Fern and Abbott makes the to-do list
By Terry Murry on Friday, July 23rd, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WALLA WALLA – Improvements are coming to the intersection of Fern Avenue and Abbott Road. The current configuration is extremely wide, resulting in long pedestrian crossing distances and uncertainty for motorists, according to Walla Walla Public Works Communication Coordinator Shane Prudente.
In addition, Prudente points out only those traveling on Abbott Road are currently required to stop which creates a safety hazard for anyone traveling through the intersection.
The city of Walla Walla, Walla Walla County and Walla Walla Public Schools are working together to improve the intersection and have pooled funds to hire a traffic engineer to recommend solutions. The traffic analysis considered several options, including a compact roundabout, but the recommended long-term solution for the intersection is a four-way stop.
Improvements recommended with the change in traffic control include curb extensions to allow for better visibility and shorter crossings for pedestrians; improved street lighting; Americans with Disabilities Act compliant pedestrian ramps; and bicycle lanes. The partnership project plans to seek grant funding for the improvements in 2022, with construction targeted in 2024.
In the short term, the city plans to make interim changes to the intersection to improve safety prior to the upcoming school year. The intersection is located on the northeast corner of the Walla Walla High School campus and borders Muir Sports Park. The interim upgrades include adding stop signs on Fern Avenue, and traffic markers to shorten crossing distances and better define travel lanes at the intersection.
