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Residents urge action on dangerous crosswalks; council asks for follow-up
Summary
Two residents during public comment asked Gaithersburg to address e-bike safety, sidewalk signage, and several crosswalks where pedestrians have nearly been hit. Councilmembers thanked speakers and asked staff to follow up with photos and details.
Two residents used the public-comment period Tuesday to press the council on pedestrian and micro-mobility safety in Gaithersburg.
Russell Kennedy, an Old Town resident, thanked the city for publishing e-bike rules but said riders were not following them and warned that dangerous behavior could cause a serious crash. "They're out there doing crazy things. One of them is gonna get killed one of these days," Kennedy said. He also asked whether sidewalk signs that protrude into the walking area are permitted and said he has not received a response about his application to the Old Town Advisory Committee.
Peter Valente, a Fields Road resident, described near-miss incidents at three crosswalks: a turn near Spring Hill Suites by Rio/Gateway Park where bus stops and turning lanes reduce visibility; a multi-lane crosswalk entering Kentlands with heavy shading and no flashing lights; and the nearby crosswalk from Council Hall to a park. Valente suggested pedestrian-activated flashing lights or additional signage and offered to submit photos. Mayor Ashman and councilmembers thanked both speakers and asked them to share photos and contact information with staff so the city can follow up.
