I frequently cross Island Crest Way as a pedestrian. While most drivers slow down and stop, I seem to be invisible to other motorists. To improve pedestrian visibility, I suggest that the city of Mercer Island provide pedestrian crossing flags at each crosswalk on ICW. This involves placing orange flags in containers at each end of a crosswalk. People wanting to cross the street at the crosswalk pick up a flag to signal to drivers their intent to cross the street, then cross the street and place the flag in the container on the other side for the next person to use. The flag is a powerful new pedestrian-to-driver communication tool.

I have used the pedestrian crossing flags in Kirkland and Salt Lake City and can attest to their effectiveness. For a minimal investment, the safety of pedestrians crossing ICW can be greatly improved.

Paul Jones