New radar speed signs will improve pedestrian safety at a busy intersection near two schools and a recreation park in Malone.
The signs were recently installed at the intersection of Webster Street and Hillsdale Terrace, the result of a partnership between the village of Malone and The Heart Network’s Creating Healthy Schools & Communities (CHSC) program, which is funded by a grant from the New York State Department of Health.
The intersection of Hillsdale Terrace and Webster Street is a busy one, located near Davis Elementary School and the Malone Recreation Park and in proximity to Franklin Academy and Malone Middle School. It’s a high-traffic area that’s used by many local residents and students.
“Hillsdale does not have sidewalks, and Webster Street is a long, straight road where motorists often pick up speed without realizing it,” said Phil Hans, who coordinates the Connecting Routes to Destinations program in Franklin County. “These signs are already making a big difference, helping make drivers more aware of their speed, resulting in safer routes to schools and other community centers.”
“I deeply appreciate the collaboration with The Heart Network in supporting our community with a speed radar sign on Hillside Terrace,” said Malone Village Mayor Andrea Dumas. “This location is in the vicinity of two schools and is an active street for both pedestrians and vehicles. The new sign has provided an extra layer of safety for our pedestrians, particularly those walking to schools and our Village Rec Park. This initiative significantly enhances the well-being of our residents and visitors alike.”
According to Malone Police Chief William T. Andre, the department had received several complaints of speeding vehicles, but even with stepped up efforts to patrol the area, additional support was needed to slow traffic.
“The safety of pedestrians, especially children, is of utmost importance,” Andre said. “The efforts of all involved to bring these signs to the village is greatly appreciated.”
The Heart Network’s CHSC program, the village of Malone and the Malone Central School District have been partnering for over a decade on initiatives that support community health, with a focus on safe routes to school, pedestrian friendly infrastructure, physical activity and nutrition. Most recently, The Heart Network supported the school district in bringing a fleet of bicycles to physical education departments through the national All Kids Bike program.
“The Heart Network’s goal is to build healthier communities across the region we serve,” said Arriana Patraw, community health improvement coordinator at The Heart Network. “But we can’t do that alone. It takes strong relationships with local officials and volunteers to establish systems and infrastructure that support healthier lives. It’s been inspiring to work with the community of Malone, whether it’s teaming with the police department to purchase and install the new speed radar signs or working with teachers on seed-to-tray programming.”
For more information about the CHSC program at The Heart Network, contact Arriana Patraw at apatraw@heartnetwork.org.
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