Lower Burrell officials have outlined a plan to make Leechburg Road safer for students, pedestrians, bicyclists and people with disabilities.
The city soon will start projects geared toward pedestrian safety and Americans with Disabilities Act compliance along the city’s main business artery, Mayor Chris Fabry said.
Projects include flashing beacons at different points along Leechburg Road, updated school zones near Bon Air and Stewart elementary schools, and sidewalk and ADA ramp upgrades, Fabry said.
Funding comes from the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission’s Smart Transportation for Livable Communities program. Lower Burrell was awarded $312,500.
Fabry said improvements at school intersections previously had been discussed among city officials, as both of Burrell School District’s elementary schools are located on Leechburg Road.
“Basically, we identified a need (and) problem, found a potential financial solution and explored it,” Fabry said. “I’m pleased to say that we were chosen.”
School zones in Lower Burrell have old lighting that is hard to see, Fabry said.
“It is so important for people to slow down, but the message isn’t clear,” he said. “Now, the message will shine bright with LED lighting.”
Crash numbers in and near the school zones were not available, but Fabry said the upgrades “will certainly make things safer.”
Flashing beacons will be placed near McDonald’s, Glen’s Custard, Stewart Elementary, St. Margaret Mary Church and Bon Air Elementary.
“As far as the flashing beacons, we’ve all experienced kids or adults, running across Leechburg Road,” Fabry said. “I, myself, have had a group of kids run out with one or two staying on the other side of the road because they didn’t feel as comfortable trying to cross. It creates a dangerous situation. The flashing beacons will help ensure everyone’s safety.”
Project construction isn’t anticipated to begin until next year. The program’s funding starts Oct. 1.
