An Example, By Mr. Kujawa

SOLVING A PROBLEM

The Problem

Each morning and afternoon my son Preston walks six blocks to Aspen Lane Elementary. On each trip, he crosses Pilsner Road, which is the busiest intersection in town. It is dangerous!

[PHOTOGRAPHS]

Why It Is A Problem

First, there is only a yield sign going east-west. It is a challenge because traffic from only onedirection slows down, rather than coming to acomplete stop.

[VARIOUS PHOTOGRAPHS SHOWING THISPOINT]

Why It Is A Problem

Second, there is no crosswalk in any direction. Schoolchildren tend to scamper and skip, leaping onto the Island that separates traveling cars. Thekids wait on the island, then run to safety.

[VARIOUS PHOTOGRAPHS SHOWING THISPOINT]

Why It Is A Problem

Third, in 2013 there were 22 accidents at thisintersection, resulting in 8 injured, including twothat were serious. In 2012, there were 17 acci-dents, one of which involved a young boy.

[POLICE REPORTS, ARTICLES, CHARTS]

The Goal

I believe it is imperative that the Common Counciladdress this situation before there is a fatality. Thegoal is to find a viable way to keep the public safe.There are three alternatives.

[VISUALS]

ALTERNATIVE 1

Hire a crossing guard. [Explanation]

Pro---------------------------Con 1. Experienced personnel Hiring process 2.

ALTERNATIVE 2

Put in a two-way stop sign. [Explanation]

Pro---------------------------Con 1. Slow down traffic Inattentive drivers 2.

ALTERNATIVE 3

Put in crossing lights and crosswalk.

Pro---------------------------Con 1. Slow down traffic Expensive 2.

THE SOLUTION

Hiring a crossing guard will be the best alternative.

The school district has crossing guards at otherlocations. [Details, Minimize The Cons]

THE SOLUTION

Hiring a crossing guard will be the best alternative.

The school district has budgeted additionalmoney for safety purposes. [Details, Minimize TheCons]

THE SOLUTION

Hiring a crossing guard will be the best alternative.

The number of accidents at these locations havebeen significantly reduced. [Show Data, MinimizeThe Cons]

HOW TO MEASURE SUCCESS

1. Survey public. Use that information to address concerns.

2. Use police statistics to monitor monthly and yearly traffic flow and accident rates.

3. Interview crossing guard. Use that information to address concerns.