On Monday, October 27, Cuyahoga Falls City Council unanimously passed legislation requiring all newly constructed drive-thrus to include a bypass lane.
The measure was inspired by the tragic death of Stow resident Megan Keleman, who lost her life in a drive-thru after being unable to exit her vehicle during a violent incident last year. In the wake of this tragedy, her parents, Nick and Kelly Keleman, launched an initiative called Megan’s Way Out to advocate for design standards that can help prevent similar tragedies and ensure safer access for first responders in emergencies.
The City of Stow unanimously passed similar legislation in September. The Kelemans have also been working with State Senator Casey Weinstein to introduce statewide legislation, known as Megan’s Way Out, that would require all newly constructed drive-thrus in Ohio to include a bypass lane.
“I commend Nick and Kelly Keleman for their strength, advocacy, and perseverance in championing Megan’s Way Out,” said Mayor Don Walters. “Their efforts have turned tragedy into progress, inspiring legislation that promotes safety and awareness statewide. Cuyahoga Falls is proud to join the City of Stow and others in adopting this important change in honor of Megan.”
The bypass lane requirement was part of a broader set of updates to the City’s General Development Code approved by Council this week.