Feedback has been received during the Patient Safety Walk Around meetings that Emile and 42nd streets are hazardous areas to cross for pedestrians. In addition, employees have expressed concerns about the speed of traffic on Emile Street, as well as unsafe driving of employees entering and leaving parking Lot 50 on Emile Street.
In response to employee concerns, members of the executive team have developed an action plan in cooperation with UNMC Facilities and Parking departments. Although there are long-range plans for projects that will ease and slow traffic on 42nd Street, the action plan will help address the issues in the short term.
Action Plan
1. Emile Street has been reassessed for signage, crosswalks, lighting and other opportunities to make both pedestrians and drivers aware of the each other.
2. Parking officers will be randomly assigned to identify drivers who are entering or exiting Lot 50 irresponsibly. These employees will receive a cordial letter from UNMC Parking asking for their support and safety awareness.
3. The Omaha Police Department has been asked to identify the requirements to have a uniformed officer with a radar gun randomly assigned to 42nd and Emile streets. Individuals who exceed the speed limit would be ticketed.
4. A portable, roadside radar sensor that identifies the speed a car is traveling is being looked into for placement along Emile street. The purpose of the radar sensor would be to educate and remind drivers of their speed along this street.
5. Two all weather banners are being made to be placed at the stop sign on the corner of the Durham Research Plaza (formerly known as 45th Street) and Emile Street
and on 42nd Street and Dewey Avenue. These banners will be placed temporarily at intervals as acute reminders of pedestrian and driving safety.
In addition, employees can help by being aware of the need for everyone to think safety in all they do – whether crossing a street, driving their car, or conducting their daily activities in life. As pedestrians, employees should remember to STOP, LOOK and LISTEN before crossing any of the streets on campus. As drivers, employees can help by following all posted speed regulations and watching for pedestrians at all times.