The Orange City Council recently convened to address ongoing safety concerns surrounding the historic fountain located at the center of Plaza Park in Old Towne Orange. This landmark, situated within the city’s iconic traffic circle, has been the site of numerous vehicle collisions in recent years.
Since 2018, the fountain has been involved in 44 accidents, with incidents often occurring late at night and frequently involving impaired drivers. In some cases, vehicles have struck the structure with such force that they became airborne or overturned.
During the council meeting, members discussed various potential safety enhancements, including the installation of additional bollards, median-splitter islands, rumble strips, boulders, or even closing the street during late-night hours. However, some residents expressed concerns that previous safety measures, such as the installation of bollards costing the city hundreds of thousands of dollars, have not effectively resolved the problem.
Ultimately, the council decided not to implement any immediate physical changes but directed city staff to further research and propose viable solutions. Additionally, they are considering the placement of reflectors in the area to better alert drivers to the traffic circle ahead.
Ensuring the safety of both residents and the preservation of the city’s historic landmarks remains a priority for Orange city officials. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and participate in future discussions regarding this ongoing issue.