Responding to persistent concerns raised by residents regarding speeding and traffic safety, Mayor Alves held eight Town Hall meetings in the early months of 2024. There, he engaged in direct conversations with community members, gaining valuable insights into their experiences and frustrations related to traffic issues in their neighborhoods.

In addressing these concerns, the mayor has committed to several proactive measures. These include improving conditions at critical intersections through the strategic installation of stop signs and flashing lights. Additionally, he has pledged to bolster speeding enforcement by expanding the capabilities of the Danbury Police Department.

“We’re proud to see that our investment and commitment to keeping Danbury residents safe has begun to prove itself,” stated Mayor Alves. “A 50% increase in traffic enforcement is a huge step towards stopping the violations on our streets and making our communities safer. As a driver and a father, I recognize that this is a major improvement, but still not enough. We’re going to continue strengthening our police department, ramping up our traffic enforcement, and ensuring anyone who drives in our City has the safety of our roads and residents in mind.”

The primary responsibility for this increased traffic enforcement lies with the Danbury Police Department’s Uniformed Services Bureau, which encompasses the Patrol Division and the Community Conditions and Traffic Units. Their mission is to preserve peace and protect lives by enforcing traffic laws impartially and effectively. Officers in this bureau are dedicated to working collaboratively to maintain public trust and provide exceptional service.

Chief Patrick Ridenhour of the Danbury Police Department expressed optimism about the recent accomplishments: “We are encouraged by this success, and we remain committed to reducing accidents and promoting responsible driving. The Danbury Police Department will continue to prioritize the safety of our streets, with the goal of further reducing accidents and fostering a safer driving environment for everyone. Increased traffic enforcement also serves as a deterrent to those who may come here to commit other crimes. We greatly appreciate the support from Mayor Alves and his administration in providing the staffing and resources for this initiative.”

As part of this ongoing effort, the police will focus on high-traffic areas and times where violations commonly occur, employing both marked and unmarked vehicles to monitor and enforce traffic laws. In addition, community outreach programs will be introduced to educate residents about traffic safety, responsible driving habits, and the importance of obeying speed limits.

Enhanced enforcement is seen as a vital step in making Danbury roads safer for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. As the city moves forward with these initiatives, Mayor Alves remains steadfast in his resolve to ensure the safety and well-being of every resident.

Residents of Danbury are encouraged to take part in ongoing discussions about traffic safety and to report any concerns regarding speeding or other dangerous driving behaviors to the local police department.

For continuing updates on road safety initiatives and local traffic enforcement efforts, residents can visit the City of Danbury's official website.