A recent Falls Church City policing priorities meeting highlighted a common concern for many families and students: how to make traveling around the city safer, especially for young pedestrians, cyclists and drivers near Meridian.
The meeting, which was held as part of the Falls Church Police Department’s strategic planning process, invited community members of all ages to share their concerns about policing issues, neighborhood safety, future department policies and many more. From staffing projections to emergency response times, one common theme was clearly prevalent. Residents want a stronger, more visible connection between police and the community.
Traffic and speeding were among the most repeated concerns, with residents pointing to problematic areas such as Oak Street and Seaton Lane, which can endanger young students lingering there after dismissal times. Additionally, it was said that many drivers use Columbia Street to get past traffic to the Metro or Sycamore Street.
Unfortunately, this has led to increased risk for young children or students crossing or walking along the road, with some reports of kids nearly being hit by cars. Several comments focused on children’s safety as pedestrians, including the need for parents and young people to better understand traffic laws, safe crossing habits and how to report dangerous driving.
“One time my friend and I were crossing Mustang Alley after cross country, and a speeding car would’ve run her over if it weren’t for me literally yanking her back,” said freshman Nairi Kleinfeld.
For Meridian students, these concerns can also make negative impacts. Many students walk, bike or drive through Falls Church daily to get to school, afterschool activities or around the city. Community members that attended the meeting said they would like to see more officers on foot and bikes, not just sitting in patrol cars, so students and residents can build a sense of familiarity with police before emergencies occur.
The meeting also raised questions about how the city communicates with its younger residents. Some attendees noted that community response to policing meetings or any city hall meetings are minimal unless there is a major problem. Others questioned how people who are new to the city are supposed to hear about these discussions, suggesting that traditional newsletters and press notices may not be enough to reach students.
One possible solution discussed was bringing more police outreach directly to Meridian. A presentation about the police academy or similar law-enforcement education programs can raise awareness among students of what officers do and how local policing works.
For students who are 18 and older, the police academy application could also be an opportunity to learn more about the Police Department in Falls Church. Whether students are interested in high-energy criminal justice or simply want to learn more about community safety, the academy can offer a closer look at policing beyond what students see only with their eyes.
“Personally, I’ve never really thought much about the police department here, but my mom did attend the meeting and she said that she might do the police academy just to learn more,” explained senior Anna Gray.
As Falls Church continues developing its police department’s strategic plan, Meridian students could play an important role in shaping what community policing will look like in the future.
