UTM crosswalks on University Street have a bold new look and provide expanded safety precautions.
The new crosswalk expansions include modifications and additions. The sidewalk at each crosswalk now features two different types of poles. The first is a tall pole located near the crosswalk that houses a pedestrian crosswalk sign, a pedestrian activated flashing beacon and an arrow pointing to the crosswalk. The second is a set of shorter poles called bollards that surround the crosswalk entrance.
The flashing beacon is activated when a pedestrian steps into the crosswalk between the bollards, breaking an invisible beam. The cautionary lights flash yellow for approximately 30 seconds, drawing the drivers’ attention to the crossing pedestrians. Pedestrians must cross the street within the designated crosswalks to activate the warning system.
Tim Nipp, director of the Physical Plant, headed the crosswalk project in cooperation with the department of Public Safety.
“The crosswalk project is funded by the parking authority fund, which is funded by the parking sticker fees and fines,” Nipp said.
Pedestrians should keep in mind that while this expanded system is a definite plus in their favor, in the overall scheme of things, the safety scales remain tilted in the drivers’ favor. Keep distractions such as talking or texting on cell phones to a minimum, because paying attention to your surroundings is crucial to your safety and others.
“This is just a warning device. Pedestrians need to insure that traffic has stopped before they proceed. Drivers need to slow down upon approach of any crosswalk and prepare to stop for any pedestrians,” said Lt. Ray Coleman, department of Public Safety.
