Plans to curb traffic at busy Clifton Park intersection
September 21, 2018 09:38 AM
The Department of Transportation detailed plans to put a roundabout at the intersection of 146 and 146A in Clifton Park. They say there were more than 100 accidents there in a three-year span.
"Sometimes you feel like closing your eyes and just hitting the accelerator and hopefully the guy will stop," said George Blanche of Clifton Park.
It may be hard to believe but that's not an unusual thought for many drivers who have to travel each day along route 146 and 146A in Clifton Park.
"I sit in my office and witness accidents at least once a month at the site of the flyby. I see a car crash into another car at least once a month," said Paul Unter of Clifton Park.
Since the late 1990s traffic in the area has caused back-ups and delays for miles past the well-traveled intersection.
Now DOT says they have found a solution and it's a two-lane roundabout.
"It's an improvement not just for efficiency for motorists to get through quicker but really it should be an improvement for safety," said Bryan Viggiani of DOT.
DOT says there were more than 100 accidents there between 2013 and 2016. Twenty of those had injuries.
This is an area where accidents are more prevalent. DOT says crashes in roundabouts are less severe, resulting in ultimately fewer fatalities.
They also say drivers will save money and that faster time in traffic cuts down on pollution.
Some are still on the fence as to if this will actually make an impact.
"I'm going to hold my breath and hope it's true," said Blanche.
Others say they can't wait for it to be completed.
"I'm looking forward to the circle. It's a good idea. I think it's genius," said Unter.
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Updated: September 21, 2018 09:38 AM
Created: September 20, 2018 11:25 PM
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