DOWNINGTOWN, PA — More than $160,000 in state funding is headed to Downingtown Borough to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety at key intersections and crossings, part of a broader push by PennDOT to reduce crashes and modernize local roadways.
State Rep. Danielle Friel Otten and state Sen. Carolyn Comitta, both Democrats representing Chester County, said the grants were awarded through PennDOT’s Automated Red-Light Enforcement Program, which is distributing $27 million statewide to support 51 safety projects in 44 municipalities.
Downingtown will receive $65,469 for lane configuration and vehicle detection upgrades at the intersection of Wallace Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue, along with detection improvements at two nearby intersections. An additional $94,812 will be used to enhance an existing mid-block pedestrian crossing along Pennsylvania Avenue at Kerr Park, an area with steady foot traffic tied to recreation and nearby businesses.
“These investments will help to improve traffic flow, walkability and pedestrian safety in a busy part of town near some of Downingtown’s most popular parks and local businesses,” Otten said, adding that the funding reflects the borough’s continued commitment to building a safe and welcoming community.
The Automated Red-Light Enforcement Program is funded through fines collected at 38 Philadelphia intersections where red-light running has been identified as a safety issue. State law directs the revenue toward projects that improve safety, mobility, and congestion across the Commonwealth.
Projects are selected by an eight-member committee that evaluates applications based on safety benefits, effectiveness, cost, and local and regional impact.
Comitta said infrastructure investments are increasingly critical as Chester County continues to grow.
“Investments in our transportation infrastructure help make our roads safer for everyone, including motorists, pedestrians, cyclists and passengers on public transit,” she said. “As Chester County continues to attract more residents and visitors to the region, it’s important that we take steps like these to ensure smooth, safe and efficient travel on our roadways.”
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