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Neighbors install own speed bumps after child death

Apolina Asumani was hit and killed on West 50th street, neighbors installed their own speed bumps near her memorial.

CLEVELAND — These speed bumps weren't here just a couple days ago.

If they look a little different than the ones on your street, it's probably because they're the kind any person off the street can buy and install themselves.

"I thought it was the city but someone told me it was a concerned citizen who bought it from Amazon," neighbor Herberto Rodriguez said.

Compared to when we were at the scene under two weeks ago, cars are taking things much slower when they get to the bumps, located near the spot where 5 year old Apolina was hit and killed.

Since her death, the local Congolese community has been asking for comment from the Mayor's office.

Saturday, we got a statement reading in part quote "the city takes these concerns seriously and has introduced legislation to help address excessive speeding and reckless driving, especially through residential neighborhoods."

With it also saying drivers need to be more aware that as weather warms up, more kids will be playing outside.

"We've been here 20 years a couple neighbors have been here basically stop sign to stop sign, it's just different back then until know because now it's a lot of crazy drivers," Rodriguez said.

There is one difference that neighbors noticed and we witnessed as soon as we pulled up, a police presence.

"People don't take the time to read signs, people's always on their phones, so hopefully with the police stopping people, giving tickets they'll slow down," Rodriguez said.

Here is the full statement from the city:

Our hearts go out to the family of Apolina Asumani and the entire community.

We certainly understand their concern and frustration.

The City takes these concerns seriously and has introduced legislation to help address excessive speeding and reckless driving, especially through residential neighborhoods.

The Division of Police continues to work with partnering law enforcement agencies to thwart traffic offenses and cite those breaking the law. Enforcement of speeding offenses will continue to increase in the future.

Coupled with enhanced speed enforcement, the Cleveland Division of Police is working with the Department of Public Works and our partners in reviewing various methods to help reduce speeding through environmental design.

The City of Cleveland Departments of Public Safety, Streets, and Traffic Engineering regularly review vehicular traffic patterns with a primary focus on maximizing the safety of motorists and pedestrians while striving for efficiency of travel.

As the summer months approach, drivers are reminded of the increase in pedestrian traffic and children playing outside. 

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