Brigham City to try placing crossing flags at unlighted intersections

By Amy Macavinta

April 22, 2008 | There are three pedestrian crosswalks in Brigham City that are not located at a lighted intersection. According to information provided by the Police Department, there have been a total of 84 auto/pedestrian accidents at those locations since May 2000. Of those, it was a fatal accident last year that prompted a local businessman to approach the city with a request to use crossing flags in those locations.

The city has agreed to implement a one-year pilot program. Orange flags will be placed on each side of the street for the pedestrian to carry as they cross the street if they wish. The flags will be available on Main Street at 50 North, 50 South, and 150 South. According to Public Works Director Blake Fonnesbeck, it will cost approximately $1200 for the installation and initial purchase of flags.

“The flags won’t protect [the pedestrian] but will raise awareness,” said Fonnesbeck. The flags are not a replacement for following safety rules for pedestrians or drivers; they are there to add on more measure of visibility to the pedestrian.

Because Main Street is owned by the state, Brigham City will be required to sign an agreement with Utah Department of Transportation to relieve the state of liability. While they do not recommend the use of the crossing flags and do not feel they are effective in reducing accidents, UDOT is supportive of the city’s wish to increase safety. According to UDOT policy, the flags are only allowed at properly marked crosswalks that are not controlled by a traffic light.

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