Neighbor News
New Local Group Targets Safer Streets, Looks to Mount Prospect Model
Inspired by a successful Mount Prospect initiative, residents form a group to boost street safety and reduce crashes in Arlington Heights.
Arlington Heights – What was supposed to be a casual, in-person interview at Sports Page Bar and Grill turned into a Zoom call when Arlington Heights resident Brian Larson had to stay home due to a sick family member. Rob Brodecki, another key contributor to the initiative, was unable to attend. The discussion offered a closer look at the Safe Streets Alliance for Arlington Heights, a new group focused on improving bicycle and pedestrian safety in the village.
Even with the change in plans, the virtual meeting provided a detailed look into a fast-growing local effort to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety in Arlington Heights.
The group launched its Facebook page in February 2025 and quickly attracted attention from residents concerned about traffic, safety near schools, and walkability. “It kind of snowballed incredibly quickly,” said Larson, reflecting on how quickly interest and engagement grew.
One of their first actions was to survey local mayoral and trustee candidates about their views on bike and pedestrian safety. More than half of the candidates responded, and several of those who did went on to win their elections. While the group did not publish the results, the process gave members valuable insight and helped establish early lines of communication with newly elected officials.
The group operates on a collaborative model, with members contributing according to their strengths. Brodecki leads outreach to village staff, while others focus on data analysis, planning, and public engagement. So far, village officials have been receptive. “Yeah, there’s definitely been an openness,” Larson said. “I think the village takes a welcoming stance toward its residents and wants to hear that feedback, so we can all make the village even better.”
One of the group’s long-term goals is to support neighborhood-based traffic-calming demonstration projects initiated by residents. These could include temporary design changes to showcase how streets could become safer near schools, parks, or senior housing. The initiative is inspired in part by Mount Prospect’s Friendly Neighborhood Street Program, which the group has raised with the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee.
They are also encouraging residents to use the village’s 311-style online request system to report safety concerns or suggest improvements. Larson noted that the group is advocating for a clearer, more transparent policy for how those requests are handled by the village.
Education is a key component as well. While the group does not yet produce its own materials, it regularly shares resources from national and regional safety organizations. “There really isn’t a need to reinvent the wheel,” Larson said. “That gives us more space to spend time focusing on Arlington Heights-specific issues… and be a place residents can turn to for facts about local safety concerns.”
Though still in its early stages, the group has already built momentum through organization, engagement, and a shared vision. As the community heads into the warmer months and more residents head outdoors, their work may help set the stage for safer, more walkable neighborhoods in Arlington Heights.
Residents interested in safer streets, improved walkability, or simply joining the conversation are encouraged to get involved. To learn more or participate in the initiative, visit the group’s Facebook page at facebook.com/groups/1719933622071339 or email safestreetsallianceah@gmail.com.
