Town officials discuss crosswalk safety concerns near Surfer's Inn ahead of beach season

As the sun began to set over Middletown, Rhode Island, a pressing concern echoed through the town council meeting held on March 17, 2025. Residents gathered to discuss the urgent need for a crosswalk near Surfer's Inn, a popular spot by Second Beach. With the beach season just two months away, the absence of a safe pedestrian crossing has become a significant worry for locals and visitors alike.

Ruth, a concerned resident, voiced her frustrations, recalling that the issue was first raised back in August 2023. She highlighted the dangers posed by pedestrians crossing a busy road without a designated crosswalk, especially with a large parking lot nearby and foot traffic from Paradise Avenue. “We have time if you can kind of get the engineering department and public works department going to put a crosswalk in,” she urged, emphasizing the safety of beachgoers.

In response, town officials acknowledged the ongoing discussions about the crosswalk. Sean, a consulting engineer, explained that while they have been exploring options, the complexities of the area present challenges. “It’s a very difficult situation,” he noted, citing the mix of cars, bicycles, and pedestrians, along with the topography that complicates safe crossing. The council is committed to finding a solution but is cautious about the potential liability of placing a crosswalk in a hazardous location.

The conversation turned to the importance of ensuring that any new crosswalk would not inadvertently increase danger. Sean referenced past incidents, including a pedestrian struck in a crosswalk on West Main Road, underscoring the need for thorough planning and safety assessments. “If we’re going to implement something, it should be beneficial, not something that makes the situation worse,” he stated.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while the town is actively seeking solutions, the path to a safe crossing at Surfer's Inn remains fraught with challenges. The council's commitment to pedestrian safety is evident, but residents will have to wait a little longer for a resolution that ensures their safety as they head to the beach this summer.