I was heartened to read in the Sun Journal (Dec. 6) that Paris Police Chief Michael Madden “is launching a campaign to combat speeding” in Paris. Residents of the Hebron Road (Route 119) have been living with an unsafe situation for several years now and welcome a crackdown on speeders.

Traffic volume on the Hebron Road has increased significantly through the years, and many vehicles are moving at unsafe speeds.

Decades ago, area residents resisted driving the Hebron Road to Lewiston and Auburn (particularly in the winter) because the road was so unsafe. Through the years, the Maine DOT has made many improvements: straightening sharp turns, improving drainage, resurfacing, etc. Now it is a reasonable and quick way to get to the Lewiston-Auburn area.

Unfortunately, increased traffic volume and excessive speed have made it unsafe for drivers and residents.

A few years ago, I was sideswiped while trying to make a left-hand turn into my own driveway. Three years ago, a driver went off the road and crashed in front of my house, damaging the lawn and two trees. This past summer, another driver went off the road and caused extensive damage to my lawn, trees, shrubbery, driveway and siding.

Aside from the property damage, my wife and I risk our lives if we venture onto our front lawn or try to get in or out of our driveway.

I applaud the chief’s efforts. Hopefully, in the near future, the Hebron Road will be safer for all of us.

Clancy Allen, Paris