FENWICK ISLAND, Del. - Residents and officials in Fenwick Island are hoping the proposed sidewalk project will bring long-awaited relief to a growing traffic concern, illegal U-turns that endanger pedestrians and disrupt local traffic flow.
Craig Malone, a longtime Fenwick Island resident, said illegal U-turns have been a persistent problem near the Bayard Street intersection. Despite enforcement efforts last summer, the issue has continued. “Frequently,” Malone said. “They did a little crackdown last summer and it slowed it up a little bit. So we’ll see what happens this season.”
According to Fenwick Island Police Chief Michael Morrissey, multiple drivers violate the posted no U-turn sign. Some even reroute through a nearby store parking lot, despite a sign warning against through traffic.
Now, a proposed change from the Delaware Department of Transportation could help improve both safety and compliance. On Tuesday, DelDOT presented plans to install sidewalks all along Coastal Highway in Fenwick Island. As part of the project, DelDOT also proposed relocating the current crosswalk further north.
As part of the project, DelDOT also proposed relocating the current crosswalk further north.
Chief Morrissey said the move could reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents. “People are making the illegal U-turn. They’re turning into the crosswalk where people will be crossing,” Morrissey said.
Malone echoed that sentiment, saying a new crosswalk location could help protect beachgoers and pedestrians. “If it’s moved up a little bit, we wouldn’t have to worry if people do make an illegal U-turn,” Malone said. “Hopefully everybody’s going to be following the rules, but it’ll definitely make it a little bit safer.”
If approved and funded, the sidewalk and crosswalk relocation project is expected to start in 2028.