As a frequent traveler on PA Route 6, I have driven by Park Street and Wayne Memorial Hospital hundreds of times. 

The growth and success of our small-town hospital over the recent years has been inspiring. But growth causes pain and needs accommodations. So let me share with you a recent glitch and unique solution by PennDOT.

In past years a pedestrian crosswalk across Route 6 extended from the emergency entrance to the parking lot across the street—a source of great consternation to me, especially with a change of shift at the hospital at 11 at night and at 7 a.m., but especially at 3 p.m. when schools get out. (I remember when there used to be a crossing guard there.)

But with the completion of the spectacular new wing of the hospital, a new crossing with blinking lights was created. Dramatic and safer!

BUT

Old habits didn’t die, and the convenience of the old crossing continued to be used by patients and employees

So now there are TWO crossing hazards on busy Route Six at the hospital.

Much to my surprise, and to their credit, PennDOT came up with a creative solution:

1. Place a new crossing warning sign to get speeding traffickers to pay attention and perhaps slow down

and 

2. Hang the sign upside down!

Creative!

Unorthodox!

And effective!

Thank you, PennDOT. I’m driving a little more safely with your guidance now.

William F. Davis lives in Honesdale, PA.