Politics & Government

State To Review Route 114: Should There Be Crosswalks? [POLL]

Mass Department of Transportation will be reviewing safety at Route 114 after a pedestrian was struck and killed last week.

After a while walking on Route 114 last week, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (Mass DOT) will be conducting a study to observe the safety issues on the state roadway.

“The continue to investigate the crash Wednesday night on Route 114 in Danvers,” Michael Verseckes, MassDOT spokesman, said in a statement. “Once the investigation is complete, MassDOT will conduct a full safety review of this intersection to determine whether any safety improvements are necessary.”

Verseckes told the Boston Globe that MassDOT will review the timing of the road’s traffic signals, its sightlines and whether or not crosswalks would disrupt the flow of traffic.

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Danvers Police Captain Patrick Ambrose told the Globe the five-lane state roadway was never meant to be "pedestrian friendly."

On Wednesday, Feb. 22, 44-year-old Danvers resident Christopher Schlosser, was on Route 114 Westbound, in front of the .

Find out what's happening in Danverswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

In response to the fatal accident, Danvers Patch's Facebook page readers commented on the lack of crosswalks on the dangerous stretch.

Janet Blum Ibanez said, "I live on 114 and I see people trying to cross on a daily basis. I don't understand why there are no cross walks."

"Andover Street needs crosswalks every 1/2 mile," Matthew Swift added.

For some, the idea of a crosswalk on an already dangerous intersection would only encourage more pedestrians. 

Patricia Forrant Hale responded to Ibanez, "Because it is so busy a roadway. With 2 lanes in each direction. Why would someone be trying to cross?"

Take our poll and let us know if you think Route 114 should have crosswalks in the comments.


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