledged the staffing challenges within the roads department, which has limited resources for implementing these safety measures. Mayor Renee Baskerville echoed these concerns, noting budget constraints that may hinder the township's ability to enhance street safety effectively.

Residents Push for Street Safety as Montclair Rolls Out Fixes

Nieman indicated that once the roads crew is fully staffed, a clearer timeline for improved signage and other safety measures could be established. He expressed optimism about community support for funding better signage on Linden Avenue, with residents like Miller willing to contribute financially.

Residents Push for Street Safety as Montclair Rolls Out Fixes

As Montclair moves forward with its safety initiatives, the township faces the dual challenge of addressing immediate community concerns while working within budgetary limitations to implement long-term solutions for safer streets.

Residents Push for Street Safety as Montclair Rolls Out Fixes