December 19, 2012 

A few months ago, this feisty newshound broke news about the city’s Public Works Department removing a number of traffic signals from area intersections. After we broke that news, the hue and cry went up citywide against the removal of said signals. The furor may have died down a little, but there are two key intersections along St. John, active school crossings mind you, where the push-button control that turns the light red has been removed and the signal blinks yellow 24/7. This newshound has seen more than a few close calls at St. John and Topping. When a crossing guard is in place, the stop sign she holds sends a different message than the flashing yellow light. Confusing? You bet it is. Dangerous? We certainly think so, especially given the reaction of some of the motorists met with this mixed message is to ignore the crossing guard and pay attention to the yellow, flashing signal and speed through the intersection.

This canine would like to know from city officials when the control for these school crossings will be put back in the hands of the crossing guards. The present scenario places imminent danger on both the crossing guard as well as the school kids using the crossing. The old adage unfortunately holds true. What does the body count have to be before action is taken to correct the scenario? For once, let’s be proactive and possibly save a life or two.