The city of Jonesboro has taken strides to enhance pedestrian safety along East Washington Avenue, with $325,000 spent on recent upgrades and more improvements planned.
City officials determined that the width of East Washington Avenue encouraged faster driving, prompting a series of safety measures. About two years ago, the city narrowed the roadway to slow traffic, marking the first phase of the project. Recently, four push-button stoplights have been installed — two in the downtown area and two near Jonesboro High School — to help pedestrians cross more safely.
“These areas see high pedestrian activity, and our goal is to slow traffic and increase awareness,” Mayor Harold Copenhaver said.
Copenhaver explained how the push-button system works: “When pedestrians approach an intersection with the flashing lights, they should press the button. This activates the signal and alerts drivers to stop.”
In addition to the push-button stoplights, the city has implemented other enhancements, such as removing telephone poles to improve visibility for drivers and pedestrians alike.
“They aren’t cheap, but you can’t put a price on a life. It’s about making our community more aware,” Copenhaver added, noting that the safety lights are now operational both downtown and near the high school.
As the city evaluates additional locations for future stoplights, Copenhaver urged residents who have safety concerns about specific intersections to contact City Hall.
He also reminded drivers, particularly those using East Matthews Avenue, to remain vigilant. “There are a lot of pedestrians who walk, bike, and use other forms of transportation. Drivers need to put their phones down and pay attention,” he said.
According to the city, additional upgrades to pedestrian infrastructure downtown are under consideration as Jonesboro continues its efforts to prioritize safety on its busiest roads.