Swampscott Officials Look to Fix Dangerous Crosswalk

SWAMPSCOTT, MA - After a 93-year-old man was critically injured when he was hit by a car while crossing Humphrey Street in Swampscott in November, town officials are looking to make changes in the area.

Solar glare is a significant factor as it creates a blinding effect on drivers on this stretch of roadway heading east during the solstice periods in February and November. To help improve driver awareness of the crosswalk, the Town will be installing pedestrian signs with flashing lights on either side of the crosswalk.

The solar glare, officials say, also impedes pedestrians who may be crossing the street in front of St. John's Church.

Additionally, officials are also seeking feedback from residents and visitors to help improve the visibility for drivers and pedestrians alike. Use this link to submit your feedback.

According to police, John Lofgren, 73, of Lynn, was killed crossing in front of the church, located at 174 Humphrey St. Lofgren a year prior. According to Swampscott Police, there were eight accidents along that area of Humphrey Street since January of 2015.

According to Item Live, Town Administrator Sean Fitzgerald said the town is looking at a number of strategies to fix the problem.

He said infrastructure would be the most expensive, but the town could certainly get additional information out on Humphrey Street about the importance of pedestrian safety and look at strategies to ensure motorists are careful as they travel along a busy corridor.

Swampscott Police Sgt. Tim Cassidy said to increase safety in that area, it would be nice if the church had the parishioners park in the back of the church or on Humphrey Street, not in the church’s parking lot across the street. He said there is a police officer there all the time directing traffic during the masses — at least one of the police officers was almost struck there while doing so.

You can read the full Item Live story here.