(Rightallegiance.com) – Oakland, California, has taken a significant step to address crime-related issues by removing traffic lights at a busy four-way intersection. This decision comes as the city struggles with high crime rates and thefts, many of which are attributed to a large homeless encampment nearby.
Locals report that Oakland has been dealing with increased incidents of theft, including the stealing of copper wires and damage to city infrastructure. In an effort to prevent criminals from tampering with electrical boxes, the city initially placed cement barriers over them. However, this measure proved ineffective. Now, the city has replaced the traffic lights at the intersection with stop signs.
Tam Le, who owns Le’s Auto Body & Engine Repair near the intersection, expressed frustration with the city’s actions. “It’s just telling us that the city is giving up on us,” Le told CBS News. “If you really want to fix the stop sign, I think you really have to clean up this homeless encampment.”
For months, the traffic lights had been malfunctioning due to criminal activity, including the theft of wires. Mason Young, a local resident, highlighted the dangers of driving through the intersection, citing a recent accident. “We gotta stop just putting band-aids on things. Although, a band-aid is better than bleeding out,” Young remarked.
Recent police data reveals a 22% increase in violent crime in Oakland this year, along with nearly a 10% rise in commercial burglary. The city’s crime situation has led to a significant response from the community.
In September, over 200 business owners temporarily closed their stores in protest against the government’s handling of public safety. This strike occurred shortly after city officials missed a deadline to apply for state funding to combat retail theft. In response, Oakland city leaders launched a grant program to support small business owners in hosting events like workout classes, musical performances, and movie nights to attract customers back to local shops affected by crime.
Despite these efforts, the community remains concerned. Oakland officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the situation. CBS News reported that the stop signs are a temporary measure, but there is currently no timeline for when the traffic lights will be restored.
As Oakland continues to grapple with crime and public safety issues, the removal of traffic lights at this intersection serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the city and its residents.