Summer Lee

MAPLE HEIGHTS, Ohio - Police calls for service in Maple Heights are running at a record pace this year, with the city averaging 115 calls per day in May and approaching 17,000 calls for the year, Police Chief Todd Hansen told City Council.

Speaking during a council meeting earlier this week, Hansen said the department handled its highest monthly call volume of the year in May and is on track for what could become the busiest year in the department’s history.

“We’re at almost 17,000 calls for the year,” Hansen said. “So we’re unfortunately on pace for a really busy year, probably the busiest ever.”

Hansen attributed some of the increased activity to busy nightlife in and around the city.

“A lot of bar activity,” he said, noting that establishments in neighboring Bedford also contribute to calls for service in the area.

In addition to discussing police activity, Hansen warned residents to expect traffic delays and detours throughout the summer as several road construction projects continue in the city.

Work is underway on Libby Road, where pavement is being restored following utility and infrastructure work completed last year. Construction also continues along Lee Road, where pavement and curb replacement projects are planned.

Hansen said a more significant disruption is expected in the coming weeks when a bridge replacement project closes Lee Road between Raymond Street and the freeway for approximately 90 days.

“It’s going to be a pain in the butt,” Hansen said.

However, he noted that the complete closure should allow the project to be completed more quickly than a longer-term phased construction project.

The chief said residents may want to seek alternate routes during construction but added that road conditions in the city’s center should improve once the projects are completed later this year.

“If there’s any problems, please let us know and the police department will come out and handle that,” Hansen said.