The Houston City Council in Texas approved a new regulation on 27/8, prohibiting sitting, standing, or walking on medians narrower than 180 cm within the city. This aims to decrease pedestrian fatalities from traffic accidents.
Violators could face fines up to $500. Exceptions are made for those crossing the street who need to pause on a median, or for those seeking safety from hazards.
"This regulation is a step in the right direction to prevent fatalities. Too many people die on Houston's streets each year, many of which are entirely preventable," said City Council Member Mary Nan Huffman.
This comes after the Houston Police Department recorded the highest number of fatal traffic accidents in the city's history in 2024, with nearly 34% of the victims being pedestrians.
"Medians aren't designed for standing or sitting. Walking on them puts pedestrians just centimeters away from speeding vehicles without any protection," Huffman added.
However, some City Council members oppose the regulation, arguing it could penalize homeless individuals who stand or sit on medians and lack resources for legal representation.
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A pedestrian crosses a median on High Star Drive in Houston on 3/6. Photo: HC |
A pedestrian crosses a median on High Star Drive in Houston on 3/6. Photo: HC
Council Member Letitia Plummer also voiced concerns about homeless and low-income individuals' ability to defend themselves against fines. She questioned how the new rule would be communicated to the homeless population who may not have access to social media or news outlets.
"Those directly affected are the ones uninformed," Plummer warned.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire considers the change reasonable, stating officials can make adjustments as needed. "There will be some difficult cases, and we'll monitor them closely, but encroaching on medians puts children and teens at risk," he said.
The enforcement date remains unclear. Huffman stated the city will implement a grace period to allow residents to learn about the new regulation before police begin enforcement. Details on how the regulation will be publicized are still being developed.
Duc Trung (According to Houston Chronicle)
