Watch for kids and buses; reduce speed in school zones
Information compiled
Today is back to school day in Chelan (Manson school district started last week) and motorists may notice some traffic pattern differences with the transformation of the Old Bridge into one-way and the addition of flashing amber lights at crosswalks near MOE and CMS/CHS.
Upper Woodin Avenue (Hwy 97-A / Hwy 150) has a new flashing crosswalk at Bradley Street near Morgan Owings Elementary. Another one has been placed at the entrance to Chelan Middle School / High School on Webster. It is illegal to drive through a crosswalk with flashing lights as long as pedestrians or bikes are present. Both schools have adjacent safety zones with a reduced speed limit. Law enforcement will be present to remind commuters that school is back in session.
There is some confusion about the rules surrounding the amber flashing crosswalks. Here are some tips for how to use these crosswalks safely.
For drivers:
• You must stop when the light is flashing and a pedestrian is crossing.
• You don’t have to stay stopped the entire time the light is flashing, only when someone is crossing. That’s why the signals use an amber light, signaling caution, as opposed to a red light, which would indicate a complete stop.
• Once the person or bike clears through your side of traffic and is on the other side of the median or safely on the sidewalk, you can go.
For pedestrians:
• Make sure to push the button. The flashing light is what helps drivers realize there is someone crossing outside of an intersection.
• Take a defensive approach and scan the road to make sure vehicles are yielding before stepping into the roadway.
• Always make eye contact with the motorist before crossing.
For additional information, please contact Chelan County Sheriff’s Office.
