Policy Order O-12

WHEREAS: The "Super Crosswalk" in Harvard Square, to include the bicycle crossing at Church Street, is often crowded with cars, and cyclists who are using the intersection against their relevant light cycle; and

WHEREAS: The "Super Crosswalk" is so big that cyclists can often enter while their light is green and find pedestrians crossing with a green walk signal before they have cycled all the way through; and

WHEREAS: At many parts of the crosswalk it is impossible for pedestrians to see the stage of the life cycle given the problematic placement of the lights and this inability to see the lights can lead to confusion about when to cross; and

WHEREAS: On the southbound side of Massachusetts Avenue the right turn often results in cyclists being crowded towards the curb by buses and trucks as the motor vehicles turn right and drift towards the curb; and

WHEREAS: These various factors give the "Super Crosswalk" a  disjointed and dangerous feel for many users; now therefore be it

ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant City staff and members of the public to determine what, if any, changes should be made to the Harvard Square "Super Crosswalk" complex, to include the bike crossing at Church Street and to report back to the City Council on this matter.