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Residents raise Duval Field crossing concerns; city cites speed camera and plans safety study as red-light camera installations proceed
Summary
Residents called for more traffic controls near Duval Field and Rhode Island Avenue at a public meeting; city staff said an all-hours speed camera and flashing crosswalks are in place and that a city engineer could be asked to study safety. Officials also confirmed four new city red-light camera locations under permitting.
Residents and council members urged College Park officials to evaluate traffic controls near Duval Field and along Rhode Island Avenue, telling meeting participants that current measures — including a speed camera and a lighted crosswalk — are not preventing motorists from failing to yield to pedestrians.
The concern matters because Duval Field's reopening will increase pedestrian crossings and school-related foot traffic, speakers said.
"One out of 10 cars will actually stop when you are standing there and you're visible," a resident said of the crosswalk near Rhode Island Avenue and Cherokee Street, describing repeated close calls and high-speed motorcycle traffic. The resident urged the city to consider a traffic signal at Cherokee Street to improve safety for children crossing to reach Duval Field.
City staff responded that a speed camera operates 24 hours near the Duval Field area and that a lighted, flashing crosswalk with a button for pedestrians is already installed. "From time to time, the contract officers do sit out there and see if motorists are adhering to the law regarding a pedestrian that's in the crosswalk," Director Koger said, and staff suggested asking the city engineer to perform a safety study for the intersection when Duval Field reopens.
Council members and staff said they will raise the matter with district council members and consider an agenda item requesting a formal safety evaluation. Staff also noted prior discussions about alternatives including stop signs, signalized controls and roundabouts, and that any change would involve engineering study and funding decisions.
Separately, staff confirmed progress on installing four city-operated red-light camera systems. Director Koger said the locations approved for installation are Baltimore Avenue and Cherry Hill Road; Metzeroth Road and Saint Andrews Place; Rhode Island Avenue and Edgewood; and Rhode Island Avenue and University Boulevard. The cameras have state and city permits and installation work has begun, staff said.
Officials said they would provide further written details about the camera project and continue to coordinate traffic safety planning as Duval Field construction completes and pedestrian travel increases.
