This week, the city is enhancing downtown safety by installing 17 retractable metal bollards on Union Avenue and Market Street. These devices aim to increase pedestrian safety during special events and improve the overall efficiency and aesthetics of the downtown area.
Deputy Chief of Operations, Chip Barry, explained that the current system uses standard barricades to block streets. However, the new bollards can pop up from the ground and lock into place, effectively preventing vehicles from entering the designated pedestrian zones. This feature not only makes them stronger and safer for pedestrians but also more visually appealing compared to traditional barricades.
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Barry highlighted that Market Square is one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the city. Removing large barricade equipment will help improve visibility of cross street traffic, ensuring pedestrian safety as they navigate through the city.
The retractable bollards are designed for quick and easy operation by city employees, which means streets can be closed for a shorter period before and after special events.
The installation work, carried out by Design and Construction Services Inc., requires intermittent closures of Union Avenue, between Walnut and Gay streets, and on Market Street, between Clinch Avenue and Market Square. The project is expected to be completed by mid-December.
For more updates, visit City News.
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