Intersections don’t cause accidents, people do. As the population, traffic volume and speed limits increase, the risks people take also increase. As such, it is our job to ensure the safest means of traffic flow with a cost-effective plan.
Having studied the statistics of use and proposed plans for the controversial intersection project for Stickle Road, the “zero” usage, currently being reflected as “not used or needed”, quite oppositely reflects the impending danger to do so.
Due to the above-mentioned increases, people likely choose to forego the risk. Instead of eliminating the travel option, providing a viable, amiable solution for all would result in the most positive, effective and safest solution.
The efficiency of traffic lights, although an improvement to the current situation, is a suboptimal long term one for safe, effective traffic flow on a busy highway.
One only has to look at accidents and misdemeanors at traffic light intersections, created by traffic volume, poor driver choices, etc. to recognize this is an ineffective choice for the traffic flow requirements on a highway.
One doesn’t have to search too far to find the benefits to a well-devised dual-lane roundabout that would be far superior to traffic light intersections and superior to the current MOT proposal.
The solution should be simple, not complex and convoluted. Some benefits as below:
Safety: lower speeds and fewer points of conflict between vehicles reduce the potential for serious crashes and injury.
Lower speeds: unlike at a green light at an intersection, vehicles need to slow down to use a roundabout, reducing the likelihood of a serious crash; slower speeds result in continuous traffic flow as opposed to stopped traffic with volume backup and people running red lights, etc.
Higher capacity: a high volume of vehicles turning left is handled better by a roundabout than by a left-turn signal at a traditional intersection.
Fewer stops and shorter delays: yielding at the entry of a roundabout takes less time than waiting for a green light at an intersection or for a gap in traffic at a stop sign.
Less idling and air pollution: fewer delays reduces fuel consumption and improves air quality by reducing emissions.
Lower maintenance costs: roundabouts eliminate maintenance and electricity costs associated with traffic signals.
Aesthetically pleasing: overall, with or without the option for landscaping within the central island of a roundabout (which could be simplistic and cost effective).
This dual-lane roundabout provides a exemplary solution to the numerous controversial issues and concerns regarding the Stickle Road intersection.
Having a proven track record for safety and efficiency, etc., it would serve the Ministry and all concerned and move us into today’s viable and effective option for controlled traffic.
With the seeming stalemate and controversy regarding the Stickle Road intersection, and each side holding firmly on their stance, it is time to move forward in a positive direction with a new concept and compromise that serves everyone.
Anticipating this information will be informative and encouraging with a view to becoming a positive solution.
H.A. Adams
Vernon
