Market Street pedestrian death prompts New Albany safety review

Jennifer Samuels, a Keswick Commons resident, told the City Council that a neighbor was recently struck and killed on Market Street and asked the city to consider engineering and enforcement changes to prevent further deaths. “We see a lot of close calls,” Samuels said, describing frequent pedestrian crossings and motorists failing to stop even when crosswalk lights flash.

Mayor Sloan T. Spaulding thanked Samuels and said the city will evaluate options. He noted the city is promoting pedestrian-safety messages through social media and the newsletter to remind visitors and residents to obey crosswalk signals.

Chief Jones said the police investigation found no evidence that speed or impairment contributed to the crash and described the department’s existing enforcement and signage efforts, including written citations and placement of a speed trailer in the area. “Through video, witnesses and physical evidence, speed wasn’t a factor,” Chief Jones said, while adding that officers will “double down” enforcement in the corridor.

Multiple residents from Keswick Commons said the problem is recurring and urged a fuller, community-driven response. “Writing us to wear brighter clothes or push the button isn’t the answer,” one resident said, urging a coordinated safety initiative with neighborhood participation. Residents and councilmembers discussed several possible steps: more prominent or flashing stop signs, raised or timed crosswalks, longer crossing light durations, automated speed feedback signs, and cameras.

Councilmembers asked staff to examine the options and report back. The council invited residents to work with city staff and the police to develop a community-based safety plan and indicated the idea of a standing safety subcommittee for future meetings.

The council did not take formal action at the meeting; staff and police said they would follow up with more detailed recommendations and timing.