Re: “No advanced turn signals for Highway 27,” Olds Albertan, Feb. 2:
I think the answer to the intersection of Highway 27 and 57 Avenue is not simply to focus on the traffic lights and adding a left-hand turn lane.
The long-term plan at that busy intersection also calls for a south service road within metres.
Currently the area has 50 Street, the north service road, Highway 27 and 57 Avenue all converging at the same point.
What we need at the intersection is actually a roundabout. A roundabout will be able to accommodate the service roads, 50 Street, 57 Avenue and the highway.
If the province and town are committed to a left-hand turn lane, then the only option would be to create a cul-de-sac at the end of 50 Street and the north service road. The south service road long-term plan would have to be scrapped permanently.
I would prefer to keep a flow-through idea for 50 Street to Highway 27 west, as I travel that direction daily.
I see a roundabout as the best solution to reduce emissions, reduce wait times, and increase safety. It would also cut down on crossing traffic, reduce the Town of Olds' power consumption and future south service road development.
Safety is of course the primary focus. No longer will you have vehicles turning left in front of other vehicles. The roundabout will also slow traffic down as eastbound traffic slows from 60 to 50 kilometres per hour.
Graeme Gordon
Olds
