Transportation Services will assess traffic safety efforts

In March, a fatal bus accident that took the life of Cornell junior Michelle Evans heightened safety concerns regarding the high volume of pedestrian, bicycle and automobile traffic on the Cornell campus. To ease the anxiety expressed by both pedestrians and motorists in the wake of the tragedy, Cornell's Transportation Services increased its ongoing efforts to raise awareness about traffic safety on campus.

One initial measure that began the first week of April was traffic control at several of Cornell's busiest intersections between classes. This temporary arrangement, intended to facilitate campus traffic flow and expedite pedestrians crossing at intersections during peak times, quickly became the talk of campus -- considered an inconvenience by some and a comfort by others. Carl Cohen, assistant director for Commuter and Parking Services at Cornell, explained, "We've had people thank us and tell us they appreciate it. Some have said 'it's about time' you did something like that on Cornell's chaotic campus."

As the spring semester ends and the much quieter days of summer approach, Transportation Services plans to suspend these traffic control measures until further notice.

"We appreciate the many positive comments we've received regarding these efforts and believe they've helped heighten community sensitivity to the issue of pedestrian safety," said William E. Wendt, director of Transportation and Mail Services. "Our department has gained valuable experience and I commend all of the staff members who've been out on campus making these efforts possible. We want to create a safe and comfortable environment at Cornell and we're prepared to assist at any campus intersections as warranted, but now it's time to evaluate what's been done and explore options for the future," explained Wendt.

Transportation Services will focus its efforts on gathering suggestions on traffic safety and awareness program alternatives from various members of the Cornell community including the Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Traffic Safety Committee and the University Assembly's Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC). The department is committed to implementing a comprehensive program by this fall, said Wendt. All members of the Cornell community are encouraged to send their comments and suggestions about campus traffic safety to transportation@cornell.edu.