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Mark spots on causeway for both cyclists and walkers

Mark spots on causeway for both cyclists and walkers

The new Clearwater Memorial Causeway bridge has problems other than vehicular traffic, and those occur in the pedestrian walkways.

Increasingly, pedestrians and bicyclists crowd the sidewalks. Without clear markings or signs, accidents are inevitable and will increase.

While walking with my wife across the north walkway on a Saturday morning, I was hit by a cyclist coming far too fast down the bridge toward the beach. My wrist was severely bruised, grazed and cut. The cyclist crashed into the concrete barricade, suffered abrasions and seemed stunned, but he rode away unsteadily.

To avoid further accidents, possibly serious with potential litigation, the city needs to define and regulate the use of sidewalks on the bridge and causeway. At the very least, the different lanes for use by pedestrians and cyclists should be clearly marked.

Signs should be installed asking cyclists to give fair warning when approaching pedestrians, particularly from the rear. Elsewhere in Florida such definition and signs exist, like on the nearby Pinellas Trail.

Other possibilities exist, including making the narrow north walkway pedestrian-only. Maybe cyclists should walk their bikes across the bridge.

Something must be done to protect both pedestrians and cyclists. Whatever happens, increased guidance and surveillance should be provided for the safety of our citizens and visitors.

Letter writer wrong about dealership's actions with flags

Re: Abandoned dealership's lot needs cleaning up, letter, March 23.

Leigh Westcott's letter dealt with the issue of deteriorating American flags on property which had been leased by one local automotive company to another.

The references to patriotism, respect and appreciation for the sacrifices of those who defend our freedom were right on target, especially for those of us who fought so long and hard for the right to practice patriotism in a business venue.

What offends, however, is the facile accusation that the greedy local business entity once again passes the buck after the money has been made. This attitude totally discounts a combined two centuries of untiring community support and participation by both the Dimmitt and Ferman families, who have proved their good citizenship through thick and thin.

The letter in question was published Thursday. By noon on Monday, thanks to uncommon cooperation by the two companies, the flags were respectfully retired and apologies to the writer duly rendered, because that's the kind of folks we are.

Intersection at Chestnut, Myrtle dangerous for seniors

How many pedestrians will have to be maimed or killed first before the newly constructed intersection at Myrtle and Chestnut streets in Clearwater is made safer in this fast flow of traffic? I am 80 years old and live in Prospect Towers, a senior housing complex adjacent to this intersection. I feel I am taking my life in my hands every time I cross at the intersection.

A resident in a wheelchair jaywalks across Chestnut. Many in the neighborhood use canes, walkers and wheelchairs. All of us have less vision than before.

Orange signs saying "Elderly Pedestrian Crossing" should be placed on Myrtle for approaching traffic. Walk signs should flash longer. Permanent orange cones need to be placed in the middle to give pedestrians something to stand next to in case they don't complete the crossing. Cones or some little island or median for safety is necessary in a complex traffic situation with little or no room for error.

The southeastern corner needs to be leveled smoothly, including the eastern side where there is a 1-foot drop in the ground. To cross that corner, I first have to step down and then take a step up to get on the pavement. Most senior citizens have a diminished sense of balance.

And finally, why is Alt. U.S. 19 being put on Myrtle Avenue in the first place alongside senior housing?

[Last modified March 30, 2006, 06:39:02]