ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A new study by the University of Central Florida determined the intersection of Alafaya Trail and University Boulevard is a dangerous place for pedestrians and bicyclists.
In the last eight years, there have been nearly a dozen fatalities and 259 crashes since 2006, almost a dozen of which involved pedestrians.
The 100-page report recommends millions of dollars in upgrades, but it has not yet been presented to county commissioners.
Elizabeth Hughes said she walks to lunch from UCF all the time, which sometimes means hurrying across the street before she gets hit, even though she's in the crosswalk.
"I'm careful. I look to see which way I am going. I wait for the light, but I see people who don't," Hughes said.
Document: Pedestrian Safety Study
Authorities found the pedestrian to be at fault in all but one case where there was a fatality.
Derek Page said he's forced to cross when he's not supposed to, because there isn't enough time at the light.
"This is a big intersection. Of course, (it's) going to be very dangerous," Page said.
Part of the report suggests education for distracted drivers and pedestrians, more crosswalks, lighting, signals and bus lanes and improvements to the roadway, including new turn lanes and widening the road.
Improvements are projected to cost more than $11 million. The study will be present to the county commission on Tuesday after a public meeting.
A pedestrian bridge was once an option, but has been taken off the table after the cost was too much.
Cox Media Group
