2 years after deadly pedestrian crash, Holliston officials say improvements are near

HOLLISTON, Mass. — It’s been almost two years since a woman was killed crossing Washington Street in downtown Holliston, but city officials say a solution to the treacherous area is almost at hand.

Downtown Holliston's pedestrian crossings all rely on drivers stopping when someone enters the crosswalk, but as anyone who has been to the area can tell you that doesn't always happen.

“I would think twice before I let my kids cross up there,” crossing guard Martha Ellis said. “They will not stop. They will not slow down."

Holliston Barber Shop is located right next to one of the main pedestrian crossings. Owner Gay Enos said she watches with alarm as students try to cross the area daily.

“You're taking your own life in your hands crossing the street,” she said. “They hit the button and they started walking and I told them stop. You know, wait for the cars to stop before you cross.”

Ever since Karen Evers was killed while crossing just before Christmas 2015, the pressure for a solution has increased.

>>PREVIOUS: Pedestrian safety spotlighted after Holliston woman killed

In addition to changing the location of the crosswalk, the lights signaling that someone is in the crosswalk are going to be lowered.

“These arms are so high right now... that when people see the light flashing... they don't see it because you have to look up and down at the same time,” Holliston Selectman Kevin Conley said.

They're also going to replace blinking yellow signals with tradition red, yellow, green traffic lights.
Construction is set to begin next month.

>>PREVIOUS: Holliston moves forward with crosswalk safety upgrades after deadly crash

TOP STORIES:

Cox Media Group