City Officials Unveil New Pedestrian Safety Initiatives Near Hollywood Middle School

HOLLYWOOD (CBSLA.com) — Los Angeles city officials Monday unveiled new plans to calm traffic and improve pedestrian safety during a Walk to School event.

The walk and a press conference began at 7 a.m. at LeConte Middle School, 1316 N. Bronson Ave. in Hollywood, officials said.

The new safety initiatives include enhanced signage to alert motorists to pedestrian zones, a flashing signal for pedestrian crossings and the implementation of a Safe Passages Volunteer pilot program that will serve as a model for other schools.

"We want a presence during all school hours," LA City Councilmember Mitch O'Farrell said. "We want to make sure students get to and from school safely."

The event was prompted after a mother was killed and her 10-year-old daughter was injured after they were struck in a crosswalk by a semi truck in February.

The truck driver stopped and cooperated with authorities before later being released.