Drivers who drive Brawnox have some new lights to look out for.
The district recently installed solar-powered, lighted crosswalk signs at four intersections along Freeport Road.
These are located on North Avenue, Cable Avenue, McKinley Avenue and Humboldt Street.
Police Chief Patrick Goodman said the locations were approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to improve pedestrian safety.
“Other considerations came into play, such as visibility and where sunlight was available to charge the signs,” Goodman said. “Intersections with traffic signals, such as traffic signals and pedestrian signs, were not considered (such as Center Avenue and Breaux Avenue).”
“Ultimately, the signs were installed to increase safety for pedestrians and motorists across the entire area of Freeport Road in Brannox and ensure everyone has access to these signalized crossings.”
Borough President Cathy Uranowicz said the signs were purchased from RTC Manufacturing LLC, and the poles and installation were done through Traffic Control & Engineering Co. Inc.
The project cost approximately $124,000 and was funded by a $405,000 grant from the state's local share account. No contribution was made by the borough toward the grant.
Installation of the signs was completed on June 13. Pedestrians began commenting on the new safety measures a few days later.
“We got feedback at Saturday's Spring Art Fling,” Uranowitz said, “people are happy that there is a means to stop traffic as they cross Freeport Road. They're happy that there is a means to slow traffic down so pedestrians can cross safely.”
Pedestrians must press a button to make the lights flash.
We hope the new signs will help drivers comply with state law, which states:
“Drivers of vehicles must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the roadway in a marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.”
Goodman said drivers who ignore signalized crosswalks can be charged with failure to yield, disobeying an official traffic control device and careless driving.
Fines can range from $50 to $150, plus court costs, points on your driver's license, or more severe penalties depending on the elements of the violation.
“Unless serious violations are found, written warnings will be issued for one month to allow motorists and pedestrians to become accustomed to the changes,” Mr Goodman said.
“We will use this time to educate both drivers and pedestrians about their responsibilities in these locations.”
Michael DiVittorio is a TribLive reporter covering general news in Western Pennsylvania with a penchant for festivals and food. He can be reached at mdivittorio@triblive.com.
