A new Lone Tree city ordinance will go into effect March 16. At
that time, fines throughout the city will increase for traffic
violations that occur in a crosswalk when a pedestrian is present —
to the tune of $150 or $300 in a school zone.
After eight automobile and pedestrian accidents, resulting in
non-life threatening injuries, and complaints from residents, the
Lone Tree police department began working diligently on a
solution.
Police Chief Steve Hasler said, “Safety of our pedestrian
public, especially of our children crossing roads to get to school
is our number one priority.”
So in partnership with the Lone Tree City Council, Lone Tree
Public Works and local community supporters, discussions began on
solving the issue. Along with engineering, education and
enforcement proposals, the police department initiated an ordinance
to city council on increasing fines.
Along with educating the community on safety issues, the parents
are asked to talk to their children on crosswalk and road etiquette
as well
Even though the green light flashes “walk”, it does not mean it
is safe to cross
Dress to be seen, brightly colored or reflective clothing
Take a “second look” to make sure it is safe to cross
Make direct eye contact with the driver to make sure you are
seen by that driver
Two of the eight accidents occurred within the school zone at
Eagle Ridge Elementary, resulting in three injuries. According to
the city of Lone Tree Community Outreach Coordinator, Kristen
Romary, the school is doing their part to prevent accidents between
pedestrians and vehicles as well. They have implemented a crossing
guard program at busy intersections, both adults and junior
crossing guards.
While the crossing guard program has been successful, both Eagle
Ridge and the Parent Teacher Association are asking for help from
the entire community. A “Run for Fun” event to raise money in
support of the crossing guard program will take place on May
16.
For more information contact Shelly deGuzman at shellyd@rocketmail.com or Susan
Duffy at s-duffy@comcast.net for
sponsorship opportunities.
Lone Tree police department reminds public of safe stopping
distances:
Braking distances at the speed of:
25 mph (All Lone Tree residential streets) is 46 ft or 3 car
lengths
20 mph (School Zone Speed Limit) is 46 ft or 3 car lengths
35 mph (Lone Tree Parkway or Timberline) is 87 ft or 6 car
lengths
45 mph (Lincoln or Quebec) is 140 ft or 9 car lengths
50 mph is 175 ft or 13 car lengths
