'Racetrack' crossing too dangerous, Strathearn residents say
Southside Edmonton residents living near a marked crosswalk in the Strathearn neighbourhood are saying, "I told you so," after a truck struck an elderly woman Wednesday afternoon.
The 84-year-old woman was crossing 95th Avenue at 92nd Street during last night's rush hour.
"This intersection right here is like a racetrack especially closer to 4 o'clock," said Patricia Nelson who lives in the same seniors residence, Montgomery Place, as the victim.
Nelson knows the victim, in hospital in stable condition, referring to her as a feisty and active great grandmother, able to get around without help.
The senior's residence is across the avenue from a doctor's office, a pharmacy and a convenience store enticing seniors to cross the busy road while watching for the many vehicles that seem to ignore the crosswalk.
"It's handy for us," Nelson said. "There's nothing else around here."
The city transportation services department rejected the the call for more safety features at the intersection last year.
The neighbourhood's city councillor said he's livid.
"I'm upset someone has to get hurt in order for hopefully to get some action on this," said Ben Henderson. "Because it wasn't lack of trying."
Residents say they'll keep pressing for safety improvements.
"These cars, you're half way ... they just fly by," said area resident John McKinley. "They don't stop for you."
Charges are pending against the driver.
