New stop signs will soon be put in place at a precarious intersection with a history of dangerous accidents. Recent traffic studies conducted by the Department of Public Works confirmed recommendations in the city’s Transportation System Plan for two new stop signs to be installed on NE “A” Street at the intersection of that street with NE Beacon Drive. The new signs will go up Tuesday, Oct. 8.
“The intersection of NE ‘A’ Street and Beacon Drive has consistently been a dangerous intersection due to the large number of accidents,” said Wade Elliot, assistant director of Public Works.
The new signs will create a four-way stop at the intersection. Warning signs will be placed on NE “A” prior to the stop, to alert drivers of the new installation.
“We will have additional signing and temporary message signs at the location while drivers get used to the new traffic pattern,” Elliot said.
The traffic study came on the heels of requests from concerned citizens. The study confirmed 13 major accidents at the location during the time span between 2011 and 2015. More than half of those accidents resulted in injury or fatality.
“The Public Works Department has completed numerous studies in the area to ensure that all-way stop control will provide a safer environment,” said Elliot. “Please exercise caution and defensive driving techniques while fellow drivers get used to the new traffic pattern,” he said.