By: Sydney Zatz
MOORHEAD, Minn. (Valley News Live) – The City of Moorhead is considering safety improvements at a deadly intersection after nine-year-old Adam Amin was killed after being struck by a city truck while riding his bike last July.
The incident happened at the intersection of 40th Avenue South and 14th Street. As community members continue to voice concerns, city officials are exploring potential traffic changes.
The crossroad of 40th Avenue and 14th Street in Moorhead connects neighborhoods, SG Reinertsen Elementary School and a church. It’s also the location one family will forever link with the loss of their son.
City planning roadway upgrades
“There were incidents where pedestrians were hit or near misses that really heightened the attention on the corridor. Timing worked at least well with what we’re planning for roadway improvements. Since the road is over 20-years-old, it’s due for some work,” said Tom Trowbridge, City Engineer for the City of Moorhead.
Trowbridge said the roadway is slated for upgrades this year. One option would improve safety at the four-way stop by removing right turn lanes and adding button-activated flashing lights. Another proposal looks to convert the intersection into a roundabout.
“A roundabout seems to be the most favorable thing you can do. But there are some concerns with how pedestrians do roundabouts,” Trowbridge said.
Residents weigh in on safety options
Parent Kaylee Morken believes the location of the intersection should have already prompted the city to take a proactive approach towards student safety.
“The school is right there and it gets so busy especially before school and after school. I do think they are quick to move especially after the incident happened. I wish the incident didn’t happen,” said Morken, a Moorhead resident.
