Two crosswalks, at Clark and 4th Avenues, serve one of the busiest sections of the street
Installation of a new mid-block crossing on East Main Street in Battle Ground’s Old Town district is designed to create a safer environment for pedestrians.
East Main Street in Old Town is a popular destination with unique shops, restaurants, and businesses. On most days you will find the two-way, two-lane street bustling with pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Two crosswalks, at Clark and 4th Avenues, serve one of the busiest sections of the street but are separated by a length of 240 yards, leading many pedestrians to cross the street mid-block – an unsafe and discouraged practice.
To increase safety for pedestrians, the city is installing a mid-block crossing, about half-way between Clark and 4th Avenues. The crossing will include crosswalk markings on the roadway and a flashing light, referred to as a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon, activated by a pedestrian preparing to cross the street. Its bright yellow flashing lights will serve as a clear sign and warning to motorists to stop for the pedestrian.
Construction to install the crossing will begin this month and will be completed in March. At times, construction may require the closure of one lane of traffic; flaggers will be on hand to direct the safe flow of traffic.
The total cost of the project is $53,566. The city, in keeping with its commitment to efficient use of public resources, obtained $50,000 in grant funding to cover the majority of the cost.
Project information is available on the city’s website at www.cityofbg.org/864/Old-Town-Mid-Block-Crossing.
Information provided by city of Battle Ground.
