Putting a foot down on pedestrian danger in Destin

Stomping the brakes is becoming a normal part of the commute down Highway 98 in Destin at certain times of the day.

Tourist season has steadily progressed, causing thicker vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

In the wake of a recent report that a nine-year-old girl was “clipped” by a Ford Expedition near Chick-Fil-A, concerns over pedestrian safety are on the rise.

The safest crossing tactic is clearly to use an actual crosswalk at an intersection, versus taking a chance in a random spot not intended for pedestrians. Most people do not seem to use them, because they are out of the way and there is more waiting involved.

Realizing that formal crosswalks are not plentiful, the Harbor CRA and City Council are working together on a plan to create more crosswalks and walk-overs for pedestrian use.

Councilor Dewey Destin said that current plans include implementing measures along the area of Highway 98 between the Emerald Grande and Crystal Beach.

Noting what a dangerous situation crossing the highway is, he said that extending the project east to cover more problem areas will be brought up at a meeting soon.

When pedestrians choose to cross where it is convenient, many are forced to spend several minutes in the median until they can get across.

Many drivers are understanding and will pause so people can cross, but others are annoyed and let the pedestrian know.

“The cars make noise at you,” said Gizette Yildiz, a young traveling student from Turkey, referring to passing motorists that honked at her as she crossed the highway on her beach cruiser bicycle.

It isn’t just the tourists that dodge oncoming traffic to get across the highway.

Stacey Clarke, employed at a business on Highway 98 close to the congestion at Big Kahuna’s, crosses the busy road a couple of times a week.

She doesn’t feel that much can be done to help with the random street crossings.

“Not when you have a lot of tourists in town,” she said.

Last week, The Log observed one tourist couple crossing the highway, each darting at different times to make it through.

“I told my husband we’re not doing that no more,” the flustered woman said, not wishing to reveal her name or where they were from.