Improvements have been made to Ardmore Avenue, but not everyone is pleased with the end result.
Q. Turning right from Jefferson Boulevard onto Ardmore, there’s now a No Turn On Red sign. Since this isn’t a sharp right turn, what’s the reason for prohibiting turns at a red light? – Cindy Nolot
A. You are not alone in your wondering, Cindy. Several readers have asked why the city does not allow this turn when it would theoretically improve traffic flow.
Shan Gunawardena, city traffic engineer, said the sign is more about protecting pedestrians than helping vehicles. He said this area is expected to be a busy crossing for walkers and the restriction will help increase safety for them.
The location of the sign allows a driver stopped in advance of the crosswalk to view both the sign and the traffic signal allowing them to turn.
In addition, the restriction also creates gaps in traffic for vehicles trying to turn onto Ardmore from an adjacent drive south of Jefferson Boulevard. I’m sorry this likely isn’t the answer you were seeking, but at least you now know the rationale.
Q. Ardmore between Taylor and Jefferson still has a 30-mph speed limit even though there is little residential in this area now. Is there any reason why the speed limit can’t be changed to 35 or even 40 mph through this section? – Craig M.
A. Unfortunately, Craig, like Cindy you won’t like the answer.
Gunawardena said this area is still fairly residential – even if most of the homes don’t have direct access to Ardmore anymore. This means there likely will be more pedestrians.
The trail on the west side of Ardmore connects to the city’s trail system. The city eventually plans to connect the pedestrian infrastructure to Jefferson Pointe and along Illinois Road to Magnavox Way.
For this reason, the city plans to keep the speed limit a more pedestrian-friendly 30 mph.
Turns restricted
Construction on Lima Road has reduced the way drivers can use connecting streets in the area. The state on Friday restricted eastbound traffic on Ludwig Road to only right turns at Coldwater Road.
Because Coldwater is expected to experience increased traffic volume with the Lima construction, the elimination of left turns off Ludwig is intended to increase safety and improve the ability of vehicles to move through the intersection.
The restriction is expected to last until the Lima widening project is finished this fall.
Radio Sage
This week’s bonus audio question comes from Tricia Vanantwerp, who asks about work on Auburn Road south of Dupont Road. The segment originally aired Friday afternoon on WOWO and can be heard online at www.journalgazette.net/roadsage.
