Residents raise crosswalk safety, downtown parking and AI study during public comment

Clemson — During public comment at the Feb. 2 City Council meeting, residents flagged pedestrian-safety concerns at two intersections, reported positive feedback about recent downtown parking changes, and urged the city to explore an AI impact study in partnership with Clemson University.

Colin Greg told councilors he regularly uses the crosswalk at Perimeter Road and Champions Avenue (near Littlejohn) and said the walk signal timing allows only a short window before the vehicle signal turns green; he also reported delays at the Calhoun Street and 133 intersection and asked whether timing could be recalibrated. "I've been seeing I use it regularly and a lot of students do as well... I was wondering if we could extend the time the light stays red to ensure some safety as students cross," Greg said. Councilors said they would record the concern and relay it to the appropriate jurisdiction.

A resident who identified himself as Rupert of 206 Avenue urged the council to consult with Clemson University on an expert study of how AI may affect degree programs, enrollment and the local economy. He suggested the university might contribute funding and cited prior local studies (including a parking study) as models for partnership.

Why it matters: Crosswalk timing affects pedestrian safety, especially for students near campus; a formal AI-impact study could inform workforce and education planning if the city and university choose to partner and allocate resources.

Councilors noted public comment is for city-controlled subjects and promised to pass concerns to the relevant departments and partners for follow-up.