As the summer tourism season begins, East Lyme, a town in New London County, is taking proactive steps to ensure pedestrian safety in its bustling downtown area. The East Lyme Public Works department has installed large, bright orange flags at two key crosswalks in Niantic, a popular spot known for heavy foot traffic.

The crosswalks, located on Main Street across from an ice cream store and on Pennsylvania Avenue across from a Dairy Queen, are now equipped with these highly visible flags. The initiative aims to make crossing the street safer for both pedestrians and drivers, especially in areas without traffic lights or stop signs.

Local resident Matt Gully expressed his approval of the new safety measure, stating, “You can’t miss a big flag. If you miss a big flag, that’s on you.” Another resident, Don Ghostlaw from East Windsor, noted the increased visibility provided by the flags, saying, “If you were walking without the flags, it could be dangerous. With the flags, you have a lot of visibility.”

The idea for the flags was inspired by suggestions from two community members who had observed similar safety measures in other towns. This grassroots approach highlights the importance of community involvement in local safety initiatives.

Community-Driven Safety Measures

The installation of these flags underscores a broader trend of community-driven safety measures. By listening to residents’ suggestions, East Lyme is fostering a collaborative environment where citizens can actively participate in enhancing their town’s safety and livability.

As East Lyme welcomes tourists and locals alike, the town’s commitment to pedestrian safety reflects its dedication to creating a welcoming and secure environment for all. This initiative not only addresses immediate safety concerns but also strengthens community ties by valuing and implementing resident feedback.

Original reporting: NBC Connecticut (Hartford) — read the source article.