NORWICH – After speaking with local officials, the New York State Department of Transportation continues work on Norwich’s crosswalk project, but some areas in the city still may not see a crosswalk beacon installed until next year.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were a total of 14,340 pedestrian fatalities and 193,000 pedestrian injuries resulting from pedestrian vehicle crashes nationwide during the 2004-2006 period.

The Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacons (RRFB) that are being installed in Norwich can enhance safety by reducing crashes between vehicles and pedestrians at unsignalized intersections and mid-block pedestrian crossings by increasing driver awareness of potential pedestrian conflicts.

City of Norwich Alderman Ward 6 Robert Jeffrey said these beacons are being built near NBT Bank, McDonalds, and other locations throughout the area.

“The New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) paid for the entire project as they are improving crosswalks throughout New York State to keep pedestrians safe,” said Jeffrey. “As a result, the City of Norwich’s tax base did not have to pay a penny for these public safety enhancements.”

Representatives of the NHTSA said the cost for these beacons vary between approximately $10,000 and $15,000 for the purchase and installation of two units – one on either side of a street.

“Inclement weather and other factors prevented an early completion of the project and fortunately after working with Assemblyman Crouch and other members of the DOT they were able to return to the City of Norwich and work on the crosswalks located in front of NBT and further down South Broad Street near Perry Browne,” said Jeffrey. “While there are two more remaining crosswalk improvements to be installed, located in front of the YMCA as well as up near UHS and Gibson, the DOT has assured us that their crews will be returning to finish the job before the end of 2019 and they will be replacing any faded reflective materials in the spring of 2020.”

He said public safety is incredibly important and in order to increase foot traffic downtown, and the city recognized that it needed to ensure pedestrian safety in high traffic areas – especially downtown and at the corner of Front and South Broad Streets.

“In recent years, we have seen continual close calls for automobile versus pedestrian accidents, and we wanted to ensure that we were proactive in coming up with a solution that fit the need for our businesses downtown as well as near school crossings,” he added. “By pushing the button at these crosswalks, and turning on the LED flashing lights; pedestrians now making themselves known to oncoming cars once all cars come to a stop.

“This creates a less hazardous environment while crossing the street. Whether people are visiting downtown to conduct business, shop, eat or just taking a walk or run, it’s the peace of mind knowing that when you step out onto the street you’re going to be safe.”

Jeffrey said he would greatly encourage anyone who comes across these crosswalks during their walk around town to take a second and use them.

“They’re very effective, and most importantly it will keep you safe,” said Jeffrey. “I’d like to thank the cooperation of the City of Norwich Traffic Commission; especially Judy Wright and Deputy Chief Burlison, the NYS DOT; especially Danielle Besso for her continuous communication and updates. Along with Mayor Carnrike, the City of Norwich Common Council, Assemblyman Cliff Crouch and especially NBT Bank for their patience and support throughout this project.”

The City of Norwich Police Department warned that drivers who fail to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk may receive three points on their license, $150 fine for the first violation, and 15 days in jail.

Officials from the department said pedestrians may also face charges if they fail to use the crosswalk correctly, which could land them a $150 fine.