Richmond council approves pedestrian crosswalk in Hillsdale after residents cite safety concerns

The Richmond Town Council voted to install a pedestrian crosswalk with advance warning signage at the Hillsdale area of Gardner Road following a public hearing in which residents described recurring safety risks.

Resident Andrew Carter, who identified his address as 464 Gardner Road, told the council he lacked details and was worried about speed and sight lines, saying, “I just don't have much detail on it and…if it's gonna cost us anything.” Police officials and council members explained the crossing will be located on the south side of the intersection and will include standard high‑visibility yellow advance warning signs rather than an illuminated beacon.

Jim Brea, who said he originally proposed the crosswalk, told the council the neighborhood has heavy pedestrian traffic and trails used by residents. “We have so many people” crossing between housing clusters, he said, urging the change.

Council members framed the measure as a safety response to a blind curve and what they called a pattern of fast vehicles in the area. After discussion the body voted to approve the installation by voice vote.

The council did not specify an exact installation date in the hearing. Staff said signage and the crosswalk location are set but did not indicate any cost to residents; one council member stated the town would cover implementation and that donated signs had been offered to Public Works. The project will proceed under the town’s traffic‑control procedures and any required permits or DOT coordination.