By now, residents have probably noticed the new black chains hanging from the bollards on the southwest corner of the intersection at Pennsylvania Ave. and Liberty St. Installed a few weeks ago by the Department of Public Works, these chains are not just for decoration, but rather for a more safety-related purpose.
As a result of the Streetscape project that was completed over a year ago, there was an elevation change on the southern side of Pennsylvania Ave. This change in elevation raised concerns that people might not see the step and stumble or fall resulting in serious injury. DPW Director Mike Holtz and others determined that the increased risk of this happening in the winter months due to accumulating snow was concern enough to take preventive measures.
"The bollards and chains are to make people aware of the drop," said Holtz. "The three sections act as a way to direct foot traffic." Leftover bollards from previous projects worked well in fitting with the current decor throughout the city.
Article Photos
Chains on Penn
to enhance safety
Though there hasn't been any snow yet, the city is working to prepare itself for the upcoming winter months. With the last leaf pick-up behind them, the DPW is working on setting up the snow plows for the winter. "Leaf season is pretty hard on the equipment," added Holtz, "but since it hasn't really snowed yet, we've been able to take care of a lot of things we normally don't get to do this late in the year."