Traffic Safety Debate Intensifies Over Stop Sign Proposal

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a request from Reichu Farms to install stop signs at the intersection of 10th Street and Pembroke Avenue, a location identified as one of the highest traffic areas in the region. The request aims to enhance safety for vehicles primarily traveling north and south, as the intersection currently experiences significant semi-truck traffic.

The last traffic count conducted by the Department of Transportation (DoT) dates back to 2013, and officials suspect that current traffic levels have increased since then. Preliminary estimates indicate approximately 140 vehicles per day from the north, 190 from the south, and lesser volumes from the east and west. Despite the high traffic, a review of crash data over the past decade revealed no significant accidents at this intersection.

Concerns were raised regarding the effectiveness of stop signs, with some officials noting that studies suggest they may not improve safety as expected. The discussion highlighted the potential for increased maintenance issues, such as potholes and washboarding, due to the deceleration and acceleration of heavy vehicles at stop signs.

Residents expressed a desire for either two or four stop signs, with some advocating for all directions to stop to prevent speeding. However, officials suggested that if safety is a priority, implementing four stop signs might be the most effective solution, despite the anticipated increase in maintenance demands.

The meeting concluded with officials weighing the options of maintaining the current traffic flow or moving forward with a resolution for either two or four stop signs, reflecting the community's concerns while considering the implications for traffic management and road maintenance.