BETHANY BEACH, Del. - The Bethany Beach Council passed a vote Friday for the building of two pedestrian crossovers at the intersection of Route 1 and Garfield Parkway. This is one of a handful of safety measures that have been considered along the beaches on Route 1.
Currently, pedestrians at this intersection press a button, wait for traffic to stop and cross. However, for Ilana Tanowitz, who walks her dog daily around town, says this system still has its problems. “Not extremely safe, especially at night, because we do often cross Route 1," she said. "I do get nervous that cars won't see us coming."
Bethany Beach officials are considering adding flashing signs at the crosswalks, which would be visible to drivers even in low light conditions. These signs would also emit a sound to alert pedestrians when it’s safe to cross.
Tom Okerson, who lives just a block away from the proposed project, supports the initiative. “I think adding the lights to the next street up would probably be beneficial for us and certainly beneficial for the next street up,” he said.
The project is estimated to cost $61,000, a figure that is not causing concern among town officials. A member of the Bethany Beach financial committee noted that the cost is in line with similar projects the town has undertaken in the past and believes it is a worthwhile investment for ensuring public safety.
With the summer season bringing increased traffic to the area, many locals hope these improvements will encourage drivers to slow down. “I think the lights are really important just to notify drivers,” added Tanowitz.
There is no set date for the start of this new project.
