Bumping Up the Speed on Your Speed Bump Quest
So, you want speed bumps. You're not alone. Countless Chicagoans have stared at speeding cars, clutched their children a little tighter, and thought, "I could really use a speed bump right about now." But how do you actually get one? Let’s dive into this thrilling world of traffic calming.
Step 1: Are You Sure You Want This?
Before we embark on this journey, let's be clear: speed bumps are like potato chips. You can never have just one. Once you get one, you'll probably want more. And more. And then you'll start plotting world domination with your speed bump empire. If you're ready for that kind of commitment, let's proceed.
Step 2: Rally the Troops
Speed bump acquisition is a team sport. You'll need your neighbors. All of them. Even the ones with the weird garden gnomes. You'll need their signatures on a petition. Think of it as a real-life game of Pokémon Go, but instead of catching Pikachu, you're catching signatures.
Step 3: Engage Your Alderman
Your alderman is the gatekeeper to the speed bump kingdom. They have the power to make your dreams a reality (or crush them mercilessly). So, arm yourself with data (like accident reports or speed studies), charm, and maybe a homemade pie. A good alderman loves a good pie.
Step 4: The Waiting Game
Now comes the hardest part: waiting. It's like waiting for your pizza to arrive, but instead of deliciousness, you're waiting for something that will make your car bounce. Enjoy this time to daydream about the sweet, sweet revenge you'll get on those speeding jerks.
Step 5: The Triumphant Installation
And finally, the day arrives! The speed bump is born! Celebrate with a block party, a parade, or at least a really good round of applause. You've done it. You've tamed the streets. You're a speed bump hero.
But wait, there's more!
You might be wondering how to navigate this speed bump labyrinth. Here are some frequently asked questions to get you started:
- How to find my alderman? Check the Chicago City Clerk's website or look for ward signs in your neighborhood.
- How many signatures do I need? This varies by ward, but generally, you'll need a majority of residents on the block to sign the petition.
- How long does the process take? It can take several months, so patience is key.
- How can I make my petition more persuasive? Include data on speeding incidents, traffic volume, and any near-misses. Photos and videos can also be helpful.
- What if my neighbors don't want speed bumps? Try to understand their concerns and see if there's a compromise. Maybe you can start with a temporary speed bump or other traffic calming measures.
Remember, getting a speed bump is a marathon, not a sprint. But with determination and a little elbow grease (or should I say, petition signing?), you can create a safer, quieter neighborhood for everyone.