Public Outcry for Wal-Mart Traffic Light Ignored by MDOT

CRYSTAL FALLS, MI - Friday, August 15, 2008 - Based on the results of an analysis of traffic patterns at the US-2/Country Club Road intersection near the Ironwood Wal-Mart, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) found that the traffic delays and crash data indicate that installation of a traffic signal would not be effective at the location.

"Properly used, traffic signals can be an effective tool for providing safe and orderly traffic flow through intersections," said Mike Premo, MDOT's Crystal Falls Transportation Service Center (TSC) manager. "Placing traffic signals where they are not warranted can result in more crashes, greater delays, or both."

In May, MDOT studied traffic operations at the intersection. This signal study was scheduled to coincide with the seasonal opening of the nearby golf course, after the new Wal-Mart opened, and before school recessed for the summer, in order to observe peak traffic at the location.

The study found:

• Traffic volumes at the location do not meet minimum requirements for a signal.
• The intersection does not show a pattern of delays that a signal would correct.
• A high percentage of traffic at the intersection is right-turning vehicles, which would receive little benefit from a signal.
• The intersection will operate at an acceptable level of service without a signal.
• Gaps are readily available in the US-2 traffic stream.

In an effort to assist motorists at the intersection, MDOT plans to clear brush on the inside of the US-2 curve west of the intersection, move the stop bar pavement marking on Country Club Road closer to US-2, and remove one of the two power poles located on the east side of the US-2/Country Club Road intersection.

While a signal is not recommended, MDOT will continue to monitor the operations of the intersection and perform another signal study if it appears that traffic volumes or delays are such that a signal may be warranted.

Mike Premo, of the MDOT Crystal Falls Transportation Service Center, can be reached (906) 875-6644. A phone call or two from people that disagree sure wouldn't hurt.