Cary approves flashing pedestrian signal at crosswalk where woman was killed, tell me about this news in (https://www.wral.com/news/local/cary-approves-pedestrian-crossing-signal-ederlee-drive-crosswalk-september-2026/)

Following the tragic death of a 76-year-old woman who was struck and killed by an SUV while crossing Ederlee Drive in late August 2026, the Town of Cary and the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) moved to expedite and approve pedestrian safety upgrades at the site, headlined by a pedestrian-activated flashing signal.Background of the IncidentOn the morning of August 26, 2026, a 76-year-old woman was out for her daily morning walk when she was hit while using the marked crosswalk on Ederlee Drive near Peregrine Place and Regency Parkway. She died from her injuries, and police subsequently charged the driver involved.Community Frustration and Prior WarningsThe tragedy sparked significant community grief and outrage. Neighbors reported that they had spent years submitting complaints and requests to both the Town of Cary and NCDOT through town channels. Residents highlighted that Ederlee Drive is a wide, multi-lane roadway where motorists frequently speed well over the posted 35 mph speed limit, creating a dangerous hazard for greenway users, students, and walking seniors.The Town’s Approval and Safety UpgradesFollowing the fatal crash and a series of community meetings with residents, law enforcement, and transportation officials:

• Expedited Flashing Crossing Signal: Officials approved the installation of an active flashing pedestrian signal (such as a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon / RRFB system). When triggered by a pedestrian pushing the crosswalk button, high-visibility flashing lights alert approaching motorists to stop.
• Fast-Tracked Timeline: Prior to the incident, an upgraded pedestrian beacon for the corridor had been placed on a long-range schedule not slated for completion until late 2028. Following the fatality and public pressure, the town and state collaborated to significantly accelerate the funding, approval, and installation timeline.
• Traffic Calming and Enforcement: Alongside the signal approval, Cary increased police monitoring and targeted speed enforcement along the Ederlee Drive and Regency Parkway corridor while assessing additional traffic-calming measures to slow approaching vehicles.