To the editor:
Re: Bypass for West 琉璃神社
It is in the design of the intersections鈥攚e still use traffic lights and they cause traffic to slow, stop and go鈥攃ontinuously. There is no smooth flow.
One solution is roundabout. A roundabout slows traffic but does not stop the flow. They operate at a slower speed so if there are any accidents it will be a fender bender and not a fatality. No lights required.
Roundabouts are in use around the world and they work once people realize how they work.
They may be as large as six lanes i.e. Paris has one. If they are built correctly they will accommodate the largest trucks also.
We can also consider an underpass with parallel access on both sides for on and off traffic. The main traffic on the highway does not stop or slow down thus will have a continuous flow through the area. We have one example just north of Vernon for traffic to enter and exit Highway 97 to and from Kamloops.
Most intersections are suitable for this installation, it just takes some imagination and daring to make changes instead of lights. Accidents at lights are usually severe and often with injuries or fatalities.
A steady flow of traffic also increases your gas mileage and reduces idling at the lights鈥攁ll good for us all, and you are still able to get off the highway to shop your heart out or get a Timmy's.
Jorgen Hansen, 琉璃神社
