'Just reinforces the importance of these streets': Urbana focused on making safety top priority after crash involving deputy

URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — After a crash in Urbana Thursday morning, officials are continuing to listen to public concerns about the area.

Early Thursday morning, a Champaign County Sheriff’s deputy and a tow truck driver collided near the intersection of Florida and Lincoln Avenues.

The Champaign County Regional Planning Commission has identified this intersection as one of the most troublesome in the county. A study conducted by the organization from 2013 to 2022 revealed a total of 337 reported crashes during that span. The peak occurred in 2017, with 52 crashes recorded.

“It’s sad to hear about it, any crash that happens. And, just, you know, just reinforces the importance of these streets that we need to make them a priority, like we are,” John Zeman, city engineer, said.

Zeman said Florida and Lincoln Avenues are two of their top priority streets when it comes to improving safety. The city is planning on starting the Florida Avenue Project in 2027 by improving pavement, traffic signals and adding in ADA accessible sidewalks and more. Zeman said they’re still working on Lincoln Avenue.

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