Crosswalk enforcement shows weakness in driver awareness

Florence police officers say there’s still a long way to go in educating the public about their responsibilities when it comes to pedestrians in crosswalks.  Over a 2 ½ hour period yesterday morning, Florence Police Chief Maury Sanders repeatedly crossed highway 101 at 17th street while a video camera recorded his progress.  Sanders said he never felt like he was in danger, but that’s because he was very mindful of the cars barreling up and down the highway as he stepped onto the asphalt.

Officer Brian Goss said a dozen citations were issued, but they could have written more.  Goss said there were “many” violations witnessed but officers were unable to keep up with the volume.  Sanders said the whole point is to make drivers more aware of their responsibility and to create a safer environment.