Drivers, beware jaywalking tourists

We’ve noticed a concerning trend lately while driving around town. It appears that many tourists and seasonal workers are not using crosswalks, and we have recently witnessed several people walking down the center lane with no concern to actually cross the road.

While it seems like we often find ourselves complaining about the influx of visitors each year, perhaps some of our frustrations could be eased if everyone followed the pedestrian rules that help our town function smoothly.

Of course, cultural differences might explain why some foreign workers are unaware of our local expectations, and in those cases, it would be beneficial for employers to clearly communicate what is expected and legal here. Tourists, on the other hand, often rely on locals and public signs for guidance, though ultimately, individuals should take the initiative to learn about local regulations when visiting a new place.

As the summer season brings an increase in visitors to our wonderful town, we’d like to gently remind everyone about the importance of pedestrian safety.

It’s often observed that visitors may be extra attentive to local customs and signs while on vacation. However, studies indicate that a significant portion of traffic incidents during certain months and in specific areas involve tourists. To ensure the well-being of both pedestrians and drivers, we encourage our community to extend patience and understanding.

Furthermore, we believe it would be beneficial to politely guide our visitors towards using designated crosswalks. This simple practice can greatly contribute to the smooth flow of traffic and help prevent accidents during these busier months.

We thank everyone within our community for making Cody a safe and welcoming place for everyone.