In the heart of Hendersonville, city officials gathered under the bright lights of the public works committee meeting to address a pressing issue that has long plagued local drivers: traffic congestion at the intersection of Main Street and Sanders Ferry Road. As residents voiced their frustrations about lengthy wait times and hazardous conditions, the committee explored potential solutions to improve safety and traffic flow.

The discussion centered around the proposal to install "Do Not Block Intersection" pavement markings on Main Street. While the traffic engineer deemed the markings feasible, concerns arose regarding their potential to inadvertently increase collisions due to the complexity of the intersection, which features multiple lanes. The committee noted that visibility issues could arise, particularly when vehicles are stacked in the turn lane, making it difficult for drivers to see oncoming traffic.

Despite the split vote among committee members, with some advocating for the markings and others expressing caution, the idea of using hatch marks instead of text was suggested as a cleaner alternative. This approach, already implemented in nearby Rivergate, could help clarify traffic patterns without overwhelming drivers with signage.

Committee members acknowledged the urgency of the situation, with one resident recounting personal experiences of waiting up to 40 minutes to exit the neighborhood. The ongoing construction at another nearby entrance further complicates the issue, leading to increased reliance on the Main Street intersection.

While the immediate recommendation is to pursue the pavement markings as a temporary measure, the committee recognized the need for a long-term solution. Ideas such as a dual left turn lane at Sanders Ferry were discussed, though they would require significant investment and planning.

As the meeting concluded, the committee agreed to seek approval from the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) before moving forward. The path ahead may be slow, but the commitment to improving traffic conditions remains strong. With the community's safety in mind, officials are determined to navigate the complexities of government processes to find a resolution that benefits all Hendersonville residents.