Problematic Pittsfield Intersection Gets Flashing Stop Signs
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Flashing stop signs were added to the problematic Onota Street intersection as a cost-effective way to reduce crashes.
The three-way stop is where Onota and Linden Streets intersect, and those traveling west on Linden Street are on an incline. The intersection is well-traveled and has two active businesses on it.
"We've all wanted it for a long time. It's good news," Ward 6 Councilor Dina Lampiasi said at last week's City Council meeting.
Commissioner of Public Services and Utilities Ricardo Morales told councilors that the upgraded signs were installed. They are similar to standard stop signs but have flashing lights and a solar panel.
"I agree that improvements are needed at this intersection and have already begun the procurement process to upgrade the three existing stop signs with flashing LED stop signs," he wrote in a communication to the council on Aug. 12.
"This measure directly addresses the concerns raised and represents a timely and cost-effective step toward enhancing safety at this intersection."
In June, Lampiasi requested that the signs be "immediately" upgraded to flashing LED stop signs on all approaches. She was glad to see they were installed and feels it will improve travel for the community.
"The residents who live there are excited. People who pass through the area are going to have a better commute," she said.
A couple of years ago, former councilor Karen Kalinowsky petitioned to install a blinking red light or other traffic light configuration at the intersection, but it was tabled because the city already had plans to address the area.
There was some reconfiguration of the stop bar and curbs to improve visibility.
Lampiasi's request follows an accident at the intersection on June 7. The Berkshire Eagle reported that a person was transported to Berkshire Medical Center after a two-car collision at the intersection between a truck and a sedan.
She explained that this underscores "long-standing issues with driver non-compliance and limited visibility" and that residents are directly affected by inaction.
"The current signage does not adequately capture drivers' attention - creating unsafe conditions for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists," Lampiasi wrote.
"Those who live in this neighborhood and commute through it daily have repeatedly raised concerns about safety at this intersection while patiently waiting department lead intervention."
The council also approved the use of an upgraded voting machine in time for the upcoming municipal election. It is an Image Cast Precinct Tabulator 2 System that is 70 percent faster.
Clerk Michele Benjamin assured voters that they won"t see a difference at the polls, explaining, "It's basically the same." They have multi-factor identification, an audit trail, and a 3-5 second scan time.
"I think it's long overdue," Councilor at Large Alisa Costa said.
"We want our ballot system to be safe, secure, and in this case, I think the newer technology is going to make everybody's experience better."
Tags: traffic signage,
