Simsbury Installs New Safety Feature Near Town Hall

SIMSBURY, CT — The "pedestrian-actuated rectangular rapid flashing beacon" installed in front of Simsbury Town Hall recently doesn't signal aircraft to land or make a DeLorean go back in time.

But it does improve pedestrian safety in a part of town where those crossing the street are vulnerable to getting hit by a vehicle.

The Simsbury Public Works department recently announced the installation of, essentially, a warning device that notifies motorists of pedestrians crossing in a crosswalk in front of the town hall on Hopmeadow Street.

While what was erected sounds like some sort of sci-fi feature or a B-movie from the 1950s, its just a warning light. But it could save a life.

"This is a significant enhancement to pedestrian safety when crossing Hopmeadow Street," wrote Simsbury's DPW.

"When the button is pushed, the lights on the signal will flash, alerting drivers to the pedestrians waiting to cross the street."

When the weather improves, more work on pedestrian safety is expected in Simsbury, according to town officials.