DOTD lowers speed limit on portion of US 165 in Richwood, Ouachita Parish as part of corridor safety enhancements
Tuesday, June 29, 2021 at 8:32:53 AM
DOTD lowers speed limit on portion of US 165 in Richwood, Ouachita Parish as part of corridor safety enhancements
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces additional safety measures put in place along a section of the US 165 corridor in the Town of Richwood, Ouachita Parish.
Recently, the speed limit on US 165 from Richwood Road No. 2 to just south of the U-Pull-It Auto Parts was reduced from 65 mph to 55 mph. Additionally, the school speed zone in the area was reduced from 45 mph to 40 mph.
“It can’t be reiterated enough that the safety of our roadways is top priority for all types of road users,” said DOTD Secretary Dr. Shawn Wilson. “These corridor enhancements are an important improvement, but we continue to urge motorists, pedestrians, and other road users to remember that safety is a shared responsibility among all of us.”
Overhead signs warning motorists of the possible presence of pedestrians have also been installed. The southbound sign is located just south of LA 15 and the northbound sign is located south of Charleston Drive.
“I’m glad to see that many of the safety measures have been put into place, and that the street lighting project continues to move forward. The safety of our citizens is of utmost importance and I continue to support bringing the lighting project to construction as quickly as possible, said Sen. Katrina Jackson (D-District 34).
To further improve safety, a traffic signal will soon be installed at the intersection of US 165 and Richwood Road No. 2, just north of Richwood Junior High School. This change comes as the result of a required traffic signal study performed for this location.
“We deeply appreciate the positive impact these measures will have on the safety of this portion of US 165. I’m proud of the efforts of everyone involved and look forward to the construction of the lighting project,” added Rep. Pat Moore (D-District 17).
Additionally, design plans continue to progress for a new street lighting system to be constructed on US 165 from LA 15 (Winnsboro Road) to Charleston Drive, a little over 3.5 miles of roadway. Currently, the project is scheduled to go to bid in May 2022, though that date could move up if project development allows.
All of these changes are being implemented following in-depth data analysis of crash history and other factors for this particular section of US 165, which is a busy thoroughfare for both motorists and pedestrians. These are targeted measures for this location that are aimed at improving safety for both motorists and pedestrians.
DOTD urges motorists and pedestrians to use extreme caution when traveling, and reminds all roadway users of the following safety tips:
- Follow the rules of the road, and obey signs and signals, including speed limit postings.
- Stay alert and avoid distractions such as electronic devices.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking or driving, as these impair physical abilities and judgement.
- Drivers should scan for pedestrians near intersections, particularly in heavily commercial corridors and at night when they may be harder to detect in peripheral vision.
- Ensure all vehicle head and tail lights are bright, in good working order, and in use during weather events and from sunset to sunrise.
- Walk on sidewalks if available. If no sidewalks are available, walk facing traffic and as far as away from vehicles as possible.
- When possible, cross streets at crosswalks or intersections where drivers expect to see pedestrians. Look in both directions.
- If a crosswalk or intersection is unavailable, wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely.
- Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with motorists to ensure you’re seen.
- Be visible at all times – wear bright clothing during the day and reflective materials/flashlight at night.
Map indicates location of speed limit reduction on US 165 in the Town of Richwood, Ouachita Parish.