Metro Lex News

Users of the Waze navigation app in Lexington now receive alerts for active school zones and pedestrian crossings. The city features 49 midblock pedestrian crossings, strategically placed between intersections that are not conveniently close for pedestrians. These crosswalks are marked with signs, road markings, and sometimes flashing lights to inform drivers of their presence. With the integration into Waze, drivers will receive notifications when nearing these crosswalks.

Additionally, Waze will notify drivers as they approach any of Lexington's 51 active school zones. David Filiatreau, Traffic Engineering Manager, stated: “Providing this information to drivers will help make our streets safer for students and pedestrians.” He emphasized that protecting vulnerable road users is a priority for the city and highlighted how this technology aids in alerting drivers to be cautious around pedestrians who might be on the road.

The alerts are powered by the Glance® Smart Cities platform used by Lexington’s Traffic Engineering division to manage safety devices.

In other news, the City of Lexington announced a second round of grant funds under the Lex Grow Trees program aimed at promoting tree planting efforts.