DALLAS, Texas — Loop 12/Ledbetter is known by many as the deadliest stretch of road in the city of Dallas. For Craig Berry, the sound of accidents is something that’s become common to him.
“Once every two or three weeks, there’s a major crash right there at that intersection,” Berry, a nearby resident, explained. “We can hear it in the house. It’s so loud, sometimes you wonder if it’s right here by the house.”
According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) and the city of Dallas, there have been more than 500 crashes along this stretch of road over the last five years, resulting in 116 deaths. “We’re focusing with laser certainty on this particular issue,” said Senator Royse West.
On Friday, Sen. West, along with Dallas City Councilwoman Carlyon King-Arnold and Dallas Interim Police Chief Mike Igo, joined together at a podium to share updates on safety measures for Loop 12.
“Every life lost on the road has tremendous impact beyond that accident scene,” said Chief Igo.
In September, the speed limit was reduced from 45 mph to 40 mph to slow traffic and prevent accidents.
Recently, TxDOT and the city have implemented mobile speed feedback signs along Loop 12 that will rotate locations to alert drivers to their speed. Additionally, plans are in place to add traffic signals at 16 key locations along the road.
“That's a start,” Berry said. He hopes there will be more improvements to the area in time.
Sen. West said they will continue to add more safety measures to that area.