SAN ANTONIO — A creepy attraction visited by many a San Antonio resident this time of year is causing concern, but not over any paranormal activity.
Those who live at one southeast-side neighborhood say the so-called "ghost tracks" at Shane and Villamain are unsafe for drivers and pedestrians, many of whom stop by to see if they can sense something abnormal at the site of Alamo City urban myth. The area tends to draw a crowd in October thanks to folklore that says those who park on the ghost tracks will be pushed off by young spirits.
"Every Halloween, someone does it," said Olga Martinez, president of the Villa Coronado Neighborhood Association. "It's something they have done for years, and they are going to keep doing it. So why not make it safe?"
Last weekend, police say, three people were hit by a vehicle as a family held a vigil for someone who recently died in a nearby crash. According to officials, two children and a woman were hit when a driver missed their turn and struck them.
The victims suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Now Martinez is raising the alarm.
"There's a lot that needs to be done," she said. "Because it's dangerous, either way you look at it. Especially at night."
KENS 5 cameras caught a semi-trailer truck turning into oncoming traffic at the narrow intersection. Martinez wants city crews to install lighting and redo the road striping.
She's also pushing for signs that warn drivers of the sharp turn, which could prevent them from seeing people on foot at the site.
City Councilwoman Phyllis Viagran, whose district encompasses the intersection of Shane and Villamain, said in a statement that she's working with Public Works to reevaluate the railroad intersection that's "become a popular destination that impacts driver behavior."
Viagran added that "ensuring street safety is a top priority" of hers.
Local cyclist and pedestrians, meanwhile, also said they'd like to see momentum for Martinez's suggestions.
"I don't think that this would cost that much money to do," Martinez said. "This is a small area. All they would have to do is do something here to make a difference."