Suburban stop signs demand compliance

January 10, 2006 (WLS) -- "Stop" really does mean stop for drivers who approach intersections in one north suburb. Officials in Park Ridge have put up new signs designed to drive home the idea with drivers that they need to obey those red road signs.

On the streets of Park Ridge there is a debate about stop signs and whether drivers obey them.

"I see people flying by all the time," said Jackie Arvidson, Park Ridge resident.

"I haven't noticed people running these stops signs, not at all," said Karen Shields, Park Ridge resident.

Plenty of residents have noticed and have notified the Park Ridge Police Department. So, police have tried a new tactic. It's not just "stop" anymore. It's "stop means stop."

"It makes people laugh, but I mean, it catches their attention, they obviously stop," said Joey Donnelly, obedient driver.

"We're hoping it's making them conscious about their driving, letting them know that we're out there and serious about traffic enforcement," said Commander Lou Jogmen.

Serious, as in a ticket costs $50 to $75. Last year, police wrote 9,800 traffic citations. They hope the new signs will help.

Residents, though, are divided.

"My first reaction was, 'Hmm, that's not a bad idea.' That was my first reaction. I did not take it as an insult or anything like that," said Mike Shields, pedestrian.

"I think my first thought was, 'I don't need to be told what stop means,' " said Sandy Doran.

There are now four "stop means stop" signs in Park Ridge, but during the last year, more than 100 stop signs have been added in the area.

Is it effective? It depends on who you ask.

"I think there are too many stops signs going up in Park Ridge. Every block. It's too many," said Marcelaine Zimmermann.

Police believe their stop sign strategy is working. But they are worried the novelty of the new signs will wear off. They plan to keep drivers guessing and will move the new signs around the city.

The new "stop means stop" signs cost $20 each.

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