CROSS WALKS

Reader dismayed by cross walk removal

I was amazed the city decided to erase the only remaining crosswalk on Pioneer to Safeway (Walnut St. corner). Eliminating that crosswalk and putting up a "do not cross" sign instructing people to go a block to the next crosswalk is ineffective and creates a hardship and barrier for those who have no choice but to walk. Are city officials not aware that there are perhaps hundreds of people living in that neighborhood between Division and Pioneer that have walking as their only means of transportation? Safeway and services nearby are the only ones within walking distance for them. I personally have seen people with physical challenges and families with small children try using the previous crosswalk in frigid weather and being ignored by drivers. When walking in frigid weather, or scorching heat, people tend to take the straightest, shortest route. In the summer time, many children cross that street to get to Safeway, cutting straight through private property to get there.

The crossing at the five corner intersection can be confusing and dangerous due to the placement of the crosswalk across Pioneer and the five streets. Pedestrians can be hard to see. When they are able to cross, in increases the waiting time for all traffic which can increase impatience of drivers, making them less aware of pedestrians crossing.

When the crosswalks with flashing lights were installed all along Broadway, I was waiting for a similar lighted crosswalk to be installed on Pioneer. These days, life is hard enough for people who must walk everywhere, carrying their groceries, alone or with their children, or using wheelchairs to transport themselves. Making them go several extra blocks in inclement weather at the convenience of drivers seems cruel. Installing a crosswalk with flashing lights would make it safer for all.

Since the crossing was erased, daily I have seen children and adults take the Pioneer crossing dash. The sign doesn't deter - they just go to the middle of the block or cross there anyway. It is my hope that this oversight can be addressed by taking into consideration those people who seem to have no voice in our city.

Marylu Martin

Moses Lake