Along With Safer Routes, We Need Safety Education
The following letter was sent to the City Council and forwarded to us by the author for publication.
Dear Editor,
Congratulations to the City on securing a $224,000 Safe Routes to School grant.
As you implement the grant, may I suggest two things?
That the welcome installation of pedestrian-activated rectangular rapid-flash beacons at selected intersections be complemented by a public education and outreach program to remind drivers that pedestrians have the right of way in ALL striped crosswalks – and not only those with flashing lights;
And, while encouraging children and parents to use bicycles to get to school, you remind cyclists that sidewalks are for pedestrians. Common sense, if not the City Code, would seem to segregate pedestrians from cyclists.
Thanks for considering my concerns.
Sincerely,
Beth Griffin Matthews
