DEARBORN HEIGHTS, Mich. – City leaders in Dearborn Heights say they’re stepping up efforts to make residential streets safer for both drivers and pedestrians, especially in areas where neighbors report ongoing issues with speeding, reckless driving, and motorists ignoring stop signs.
Residents in multiple neighborhoods say traffic has been a long-standing concern.
“Oh, it’s been a big concern,” Sally Niemczewsk said when asked about conditions in the area.
Another resident described certain times of day as particularly challenging.
“It can be a little congested, especially around pickup time, drop-off time,” said Niemczewsk.
In response, the city has begun installing new solar-powered flashing stop signs at some four-way stops in what officials call high-risk locations.
The goal is to improve visibility and grab drivers’ attention before they enter intersections.
“They blow through these things,” one resident said, describing drivers who fail to stop. Another neighbor said the flashing signs could help: “Yeah, they’re good. It at least catches your attention.”
The new signs are part of a pilot program unanimously approved by the Dearborn Heights City Council in February.
At the time, Mayor Mo Baydoun said the initiative was an important step toward improving neighborhood safety.
Still, some residents say they’re waiting to see results.
“I would hope it does a lot,” Niemczewski said. “But I haven’t seen it so far.”
For now, the city is prioritizing installation near schools and parks. Neighbors say the changes are needed, and they’re urging drivers to slow down and follow the rules of the road.
“Please don’t do that,” one woman said, referring to reckless driving. “There’s been way too many accidents of kids being on their bikes, of pedestrians walking and getting hit, and it’s really traumatic.”
The city says it will continue its “Safe Streets for All” efforts and is asking residents to share feedback as officials review crash data, identify high-risk areas, and plan additional safety improvements.
Safe Streets for All Community Workshops
Monday, April 27, 2026 | 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.Richard Young Rec. Center, 5400 McKinley Street, Wednesday, April 29, 2026 | 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Canfield Community Center, 1801 N. Beech Daly Road.