City of Atlanta to remove faded crosswalk on Peachtree Street after traffic death

In light of the tragic death of 67-year-old Pradeep Sood, city officials in Atlanta are set to remove a faded crosswalk on Peachtree Street, where Sood was struck by a vehicle while crossing. Video evidence revealed that he was walking through a crosswalk that had not been officially active since 2023, raising serious concerns about pedestrian safety and urban infrastructure. Sood's family has voiced their grief and urged the city to take immediate action to prevent future incidents, highlighting the need for more visible and formal crosswalks in high-foot-traffic areas. The Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT) is intensifying its commitment to the Vision Zero goal, which aims to eliminate traffic fatalities by 2040, as they plan to remove the remaining crosswalk signs and resurface the street by late 2025. Despite the previous installation of the crosswalk as part of a pedestrian-friendly initiative, its maintenance has been questioned, especially after the project was deemed unsuccessful and subsequently removed.

Community members have been observed using the faded crosswalk, indicating a potential for further accidents if safety measures are not implemented. The call for safer public spaces is echoed by local leaders, emphasizing the urgent need for effective urban planning in downtown Atlanta. The city's commitment to improving infrastructure reflects a broader movement towards ensuring pedestrian safety and enhancing the quality of public spaces.