My relentless criticism of so-called “traffic calming measures”—part of the future Georgia-Meade bikeway—continues with a current look down Meade from Georgia. Click on the Featured Image hyperlink and take a close look at the activity at Alabama, where is the first of the traffic circles that replaces stop signs.
You are witness to a near accident—as two vehicles converge from different directions. Who should yield to whom isn’t always obvious, which is gravely complicated by poor visibility for some approaching vehicles and the speed with which many drivers enter the roundabout intersections. I can’t imagine how much more dangerous will these circles be when the route officially opens to bicycles.
As someone who waited until age 25 to obtain a driver’s license, relying on feet or peddles to get around, I am naturally inclined to supporting transportation initiatives that favor bicycle riding.
But these circles are a menace. Among the benefits promoted by the San Diego County TransNet program: The structures “provide an opportunity for public art or decorative hardscapes in the center island”. Stated differently: Encourage kids to play in traffic, which happens when youngsters build rock structures or otherwise goof off on the islands.
My other grumblings:
- “Before Meade’s Traffic Circles“, Feb. 9, 2021
- “The Traffic Circle of Unintended Consequences“, Feb. 1, 2021
- “Who Authorized This?“, Oct. 1, 2020
- “Traffic Detours, Pandemic, and Makeshift Cul-De-Sacs“, May 20, 2020
- “Something Stinks Here“, March 19, 2020
I used Leica Q2 to capture the moment on Feb. 12, 2021. Vitals, aperture manually set: f/8, ISO 100, 1/320 sec, 28mm; 2:41 p.m. PST.