The rules of the road have changed at one of the busiest intersections in downtown Reading.
It is all to protect the hundreds of pedestrians who cross the road every day, including visitors like the Lintz family.
In an effort to avoid the intersection at North Second and Washington streets, Shawn Lintz has started parking in the garage directly behind the movie theater.
"It is a busy intersection and I just do not like it. If I can avoid it, I do it," said Lintz.
As business has boomed over the years, so has the number of pedestrians trying to cross the road.
The high levels of pedestrian traffic are now causing some concern for city police and public works officials, so about a year ago, they started working with PennDOT to push back the no turn on red for drivers from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The director of public works told 69 News this is the first step in a new "complete street program" aimed at enhancing the streets to make them safer for pedestrians, bicycle riders and drivers.
The new signs have just been posted, and some already appreciate the change.
"Around rush hour particularly it gets a little hairy," said Darryl Brown, a pedestrian.
While others think it is misguided.
"You are causing more congestion by doing that, not allowing people to turn on red," said Dustin Carrell, a pedestrian.
"I would love it to be a little more people friendly because it is really a delay for people. One time we waited for almost five minutes to cross," said Catara Carrell, a pedestrian.
"I think if you use common sense you can pretty much get across the street," said Brown.
But city leaders said pedestrian safety trumps any congestion concerns drivers might have.
"Anything that can help slow people down and keep pedestrians safe is a good thing," said Officer Brenda Marks, Reading Police Department's traffic division.
The traffic light at Second and Penn streets has also been changed to no turn on red until 10 p.m. Monday-Friday for consistency sake.
from 69News:Home http://ift.tt/14iY5xk
0 commentaires:
Enregistrer un commentaire