INDIAN HARBOUR BEACH, Fla. – A police chief says it’s time to put lights at what he calls a “dangerous” crosswalk in the middle of the beachside highway in Brevard County.
The crosswalk on State Road A1A at Atlantic Boulevard is not at a red light, and there are no other lights to warn drivers.
Other crosswalks within 6 miles of the area do have lights, but there is only a sign at S.R. A1A and Atlantic that says, “It’s a state law to stop for pedestrians at crosswalks.”
The crosswalks that have buttons pedestrians can push to activate yellow flashing lights have drawn criticism since being installed after a 12-year-old girl died. The speed limit on S.R. A1A was reduced by 10 mph following the accident.
Indian Harbour Beach resident Felipe Portela on Thursday had to wait a couple minutes before being able to cross the lightless crosswalk and not because drivers stopped for them. He had to wait until the coast was clear.
“It’s very hard to see people here,” Portela said. “Especially at night. There are no lights, so you cannot see anybody here.”
Indian Harbour Beach Police Chief David Butler said there has been one accident at the crosswalk that he can remember.
He talked about a plan to make it safer.
“We’re hoping that we’re able to work with Florida DOT (Department of Transportation) to try to get actual lights up there for our community,” Butler said.
The chief said he’s hoping that will happen by the end of the year.
“It’s just a tough intersection,” he said. “It comes up on you quickly, and if you’re not paying attention, it can be a recipe for disaster.”
Later Thursday, FDOT released a statement about the intersection:
“Thank you for your interest in pedestrian safety when crossing State Road (S.R.) A1A near Atlantic Boulevard. Safety is the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) top priority, and we appreciate your efforts to bring attention to specific areas.
“The crosswalk on S.R. A1A near Atlantic Boulevard has been installed for more than 25 years and received updated crosswalk striping in 2018 for better visibility.
“The Department is currently developing preliminary plans for an overhead pedestrian signal at the S.R. A1A and Atlantic Boulevard intersection, though design and construction are not funded at this time.
“The Department has requested funding for design to start in Fiscal Year 2026, and construction in Fiscal Year 2028.
“FDOT strongly encourages all drivers to always stop for pedestrians at crosswalks. It is important for motorists to always be alert while driving and avoid distractions. We also encourage pedestrians to always be aware of their surroundings, too. Pedestrians should always use a crosswalk when crossing a road and look both ways before doing so.”