Easthampton police looking to improve pedestrian safety

EASTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - Easthampton Police are cracking down on drivers who don't stop for pedestrians.

The efforts come two months after a Williston Northampton student was struck by a car while crossing Park Street last October.

Easthampton Police Chief Bruce McMahon told 22News that he has increased patrols around the crosswalks located on Main Street and Park Street.  In the last 10 days, police have cited 15 drivers for failure to yield. Police say the efforts have garnered positive feedback from the community.

“I noticed this morning that people did stop I will say that sometimes, especially on Union Street and Cottage, it can be hard to see who's in the crosswalk,” Susan Boss of Easthampton said.

“We don't want anybody hurt because cars aren't stopping. I know I always stop,” Ed Slezeck of Florence said.

The Williston student was taken to the hospital and treated for minor injuries.

Efforts to improve crosswalk safety are also underway in Northampton. On Halloween night, a Greenfield doctor was struck by a car on Rt. 10. He later died from his injuries.