How the influx of Haitian migrants is impacting traffic in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio ( WDTN ) — All eyes continue to be on Springfield, as more people are asking how an influx of migrants into the city is impacting things like traffic.

2 NEWS is digging deeper into the numbers after speaking with city officials.

Traffic safety and education is a key focus point for local and state leaders. The city and Governor Mike Dewine both launched programs meant to increase patrols on the road and bridge the gap in driving education.

County officials estimate that there are at least 2,300 Haitian immigrants with driver’s licenses in Clark County. Residents say they’re feeling the impact.

“Springfield wasn’t prepared for the amount of new immigrants that came into our city. They just was not prepared,” said Rita Jones, local resident.

Applicants are allowed to take the knowledge test with an option of eight languages. However, translators and language aids are not allowed for the in-car portion of the test, also known as the skills and maneuverability test.

Drivers must be able to pass that test and understand basic highway signage and directional instructions in English.

“The person taking the test has to be able to understand highway signage and basic direction instruction and English language,” said Ohio State Registrar Charlie Norman.

Norman says that English as a second language transactions take longer, but the proper steps must be taken every time.

“There is a process. There are no shortcuts. There is not a different process for native Ohioans and immigrants. And we apply those rules equally and across the board,” said Norman.

Local and state leaders also want to provide better translators and language services.

On Tuesday, Gov. DeWine pledged $2.5 million towards aid in Springfield .

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