Following String Of Deadly Incidents, Smithtown Institutes Changes To Main Street

SMITHTOWN, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) - It's become known as a deadly stretch of road after a number of pedestrians were killed trying to cross Main Street in Smithtown on Long Island.

But changes have been made to make Main Street safer.

WCBS 880's Sophia Hall reports

Traffic appears to be much slower on Main Street, reported WCBS 880's Sophia Hall, after crews created turning lanes and crosswalks. And pedestrians -- including a woman with a baby stroller -- had no trouble walking across the road, she reported.

Three people have been killed trying to cross Main Street since 2009, including 11-year-old Courtney Sipes.

One pedestrian who works and walks on Main Street is happy with the changes to the street.

"Cars are able to get into the turning lanes without five people behind them pulling out," the pedestrian told Hall. "The turning signals have their own designated lanes. By the time we get the flow, it's a safer environment because we are doing a road diet. The accessibility of getting from one side to the other makes a big difference."

For those of you who live or work in the Smithtown area, have you noticed the changes to Main Street? Share your thoughts and comments below...