2026-78

Resolution Requesting Expedited Pedestrian Safety Improvements at Bannister’s Wharf and America’s Cup Avenue

WHEREAS, on July 9, 2025, the Newport City Council unanimously passed a resolution requesting that the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) conduct a comprehensive traffic and pedestrian safety study during the summer tourism season at the intersection of Bannister’s Wharf and America’s Cup Avenue, and further requested safety enhancements; and

WHEREAS, RIDOT conducted an engineering study to evaluate the feasibility of pedestrian safety improvements, and during a 12-hour pedestrian count in August 2025, recorded over 500 pedestrians crossing America’s Cup Avenue in the vicinity of Bannister’s Wharf during the PM peak hour (one hour); and

WHEREAS, due to the high volume of pedestrian crossings across a four-lane roadway, RIDOT recommended evaluation of both a pedestrian hybrid beacon and a full traffic signal; and

WHEREAS, on January 7, 2026, the State Traffic Commission voted to relocate the existing crosswalk north of Bannister’s Wharf and to install a full traffic signal for both directions of America’s Cup Avenue; and

WHEREAS, on April 28, 2026, upon inquiry regarding the project timeline, the City was informed by RIDOT that construction is not anticipated to begin until 2028; and

WHEREAS, this extended timeline continues to place pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists at unnecessary risk, particularly given the high volume of seasonal activity including bicycles, mopeds, pedicabs, rideshare vehicles, and taxis in the area.

WHEREAS, this delay is unacceptable given the known and ongoing danger to pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists in one of the City’s busiest and most heavily traveled areas; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT

RESOLVED, that the Newport City Council respectfully requests that RIDOT expedite the design and construction schedule for these critical safety improvements and advance implementation to the next fiscal year; AND BE IT FURTHER

RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to RIDOT, the State Traffic Commission, and members of the Rhode Island General Assembly, with a request for immediate coordination and action to safeguard the public.

LYNN UNDERWOOD CEGLIE
JEANNE MARIE NAPOLITANO

IN COUNCIL
READ AND PASSED
MAY 27, 2026

Laura C. Swistak, CMC
City Clerk