Sun Lakes Residents Raise Safety Concerns

Neighbors in Sun Lakes have expressed growing alarm regarding safety conditions on Riggs Road, particularly at the intersection with Alma School Road. This intersection, along with another location, was the site of crashes on Tuesday, prompting immediate concern from the community.

Community Voices Concerns Online

Following the recent incidents, residents quickly took to online platforms like NextDoor to share their frustrations. Many cited speeding and aggressive driving as major contributing factors to the dangerous conditions on Riggs Road.

Resident Testimonials

Donald Allen, a Sun Lakes resident, stated, “I don’t pull out until I have looked both ways twice on a green light.” Gerard Giordano described the situation as “a bad cocktail out there on Riggs Road,” adding, “I’ve noticed just a general impatience…people drive like they are playing a video game.”

Crash Statistics Reveal a Pattern

Data from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) confirms residents’ concerns. Over the past six months, there have been 12 crashes on the MCSO’s stretch of Riggs Road, tragically including two fatalities.

MCSO Identifies Speed as a Key Factor

According to Sgt. Enriquez of the MCSO, “A lot of the accidents that have happened the last six months, a lot of them have to do with speed.”

Increased Law Enforcement Presence Planned

The MCSO is responding to the community’s concerns by increasing patrols on Riggs Road starting next week. This will include the deployment of undercover units focused on aggressive driving enforcement.

Call for Public Assistance

Sgt. Enriquez emphasized that law enforcement efforts alone will not be sufficient. “It’s not just us; we need the help of the public,” he stated. Residents are encouraged to report instances of reckless driving and speeding to the sheriff’s office.

Community Reaction to Increased Patrols

Residents expressed optimism about the planned increase in patrols. “Good, great, because I won’t be one of the guys they ticket,” said Giordano. Allen added, “That’s positive and that is encouraging to hear and hopefully that will have an effect.”

Residents can request additional patrols through the sheriff’s office website or social media channels.