High school football is in full swing around North Georgia, and it has brought some of the first crowds at outdoor events since the start of the Coronavirus pandemic earlier this year.
With that brings pedestrian traffic, meaning it's important for both drivers and pedestrians to remember some safety basics as they navigate venues.
Gainesville High School Athletic Director Adam Lindsey knows pedestrian issues better than most, as Gainesville home football games are played at City Park Stadium, which is located in a high-traffic area north of Green Street. He said that results in people parking and subsequently walking on streets.
"People parking across the street at Dairy Queen or the funeral home or in the neighborhood, there are always people crossing the street," Lindsey said. "It's certainly something that always is a concern of ours."
Fortunately, Lindsey said there have been no pedestrian accidents since he came to Gainesville. He said most of that is likely due to longtime fans who have been coming to games at the stadium for years and already know how to safely park and walk across the streets.
For visitors who aren't familiar with the lay of the streets at Gainesville or any other athletic venue in the area, Lindsey said the biggest keys to staying safe are also the simplest ones.
"Looking both ways before crossing the street is something we're always taught when we're young. Just being aware of your surroundings," Lindsey said. "It's important for drivers to know where they're at and know that on a Thursday night or a Friday night that we've got events going on and that there are going to be people coming and going. Again, being aware of your surroundings and keeping an eye out for people crossing the roads."
To here more from Lindsey, watch the video above.
