To the editor:
My response to installing a roundabout on County Roads 40 and 8:
1. What was the reason this came up again? Has there been an increase in issues at that intersection since the installation of the flashing red lights on the stop signs and the rumble strips? If so, I haven't seen anything in the Echo related to this. I have heard that some residents living near that intersection have complained about the noise of the rumble strips. I have a problem with the noise of the rumble strips on I-94 and Highway 114, but that's the price we pay for everyone’s safety.
2. Why does Douglas County think that they need to change that intersection when the Minnesota Department of Transportation didn't seem to have an issue with it for at least 75 years before the county took it over about 10 years ago?
3. A comment was made that this is one of the most dangerous intersections in the county. I’m not sure where that data comes from but working to find out. At one time, Carlos Corners was considered one of the most dangerous intersections but ever since they installed flashing red lights on the stop signs, it seems to have reduced the incidents dramatically. Another example is Highway 29 and County Road 5 where there are warning signs telling drivers of cars approaching that intersection. Not real costly, but effective.
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I don’t think anyone would argue that if people would obey the law we wouldn’t have to have this discussion. The key is, when you approach a stop sign, you stop, look both ways (maybe more than once) and proceed with caution.
Rod Johnson
Alexandria, MN
