Commissioner Eileen Higgins, DTPW act swiftly to improve Shenandoah safety
In response to a fatal traffic incident near the Shenandoah Library, Miami-Dade County has introduced a new traffic pattern on SW 21st Avenue, an area often used by pedestrians, families, and cyclists. At the request of District 5 Commissioner Eileen Higgins, you'll now see new 4-way stop signs from SW 16th Street all the way to Coral Way.
This is a big step to finally get cars to slow down on SW 21st Avenue and keep our residents safer. This past tragedy has really hit the Shenandoah community hard, bringing on so much grief and sparking urgent calls for safer streets. Commissioner Eileen Higgins emphasized that the changes are a step toward building safer, more walkable neighborhoods for everyone.
SW 21st Avenue: A community reeling from tragedy
The traffic fatality near the Shenandoah Library struck a painful chord with residents who frequent the area’s library, park, and local sidewalks. In the days following the accident, Commissioner Higgins and her office moved quickly to coordinate with the Miami-Dade Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) to implement the new safety measures.
“These changes are about saving lives,” said Commissioner Eileen Higgins. “We’re asking drivers to please slow down and get familiar with the new stop pattern. We’re all neighbors here, and we all deserve safe streets.”
Coordinated action and outreach
In addition to the stop sign installations, the City of Miami Police Department has been stationed along the corridor to guide motorists during the transition period. The Commissioner’s office also rolled out a local awareness campaign to inform residents and nearby businesses of the updates.
Further improvements may be on the horizon. According to Higgins, the County is working with the City of Miami Resilience and Public Works Department on a more comprehensive traffic calming plan for the Shenandoah area.
“We’re committed to lasting solutions, not just temporary fixes,” she added.
Prioritizing pedestrian safety
While infrastructure improvements are vital, Commissioner Higgins stressed that long-term community safety requires shared responsibility. Residents are encouraged to remain alert, report unsafe behavior, and advocate for continued investment in pedestrian-first planning.
“Pedestrian safety must always come first,” she said. “It’s not just policy but personal. Every life matters, and we must design our streets with that in mind.”
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