City Council approves study to make stretch of Mesa Street safer for pedestrians

El Paso City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved a study to explore how to make one of the busiest stretches of Mesa Street safer for pedestrians.

The Council directed staff to begin a study exploring four way stops and possibly reducing speed limits on Mesa Street between Boston Avenue and Glory Road.

Because Mesa Street is a state highway, the City will have to work with the Texas Department of Transportation, who will have to approve any changes.

The City’s Transportation department will explore synchronizing four way stops at the intersections, which would prevent left turns when pedestrians are crossing the street. Council asked for a short term plan and a long term plan, which could mean improving the roads or intersections.

“These accidents don’t always involve alcohol. Sometimes drivers lose track of what’s going on. Just something that will help people focus when they go to those intersections,” said City Rep. Ann Morgan Lilly.