Commissioners Pushing For Law Cracking Down On Jaywalking In Mt. Lebanon

MT. LEBANON (KDKA)- The push is on in Mt. Lebanon to start cracking down on jaywalking.

"It's all about preventing crashes. That's what we're looking to do," Mount Lebanon Police Lt. Duane Fisher said.

On Tuesday night, commissioners approved the first reading of bill 2-16, which would amend current regulations and require people to cross the street at marked crosswalks.

"I think, you know, if people are going to walk across the street and maybe cause an accident, I can see that being a problem," Emily Doerfler said.

"I think it creates an issue when you're driving. People can get hurt. People can get hit by cars. But, getting fined? It depends on how much the fine is." Candace Scott said.

The fine is set at $25, plus fees.

"I guess that's probably a little bit too much, especially for jaywalking. I would probably say a little lower would be good," Doerfler said.

Some people are for it and think it will curb jaywalking.

"It doesn't matter. It just stops people from doing it," one woman said.

There are some that think this is just a ploy to get easy money from pedestrians.

"Not in the slightest. Enforcement is really the last thing we want to have to do," Lt. Fisher said.

The bill was introduced by Commissioner John Bendel and commissioners are expected to vote on it Feb. 22.

According to the Post-Gazette, Mt. Lebanon Police Chief Aaron Lauth recommended the changes as part of the initiative to improve safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers.

The ordinance would be enforced through warnings in the beginning. An educational and awareness campaign will also be launched to make the public aware of the new law.

"There will be a rather substantial period of education or warning period," Lt. Fisher said.

If the ordinance is approved on Feb. 22, Chief Lauth said pedestrians should start seeing changes soon.

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