December 22, 2023 – Hartford, WI – Representatives from the City of Hartford and Hartford Union High School District met recently to discuss future safety enhancements for the intersection of Cedar Street and Monroe Avenue.
The Hartford Police Department recently submitted its report concerning the Thursday, November 30, 2023 accident involving two female students who were walking to school and a male student driver who struck them in the crosswalk.
According to Wisconsin Department of Transportation Crash Data, this is the second accident to happen in this intersection since 2001.
Hartford Union High District Superintendent Jeffrey Walters, Director of Student Services Dr. Stacy Gahan, and Hartford City Administrator Steve Volkert met and reviewed some background and history on crashes in the City of Hartford, specifics to the incident on November 30, and discussed a number of options to enhance safety in that area.
We are grateful for the input and feedback that some of you shared with us as well. Below are some next steps being considered that were shared at the Hartford Union High School District School Board Meeting on Monday, December 18 and will be shared at the Hartford Public Works Committee meeting on Tuesday, January 23.
Possible Intersection Enhancements Discussed
● Installation of pedestrian crossing signs
● Painting of high-visibility crosswalk markings
● “YIELD Here to Pedestrians” crossing signs – in street signage
● Restrict parking East of Cedar Street on Monroe Avenue on both sides near the intersection to increase
vehicular and pedestrian visibility.
Safety is a shared responsibility amongst all of us, and while we continue to seek such enhancements like those identified above, we know all of us play a vital role in looking out for the safety, security, and welfare of each other.
Please note the high school bus drop-off and pick-up is in the front of the building and the parent drop-off and pick-up is located at the back of the building. This change was made three years ago to reduce the traffic flow and congestion near this intersection.
We appreciate your ongoing input and patience during this process. The safety of our students and community is a top priority.
Sincerely,
Mr. Jeffrey A. Walters Superintendent
Hartford Union High School District
Mr. Steve Volkert City Administrator