TEMPLE TERRACE, Fla. (WFLA) — 8 On Your Side is achieving outcomes for a retired firefighter captain who advocated for safety enhancements in Temple Terrace.
The city has implemented measures to ensure safer streets along Ridgedale Road. This area, which includes two schools, a sports complex, a public library, and a church, serves as a focal point for children and their families.
Fred Morello had long worried that people were driving too fast along Ridgedale Road.
“I feel more comfortable for my grandkids on this road,” he said. “I was horrified before because it was just a matter of time.”
Last week, the City of Temple Terrace announced that to tackle traffic safety issues in this location, it installed rubberized speed humps, new school zone signs, and flashing beacons following Ridgedale’s selection for traffic calming upgrades.
“There’s less traffic cars are slowing down,” Morello said. “It’s much safer along the stretch of road.”
8 On Your Side first reported on the issue in April 2024 when Morello turned to us for help.
“I initially started sending emails and calling the city, trying to get speed bumps and a crosswalk,” Morello said. “I got nowhere until Channel 8 called and got a traffic study done.”
That study found 68% of drivers on Ridgedale were speeding. Police clocked one driver going 74 in a 25 mile per hour zone.
“The whole stretch from the stoplight to here has speed bumps and it’s made a huge, huge difference,” Morello said.
Morello is grateful to finally see the city take action.
“I thank Channel 8 it wouldn’t have happened without Channel 8,” he said. “I’d truly believe that.”
Morello said he would also like to thank the City of Temple Terrace, but he wishes it didn’t take so long.
