Olentangy Trail crosswalk raises safety concerns for pedestrians, cyclists

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A newly opened crosswalk connecting the Olentangy Trail is drawing criticism from users who say the crossing is dangerous and needs immediate safety improvements.

The crossing goes across North Broadway Street at the intersection with OhioHealth Parkway and ramps to state Route 315. Pedestrians and cyclists say the main problem is drivers exiting the highway who turn left without yielding to people in the crosswalk.

"They give a left turn arrow to people coming off 315 South, and it creates this sort of condition where people are trying to buzz through real fast," said Jeff Patterson, who frequently uses the trail with his family.

Patterson said the crossing requires constant vigilance.

"My kids are like, 'Hey, we want to use the cool bridges and see everything,’” Pa