We, the concerned STL County residents, hereby request the Big Bend and Geyer Rd intersection project to implement crucial safety enhancements as part of the upcoming STL County Dot project, AR180, Federal project STP 5537(624), E-W Gateway TIP No #6963A23. These enhancements are vital to ensure the safety of pedestrians and motorists alike.

1. Road Markings with Reflective Tape:
We urge Big Bend and Geyer Rd to utilize FHWA best practice by incorporating 3-M reflective tape in road markings (recessed markings lasted longer even under sustained inclement weather and high traffic volumes). This will significantly enhance visibility during low-light conditions or inclement weather, reducing crashes caused by poor visibility.

2. Advanced Stop Line & Signs (Sharks Teeth):
To improve pedestrian safety at crosswalks, we request the installation of advanced stop lines with "Sharks Teeth" & a sign “Stop Here” placed 20ft in front of each crosswalk. This will provide a clear indication for drivers to stop before entering pedestrian zones, reducing potential collisions.

3. FHWA Best Practice Crosswalk Lighting:
In order to enhance pedestrian visibility during nighttime hours, we strongly advocate for implementing FHWA best practice crosswalk lighting on Big Bend and Geyer Rd. Properly illuminated crosswalks have been proven to reduce crashes involving pedestrians significantly.

4. Bump Outs (Curb Extension) on Big Bend:
To promote safer pedestrian crossings and discourage speeding vehicles along Big Bend Road, we call for the installation of bump outs or curb extensions at strategic locations. These physical modifications will effectively shorten crossing distances while increasing driver awareness of pedestrians.

5. Raised Crosswalks in Channelized Traffic Lanes:
We propose that raised crosswalks be implemented within channelized traffic lanes on both Big Bend and Geyer Rd intersections. Raised crosswalks have shown great success in calming traffic, reducing vehicle speeds, and increasing pedestrian safety.

6. TURNING TRAFFIC MUST YIELD TO PEDESTRIANS signs. 
Utilize as MoDOT in Kirkwood on channelized slip lanes. 
In order to remind drivers who are making turns to yield to pedestrians, especially at intersections where right turn on red is permitted and pedestrian crosswalks are marked, a TURNING TRAFFIC MUST YIELD TO PEDESTRIANS (R10-15) sign may be used. 

7. Leading Pedestrian Intervals (LPI) at Traffic Signals:
To prioritize pedestrian safety and reduce conflicts with turning vehicles, we urge the inclusion of Leading Pedestrian Intervals (LPI) at all traffic signals on Big Bend and Geyer Rd. LPIs provide pedestrians with a head start to cross the street before vehicles are given the green light, minimizing potential accidents. Missing are mid island refuges islands, to compensate include crossing extended timing to accommodate older citizens and young children. 

By implementing these safety enhancements, we can create a safer environment for both pedestrians and motorists on Big Bend and Geyer Rd. Our community deserves roads that prioritize safety for all users.

We kindly request that STL County Dot take immediate action to incorporate these measures into the upcoming STL County Dot project Big Bend and Geyer Rd intersection, AR180, Federal project STP 5537(624), E-W Gateway TIP No #6963A23. Let us work together to make our streets safer for everyone in the 63122 community.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,
Safer Streets for Kirkwood & Connect our Community