On Monday, March 31, USG passed a bill formally requesting the improvement of pedestrian safety and accessibility on campus to create a more safe and inclusive environment.

The bill states that pedestrian safety is becoming more of a concern as foot traffic increases and current infrastructure does not address pedestrian needs. Places with high vehicle traffic pose a risk for all pedestrians and sidewalks with inconsistent surfaces or materials pose a risk for those with mobility challenges, strollers, bikes, scooters, etc.

SB2 advocates for the addition of crosswalks, especially on East Merry Avenue, Willard Drive, Mercer Road and Ridge Street, speed bumps on East Merry Avenue and Ridge Street, curb cuts at all crosswalks, and adequate crosswalk lighting to improve pedestrian safety. It also asks the university to implement more rectangular rapid flashing beacons in places with high foot traffic and ensure all sidewalks are level and consistent in material.

“I think SB2 is a great initiative because it brings attention to the aging aspects of the university that need to be addressed,” said former USG President, Elyse Adrian. “It is very timely, as the Masterplan for the next 15 years is at its final stages of approval. I am very excited to see how the next USG administration handles the implementation of this bill.”

The bill was written by Avie Housholder and Isabella Lane, both USG Diversity Affairs Senators, and Karlee Heilman, an at-large senator.