The Tribune

By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune Staff Reporter

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

AFTER a university student was hospitalised following a car accident nearly two weeks ago, some University of the Bahamas students launched a protest against reckless and inattentive drivers yesterday, prompting the university to make a plea to motorists.

"UB students participated in a peaceful demonstration today to highlight grave concerns regarding pedestrian safety in the area of the Oakes Field Campus, particularly the crossing near the Michael H Eldon Complex," a statement from UB's Office of University Relations said. "Unfortunately, motorists have struck several students who were attempting to cross University Drive on that same pedestrian crossing. The latest incident occurred on Wednesday, January 24. Though injured, the student is thankfully recovering."

The school said it is working with the Ministry of Works and other authorities to increase road safety mechanisms.

"In recent months, UB has purchased and installed pedestrian crossing lights. An education campaign will be launched shortly to encourage habitual use of those lights. Road markings and signage have been improved. Yet, the challenge of motorists who speed and are distracted persists."

The university said the government has advised that a joint task force is being convened to recommend the implementation of the best road safety measures to protect pedestrians.

"As a matter of priority, UB has already provided critical information that will help to inform the work of the task force."

Among the recommendations proposed for consideration and implementation are: an exclusive pedestrian zone on University Drive – from University Commons to the roundabout at Nassau Street.

This will require a more formal communication for the consideration of the Cabinet, the school said.

Other considerations are installing road islands near the Oakes Field campus to prevent motorists from overtaking near pedestrian crossings; and relocating the bus stop on University Drive opposite the Michael H Eldon facility to another location where parked buses do not obstruct full view of the pedestrian crossing.

"As we work to raise awareness about road safety, especially in pedestrian zones, some of our communication and creative arts students will be creating public service announcements that will be played in the local media. The wider Bahamian community shares our concerns, as the number of traffic fatalities last year was, sadly, too high. “Worldwide, a clarion call has been issued for road users to be more vigilant. We urge drivers in the Bahamas – particularly New Providence – to observe speed limits, road signs and exercise extreme caution on our streets. Improving road safety is a collective responsibility that we all must share as a community and a country,” UB said.