Dear KTFC Members & Friends:
We all know that change can be uncomfortable, and the more drastic the change, the more discomfort. So, it was no surprise that many members of the public were skeptical and resistant when PennDOT began turning toward roundabouts a few years ago as a safer, less expensive alternative to signal-controlled intersections.
Now, it seems that PennDOT is beginning to win over the skeptics and resisters.
First there are the numbers. PennDOT presented an analysis this week showing that, among the 19 roundabouts built on state routes at least three years ago, the number of accidents has been significantly lower, along with the number of crashes resulting in injuries or fatalities (there were none of the latter).
But the reader comments appended to online newspaper stories constitute even stronger evidence of public acceptance. It appears the majority of comments are positive, and even those who say they aren’t particularly fond of roundabouts begrudgingly admit they move through intersections more quickly, and hey, if injuries and accidents are down, so be it.
Kudos to PennDOT for moving us toward a greater level of safety and convenience, and at less expense.
Be of Good Cheer,
— The Wolff
TRANSPORTATION ISSUE UPDATE
- Roundabouts have reduced crashes, injuries and fatalities, according to an analysis unveiled by PennDOT this week.
- PennDOT is looking for your feedback on construction and road maintenance. You can participate in a short survey at this link.
- Our friends at PhilaPort have broken ground on a new on-dock forest products warehouse that will enhance one of the port’s shipping strengths.
- The Turnpike Commission has decided to install a fiber-optic communication system in the eastern part of the Commonwealth to meet its internal needs, and is designing it with excess capacity, aiming to solicit private operators to lease it.
- You can do almost anything these days with your mobile phone, so why not also use it to pay Turnpike tolls?
- Construction of the Central Susquehanna Valley Thruway continues to move forward, with the recent pouring of concrete for the first deck of the bridge across the Susquehanna.