WACO, Texas — The City of Waco's rapid growth over the years has brought an increase in traffic and congestion, leading to safety concerns for pedestrians, especially near crosswalks in busy areas like North 19th Street and Meridian Avenue.
Bobby Singer has lived in the area since 2016 and is voicing his worries about the safety of crossing the street despite city efforts to improve pedestrian infrastructure.
"Some of it is distracted driving," Singer explained. "I [also] think people don't understand that they have to stop for a pedestrian on a pedestrian crosswalk when the lights are activated."
The City of Waco has upgraded crosswalks with LED flashing lights, better signage, and enhanced striping within the last year. Singer said he is grateful for that, but drivers often fail to yield to pedestrians.
“It’s always been a problem,” Singer said. “Waco has done a wonderful job of updating it, but drivers still sometimes don’t pay attention."
Singer shared videos showing drivers ignoring the flashing lights and failing to stop even when he was already in the crosswalk. “Sixty percent of the time, people don’t stop, or they veer into the bicycle lane,” he added. “It’s disappointing and dangerous. You really have to keep your head on a swivel.”
In response to these concerns, Waco Police Department spokesperson Cierra Shipley stated that their traffic unit is surveying the area and considering enforcement operations to ensure compliance with crosswalk laws. Officers urged both drivers and pedestrians to remain vigilant.
“For pedestrians, even if you press the button and the lights flash, you still need to give drivers time to notice and stop,” Shipley said. “For drivers, be mindful of pedestrians and bicyclists. We all share the road.”
Singer believes Waco’s growth plays a role in the issue, with increased traffic and potentially less awareness of road rules among some drivers. He suggested relocating the crosswalk to a straighter section of the road to improve visibility.
“This area was planned long ago when traffic wasn’t as congested,” Singer explained. “I’m asking the public to do their part. I’ll push the button and give drivers a chance to stop, but we all need to work together to stay safe.”
Singer also emphasized the importance of pedestrian safety. “You cannot compete with a 3,000-pound vehicle,” he said. “Don’t assume drivers will stop. Make sure they do before stepping out.”
With the city continuing to expand, Singer believes addressing pedestrian safety concerns will be critical for ensuring Waco remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.