Lynne Stewart, of Earnscleugh, near Clyde, presented the 64-signature petition to the Central Otago District Council last week, saying it was not safe for cyclists or pedestrians to have heavy traffic drive down narrow streets such as Matau St and the historic end of Sunderland St.
If traffic needed to go through Clyde, it should turn right after crossing the Clyde Bridge, reaching the highway by bypassing these areas, she said.
''I cycle a lot and we are just flesh and bone. This street will cause injuries you can't get out with a panel beater.''
''They also disturb the tranquillity of a beautiful area.''
Dunstan Hotel owner Nicky Blaikie said she opposed the petition because some trucks had to pass through the town.
''It's a working town, not just a place to have a drink.''
One option would be to make the street one-way, she said.
Clyde Processing owner Tony Tohill said the petition was a ''waste of time''.
''It's a waste of resources. It's nice to be warm and fuzzy about the old precinct, but some people need to work.''
Oliver's complex owner David Ritchie said he supported the petition because something needed to be done about the safety of the road.
''With small children wandering around the street, it's just too dangerous to have large vehicles driving down.''
Touch Yarns owner Marnie Kelly said she also supported it because the road was not suitable for heavy traffic.
''I have seen a lot of near misses on that road. It's really very dangerous.''
Large trucks moved down the street regularly in summer, she said.
Ms Stewart said a one-way street was an option.
''I just want something to happen to make the street a bit safer.''
Council roading manager Julie Muir said the last traffic count it did in Clyde three years ago showed a very small amount of heavy traffic passing through. Ms Stewart said the traffic had ''increased greatly'' since then.
Council staff would reassess Clyde's traffic in December.
The issue would be considered by the Vincent Community Board.
