Many of us were shocked to see the southern crosswalk at Sheridan and Keeney removed late in 2025. This intersection is a key resource for pedestrians trying to get to the South Boulevard beach. Forcing pedestrians to rely exclusively on the northern crosswalk is not a practical solution, and its impact is far wider-reaching than one might initially assume.

Safety.  Even though the crosswalk is gone, the wear of the grass shows that people still regularly cross on the southern side of the junction. But now these people are less safe. Those who are most likely to take the risk are the most vulnerable: kids and those for whom extra walking effort is hard.  Getting rid of the crosswalk is not just annoying; it is dangerous.

Inconveniencing those who live closest.  The block to the south of the junction is dense with multiple apartment buildings. It is maddening that apartment dwellers are expected to make multiple crossings to use the northern crosswalk while those with single family homes on the northern stretch of Sheridan retain use of their closest crosswalk. Other similar junctions like Kedzie and Sheridan still have two crossings.    

We've had enough time to make a judgement. Residents who complained at the time were told that the LED lights at the northern crosswalk would be a big improvement. But a year later we are still not happy. Now that the crossing sign on the south side of the junction is gone, Cars now stop in the middle of the junction and block the box while people cross. LED crossings at both sides of the junction would get cars to stop at a safer distance. The city takes this approach at other junctions with high foot traffic such as Oakton and Wesley. They should do the same at Sheridan and Keeney.        

We urge the City of Evanston's authorities to reconsider their decision. Let's prioritize the safety and accessibility of all community members. Please join us in this call to action—sign the petition to restore the southern crosswalk at Keeney and Sheridan.