New Speed Limits Signs Installed After South Boston Crash Kills Boy
BOSTON (CBS) -- New speed limits signs were installed in a South Boston neighborhood where a little boy was hit and killed by a car last week. At least one of the new signs on L Street includes a digital screen flashing how fast drivers are going compared to the 25 mph speed limit.
"It's a good start to have signs up like this so at least people will be aware of their speed," said resident Richie Hall.
The city is using the new digital signs to get updated traffic counts to help with a longer-term traffic enforcement plan.
One person tweeted that they saw about 10 cars pulled over by Boston Police on Tuesday.
Other residents have told WBZ-TV that L Street is busy and needs more speed limit enforcement. "It's common knowledge that there are accidents on the street every summer. We've always been concerned that one would be fatal. To have it happen in this manner is horrific," said Lauren Flaherty, reacting to the crash that killed two-year-old Colin McGrath.
Colin was in a stroller alongside his nanny and four-year-old sister when two cars collided at the busy L Street and East Sixth Street intersection. One jumped the curb, hitting Colin and the others.
The crash killed Colin and badly injured his sister. Their nanny was uninjured.
Following last Wednesday's fatal crash, a memorial was created on L Street for Colin.
Police said speed was not a factor in the crash and residents said there are multiple factors that go into the numerous accidents which have occurred at the intersection.
"You have to nose out and peek out because these cars don't come to a stop. If you come through and go too far you get your nose taken off," described resident Stephen Foley.
Larger stop signs have also been installed on East Sixth, but not on L Street, which has been described as a cut-through. Cars often speed up to get through traffic lights, said residents.
"I think it does need a four-way stop. Everyone should stop and look all ways before they proceed," said Hall.
Guy Mirisola has seen it all, including a car last month that rammed into his own home near the intersection. He said he believes the enforcement comes too late. "What does it take for them to do something like this, for someone to die?"
There are also plans to cut back parking on the corners to increase visibility and paint yield signs on L Street in the approach to East Sixth.
A funeral for Colin will be held on Friday.