Indialantic discussing new raised crosswalk after drivers go airborne

Unpopular speed bump across main road could change, mayor says

INDIALANTIC, Fla. – Speed bumps are used to slow down drivers and keep pedestrians safe, but some people in one beach town say a new raised crosswalk was causing their cars to bottom out and scrape the road.

After damages, the town of Indialantic put up signs warning drivers to slow down ahead of the crosswalk.

Next, the town and the Florida Department of Transportation will discuss what else can be done to make the speed bump safer during Wednesday night’s council meeting.

For a week on Fifth Avenue, some drivers dangerously hit the bump at full speed.

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“I watched a couple cars almost go airborne,” Dan Barile said.

And even though the crosswalk signs are visible now, drivers like Barile and Mayor Mark McDermott said the state needs to make a design change.

“Maybe remove it completely. Maybe shave it down,” the mayor said of the possible options.

McDermott said the council did not request a speed bump or a raised crosswalk for people crossing the road to the town hall.

The mayor said FDOT’s original description allowed drivers to pass through without slowing down.

“I like the idea of pedestrian safety, but I think it’s too abrupt the way it is now,” McDermott said. “It’s become a launching pad.”

Barile said he hopes the speed bump is removed.

“I don’t think the people were prepared for the change,” he said. “That’s an issue that they should have had some forethought.”

News 6 will let you know if the town and FDOT reach a resolution about the speed bump.

Watch for updates Tuesday night on News 6 at 11 and on ClickOrlando.com.

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About the Author

James joined News 6 in March 2016 as the Brevard County Reporter. His arrival was the realization of a three-year effort to return to the state where his career began. James is from Pittsburgh, PA and graduated from Penn State in 2009 with a degree in Broadcast Journalism.

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