DC Moves To Reduce Pedestrian Fatalities

WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA) -- In the past two and a half years, 42 pedestrians have been struck and killed on the streets of the Nation's Capitol.

DDOT has been implementing changes to better protect people on foot.

At Connecticut and North Hampton in Northwest, people in the crosswalk can pick up an orange flag to wave at oncoming vehicles, then deposit the flag in its proper stand after crossing.

At Brentwood Road and 13th Street in Northeast, Mayor Fenty and transportation officials on Monday unveiled a pilot rapid flash beacon system that signals oncoming vehicles when pedestrians have pushed the button to cross the street.

It's all part of the District's Pedestrian Master Plan.

Enhanced crosswalks, curb extensions, median islands and relocating bus stops are also part of the plan.