Well, the new stop signs are in (still covered), on Sawtelle Blvd, north and south bound at Hayter Ave. You knew this (and more...) was coming if you've been following things. We know this is in direct response to the wheelchair "pedestrian" that was struck and killed just north of this location recently, and while that was a tragedy, it should be noted that this person was crossing Sawtelle where it is marked on both the east and west sides with sings "Do Not Cross".
I say "this and more", because the long range plan is to install a traffic signal at Hayter Ave. Now, I don't disagree with a safer way to cross Sawtelle Blvd, but I feel this is the wrong way to go about it, though I do fully expect it to generate revenue for the city via CCPD, and in particular by their motor officers (who often "patrol" this area with speed traps). Oh, and speaking of which, the two electronic "Your Speed Is" signs along this stretch... the ones that rarely are working... Maybe they'd be more of a deterrent IF they worked.
Anyway, as I was saying, its not that I don't feel there could be a safer way to cross Sawtelle, especially considering the elementary school that is only one block west, but I think there is a better / safer way to accomplish this AND still keep traffic moving. I wish the powers that be would consider a pedestrian crossing light (remember, they are already planning to install the infrastructure to support a traffic signal) much like we have on Culver Blvd, just west of Elenda St. This light blinks yellow all the time, helping to remind drivers that there may be others using the sidewalks and roads, AND will switch to a blinking RED light when the crossing button is pushed.
Installing this sort of pedestrian assistance not only allows the pedestrian to directly influence their ability to cross, but keeps traffic moving without impediment at all other times.
Oh well, I'm sure this sort to logical thinking will be overlooked in favor of yet another stop sign / stop light, greater noise and pollution for the residents in the immediate area, and more traffic violations (more $) for the city.
Maybe we just make it really safe, and profitable, for everyone... we'll just put a stop sign or light at EVERY intersection in the city?
