Opportunities to capitalize on infrastructure investments can be found in the smallest projects. When a failing traffic signal strain pole and sagging traffic signal in downtown Bay City, MI, required emergency repair, the City took the opportunity to implement pedestrian safety improvements at the intersection of Washington and Sixth Streets. Wade Trim designed the improvements and provided construction management.

Based on strategies to improve pedestrian connectivity outlined in the City’s Master Plan, a “bump-out” sidewalk project was designed to provide a safer path across the roadways. The pedestrian crossing distance was reduced to allow for a four-way intersection with stop signs instead of overhead traffic lights. New sidewalk was added and extended into the parking lane to narrow the roadway and improve pedestrian visibility. The project also included strain pole removal, storm structure drainage improvements, a traffic lane taper, ADA ramps, new curb and gutter, and mill and resurface of the intersection.