Скачать или смотреть City Council considering 3D crosswalks to improve pedestrian safety

CINCINNATI (WKRC) - An optical illusion could help people cross Cincinnati's streets more safely. The 3D crosswalks could force drivers to slow down.

Drivers who speed or don't stop at crosswalks make it dangerous for people trying to cross the streets.

"They really don't want to slow down. They really need to start paying more attention," said Tina Reynolds.

Reynolds doesn't have a car and walks to get around. She's almost been hit several times trying to cross the road. But the idea of painting 3D crosswalks might help lower the number of auto-pedestrian accidents.

"I think it's a good idea. It might help these drivers slow down and stop," Reynolds said.

If the new crosswalks are approved, it's going to look a lot different than your typical crosswalk. When a car is approaching the crosswalk, it looks like a raised platform, tricking drivers into slowing down, especially when someone is walking.

"There are just some things that are no brainers, and 3D crosswalks are a no brainer for me," said City Councilmember Jeff Pastor.

Pastor brought the idea to Cincinnati City Council after seeing a video on social media. He's tired of hearing about auto-pedestrian accidents that can be prevented -- stories like 15-year-old Gabriella Rodriguez, who died in September after she was hit by two vehicles while trying to get to the school bus.

"The optical illusion that appears to have the crosswalk off the ground causes the motorist to pause, which is what we need in this city," said Pastor.

Others like Brenda Bax are skeptical.

"I don't know if it's going to help it or not," Bax said.

She knows distracted driving is an issue but doesn't know if changing the look of a crosswalk is the solution. But, she says if it works, she's on board.

At the Law and Public Safety meeting, the board decided to consider the idea and put it up for review.