For all of its amenities and top 10 attributes, one thing Portland is sorely lacking is pedestrian-friendly drivers.

Several years ago, I sold my car. I live in a great neighborhood, within walking distance of the transportation hub, grocery stores, coffee shops and restaurants, and the beautiful Back Cove trail.

Whether doing my “walking errands” or simply enjoying a long, leisurely stroll, I’ve traveled a lot of ground around this beautiful town.

I’ve also barely missed being hit by cars more times than I can count: on outer Congress Street, on Brighton Avenue between Stevens Avenue and St. John Street, on Woodford Street, on Forest Avenue, on Baxter Boulevard and on many other busy streets.

What can we do to create a more pedestrian-friendly town? Drivers ignore the obvious signs indicating that it’s a walker’s turn to cross the street.

What often happens is that when one driver actually stops to allow me to cross in a designated crosswalk – even the ones with the flashing yellow lights – the driver behind the stopped car does not stop, but passes the stopped car at a high rate of speed, not seeing me, and very nearly runs me over.

Come on, Portland! You can do better. With summer arriving, and the streets busier than ever, please, drivers, be aware of those of us on foot, on bikes and in wheelchairs. Let’s all stay safe, and stay alive!

Pamela Murton

Portland

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