Yuma, Arizona - The City of Yuma has become aware of heavier traffic in residential areas around road construction zones, particularly around the 16th Street and 4th Avenue improvements project. Residents in the surrounding neighborhoods are not accustomed to the heavy traffic they are experiencing, and some witnessed driver behavior has raised concerns.
The City would like to remind motorists that the speed limit in residential areas is 25 mph. But then again, you probably already knew that, didn’t you?
To help you remember this fact, the City has penned the following poem, which we hope you will take with good cheer.
THE ROADS BEFORE CHRISTMAS
T’were the days before Christmas, where on some of our roads
Not an RV could turn, nor oversize loads.
The orange cones were laid on the roadsides with care,
Aware that more drivers soon planned to be there.
The neighbors were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of solitude played in their heads.
And mom on her sofa while dad sips a glass
Let junior play ball outside on the grass.
When just past the curb there arose such a clatter,
Sounds like a truck put the new ball in tatters!
Away to the window dad flew like a flash,
To look past the place where he puts out the trash.
The LED streetlights and Christmas displays,
Lit the traffic behind, now facing delays.
When what to our wondering eyes now was shown,
A fast-speeding car in the “25” zone!
Detouring drivers, so lively and quick,
Passing each residence like they were Saint Nick.
More abundant than doves past houses they came,
As neighbors wagged fingers and cursed out their names.
Whoa, Honda! Slow, Mustang! Halt, Yukon and Hyundai!
Stop, Kia, stop Nissan, this road ain’t the fast way!
From the top of the block, to the construction wall,
Watch your speed, then “dash away all!”
When you spring to your sleigh, give those neighbors a wink
And drive like you would if first you would think!
Obey all road signs; there’s no need for pouts,
Please plan ahead, and take alternate routes!
So we say to you now, as this verse takes a dive,
Merry detours to all, and to all a safe drive!
“To our Yuma community, we are asking you to catch that Christmas cheer and leave the Scrooge at home while driving,” said Yuma Police Chief John Lekan. “Please leave the ‘hauling butt’ to Santa on Christmas Eve and please drive safely and with kindness to others.”
If you have any questions you can call the Yuma Police Department at (928) 783-4421.