Dear editor,
Comox Town Council is considering making changes to a crosswalk in the Town of Comox. Before they make these changes, they should perhaps review why there are rules and directions for marking crosswalks.
The Pedestrian Crossing Control Manual for British Columbia states that the recommended pavement marking for crosswalks which have no signal controls is the zebra style with longitudinal stripes which are more visible to approaching drivers.
The intent of this direction is to aid in the safe passage of pedestrians across a vehicular roadway.
Crosswalks are internationally recognized tools of safety. Painting of these roadway areas with additional symbols or messages, no matter what the intention is, may cause confusion and detract from their safety.
Let’s think about all the different people that use our crosswalks and remember that they are placing their trust in the people who design these safety crosswalks.
Remember also that drivers must be able to recognize a crosswalk when they see it and not have to be distracted by extraneous markings.
Pedestrian safety must not be compromised.
Rudy Preus
Comox