Improve the Long-Neglected 4th Plain & F Street Intersection

The intersection of 4th Plain and F Street must be reimagined and made safer due to its dangerous risk factors such as high traffic, limited visibility, congestion, speeding and/or vehicles frequently running red lights. There are two crosswalks. Pedestrian lights take a long time to flash the walk signal. It is very dangerous for school children at VSAA, Discovery Middle School and Hough Elementary that cross here twice a day, especially when it’s dark. The lights are long, and there isn’t a buffer or shelter to stand and wait until it’s safe to cross. Some pedestrians become impatient by having to wait so long, especially in inclement weather, and so cross against the red light. Cars frequently run red lights. I’ve witnessed many pedestrians, including myself, almost get hit by vehicles entering the intersection. My 84 father crosses this area daily among many senior citizens and people with compromised or limited mobility, sight and/or hearing impairments. The crosswalk is in a blind spot for cars turning left (eastbound) onto 4th Plain from F Street, putting those using the crosswalks in danger. This intersection needs much immediate attention. I have brought this issue to the attention of the city multiple times over the past years, but so far I have not heard back from one person and it seems nothing has been done to, at least, make temporary improvements,. Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon Crosswalks with flashing lights need to be installed to decrease the above risk factors and barriers compromising the safety of pedestrians, bicyclists and cars. I’m surprised there hasn’t been a fatality as of yet.