Deconstruction of the temporary pedestrian crossing at the intersection of E. Johnson Avenue (Arkansas 91) and State Street will begin Wednesday, July 8, weather permitting.
Partnering with the City of Jonesboro, ARDoT and the Northeast Arkansas Regional Transportation Planning Commission had the crossing installed last year to study both pedestrian and motor vehicle interaction at the high-volume, five-lane intersection. A public comments period regarding the efficiency of the crossing has concluded.
This location was chosen for the study because of its connection between Arkansas State University and downtown Jonesboro, Metropolitan Planning Organization Director Cecelie Cochran said. “Consultants monitored usage of the temporary crossing as well as public response and vehicle behavior,” she said.
Jonesboro Mayor Harold Perrin has expressed concern for years about the safety of pedestrians in the area of the state highway and the university it borders.
“A lot of students live across the highway from ASU, as do a lot of people who have to cross that highway on foot or bicycle,” Perrin said. “I appreciate Ms. Cochran and ARDoT for conducting this study and look forward to whatever solution they propose.”
Cochran will present the results of the study to Jonesboro City Council and the MPO Policy Board, composed of elected officials and government transportation representatives from Craighead County. At a later date, they will choose one of three options, Cochran said, based on findings presented: installation of a full traffic signal, installation of a pedestrian hybrid beacon, or no change at all.
“We hope to make a presentation to City Council at its July 21 meeting, but that has not been confirmed,” Cochran said. “We thank the City of Jonesboro as well as ARDOT for their participation and assistance in this study process. It is one more step forward to the betterment of public safety in our region.”