The following letter appeared in the May 31st Sunday News from Joseph R. Dundore Sr., President, ATU Local 1241:
As president of ATU Local 1241, the union representing bus operators for Red Rose Transit, I would like to voice the concern of our drivers regarding the extended crosswalks being built in downtown Lancaster.
Oversized crosswalks pose a safety concern to pedestrians when large vehicles try to negotiate turns. Pedestrians standing too close to the corners are at risk of rear-wheel rollovers. We are also concerned about pedestrians in these crosswalks who may be visually impaired or have disabilities.
If oversized crosswalks are to be used, we feel they are far more effective in the middle of the street than at corners where large trucks and buses must turn.
Did the City research the implications of “bulb outs” with Red Rose Transit? Is this still another case where establishment propaganda was substituted for a solid feasibility study by a nationally recognized authority?
We at NewsLanc like the look of the downtown streetscape improvements and, from appearances, the public’s money was well spent. But looks should not override practicality and public safety.
