One would think that an intersection next to a busy shopping mall and down the street from a school, would be one of the safer places for pedestrians like you and me to travel around.

But the intersection of Oneida and Anderson in Ashwaubenon is dangerous. I can say this from personal experience, and from observing the intersection for an extended period of time over the years.

Here is why:

Drivers leaving the mall don’t pay attention to the pedestrians crossing: This is the biggest problem here. While you can say that drivers not paying attention to pedestrians is at the very base of the pedestrian safety problem in areas all over the United States, not often will see you an intersection where it happens as frequently as it does here. And if you’re walking away from the mall, they’ll usually catch themselves. But if you’re walking towards the mall, then it’s even more dangerous because they’re trying to beat the red and make that left turn while speeding. That could kill someone.

Drivers regularly run the red light: It’s not uncommon for drivers and even motorcycle riders to run that light. And not for the sake of a couple of milliseconds. At night they’ll disregard it altogether.

Pedestrians don’t pay attention to the lights going across Anderson: There is some blame to go out way too. Walkers often won’t wait for the Anderson walking light to turn on. It’s a less intense place to cross but that doesn’t make it right.

The especially dangerous point here is that there are seniors and younger pedestrians alike using this intersection. If we don’t do something soon, we’re just inviting a tragedy to happen.

Call your local leaders today and ask them to get involved!