Need For Pedestrian-Friendly Ordinances Around Construction

While signs may direct pedestrians around construction projects in downtown Cumberland, little else currently exists to actually protect them from harm.  Chris Myers, speaking as a downtown business owner with a vision impairment, says current codes and ordinances do not contain language that require barricades or protection around work areas for pedestrians, especially those with disabilities…

“You need to protect your citizens, especially when they have a disability, in a wheelchair, and they can’t get by this equipment and you’re forcing them to go out in the street to go around the equipment? Not acceptable.”

Earlier this week, Mayor Ray Morriss commented on the situation, saying people need to be vigilant and steer clear of the construction areas. Myers says a better ordinance is needed as more construction projects begin in the area…

“The city needs to implement ordinances to protect pedestrian safety in work zones.”