New Haven residents are hearing a clear message from the city’s transit chief: their feedback matters. Haley Simpson, the director of transportation, traffic, and parking, spent Thursday on WNHH FM’s “Dateline New Haven” emphasizing how community comments have shaped a series of safety and mobility projects rolled out during her first year.
Listening to Neighbors Improves Streets
Simpson, a 34‑year‑old native of the Hill who grew up riding CT Transit buses to Hillhouse High School, has made communication a top priority. She noted that the city’s recent installation of cameras at school‑bus stops captured nearly 16,000 violations between March and early October, prompting an appeals process that lets drivers review video evidence before an independent hearing officer decides the outcome.
“The more feedback we receive, the better we can serve the community,” Simpson said. “Everyone deserves to be heard, and we learn a great deal when we listen.”
Enforcement Tools Target Speeding and Red‑Light Violations
In addition to school‑bus stop cameras, the city has deployed automated speed and red‑light cameras. Within the first two weeks of a month‑long warning period, 2,700 citations were issued, signaling a proactive approach to curb dangerous driving.
Two‑Way Streets and Micromobility Expansion
Simpson’s office is overseeing the gradual conversion of Chapel Street to two‑way traffic. After an initial stretch from College to York was delayed due to a lack of coordination with the Traffic Authority, the second phase to Dwight Street is now moving forward with regular updates to commissioners and nearby residents.
Micromobility options have also expanded. After seniors on Goffe Street requested electric scooters with seats, the city added more Veo‑brand scooters to that hub and extended the program to Fair Haven, responding directly to resident needs.
Addressing Pedestrian Timing and Accessibility
At a recent community‑management meeting for the Whalley, Edgewood, and Beaver Hills neighborhoods, residents raised concerns about walk‑signal timing. Simpson confirmed that city staff are reviewing signal cycles to ensure adequate crossing time for pedestrians and vehicles alike.
She also highlighted efforts to improve transit accessibility for people with disabilities, crediting activist David Agosta for pointing out infrastructure gaps that the city is now addressing.
Keeping the City Moving During Snowstorms
Early in her tenure, Simpson experienced the challenges of snow removal firsthand while working in the Emergency Operations Center. Riding with police to ticket and tow illegally parked cars that blocked snow‑clearing routes reinforced her belief that clear communication between city departments and the public is essential.
Simpson concluded, “I don’t take things personally. Everyone wants to be heard, and when we listen we can find solutions that make our streets safer and our travel smoother for all New Haveners.”
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
