Signal Makes Crossing Road Safer for Elderly Residents

A new traffic signal linking the Motion Picture & Television Fund’s Country House with a major shopping center has made it safer for elderly residents to cross busy Mulholland Drive.

In the works for several years, the new signal at Mulholland and Spielberg drives allows extra time for pedestrians to cross the street. Before the signal was activated recently, residents either had to cross on their own or ride the facility’s shuttle to the El Camino Shopping Center.

“We had a lot of residents who wouldn’t walk because it was too unsafe,” said Carol Pfannkuche, spokeswoman for the Country House, which has 300 to 400 retired film industry workers in residence at any given time.

“The signal has enhanced their ability to walk to the shopping center. They’re just thrilled.”

The Country House applied for the signal several years ago, but since the light didn’t meet city guidelines, officials determined the Country House would have to design and pay for the new traffic signal, said Lisa Levy, chief field deputy for Councilwoman Cindy Miscikowski.