Pedestrian safety

This has been an issue that has been gnawing at me since I moved back here, and that issue is pedestrian safety on Wisconsin Avenue.

Finally this summer, a walkway was constructed on the west side of the avenue. At what cost to the taxpayers, I do not know. This walkway, which was vital, shadowed the construction of A Trail Runs Through It, whatever that means. Again, at what cost to the taxpayer, I do not know.

This I do know, and that is that this new walkway is loaded with snow and pedestrians such as myself are forced to walk on the edge of Wisconsin Avenue just a few feet from a horde of moving vehicles.

The pedestrian crossing to the Alpine Market is nay, for no vehicles stop for crossing pedestrians. There are two crossing signs directed, both north and south, for approaching vehicles. No excuse.

This morning, I stood waiting to cross, and after about 15 cars passed, found a clearing to do so. No excuse. I was led to believe that in the state of Montana, pedestrian right-of-away was the law.

Children, students and adults walk this avenue, some everyday. Who is liable for their safety? The pedestrians themselves or perhaps the city of Whitefish?

I personally do not relish the idea of ending up at the Food Bank.

If nothing is done to remedy this hazard, I would like to name this new walkway that borders Wisconsin Avenue as “A Vehicle Runs Through me.” Whatever it means.

Howard Potter

Whitefish