Citywide Raised Crosswalk Program Expected to Begin Soon

By Y.M. Lowy

The city is preparing to begin construction on raised crosswalks in the coming months.

Unlike a traditional crosswalk painted on the road, a raised crosswalk is built slightly higher than the surrounding street, bringing it level with the curb. The design encourages drivers to slow down while making pedestrians more visible as they cross.

The raised crossings can help reduce speeding, improve safety at intersections, and make it easier for people with mobility challenges to cross the street. 

The first installations will likely be focused on locations with a history of speeding or pedestrian injuries, as well as areas where large numbers of people regularly cross the street. That includes places near schools, parks, transit stops, shopping areas, and other destinations frequently used by children and seniors.

While the projects are still in the planning stage, construction is expected to begin in the coming months, bringing a new safety feature to streets where pedestrian traffic is highest.