HomeMy WebLinkAboutStreet Smarts - Oct 2016
City of Edina 4801 W. 50th St. Edina, MN 55424
Contact: Lauren Siebenaler, Communications Intern
Phone 952-833-9522 commintern@EdinaMN.gov EdinaMN.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
‘Have a Back-up Plan:’ City Reminds Residents of Street Safety
Edina, Minn., Oct. 5, 2016 – The City of Edina reminds residents to “Have a Back-up Plan” on local streets.
To educate street users about safety, last year the Engineering and Police departments launched the “Edina
Street Smarts” campaign. Each month of the spring, summer and fall, the departments remind street users of
ways to be safe and respectful of others. This month, the message is “Have a Back-up Plan.”
Having a back-up plan means to take precaution when backing out of driveways, parking spots and such.
Drivers develop habits that ensure the safety of themselves, other drivers and pedestrians. Activity on Edina
streets has changed a lot in the last few years so accidents may be more likely to occur. Drivers must take
into account the increasing number of pedestrians and bicyclists on our streets.
Motorists are reminded that bicycles, and the people who drive them, come in all shapes and sizes. When
backing out of a driveway, drivers should always look to see if someone is riding in the path or approaching on
a sidewalk. Pedestrians and children on small bikes might be hard to see. Drive slowly and look carefully.
Bicyclists and pedestrians are reminded to be alert and watch for vehicles backing out of driveways and
parking spots.
Recently, a shift has been occurring in the way the City of Edina’s residents, workers and visitors think about
streets, the way they have been designed, and how (and by whom) they are used. The community has been
moving toward becoming one that is more active and “livable,” with streets that are more “human-centered.”
Living Streets are designed and engineered to be safe and convenient for everyone – not just drivers, but also
bicyclists, transit riders, the disabled and pedestrians of all ages and abilities. Living Streets are designed to
improve residents’ health and quality of life while enhancing a neighborhood’s social and economic vitality.
For more information, visit EdinaMN.gov or contact the Police Department at 952-826-1610 or Engineering
Department at 952-826-0371.
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