Speed Tables

Re “Bumping into Trouble,” July 21.

Speed bumps and speed tables are installed on Fire Department emergency routes. I’m a firefighter in Tarzana, and these bumps started appearing in our district and surrounding areas several years ago. I questioned the traffic department and was told that the Fire Department gave a blanket OK for speed bump installation. I know that no one ever asked us at our station.

The truth is that speed bumps severely impact the response capability of fire resources to fire and medical emergencies. Our apparatus almost has to come to a complete stop to safely negotiate some of the more severe bumps.

When minutes count, it is discouraging for us and unfair to the general population when we are delayed. I realize that it is a trade-off in many cases, but I would like to see the local fire stations consulted in the process.

CAPT. BRUCE FRASHURE, Los Angeles Fire Station 93, Tarzana

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It is interesting that only 75% of the people on a 35-mph-designated through-street can sign a petition and affect 3,200 motorists a day. According to traffic engineer David Roseman, that allows them to “recapture their neighborhood.” What about the traffic that will be shifted to adjacent 25-mph streets without sidewalks but elementary-school children? Do these neighborhoods count? I hope those responsible on Oxnard Street enjoy the added noise and pollution and manage to avoid vehicles trying to swerve around the humps. Perhaps in a few years Stephen Elias, the responsible strategic planning consultant, will be willing to plan a way to get rid of them.

RICHARD L. BATTIN, Woodland Hills