Milltown received a grant in November to pursue pedestrian-safety initiatives, including radar speed signs that have been placed on Riva, Kuhlthau and Washington avenues (left) and solar-powered pedestrian crossings located on Violet Terrace at Parkview School and on Main Street at Ford Avenue (above). PHOTOS COURTESY OF JOSEPH PIETANZA
MILLTOWN — Residents and motorists traveling on borough streets may have noticed an increased focus on pedestrian safety.
Borough officials have been using funds from an $81,800 grant to implement a variety of safety measures. These include the placement of solar-powered pedestrian crossings at the intersection of Main Street and Ford Avenue, and on Violet Terrace at the entrance to Parkview School.
Councilman Joseph Pietanza, chairman of the borough’s Public Safety Committee, noted that motorists should be aware that state law requires them to stop when a pedestrian is within a crosswalk.
Radar speed signs, which let motorists know how fast they are traveling, have been placed on Riva Avenue, Kuhlthau Avenue and Washington Avenue. Pietanza said those intersections were selected by the Public Safety Committee, police officials and Borough Engineer Michael McClelland.
Pietanza said the locations were chosen based on observations, and not any particular incidents.
“We are looking to be proactive and not wait for something to happen,” he said. “This was an excellent opportunity to do just that.”
The remaining funds from the Middlesex County grant will be used to purchase a mobile message board that will enhance communication with residents and businesses in times of emergencies and special events.
“I feel fortunate that Middlesex County provided us with this grant as we try to make Milltown a better and safer place,” Pietanza said.