PIERRE, S.D. – Pedestrians who want an easier time crossing Fourth Street are getting it.
This week, the City will begin installing a crosswalk at the intersection of Fourth Street and Abbey Road. As an added safety feature, by mid-December, a pedestrian flashing traffic signal will also be installed at the same intersection.
“Since the opening of Kennedy Elementary School at Brookstone Loop in northeast Pierre, we have been monitoring pedestrian traffic in the area,” said Brad Palmer, City Utility Director. Prior to the school opening, there was very little foot traffic. Now we’re seeing a lot more.”
At the start of the school year this year, the City set up a traffic camera to monitor the Abbey Road and Fourth Street intersection.
“Based on what we saw on the camera this fall, we could see a crosswalk was very appropriate for the intersection,” said Palmer. “For added safety, we will also install a pedestrian crossing light where kids can activate a flashing yellow signal prior to crossing.”
Similar pedestrian crossing lights can be found on both Euclid and Garfield Avenues.
The total cost of the new pedestrian safety features at Abbey Road and Fourth Street is estimated to be less than $10,000.