Broadway Needs Crosswalks

WEST CAPE MAY — Trying to cross Broadway on a weekend day in summer or on Tuesday afternoons when the farmer’s market is open requires either the patience of a saint or good dodge ball skills.
At a March 25 meeting, Borough Commissioners discussed having the county paint additional crosswalks on Broadway. Commissioner Peter Burke said County Engineer Dale Foster assured him new crosswalks would be painted before the start of the summer season.
The borough is requesting that four additional crosswalks be added to Broadway by the county in addition to those currently located at the northwest corner of Fourth Avenue and the southwest corner of Sixth Avenue to Mechanic Street.
Burke said no one stops to let pedestrians cross at the two existing locations.
In order of priority, requested crosswalks are:
• Southwest corner of Third Avenue to northeast corner of Pearl Avenue.
• Southwest corner of Landis Avenue to southeast corner of Leaming Avenue.
• Southeast corner of Central Avenue across Broadway.
• Southwest corner of Fifth Avenue across Broadway.
Burke said residents and visitors needed to know that state law requires drivers to stop their vehicle when they see a pedestrian trying to use a crosswalk. Those who ignore the law can receive a ticket that puts points on their driving record, he said.
Mayor Pamela Kaithern suggested installing a sign reminding drivers to yield at crosswalks.
She said, in her travels, she spotted a sign in another town reading: “Honestly now, what’s your hurry? You’re here.”
Burke noted businesses are located on the corner of Pearl across from Third Avenue and there is heavy foot traffic at both Leaming/Landis and Central avenues during the summer months due to the Farmer’s Market and a seasonal farm stand (Duckies) located across from Central Avenue.
The West Cape May Elementary School is located a short walk on Fifth Avenue and there are businesses located on opposite sides of Broadway at Fifth, Westside Market and Panico’s Pizza.
Burke said following past recommendations from the county, there are no plans to place “in street” pedestrian crossing signs.