Safety precautions are being taken around areas of bridge construction on Lane Avenue and Woody Hayes Drive. The speed limit of 25 mph has been reduced to 20 mph in light of uneasy traffic flow and a recent pedestrian incident on Woody Hayes Drive.
In addition to the decreased speed limit, the Ohio State Department of Transportation and Parking is trading in the orange barrels for concrete barriers in hopes that this will deter pedestrians from crossing the road at unauthorized places.
Sarah Blouch, administrative associate for Transportation and Parking, said officials in the department are concerned about pedestrians’ and motorists’ safety.
The department is asking pedestrians to watch before crossing the streets, for motorists to slow down and for everyone to have a little bit more patience in reaching their destinations.
Some students are upset by the speed limit in this heavy traffic zone.
“I think that is excessive,” said Stephanie Moran, a senior in animal sciences. “Even 15 mph is too fast, if there is someone stupid enough to walk out in front of traffic.”
Others think the limit is too low.
“Traffic is already unbelievably slow through there, because they took Lane Avenue out,” said Shannon Schafer, a junior in biogenetic engineering. “Lowering the speed limit even more is just going to cause even bigger problems and clogs.”
Some students said other methods could solve the traffic problems on Woody Hayes Drive and around other campus areas.
“I do not think cars should be allowed to drive on campus at all. Campus streets should be used by buses and pedestrians only,” said Ben Beters, a senior in English.
The new safety regulations will be tightly enforced. Police plan to monitor this area closely. Individuals will be cited for jaywalking, speeding, and other traffic violations.
“I think pedestrians should do everything they can to stay on sidewalks and properly used crosswalks, but drivers should take additional care,” said Brad Titchenell, a senior in animal science.
