The latest project in Downey includes the inclusion of traffic medians on Paramount Blvd., located directly in front of Warren High School. this has a lot of worried parents asking questions about safety and traffic conditions as the school year approaches.
Pedestrian Safety
Pedestrian crashes account for about 12% of all traffic fatalities annually. Over the last decade, Downey has seen a significant increase in nightlife. The development of Downey Ave, The Promenade, Firestone Blvd and much more have invited a rise in traffic later into the evening and night. According to The U.S. Department of Transportation, traffic medians and islands help keep traffic in the right direction as visibility drops in the evenings. Providing raised medians similar to those furnishing Paramount Blvd. have shown an average of 39-46% reduction in pedestrian-involved crashes in cities around the country.
Having raised medians and islands along Paramount Blvd could possibly keep our children safe as they walk to and from school throughout the school year.
Traffic
Traffic during peak hours may be positively affected for safe drivers. Raised medians help prevent illegal merging and turns in high risk areas.
One of the biggest and most common reasons for traffic congestion are accidents. By decreasing accidents, traffic will be more predictable and safer, especially for new drivers entering the school year this coming week.
Beautification
Downey residents spend a lot of time and energy insuring that those who live and work in Downey continue to be proud of the city. Downey parks, schools and roads are getting a facelift. For the next few weeks, as everyone gets used to the new road conditions there will be a lot of concerns. A common concern heard around the community has been whether or not the increase in traffic congestion will be worth having planters in the middle of the road.
The answer is in the eye of the beholder. Some may enjoy seeing the garden islands, claiming that the green brings more life to the city. Others may claim the opposite; claiming that the medians obstruct traffic and increase unsightly congestion.
As the school year begins next week, it is recommended to give an extra few minutes to the commute to prevent a late first day of school. Only time will tell if the new medians will live up to their intended purpose.