Traffic commission approves rectangular rapid‑flashing beacon at midblock crossing near 741 Miller Drive

The Leesburg Traffic Commission voted to install a rectangular rapid‑flashing beacon at the midblock crosswalk in front of Free Life Church at 741 Miller Drive.

Town traffic staff reported that the site met the technical criteria for an RRFB. Staff said the midblock crossing recorded about 24 pedestrian crossings in a 12‑hour period and a vehicle volume of about 11,700 vehicles per day, which staff said qualified the location for the device under current guidance. The commission then moved to place an in‑stock RRFB at the identified location; members voted verbally in favor and the chair called the motion approved.

The commission and members of the public described safety concerns at the crossing. A church security team lead said a four‑hour parking zone near the church includes an area where a “no parking” sign had been placed in the middle of the permitted zone, removing about “6 to 7 of the parking spots” the church had used on Sunday mornings. The security team lead also said the crosswalk is “dark” in parts of the approach, drivers often come around a curve with headlights and are “right on top” of pedestrians, and Sunday traffic includes older people and children crossing the street.

Sergeant Schumer was identified in discussion as having taken photos documenting the sign placement; town staff noted sight‑line concerns can require no‑parking zones near some intersections. Staff also described prior short enforcement efforts by the sheriff’s office at the location and the use of data collection tools (tubes and radar trailers) to measure speed and volume.

Commissioners discussed whether the proximity of the crossing to a signalized intersection could produce a false sense of security for pedestrians. Staff recommended complementary measures such as ensuring a high‑visibility ladder crosswalk marking, outreach and enforcement, and monitoring the crossing after installation. Commissioners asked staff to collect follow‑up speed and volume data at nearby locations, including Harrison Street and Roanoke, to evaluate broader patterns.

The vote and subsequent discussion focused on siting the device at the identified midblock crossing and on outreach to neighbors and the church to explain parking rules and enforcement. The commission requested staff return with monitoring data and any recommended additional measures.