Ane Keohokalole
Ane Keohokalole
Use a traffic circle, not a signal for safety
I read in Sunday’s paper that the new Ane Keohokalole Highway is open. Of course, the 35 mph speed limit makes it another speed trap.
But what caught my attention was Mr. Warren Lee’s request for another $500,000 for a traffic signal.
Has anyone considered a roundabout, as used by the rest of the world?
First of all, it would be cheaper: no traffic signals and no electricity required, traffic flow is greatly increased and very little maintenance is needed.
The most compelling reason, however, is safety. There are no fatal accidents on roundabouts, no head-on collisions, no “T-bones,” just occasional sideswipes as cars merge.
And, Mr. Lee, don’t give us the excuse that our drivers are not capable of learning how to navigate a roundabout. With clear signs and a little education, it is very easy.
Many states on the mainland now have roundabouts and the people love them.
So, if a traffic signal is installed at this four-way stop, who is going to take responsibility for the fatalities?
It always seems our youngsters are killed at these dangerous intersections. Please don’t install another.
If you feel the same way as I do, email Mr. Warren Lee at the Department of Public Works: public_works@co.hawaii.hi.us Or call 961- 8321.
David Hume
Holualoa
Noise concerns
Make it more peaceful
So, I am lucky enough to visit the city and country I grew up in, London, England.
I return here and it suddenly hits me as to how quiet it was throughout my trip and how darned noisy it is here.
I was in the “big city” and it felt so quiet. I was in the countryside, and it was so quiet.
Guess what, no obnoxious loud motor vehicles with adjusted engines and mufflers, no boom boxes allowed, no crazy tires on vehicles for no apparent reason.
Instead, I saw beautifully manicured parks and gardens, and no weed whackers and blowers, etc., just rakes and hoes and the odd quiet lawn mower.
You want peace in these tranquil Hawaiian Isles? Ban the use of excessive garden machinery and start ticketing those drivers with ridiculous accessorized vehicles.
And make some money for the county by issuing tickets for these violations. It can be done.
Susan Morgan
Kailua-Kona