New stop signs installed in Thermal area to improve traffic safety

THERMAL, Calif. (KESQ) - Stop signs were installed on Airport Boulevard in the Thermal area to improve traffic safety near Coachella Valley High School, it was announced today.

Although there were already stop signs at the intersection on both sides of Calhoun Street, new ones were installed because "Traffic didn't stop on Airport Boulevard,'' especially with the road used for school drop off and pick up, officials said.

The Riverside County Transportation Department installed them last month, making the intersection a four-way stop.   

Albert Keck II, president of Hadley Date Farms, pushed for the project and worked with the county's transportation department and Fourth District Riverside County Board of Supervisors Manuel Perez.

"I am very grateful and delighted that the county put the stop signs in. This is a busy intersection and, twice a day, it makes it very tenuous to et across the intersection. Something needed to be done about it and I am grateful for Supervisor Perez for staying on it and not letting it go,'' Keck said.   

Coachella Valley Unified School District Superintendent Frances Esparza said, "We are deeply grateful for this important safety enhancement for our students, families and staff."  

"This is a major safety improvement for students and parents, as well as a safety and logistical improvement for the region's agricultural industry,'' Perez said.