Auburn City Council supports traffic signal at high crash intersection in Danville

The Reimagine Washington Street Webinar held on April 3, 2025, focused on critical safety concerns regarding the Washington Street, Beech Hill, and Danville Corner Road intersection in Auburn, Maine. The meeting highlighted the intersection's designation as a high crash location, with a critical rate factor of 2.79 and 17 reported crashes over a three-year period from 2021 to 2023.

Officials from the Maine Department of Transportation (DOT) presented findings from a recent safety audit, which recommended the installation of a traffic signal at this unsignalized four-way intersection. The intersection is characterized by high-speed traffic and stop conditions on the side streets, contributing to its safety issues.

Significantly, the City of Auburn has expressed support for the proposed traffic signal, which would enhance safety by providing full access to both Beech Hill Road and Danville Corner Road. This decision marks a collaborative effort between state and local authorities to address the pressing safety concerns at this location.

Additionally, the meeting noted that other nearby intersections, including those at Exit 75 and Kitty Hawk, are also classified as high crash locations, despite being signalized. The discussions underscored the need for ongoing safety improvements throughout the corridor to reduce crash rates and enhance overall traffic safety.

As the planning study progresses, the installation of the traffic signal is expected to be a key step in mitigating risks and improving safety for all road users in the area.