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Just because a traffic signal isn’t used as much as it had been in the past doesn’t mean it isn’t needed.
Q. Is an operational automatic signal necessary on Coliseum Boulevard between the vacant Value City address and Dollar General? Could that be safely changed to a flashing light instead? – Tom McCue, Fort Wayne
A. Well, Tom, I understand your concern. Most drivers would love to see any traffic signal removed from Coliseum. But the signal will remain.
Toni Mayo, spokeswoman for the Indiana Department of Transportation, said traffic has decreased in the area because of stores closing, but a significant number of drivers still use the signal from the Dollar General and other businesses with access to the intersection.
If redevelopment occurs in the area, traffic would likely reach previous levels, she said.
The signal is set to change only when traffic demands exit from the side streets onto Coliseum Boulevard.
This means it shouldn’t change too often. This will limit your delays.
Q. I travel the Bass Road-Scott Road area quite a bit, and the stopping line that is painted there is out too far for people turning from Bass onto Scott. Is there any chance of getting it moved? – Ron Fritzke, Fort Wayne
A. Well, Ron, don’t look for changes in the area.
Mike Green, spokesman for the Allen County commissioners, said the stop bar is in the proper location for a two-lane road. The county assumes a westbound driver will slow or stop for oncoming traffic. They also expect those drivers to see a northbound left-turn vehicle waiting to turn before making their turns.
The best advice is to take extra caution if you feel it is unsafe or find a different route.
Q. Would you please update us on what is happening at the intersection of Wallen and Auburn roads? There was to be a full-service traffic signal installed there long ago. – Elaine Beltz, Fort Wayne
A. Patience, Elaine, your traffic signal is coming.
Shan Gunawardena, city traffic engineer, said the traffic signal has been designed and is awaiting final approval from INDOT.
The state’s approval is necessary because the city is using federal money to finance the work.
The good news is that Gunawardena said the signal should be installed by the end of the year.
I know it could be used now – readers have made quite an effort to point out the problems at this intersection – but take heart that it is on its way.
The bonus radio question this week comes from Sally W. regarding the left turn from East State Boulevard into a shopping center just east of Coliseum Boulevard. The segment originally aired Friday afternoon on WOWO-AM 1190 and can be found online at www.journalgazette.net/roadsage.
