One major safety concern among Springfield residents is the influx of Haitians.

The influx of migrants in a small Ohio town has caused residents to worry about their safety, particularly while driving on busy roads.

"A Springfield resident expressed her concern about the influx of migrants into the town, stating that she feels unsafe and misunderstood when interacting with them. She shared that she walks her dog and approaches them with a smile, but they do not reciprocate her friendliness."

Since 2021, Springfield, Ohio, has experienced a significant influx of Haitian migrants, causing tension in the town, particularly on the roads. According to the city's website, the total number of immigrants in Clark County, which includes Springfield, is between 12,000 and 15,000. The influx of people to the town, which had a population of just around 60,000 in the 2020 census, has put a strain on the community.

"Mike O'Brien, a Springfield resident, shared with Planet Chronicle Digital that his kid's fence was hit by someone who backed into it, resulting in a $400 repair cost. He expressed his frustration, stating that the driver cannot drive and the incident is inexplicable. Every day, he feels less secure in his community, where he was born."

Longtime residents' main worry was road safety, as they shared numerous stories of accidents they had seen in recent years.

Former Republican State Rep. Kyle Koehler shared his concerns about the deteriorating road conditions in Springfield, stating that the issue has become increasingly problematic.

"Koehler, who is running for the state Senate, stated that there is an abnormally high number of severe car accidents occurring in the area. He explained that when driving on a 35-mile-an-hour speed limit street and encountering five or six accidents per week, it becomes concerning."

In August of last year, a minivan driven by a Haitian migrant collided with a school bus carrying dozens of local students, resulting in over 20 injuries and the death of 11-year-old Aiden Clark, leading to a tipping point in concerns over road safety.

Concerned residents have been more vocal since the accident, expressing their concerns at various city meetings.

The large influx of people in a short time has put strain on the city, according to O'Brien, and road safety is not the only concern among local residents.

"I don't discriminate against anyone, so I don't care if they bring 20,000 Mexicans or 20,000 Irishmen here, it's too much," he said. "The people in this town are tired of it, and they're really tired of it."

The newcomers were welcomed to the town by other residents, who saw it as an opportunity for them to improve their lives.

Ruth Lee, a nine-year resident of Springfield, expressed her sympathy for their background and saw this as a bigger chance for them, according to Planet Chronicle Digital.

As Lee recognized, the city services may become overwhelmed with the influx, but residents can also take advantage of this opportunity to enhance the lives of their new neighbors.

Lee stated that he wished to contact them and convey that they are human and welcomed.