Heavy truck traffic on hilly Highland Street raises safety concerns

Truck in autumn
Autumn presents special dangers for commercial truck drivers. Stock photo.

PARK RIDGE—After receiving complaints from residents about hazardous tractor-trailer traffic on Highland Street, Mayor Keith Misciagna announced that police would assess the situation and likely prepare an ordinance soon to restrict large trucks from the roadway.

On Oct. 22, Misciagna reported that Lt. Peter Mauro, the PRPD’s traffic expert, conducted a survey of truck traffic on Highland Street. Based on the findings, the council is expected to consider a restriction on heavy trucks navigating the street’s steep terrain.

Resident Dea Perez addressed the council, reiterating her concerns about the increased truck traffic on Highland Street. Perez stated that truck volume has “increased 10-fold in the last two years,” with noticeable spikes in summer and likely more to come during the holiday season. She estimated that approximately ten tractor-trailers traveled up and down Highland Street in a single day. Highland Street serves as a connector between Broadway and Kinderkamack Road, adding to its appeal for through-traffic.

“The street has become increasingly dangerous,” Perez said, adding that fallen leaves have made the passable roadway even narrower for large vehicles.

Another resident, retired truck driver Robert Rypkema of Terrace Street, also voiced concerns. He stated that he would “never” attempt to navigate the hill with a tractor-trailer due to the risk. Rypkema recalled a January snowstorm incident when a truck became stuck on the hill, which he believed could have resulted in a severe accident. He added that he recently heard brake squeals from a truck descending the hill, an indicator of brake strain on such a steep grade.

Rypkema attributed the issue in part to GPS systems that often direct truck drivers down unsuitable routes. “GPS systems can lead you into dangerous situations. This driver was in one of those situations,” he noted, referring to the truck driver who was caught on a snowy hill. He expressed concern about truck traffic on the street but was uncertain how to notify GPS providers about potential road restrictions.

Another resident reported seeing a large truck causing traffic issues while turning left onto Broadway in Woodcliff Lake, possibly following GPS instructions.

In response, Misciagna confirmed that police would investigate and that the council would take steps toward drafting an ordinance, posting signage, and attempting to notify GPS providers about the new restrictions. “We didn’t know that it’s as bad as it is,” Misciagna acknowledged.