(May 1, 2015) – The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) and Town officials are reminding drivers in the Boonsboro area of Washington County to be alert for pedestrians in crosswalks, particularly in the Town’s square.  SHA recently modified the signal at the US 40 Alternate (Old National Pike) and MD 34 (Potomac and St. Paul streets) intersection so pedestrians now cross at the same time as through-traffic, when opposing traffic has a red signal.  Drivers at the intersection who have a green light and are making right-turns will need to look for, and yield to, crossing pedestrians who will have the right-of-way to cross with a green walk indicator.

“As we get into the warmer summer months, it’s important for drivers everywhere to be attentive for pedestrians,” said SHA District Engineer Tony Crawford. “That extra moment to look out for anyone who might be crossing can avert a tragedy.”

Before the timing change in Boonsboro took effect on April 10, the signal in the square allowed time for pedestrians to cross with red traffic signals for all directions. The Town requested the change because an independent traffic study showed that removing the all-red phase would help reduce congestion during peak traffic hours.

Motor vehicle law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Click here for more safety tips and information on the law.

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