Pedestrian Safety

[AriaGrandparents2013]

We have been in The Villages since September and my wife and I surprised by the lack of "pedestrian phases" in the signal systems at the Lake Sumter Town Center signalized intersections. It is my impression that the yellow phase is incorporated into the signal timing and phasing to allow for the safe crossing of streets within designated pedestrian crosswalks. We have noted the crosswalks without pedestrian signals heads or push buttons and were surprised by the omission.

With an aging population here in The Villages with our ability to move as fast as we once did inhibited or lacking, it seems that yielding to pedestrians in the crosswalks should be of paramount importance. Yet I have personally experienced odd behavior of drivers annoyed that I am assuming they will yield to my trying to cross the street. Since we are retired, I can not understand what the rush is all about.

Did we miss something and is this observation correct? Would be interested in reading other's observations?

[Bogie Shooter]

I don't see this as a problem.

[coolkayaker1]

I was in Keene, NH recently. A college town with a gorgeous, 2-mile long and wide Main Street, with shops and restaurants. There are crosswalks--no crossing lights--every block. I was impressed by how the motorists yielded for every pedestrian, even at the busiest times. If a walker appears that they are going to cross the street, just gives a hint of stepping off the sidewalk, the drivers slow up and stop, respectfully.

This is a stark contrast to my Chicago suburbs, where Gino's pizza is what pedestrians would become if they failed to yield to the drivers!

What is the difference? Enforcement and awareness in Keene has fostered a courteous mentality that is now part of the town culture and is self-perpetuating.

[Mikeod]

I'm not sure what you mean by the "yellow phase" of traffic signals. And the only intersection I can think of around Lake Sumter is the one near Bravo Pizza.

I have always been told that pedestrians move with the flow of traffic, i.e., with the green light when there is no pedestrian crossing signal or button. Traffic turning must yield to pedestrians crossing properly with the green light. Orlando has conducted several enforcement efforts to remind motorists to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Perhaps we need to remind drivers and pedestrians alike how handle the situation.