The University Office of Parking, Traffic and Transportation will continue to tweak its Easy Streets II project this semester in an effort to make streets safer and more convenient, said Tammy Millican, assistant director of Facility Services.
Easy Streets I began construction in the middle of 2007 with a goal to protect pedestrians and improve the efficiency of public transportation by closing off the center of campus.
Easy Streets II, which began construction in summer 2013, aims to slow traffic by curving roads and adding crosswalks, said Gary Graham, director of Parking, Traffic and Transportation. The curves and crosswalks on Dalrymple Drive are visible examples of this, Graham said.
Also new is the permanent closure of Tower Drive, which will eliminate traffic congestion and allow for a spacious, safe walk through the center of campus, Graham said.
Mark D’Ambrosio, electrical engineering sophomore, acknowledged the effects of Easy Streets II, recalling a new curb in front of the Music and Dramatic Arts building slowed his driving on Dalrymple Drive.
Keeping streets safe for cyclists is another goal of Easy Streets II. Graham said dedicated bike lanes will appear on Dalrymple Drive by next summer and on Skip Bertman Drive at a later date. Shared lanes, marked lanes indicating a bicyclist may use the entire lane, will be present around campus later this spring.
Graham said Easy Streets II has cost $1.2 million so far. The roundabout on Dalrymple Drive accounts for $500,000 of this sum.
D’Ambrosio said he had a close call when crossing at an intersection on a rainy night, but he said he still feels safe most of the time.
“You have to be aware of your surroundings,” he said.
Graham said students distracted by their phones and music is a persistent problem.
“Paying attention is the biggest thing they can do to enhance their own safety,” Graham said.

Gallery • 2 Photos

Connor Tarter

A street sign stands in the middle of Tower drive Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2014 near Williams Hall.