ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) – A recent protest that shut down a busy street in Ithaca has leaders contemplating safety.

At a meeting last week, Ithaca city resident and Tompkins County Legislator Rich John said the protests are becoming common.

The protest happened last month as a response to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Palestine. The demonstration reportedly only lasted between 10 and 15 minutes but caused significant traffic delays during that time. John, who chairs the Tompkins County Public Safety Committee, said drivers can be dangerous.

John added that the county should consider what options, if any, it has to discourage the practice and avoid a potential tragedy.