CINCINNATI - The Department of Transportation & Engineering (DOTE) on Monday, Oct. 4, outlined several recommendations to improve safety in the 2200 block of Harrison Avenue between Robert and Orland avenues in Westwood.

DOTE Director John Brazina provided the recommendations as part of a presentation to the Education, Innovation and Growth Committee. The committee requested a report about this curved stretch of Harrison Avenue given the increased number of crashes there in 2020 and so far in 2021.

The number of crashes in the 2200 block of Harrison totaled 39 in the last year and a half, January 2020 through August 2021, compared to a total of 34 for the previous three years combined in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

Brazina told the committee that wet weather appears to be the biggest factor contributing to the increase in crashes.

Brazina focused on four key recommendations: Improved signage and street lighting in the short term and the potential installation of a high-friction, anti-skid surface coat and raised pavement markers as early as next summer.

DOTE can use existing funds to install improved directional signage this fall and is working with Duke Energy to replace several streetlights. The department needs additional funding to pay for the anti-skid surface and raised pavement markers, estimated at $365,000.

DOTE also is coordinating with the Cincinnati Police Department to encourage motorists to drive within the speed limit. 
 

View a copy of DOTE's Harrison Ave presentation