Paget road safety victory is in sight

FRIDAY, JUNE 22: Campaigners have welcomed the news that a traffic light controlled pedestrian crossing will be in place at a notorious accident spot by the end of the year.

Government last night confirmed that advanced warning beacons would also be installed on the approach to the Paget railway crossing.

Earlier this year the Bermuda Sun highlighted residents’ road safety concerns after jogger Donna Tiffin was knocked down as she tried to cross South Road.

Ms Tiffin spent several days in Intensive Care and sustained head injuries, a broken leg and four broken ribs as a result of the accident.

She welcomed the news that the spot where she was hit would soon be a pedestrian crossing.

Ms Tiffin told the Sun: “This appears to be very good news to everyone who uses that part of the trail.

“The sooner the better. It would be nice to see it happen within the next couple of months.

“It’s a tourism issue as well as an issue for local residents as everyone uses the trail.

“The trail is promoted as a visitor attraction and should be safe for people to use.”

Nearby resident Rosemary Jones added: “This seems to be good progress.

Dangerous

“Residents in Paget will be really happy to hear that something is being done about this dangerous crossing.

“We are looking forward to having the pedestrian crossing in operation.

“Only a few days ago I saw two people crossing the trail and they were nearly knocked down. Something needed to be done.”

A spokesman for the Ministry of Public Works revealed residents along South Road had agreed to sell their part of their land to Government so advanced warning beacons could also be installed.

He added: “Plans to install a traffic light controlled pedestrian crossing at the Paget Railway crossing are proceeding as the Minister indicated.

“This crossing will have advanced flashing warning beacons similar to what is on Crow Lane. “Residents along South Road from Paget lights are prepared to sell their land to Government, which will also help, as this will enable us to have a safe place for the advanced warning beacon.

“It is hoped that the pedestrian crossing will be installed by the end of the year, if not before.”