28 Apr May 2015 Monthly Chair Report
Amy Barry
Even though it is snowing as I begin this month’s chair report I wanted to focus on the move into spring. I wanted to focus on the rise of outdoor activities in Sugar House and highlight pedestrian safety. We live in an area that experiences high volumes of traffic, especially during rush hour. I realize motorists complain about the traffic and how long it takes to move along 1300 E and 2100 S, but I would like to remind everyone that these arterial roads are adjacent to residential areas. It is a balance between moving vehicles and providing safe walking routes for residents. I don’t think we’ve found that balance as I regularly get emails from people complaining about various crosswalk areas being unsafe for pedestrians.
More people are out walking and riding bicycles as the weather warms up. The issue of pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers need to pay extra attention to pedestrian crosswalks. Every day I see a car drive right through when a pedestrian is either ready to step out or in the crosswalk! Likewise pedestrians need to respect these rules and refrain from jaywalking because they don’t want to walk a little ways to the designated crosswalk.
If you live near a busy crosswalk and want to help keep orange visibility flags in stock you can sponsor the crosswalk or find out who does and help them with a donation. These flags cost money and disappear at an alarming rate. The SHCC, in partnership with Fairmont Aquatic Center has taken on the sponsorship of the crosswalks at Sugarmont Dr and McClelland Dr to increase visibility. We encourage residents to step up and sponsor their own crosswalk and make a real difference in your own backyard.
