FDOT, town on the road to safety study

Longboat Key has been the site of 14 pedestrian and bicycle crashes in the past three years.

“There’s not a serious or significant crash problem that exists today with bicycles and pedestrians that occurs on the Key,” said Gary Amig, Florida Department of Transportation District Safety Program manager, who spoke at the Longboat Key Town Commission’s Thursday, June 21 workshop, along with FDOT District Traffic Operations Engineer L.K. Nandam.

Still, it was one of those 14 crashes that brought FDOT officials before the commission: the Jan. 27 death of Jo Schatterman, 73, who was struck by a car and killed as she attempted to cross Gulf of Mexico Drive after getting off a trolley.

FDOT and town officials will work together to study traffic safety within town limits. The study will include a review of crash history, identification of potential areas of concern, bicycle and pedestrian counts, and possible recommendations for improvement.

Amig told the commission about solutions that have the potential to improve safety, including flashing pedestrian warning signs and other enhanced signage, more visible striping and improved lighting — all of which are relatively low-cost, quick and easy upgrades.

Crosswalks must be warranted, according to Amig, and would have to be placed in crossing areas used by a significant number of pedestrians. Several commissioners pointed out that pedestrian and bicyclist crossings are often scattered throughout the Key, especially during peak season when many visitors are crossing to go to and from various beach accesses.

Refuge islands that provide a safe area in the middle of roadways have been effective for FDOT but could interfere with driveway access.

“Any time you have something that would interfere with access, you have to proceed very carefully,” Amig said.

Tunnels, like the one built by Arvida in the 2100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive, are costly and difficult to install, sometimes causing drainage problems, and are typically underutilized.

Amig also discussed the possibilities of more enforcement and education.

Data collection for the upcoming study will take place during peak season.