City Traffic Engineer 08 January 2002

City Of Monterey

Public Works Department

City Hall

Monterey, CA 93940

Dear [City Traffic Engineer],

I'm an employee in Monterey and a resident of Pacific Grove writing in response to a traffic accident that occurred on Wednesday, January 2^nd, 2002 at around 6:00 p.m. at the intersection of Park Avenue and Del Monte Avenue (northbound traffic, rightmost lane). In this accident a pedestrian was struck by a motorized vehicle while crossing a crosswalk. She suffered bone fractures and external bleeding and was fortunate to be spared her life.

I feel this incident clearly demonstrates that the safety of all pedestrians and bicyclists is at risk. Even though American society and culture is dominated by motorized vehicle usage, the quiet minority of pedestrians and bicyclists should be allowed safe passage in crosswalks and other designated pedestrian or bicycle zones. I hope that your office takes a proactive stance on this issue and not react after somebody's life has been lost. Whether automobile commuters have a 20 second or 20 minute delay to their destination is an insignificant point when it's even only one life that is saved. The main question here is: When is a human life most valuable?

I understand that there are already ongoing plans for safety improvements between El Estero and Sloat Avenue on Del Monte. I urge the prompt installation of a pedestrian crosswalk on Del Monte at Park similar in design to the crosswalk connecting Jack's Park and the Monterey Sports Center on Franklin Street.

Sincerely,

(name deleted by request)