LEWES, Del. - New bicycle safety improvements are coming to the Georgetown-Lewes trail.
Starting next Tuesday, DelDOT will be installing a rectangular rapid flashing beacon system (RRFB) at the Sweetbriar Road trail crossing.
"For the most part people do respect the intersection but there's an occasion when they come through at a high rate of speed,” said David Duval, a cyclist.
Master Corporal Gary Fournier, public information officer for Delaware State Police, said the RRFB’s are not just for the cyclists and pedestrians, but also the drivers. He says all three groups need to be aware when the beacon starts flashing.
"These were installed to assist bicyclists and pedestrians to cross the road and alert the drivers that there are pedestrians or bicyclists trying to come across,” said Master Cpl. Fournier.
Riders who love the trail say safety protocols are much needed.
"I have a 7-year-old grandson who I am afraid to take on this path because of the street crossings. Two minutes ago I was almost hit by a pick-up on Minos Conway,” said Dan O'Brien, another cyclist.
DelDOT told WRDE there have been two reported crashes at Sweetbriar Road Trail crossing. Those accidents that occurred in 2016 were a result of cars veering off the roadway, and did not involve any pedestrians or cyclists.
The RRFB’s advanced video detection activates the beacon when a cyclist is approaching without requiring the rider to stop and press the button.
"It's very important that the pedestrians or bicyclists make eye contact with the drivers to ensure they are coming to a stop … because a lot of times bicyclists or pedestrians will step out into the roadway without that car coming to a complete stop,” said Fournier.
Fournier says they are trying to make it safer for everyone on the road, trails, and sidewalks.
"We've seen an increase in scooter injuries, and people not being seen so it's a matter of education,” he said.
Construction starts Tuesday, August 3rd, and is expected to be complete by late September.
DelDOT says on Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., everyone should be aware of flaggers directing traffic.