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Debate Continues Over Sight Of Fatal Pedistrian Accident

Last updated on Saturday, September 21, 2013

(MARTINSVILLE) - Thirty days have passed since a Martinsville man was hit and killed as he attempted to cross State Road 37.

Now someone has posted a "Do Not Enter" sign near the place where the fatal accident happened. But little else has been done to make the crossing any safer for pedestrians.

The sign seems out of place to those who don't know what happened at the crossing.

On the morning of Aug. 20th, 28-year-old Nick Guffey was hit by a car as he walked across the highway. He died from his injuries. His family desperately wants the city to do something to make the crossing safer.

After the accident the Mayor of Martinsville told 24 Hour News 8 he was trying to convince INDOT to put in a cross walk.

Now INDOT says the city needs to take the lead if it wants a cross walk.

While the two sides go back and forth, people continue to cross at the dangerous spot.

It's a shortcut to the stores, a bank, and restaurants.

Community leaders say the safety problem has been discussed for years - ever since the Walmart went in. Earlier this year students at Martinsville High School even offered solutions.

Assistant Superintendent has the drafting class put some drawings together for city officials.

Taylor says the city wants to see safety at the crossing improve. It's just taking time.

INDOT says it has offered to do a feasibility study for installing a crosswalk that would include disability accessible sidewalk ramps.

However, INDOT says any pedestrian access across Ind. 37 at that location would need to be a partnership between the city and the property owners.

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