A tragic incident involving a 13-year-old student has sparked a call for enhanced pedestrian safety measures in Greenfield. On February 18, Matthius Bailey was struck by a vehicle while crossing Franklin Street near Hancock County Public Library, resulting in hospitalization. His mother, Elizabeth Bailey, addressed the Greenfield Traffic Safety Committee on March 5, urging the installation of a crosswalk to prevent future accidents. The committee has agreed to investigate potential solutions and will reconvene on April 9 to discuss further actions. This incident highlights the urgent need for improved infrastructure to ensure the safety of students and pedestrians alike.

Elizabeth Bailey shared her harrowing experience with the committee, recounting how her son Matthius was hit by a car as he attempted to cross Franklin Street after school. The accident occurred near the rear entrance of the Hancock County Public Library, where many students frequently cross to reach the library or continue their journey home. According to Bailey, her son and two friends were signaled to cross by a stopped school bus driver, but an oncoming vehicle failed to notice them, leading to the collision. Despite suffering injuries including a fractured wrist and abrasions, Matthius was fortunate to avoid more severe harm.

The incident has prompted discussions about the lack of proper pedestrian crossings in the area. Lt. Charles Murnan of the Greenfield Police Department confirmed that both drivers involved remained at the scene and provided statements, though no charges were filed. Bailey emphasized the importance of installing a crosswalk or a High-Intensity Activated crossWalK (HAWK) beacon to improve safety. She acknowledged that while such installations might impede traffic flow, the priority should be the well-being of the children who regularly traverse this busy street.

Library director Dave Gray echoed Bailey’s concerns, noting that numerous students visit the library daily and often take shortcuts across Franklin Street to avoid longer routes. He supported the idea of a safer crossing point, stating that any measure to protect the youth would be beneficial. Amy Kirkpatrick, a member of the Greenfield City Council, pointed out that ongoing residential development in the area would likely increase foot traffic, making the need for safer crossings even more pressing.

Glen Morrow, the city engineer and chair of the traffic safety commission, recognized the challenges of installing mid-block crosswalks but expressed willingness to explore feasible options. He mentioned that a HAWK beacon could cost between $10,000 and $15,000, while simpler painted crosswalks with signage would be less expensive and quicker to implement. Bailey also suggested addressing the sidewalks between the library and the junior high school, noting that extending the walkway on the east side of Franklin Street would allow students to cross within the designated school zone, enhancing their safety.

Moving forward, the Greenfield Traffic Safety Committee aims to balance traffic efficiency with pedestrian safety. By investigating viable solutions and revisiting the topic at their next meeting, they hope to find a practical approach to safeguard the community. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of pedestrian infrastructure, especially in areas frequented by young people. The committee’s efforts reflect a commitment to ensuring that such accidents do not happen again, prioritizing the safety and well-being of all residents.