Pedestrian Safety at Crosswalks

Recently concerns have been raised about pedestrian safety at crosswalks on South Main and College Streets.   Facilities Services has reviewed the lighting levels at these pedestrian crossings and converted the acorn fixture lights to new LED technology – a switch from orange lighting to a brighter, energy saving white light.  Green Mountain Power has also increased the wattage of the town street lighting system at most crosswalks.

I want to remind everyone that the improved lighting is only one aspect of crosswalk safety.    Drivers may still have difficulty seeing people at night, in bad weather or when the setting sun is directly in their eyes.

Vermont law does give the right-of-way to pedestrians in a crosswalk.  However, pedestrians are not permitted to suddenly enter a roadway to cross just because he or she is doing so at a crosswalk. 

Pedestrians and cyclists should not leave the curb until they feel certain that approaching traffic can see them and can stop for them.  Motorists cannot react safely and may not be able to stop when sudden and fast moving obstacles enter their paths.  

Please remember –  look before you cross!

If you have any questions about safety or lighting, please contact me at Public Safety.

Thanks,

Lisa

Elizabeth J. Burchard
Director of Public Safety / Associate Dean of the College
Middlebury College
125 South Main Street
Middlebury, VT 05753

802.443.5201