Bridging Pedestrian Traffic Hazards

Special traffic safeguards for pedestrians and cyclists using Queens high-risk pedestrian bridges were announced this week by Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Transportation Commissioner Iris Weinshall.
Safety upgrades are being made at 15 Queens bridge exits half of the DOTs city-wide program.
The Transportation Departments (DOT) $1 million program has begun installation of special salon fencing at busy bridge exits, which causes zig-zagging cyclists and skaters to slow down for safer street crossings. In addition, pedestrian push-button signals, stop signs, and directional roadway paint are also being installed at key bridge corners. All signs and lane markings will be reflectorized with glass beads for improved nighttime visibility and increased evening rush-hour safety.
According to the DOTs Bridges and Tunnels Annual Condition Report, Queens has New York Citys largest number of pedestrian bridges crossing its heavily-traveled major highway systems.
"With a number of highways close to residential neighborhoods," said Mayor Bloomberg, "pedestrian bridges serve to assist pedestrians as they move between home and work, and for children as they ride their bikes and participate in the life of their communities."
Commissioner Weinshall said that the new push-button signal was designed to alert oncoming motorists on the busy highways that pedestrians wanted to cross the street. "When the button is pushed," said Weinshall, "it will trigger a red light for vehicles to ensure the safest pedestrian crossing possible." Signals will be installed during the next several months.
Motorists approaching the new signals will see steady flashing amber or red warning traffic lights. When a pedestrian presses the push-button, the flashing traffic lights will turn to a steady red, stopping the vehicles, and allowing pedestrians to walk safely across the busy street. Pedestrian movement will be controlled by standard "walk," or "dont walk" signs.
City Council Transportation Chairman John Liu (D-Flushing), who has battled for improved pedestrian safety, observed, "Now that pedestrian overpasses have been made safer, I look forward to seeing more improvements in other parts of our street and road systems."
Victor Ross is a freelance writer.