Pedestrian safety was at the forefront of the decision to place three speed bumps on Main Street in Fort Stockton this week.

Fort Stockton City Manager Frank Rodriguez considered numerous factors when making the decision, including recommendations from local business owners, city council, and observations made.

“Historically, if you look at all of the accidents that have happened in the city of Fort Stockton, we’re just trying to be proactive to come up with some ways to slow traffic down and be safe,” Rodriguez said. “Within a three week span I had these people talk to me about it, so I went and parked and watched. I was able to observe and see people speed through there.”

The three speed bumps range from Third Street near Heritage Funeral Home to First Street nears B’s Family Dining. The speed bump in the middle of outer two is located near Second Street.

Bella Terrazza’s owner Amy Terrazza told the Pioneer that the speed reduction mechanisms have been long needed in the area.

“I’m just very thankful, I think it’s going to help.” she said. “My concern was about the customers who didn’t know about the speeding and the children that are walking to get ice cream (at Mesquite Tree).”

An array of options were looked at to increase pedestrian safety in the area before purchasing the speed bumps Rodriguez added.

Lowering the speed limit, which would have needed city council approval, and increasing patrol in the area were options ultimately not chosen because of the potential lack of adherence, and ability to patrol during busy times each day.

“I think that the speed bumps because of that congestion area and based on the make-up of the traffic we’re having, that was the best solution. You can put a 10 miles per hour sign but will they versus a speed bump,” he said. “The goal is to promote safety.”

The cost of the speed bumps, which were ordered around three months ago, were approximately $2,500 according to Rodriguez.