As part of the North Avenue street resurfacing, the intersection of North and Wells is receiving new stamped brick crosswalks! You've probably noticed these elsewhere in Lincoln Park, and it's great to have them at a large, busy intersection like this one. The combination of texturized asphalt and bright red paint makes it clear to other users of the road that crosswalks are actually an extension of the sidewalk, and NOT a part of the street, as is often assumed. They'll go a long way to improving the visibility of pedestrians. Plus, they're beautiful.
The picture on the left was taken three days ago, and the one on the right was taken today. They're not quite done, but we couldn't wait to spread the news to those of you who haven't been to this intersection recently. The CDOT workers will probably still paint the edges white to finish it off, and we'll post updated pics then.
We need these everywhere!
Have you seen any positive changes for pedestrians or bicyclists in your neck of Lincoln Park? Share with us in the comments below, or send pics to bikewalklincolnpark@gmail.com We'd love to hear from you.
Real brick keeps its color for longer and is more durable. In less than 5 years the color will be gone and the stamping will be worn away. Brick has a higher upfront cost, but a lower maintenance cost.
ReplyDeleteI agree that they demonstrate the crosswalk is an extension of the sidewalk.
We'll just have to invite CDOT to come back in 4.5 years. ;)
ReplyDeleteI have noticed how quickly thermoplastic tape looks old, after just a week or two of use, like on the new Madison bike lane in the Loop. I guess anything that's run over thousands of times a day by vehicles weighing half a ton or more is going to take a beating.