Reply to Dangerous trail crossing at 94 (Defiance area)

Does anyone find the Katy Trail's crossing at Highway 94 in the Defiance area (just southwest of Howell Road's intersecting Highway 94) to be unreasonably dangerous and in need of some sort of additional safety measures? I biked across the intersection today, pulling my infant daughter behind me in a bike trailer, and although I looked before crossing and saw no cars, we barely made it across. Just as we had started across, a car came down the hill (southwest bound) at full speed and almost hit us. It was WAY too close for comfort. Granted I am slow when I'm pulling my little one, but that made me even more determined to see if something can be done to make this intersection safer. It's difficult for southwest bound drivers and bikers alike to see if there are people crossing / cars coming, due to the bend. I also know the speed limit is high. However, I don't want someone to be hit, and my daughter and I almost were. Please reply if you have any suggestions on how to improve this situation. I would like to elevate this and am not sure the proper channel. At this point I don't think we will be biking this stretch anymore, although I've been crossing it for almost 7 years. I can't get across quickly enough with the trailer to ensure everyone is safe.

Katy, you are absolutely correct. That crossing is double blind (both for the bikes and motorists). Adding electronics such as flashing light activation when approaching bikes or cars or having a slowing warning zone and signage for motorists would help but it would take MDOT and DNR to take notice. Rumble strips would slow traffic. I would hope an MDOT or DNR official who rides the trail could elevate this issue too.

Yes, agreed. This is a very bad crossing. Flashing lights would help but rumble strips are something that could be done quickly. I would suggest you contact the DNR directly (if you haven't already.) A phone call is good but a written complaint / request is even better.