LTU presents two options to make dangerous south Lincoln intersection safer

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Neighbors have been raising concerns about a Lincoln intersection for years, saying speeding and low visibility make it dangerous for drivers and pedestrians alike.

The area near 10th and High streets has been the site of multiple fatal crashes, including one in March in which a pedestrian was killed.

On Tuesday, the Lincoln Transportation and Utilities Department held a meeting to speak to the public about its plans for the intersection.

Officials said their goal is to combat the high traffic, speeding, curvature of the roadway, and the visibility problems, to name a few.

SEE ALSO: Lincoln neighborhood working to make intersection safer after numerous accidents

The state used to own 10th Street when it was also Highway 2, but now it’s owned and maintained by the city.

With that change, “It is a prime time to have some traffic calming and improvements to this thoroughfare,” said Rosina Paolini, president of the Indian Village Neighborhood Association.

LTU Director Liz Elliott got right down to business, offering two solutions based on data the department collected.

That includes information on crashes and how many pedestrians and bicyclists use the area.

SEE ALSO: Lincoln neighborhood pleads for traffic light at deadly intersection

The first option presented: a midblock pedestrian crossing median that would cost $325,000.

This choice could mean a longer path for crossing users but also a narrower median for pedestrians to stand on.

LTU said the drawback to that is people still might not feel safe in the median.

The second option is to build a pedestrian hybrid signal and closing median. This would create a shorter direct path for pedestrians but eliminate left turns for northbound cars going into Van Dorn Park.

This choice would also cost more, about $600,000.

Both options are estimated to take between 18 to 24 months.

Members in attendance expressed concerns about the private homes in the area being affected by future construction, as well as obstructed access to businesses in the area.

LTU has not made a permanent decision and encourages the public to continue sharing feedback on the proposals.