Phoenix Council to Discuss Reverse Lanes Removal May 21

A petition with over 4,000 signatures is urging Phoenix to remove the controversial reverse lanes on 7th Avenue and 7th Street, citing confusion, frequent accidents, and negative impacts on local businesses. Residents and business owners argue the lanes, which change direction during rush hours, are outdated and unsafe, contributing to aggressive driving. A 2021 city study acknowledged safety issues but projected that eliminating the lanes could increase rush hour commute times by 40% and worsen intersection congestion. The Phoenix City Council is scheduled to discuss the reverse lanes issue on May 21. Separately, another petition calls attention to fading crosswalk paint and pedestrian safety, noting that nearly half of fatal crashes in Phoenix involve pedestrians. Advocates are pushing for improved infrastructure and enforcement measures to enhance traffic and pedestrian safety.