The activation of a new traffic signal at Audubon and Del Mar avenues in northwest Fresno will enhance neighborhood safety and improve access to the San Joaquin River Parkway, city leaders said Tuesday morning.

A news conference to mark the occasion revealed that residents have fought for 20 years to have a traffic signal installed at the intersection. Accordingly, Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer praised the area’s city council representative, Mike Karbassi, for helping make the $1 million project a reality.

“Mike has been a bulldog on this issue, constantly pushing to get this signal light installed,” Dyer said. “It’s not just about enforcement and education; it’s about having the right infrastructure in place. This traffic signal is a crucial part of making Audubon Avenue safer and improving access to our beautiful San Joaquin River.”

Barry Bauer, who lives in the neighborhood, shared his perspective on the impact of the new signal.

“This intersection has always been dangerous, especially for the hundreds of people living in the nearby apartments. We’ve been working diligently to get this signal installed as part of a larger effort to improve access to the river and slow down traffic. It’s been a long time coming, but finally, we’ve made it happen.”

Karbassi shared that he had heard from Bauer and others about the traffic signal’s importance as soon as he was sworn into office.

Karbassi: ‘Proud We Got It Done’

“Five years ago, when I first walked into City Hall, one of the top issues I heard from residents was the need to slow down traffic in this neighborhood,” Karbassi said. “Residents told me they had been trying for 20 years to make this happen, and today, I’m proud to say we got it done.”

San Joaquin River Conservancy Executive Officer Kari Daniska emphasized the signal’s importance for river access.

“With the activation of this traffic light, we’re celebrating a milestone in improving safe access to the River West Eaton Trail Extension Project. This is a priority for both recreation and conservation, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with the city of Fresno to ensure safe access for all,” she said.

When asked about the project’s $1 million price tag, Karbassi said that many of the components that go in traffic signals have seen sharp price increases.