Description

The new light signal at Florida Avenue and R Street NW is putting pedestrians at risk. On Saturday, July 6 at 10:00 am I noticed that the light only allowed about 10 seconds (including countdown) for walking across 6 lanes to the other side of Florida. This cycle does not provide amble time for someone walking casually, pushing a stroller, elderly, or disabled. Also, with a cautious takeoff in a vehicle (or bicycle) to avoid “light runners” etc. you would be lucky to get more than a couple of cars across Florida going westbound via the 100 block of Florida NW with such short duration. I noticed that this problem existed previously during weekdays, but the countdown was increased to around 23 seconds after the light was taken out of service temporarily. Props for that change; However, I am simply amazed at the lack of coordination on a simple signal light start-up and/or traffic study. It’s time to get it right. Thanks.