Hoboken is Safe for Pedestrians

Hoboken was deemed one of the country's safest places for pedestrians this week, when it was recognized for a commitment to pedestrian safety by an organization called the Pedestrian and Bycicle Information Center. Hoboken is now a "Gold Walk Friendly Community."

Seattle, Wash. is the only city that was given the platinum level by the organization. In total, 11 cities around the country were recognized for being pedestrian friendly.

"It's exciting," said Director of Transportation and Parking Ian Sacs. Sacs said also that awards like these help the city when it's looking for grants.

Mayor Dawn Zimmer said that programs such as Corner Cars and trying to reduce the speed limit in town to 20 miles per hour, helped in determining Hoboken's gold status.

Zimmer said also that accidents involving bikers and pedestrians have gone down.

Zimmer and Sacs announced the award on Wednesday morning, on a piece of newly renovated sidewalk by the PATH station at Hudson Place. The sidewalk there was extended to be able to handle the roughly 10,000 to 20,000 commuters that walk there every day during rush hour.

The sidewalk was renovated with a $160,000 grant, of which $80,000 will be used to renovate the second stretch of the sidewalk (by the taxi stand in front of the PATH station).

The renovated sidewalk, Sacs said, helps make "the entrance to Hoboken more attractive and enjoyable."

As part of making Hoboken more pedestrian friendly, Zimmer said that—just like last year—Sinatra Highway will likely be closed to vehicular traffic on Sundays.