Mayor Michael Pantelides announces that he is targeting West Street as part of his ongoing Pedestrian Safety Campaign, focusing on both motorists and pedestrians, reminding them to look up and look out for each other.
“A number of residents have recently contacted me about the pedestrian danger at the West Street crosswalk near the Asbury United Methodist Church,” Mayor Pantelides said. “I have directed Public Works to ensure that crosswalk signal remains in working condition and to put up additional signage to alert walkers and drivers to the pedestrian crosswalk at that location on West Street.”
Mayor Pantelides is also working with Police Chief Baker to increase enforcement along West Street in an effort to make both drivers and pedestrians aware of the current laws that pertain to crosswalks. Additional officers will be deployed to the area and will be monitoring compliance of the laws.
“We are happy to assist Mayor Pantelides and the city to improve the pedestrian experience in downtown Annapolis through improved signage, education, maintenance and enforcement,” said Erik Evans, Executive Director of the Annapolis Arts District, Inner West Street Association and Downtown Annapolis Partnership. “We have a wonderful city that is best enjoyed when taking a stroll. Anything we can do to make our city better for our residents, employees and guests is welcomed and encouraged.”
It is important that both motorists and pedestrians take equal responsibility for safety on Annapolis streets. During the years of 2013 through 2015, Annapolis reported 114 pedestrian-related crashes, which included pedestrians, bicyclists, and mopeds, with 28 crashes occurring in a marked crosswalk.
Other speed enforcement initiatives in residential areas have been conducted on Clay Street and Duke of Gloucester Street, and at the base of Main Street. Mayor Pantelides is looking at other areas in the city to focus on pedestrian safety including Outer West Street near the library, Duke of Gloucester at Church Circle, and along Randall and Dock Street.