Everyone knows the dangers of texting and driving. However, people can become distracted by a smartphone at any time, even when they are walking. It is a problem the City of Summit, NJ has realized, and they are taking steps to correct it.
It began as an awareness campaign, with Summit officials speaking to the local school district and residents about the dangers of walking while looking down at a phone. Then, adding to those efforts, the city began making structural changes to some of the roads.
At some of the city’s busiest intersections the curbs have been expanded to
encourage drivers to slow down. New lines, much like the lines in bike lanes, have also been painted onto the roads so the road would appear narrower. This was also done to try and get drivers to slow down, and to provide more space between the drivers and pedestrians.
Realizing that intersections are some of the most dangerous parts of the roadway for pedestrians, the city has also taken action at some of the busiest intersections. It has installed large flashing pedestrian beacons that will alert drivers to the fact that someone is crossing after they push a button. Four new stop signs have also appeared at different intersections throughout the city. In addition to these safety measures, speed bumps have also been planned for busier roads where drivers are more likely to speed.
The improvements come at a cost. The pedestrian beacons come at a cost between $25,000 and $40,000 each, while expanding curbs costs approximately $5,000 each. It is clear though, that the costs associated with making these changes is worth it.
“The City of Summit should be applauded for the measures they are taking to save lives,” says Richard Grungo of Grungo Colarulo, “However, it is also important pedestrians become more aware while they are walking. Walking while distracted, particularly while crossing a street, can be just as dangerous an activity as distracted driving.”
Summit has always been a city that is proactive in protecting its citizens. While accidents involving distracted pedestrians are increasing around the country, they are decreasing in Summit. After the two pedestrian fatalities that occurred in December of 2011, only a few pedestrian accidents have occurred in the city and each of them only involved minor injuries.
