Letters

I live in Eastport, opposite the Eastport School. I use the crosswalk, which is on Montauk Highway — a crosswalk where my son, 40 years ago, along with the crossing guard, were inches away from being struck by a tractor-trailer speeding and almost could not stop.

Throughout the years it has become worse. Yesterday, in crossing, I saw worse: A car was stopped to let me cross, and a high-performance car at a very high speed in a school zone, with horn blaring, crossed the double line and went through the school zone area at approximately 60 mph.

There are so many who do not stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk here in the Eastport School zone. They do in Westhampton, Quogue and Remsenburg. Why? There are those signs in the middle of the crosswalks there and other localities that say, “State Law — Stop for Pedestrians.” These are very effective.

Throughout the many years, I have requested these from the town. They were in place, like, 25 years ago but were stolen, and the town said they’re too expensive to replace.

Today, they are weighted and very difficult to move. The flashing lights that I requested 40 years ago and signs are in place but are not effective by any means.

I now have addressed my concerns to Tommy John Schiavoni, who serves the 1st District in the New York State Assembly, including the Town of Southampton, to look into the municipality responsible for the installation of the signs.

A fatality is certain. Not an if, but a when. When is coming soon.

One more note: Police interaction is needed to stop the offenders who do not stop for pedestrians, and giving citations, and for those going too fast. Something that is long overdue and overlooked.

Diane Cheslock

Eastport