Dwight Messner, Grand Forks, letter: Improve signage, speed control at intersection

GRAND FORKS — Regarding the story, “Highway 2 crash witnesses speak out” (Page A1, Jan. 6):

I don’t think rational thought is possible so close to a tragedy. Case in point: the discussion of building an overpass at the airport road/U.S. Highway 2 intersection.

I have driven safely through this intersection more times than I can count. So I have to ask, why is it that every answer to every problem always seems to cost more taxpayer dollars, especially when all that we need are a few more signs to lower the speed to 25, 35 or 45 miles per hour until drivers are safely past the intersection?

In my opinion, building an overpass is too expensive given the level of traffic at the intersection. Furthermore, the project would tie up traffic throughout the construction period and create more frustration for travelers going to and from the airport as well as east and west on U.S. Highway 2.

Sometimes, what’s is needed is a time of decompression. We are in fact incapable of making everyone safe at every turn. Life is often hazardous and fraught with unknown dangers. And drivers still need to practice defensive driving; it is the best means of protection from accidents.

Dwight Messner

Tags: in the mail, opinion, traffic, safety, health, intersection, overpass, signs