Sometimes, timing lights for the most efficient traffic flow doesn’t always generate the best results for all drivers.
Q. The lights on my way to work in Decatur on U.S. 27 have been driving me nuts lately. It seems that once I get to Pettit Avenue, I’m getting stopped at way too many lights. Can these be better synched? – Gayle, Fort Wayne
A. All I can say is the state has promised to try, Gayle.
Dana Plattner, district traffic engineer for the Indiana Department of Transportation, said the signals along U.S. 27 between Anthony Boulevard and East Pettit Avenue are coordinated. Unfortunately for you, they are timed for drivers going in the opposite direction.
During morning rush hour, northbound traffic is much heavier than those leaving town. This makes sense as there are likely more people driving into the heart of the city to work than leaving. On the flip side, you should have to deal with fewer cars as you exit.
The timing of the signals is intended to cause the least number of delays for the most number of vehicles. This may mean more stopping for those headed south.
Plattner said the state will review signal timings to determine whether adjustments can be made to improve your commute.
Q. Traveling south on Bluffton Road approaching Engle Road, the right lane should be changed to a right turn-only lane. This would allow traffic to turn right onto Engle unimpeded and stop some road rage. – Henry S.
A. Well, Henry, the city doesn’t believe such a change would help the most motorists.
Shan Gunawardena, city traffic engineer, said more than 70 percent of vehicles on Bluffton approaching Engle go straight, while only about 29 percent make a right turn onto Engle.
If the city converted one of the travel lanes to a dedicated right-turn lane, the remaining lane would likely become overly clogged because of the high volume of through traffic. For this reason, he said, the existing lane configuration must remain.
Interchange comments
The state this week conducted a public hearing on the proposed Union Chapel Road interchange with Interstate 69. Anyone who missed the event can find information on the project at www.in.gov/indot/2354.htm.
The online presentation provides ways to offer comments through the mail or electronically. Comments are due by March 11.
The $16.2 million project is expected to begin construction this fall and take two years to complete.
Radio Sage
This week’s bonus audio question comes from T. James LaBorde, who asks about the intersection of Lima and Wallen roads. The segment originally aired Friday afternoon on WOWO and can be found online at www.journalgazette.net/roadsage.
