This article was updated to include more details on lighting for crosswalks and the timeline for switching to upgraded street signs.
MONROE, CT — A project to install lights at two crosswalks on Pepper Street, at the Housatonic Valley Rail Trail, and the crosswalk on Cutlers Farm Road, at the Pequonnock River Trail, got underway this week to improve safety along that portion of the. It is completely funded by Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program grant money.
The rectangular flashing beacons (RRFB), blink back and forth beneath the crosswalk signs. Other improvements include ADA accessible sidewalk ramps, and updated pavement markings.
All locations will feature new pedestrian safety pushbuttons and may also incorporate revised concrete sidewalk ramps complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
“I’m very happy to see the lights coming in at the crosswalks,” First Selectman Terry Rooney said during an interview in his office Wednesday. “It could be a dangerous situation early in the morning or at dusk.”
“It’s fantastic,” Public Works Director Christopher Nowacki said, adding how a resident recently asked about installing lights there. “The DOT recognized a need for pedestrian and bicycle improvements.”
The planning of the project began under former first selectman Ken Kellogg, before Rooney’s office worked on final changes to start construction.
New traffic signs
Rooney said drivers should expect to see Connecticut Department of Transportation crews changing traffic signs throughout the town.
Nowacki said the upgrading of speed limit, stop signs and other traffic signs will paid for by the DOT.
“CTDOT is replacing signs throughout the state when they reach the end of their useful life to meet the current federal standards,” Eva Zymaris, a spokesperson for the DOT, said Friday. “That includes retroreflectivity, which helps improve nighttime visibility by making the signs easier to see and read.”
On Monday, Police Chief Keith White said that will begin in 2026.
All respectful comments with the commenter’s first and last name are welcome.
As a frequent runner on the trails in Monroe I thank the town for addressing the signage in the Pepper St/Cutlers Farm area. I’ve never felt threatened crossing the roads in the area, but I frequently see drivers hesitate and unsure if they should stop or proceed. Everyone driving or using the trails in that area should feel a bit safer with the new signage.
Think the updated signage will be helpful on Pepper street. Also would be helpful on Cutlers, as this is a busy crosswalk.
The entrance and exit at Great Hollow, Silverstone Dr needs a crosswalk to Maple Dr. Many runners and bikers are frequent in the area with cars navigating the area. Lots of blind spots as you make it over to the trail further down Maple Dr. Please, needs to be looked into.
Thank you.