‘Smart’ Crosswalk Coming to Abbot Kinney and Rialto
Ave.
After repeated requests by Abbot Kinney
merchants and residents, the city’s Department of Transportation (DOT) has
agreed to install flashing lights at the intersection. At least two people who
were trying to cross AKB have been hit by cars.
Transportation Engineer Mohammad
Blorfroshan told the Beachhead that the pedestrian-operated lights will be
installed during June.
“A smart
crosswalk is an additional warning for the driver,” said Blorfroshan.
“We still want the pedestrian to look at the cars, not the signal,”
he added.
DOT has set of guidelines for
installing a smart crosswalk, which include the number of cars and pedestrians,
visibility, etc.
However, DOT is still
removing crosswalks which they feel are not warranted. Blorfroshan says they
will post a notice asking for input before removing the
crosswalk.
The city has initially said
a smart crosswalk was not needed at AKB and Rialto. It reversed itself after
Bunny Lua, of The Green House, offered to pay for the installation. DOT turned
her down, but conducted a new study, which showed the smart crosswalk was
needed.
The crossing at Rialto is
dangerous due to a sharp curve in Abbot Kinney Blvd and because of the increased
“cut-through” traffic from commuters speeding to get
home.
If you know of a location where a
smart crosswalk, or even a dumb crosswalk is needed, you can make a request by
emailing DOT at ladot.westerndistrict@lacity.org or by calling
310-575-8138.
Posted: Thu - May 1, 2008 at 07:18 PM
