Cyclists Advocate for Intersection Improvements Following Dentist’s Death in Norristown
NORRISTOWN,PA – A growing chorus of cyclists is calling for safety enhancements at the intersection of Ford and Lafayette streets in Norristown,Montgomery County,after Dr. Jerald Matt, a local dentist, was fatally struck by a driver in late July. The tragedy has ignited concerns about the intersection’s inherent dangers and prompted calls for immediate action from advocates and community members.
The death of Dr. Matt, described by friends as a well-respected and avid cyclist, has underscored the vulnerability of cyclists navigating the area. The Bicycle Coalition of greater Philadelphia is reviewing the incident, and residents are demanding preventative measures to avoid future tragedies at a location already known for near-misses and prior crashes. This incident highlights a broader issue of cyclist safety within Montgomery County and the need for proactive infrastructure improvements.
Investigators report that Dr. Matt was wearing a helmet when he was hit while crossing the intersection. The driver remained at the scene, and Montgomery County Detectives are currently leading the investigation.
“Words can’t describe it. So sad what happened here. So tragic,” said neighbor Kulliver, reflecting the community’s grief.
Several cyclists have voiced concerns about the visibility at the intersection, citing overgrown vegetation as a contributing factor to the hazard. Rehman Qureshi, a cyclist from Media, recounted witnessing a previous incident at the location. “I came here and there was someone kind of sprawled out on the street,” Qureshi stated.
John Boyle,Research Director for the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia,believes a complete assessment is crucial. “People don’t expect traffic to come through this intersection, so I think a lot of people don’t even realise it’s a hazard,” Boyle explained.he suggested that cutting back vegetation and conducting a road safety audit are potential solutions to improve conditions.
The Bicycle Coalition and concerned citizens are urging Montgomery county officials to prioritize safety improvements at the intersection of Ford and Lafayette streets, hoping to honor Dr. Matt’s memory by preventing future incidents and ensuring safer roadways for all cyclists.bryn Mawr Dentist, where Dr. Matt practiced, has a website at BrynMawrDentist.com.
