Pedestrian Safety Forums Scheduled After Fatal Accidents

The Maine Department of Transportation is holding Pedestrian Safety forums across the state to discuss ways to improve the safety of walkers.

Officials have seen a spike in pedestrian deaths in Maine this year, with at least 15 people who were killed by vehicles while walking. There are many reasons why these accidents happen, including distracted driving or impaired visibility. But officials want to get input on individual regions, to try and determine ways that they can improve safety features and diminish the number of fatalities.

So, the MDOT is partnering with the Bike Coalition of Maine to hold a series of forums around the state. Residents are invited to join the discussion and give their input about the problems within the community that contribute to accidents and how they can be improved upon. There are three upcoming forums in our area:

• Orono, Wednesday November 1st, 6 to 8pm, Orono Council Chambers, 59 Main Street in Orono
• Brewer, Wednesday, November 8th, 6 to 8pm, Mezzanine Conference Room, Brewer Auditorium, 318 Wilson Street in Brewer
• Augusta, Wednesday, November 15th, 6 to 8 pm, City Council Chambers, Augusta City Center, 16 Cony St. Augusta