JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – New solar pavement markers set to be installed along a curvy portion of St. Johns Avenue are expected to cut down on the number of crashes in that area, according to the Florida Department of Transportation.
The stretch of road in Avondale has sharp curves and is a concern for a lot of neighbors.
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"I have seen cars get off the roadway and crash into homes and fences,” 40-year resident Broward Mylam said. “I've seen people get hurt there."
Specifically of concern is the area of St. Johns Avenue between Greenwood and Van Wert avenues.
“There are a couple blind spots, if you're not going the speed limit, and, of course, this area is very residential,” neighbor Al Eaton said.
Residents said a reduced speed limit, signs and even flashing lights haven't made much of an impact on reckless driving.
"I think they're not familiar with the road, (and) they don't realize how sharp that curve is,” Mylam said. “I just think they're in a hurry."
Eaton added that drivers might not be prepared for the number of pedestrians in that area.
"Runners constantly going up and down the street, walkers in the morning -- it is dangerous,” Eaton said.
FDOT crash data shows there have been 15 crashes along the route in the past five years. Six involved injuries and nine wrecks resulted in property damage.
Most of the crashes occurred near Montgomery Place -- at the sharp curve -- where drivers lose control and leave the roadway. FDOT officials hope the solar pavement markers being installed will improve safety in the area.
The solar reflective pavement markers are small round disks that can emit steady or flashing lights. They are a new tool FDOT decided to try to enhance visibility and reduce the number of lane-departure wrecks on what they call the "S" curve section of the road.
"I think they're going to be great as long as they aren't unsightly,” Mylam said.
Eaton agreed improving safety should be a priority.
Some neighbors are against the idea, saying the markers will turn into an eyesore in the historic community.
Installation is expected to begin this week and will take a little over a month to complete. If the markers improve safety, FDOT plans to use the new tool on other roadways in Northeast Florida.