• A
  pedestrian crossing pilot programme in the CNB roundabout area will
  be underway in 3-4 weeks.
  
  
  
• The
  scheme offers pathways for pedestrians to cross the roundabout in
  less disruptive and dangerous ways than at present.
  
  

GRAND
CAYMAN (GIS) – A
National Roads Authority (NRA) pilot scheme will shortly get
underway, whereby lighted pedestrian crossings will be installed
along the CNB roundabout arteries, through the newly-built extension,
to the new roundabout at the Intersection of Crewe Road and Printers
Way (near Mango Tree Restaurant).

The
purpose of the scheme is to find a solution to the potential problems
posed by pedestrians who choose to cross the roundabout at locations,
and in ways, which may prove both disruptive and dangerous to all
road users.

The
CNB roundabout has been chosen for this pilot scheme because it is
one of the few major roundabouts where the approach speeds are at 30
mph and below.

This
makes it a safer location for the trial period, as lower speeds carry
a reduced risk of road accidents. The programme aims to make it safer
and less disruptive for pedestrians to cross the roundabout, thereby
improving the experience for all road users.

This
pilot system is identical in operation to the lighted crossing
already in place on Elgin Avenue, linking the Government
Administration Building to Workforce Opportunities and Residency
Cayman (WORC).

Pedestrians
should push the button, wait for the lights and check approaching
vehicles have slowed to a stop, before stepping out on to the
crossing. Motorists must come to a stop by law when a pedestrian is
present at the crossing.

The
crossings are staggered to take into account those drivers who may be
speeding up to leave the roundabout, as they will require a greater
breaking distance in order to come to a safe stop at the pedestrian
crossing.

The
Minister for Commerce, Planning and Infrastructure Hon. Joey Hew
explained that “this project demonstrates NRA’s commitment to
improving road safety, access and user experience for all persons,
whether they are travelling on foot, by bicycle, on public transport
or by car.”

He
added: “the Ministry of CPI supports this pilot initiative, as we
seek to make improvements for the benefit of all road users in the
Cayman Islands.”

In
addition, these works will also mark the opening of the Elgin
Avenue/Mango Tree extension and new roundabout. There will be major
changes to traffic flow as a result of the new road layout. All road
users should be aware of new pavement markings and signage, as well
as being alert to pedestrians using the lighted crossings. Access to
Printers Way via the right-hand turn lane from Thomas Russell Avenue
will soon no longer be possible. This access way will be permanently
closed.

The
NRA will also shortly be releasing two Public Service Announcements
to illustrate how to use the pedestrian crossings correctly.

Captions
and photos

Pilot
programme: map
showing location of lighted pedestrian crossings in the vicinity of
the CNB roundabout area.