By JIMMY LAWTON

OGDENSBURG -- Ogdensburg city council will hold a public hearing regarding the installation of new traffic devices at two State Street intersections.

The devices would be installed at the intersection Washington and State and the corner of Ford and State.

City manager John Pinkerton said both roads are hazardous to pedestrians.

“Cross walks give people right of way. Unfortunately I don’t think all drivers are aware pedestrians have the right of way,” Pinkerton, who offered the resolution said.

According to the resolution the hearing would allow residents an opportunity to comment on a proposed New York Department of Transportation project that would include installation of four-way stop and no right turn on red traffic devices at both intersections.

However, Deputy Mayor Mike Morley explained that both intersections turned into one-way streets after crossing State street, so there would be no need for a four-way stop.

Pinkerton said his concern was for the residents of the towers, who are mostly senior citizens. He said the area has heavy pedestrian traffic and was worried about accidents.

Councilor Jennifer Stevenson said both intersections were among the city’s busiest pedestrian areas.

Councilor Dan Skamperle questioned if the signage was necessary or if it could the problem could be solved with traffic tickets.

Ogdensburg Police Chief Rick Polniak said drivers can be ticketed only if pedestrians are in the cross walk. He said people crossing the streets in that area can be stuck for multiple light changes if drivers continue make right turns on red lights.

“People are stuck waiting,” he said.

City councilors agreed to hold the public hearing April 14 at 7 p.m.