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Police Step Up Efforts To Keep Pedestrians, Bicyclists Safe In Oakland

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- It's one of the busiest places for pedestrians in the area, but it's also one of the most dangerous.

Forbes Avenue in Oakland has been the scene of dozens of crashes over the last few years, but part of the problem also involves people on foot who don't obey the law.

As Pitt students change from class to class in Oakland, one thing stays the same.

"We have 100,000 people every day, 60,000 vehicles competing for three roadways, and as you can imagine, it's chaos," says Mavis Rainey, of the Oakland Transportation Management Association.

"You have to pay attention, but as long as you pay attention and look both ways and stay in the crosswalks, you'll be fine," Eric Matava, a Pitt student, said.

Police spent the morning across Oakland looking for even minor infractions - jaywalkers got a warning.

"We're out here to make sure people know what they're doing isn't right. They learn bad behavior," said Commander Scott Schubert, of the Pittsburgh Police Department. "People just decide to go across, not realizing that third or fourth plane, there's another car coming at a good clip."

Police even targeted cyclists who blew through red lights.

Volunteers were enlisted to hand out pamphlets including bicycle drivers' manuals, something not seen in Pennsylvania for a long time, as well as pamphlets explaining how not to be a "road zombie" - in other words, knowing the rules of the road.

"We'll work with you today, but we'll be back, and it will cost you money the next time," said Commander Schubert.

RELATED LINKS:
Oakland Transportation Management Association
More News from Oakland

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