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The Road Warriortakes a look at Lehigh Valley roads from Morning Call reporter Dan Hartzell. E-mail questions about transportation in the ...
Dan Hartzell
The Road WarriorE-mail
Did brutal winter dump more litter?
April 20, 2014
Q: The litter along I-78 is absolutely disgusting. As soon as you come over the border from New Jersey into Pennsylvania it's nothing but trash all along the highway. It's bad enough seeing the deer carcasses; at least they decompose. I live along I-78, and some of the litter blows over the wall into my back yard. New Jersey has work-release people cleaning theirs up. Why can't Pennsylvania?
'Suicide fence' for 15th Street Bridge hit a speed-bump
April 17, 2014
Q: No one has worked on the new 15th Street Bridge sidewalk since the bridge opened to traffic on Dec. 20. It took forever and a day to build the bridge, yet four months later, no one can walk across it. When will the sidewalk be completed? Soon the major rehabilitation of the Eighth Street Bridge will begin, possibly further limiting pedestrian routes to the south side of town.
When will PennDOT put Route 309/Tilghman Street interchange reconstruction in gear?
April 13, 2014
Q: Is there any hope that the Route 309 bridge over Tilghman Street will ever be widened or replaced? It's an extremely unsafe entrance/exit combination there, as you know. Folks I know who moved here from other states are aghast that PennDOT would even allow the on-ramp stop signs with a merge zone of zero to exist. In other jurisdictions, such a design would simply be closed off and traffic not allowed for safety reasons.
Are brine, cinders effective solutions for road-surface freeze?
April 10, 2014
Q: What happens to all of the cinders left on the roads after the winter thaw? In this age of recycling, is there a plan in place to collect them for reuse next season? Would the cost of collection exceed that of purchasing more? There are tons of them left on the roadways due to the winter conditions this year. Collecting and recycling them might offer an entrepreneurial opportunity.
Traffic will be a taxing matter if Costco proceeds
April 6, 2014
Q: I enjoyed your recent article on the FedEx traffic concerns. As you know, Hamilton Crossings (Costco and other stores) is being reviewed by Lower Macungie Township commissioners, and a vote is due by June 5th, according to Patrick Lester's recent article. The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission reviewed this development last year and advised Lehigh County commissioners that there would be traffic concerns for the Krocks Road/Route 222 Bypass interchange. It's my understanding that a traffic study commissioned by PennDOT also foresees problems along the 222 corridor, with Costco and other development proposals in the pipeline. Please address the traffic issues related to the Costco plan and other development along the Bypass. We are very concerned, considering the tie-ups we have seen at the Krocks interchange.
Could FedEx traffic improvements make dangerous bus stop safer?
April 3, 2014
Q: I've read that road widening and other traffic improvements related to the proposed FedEx Ground project in Allen Township will cost an estimated $40 million. This makes me wonder if anyone has considered, or cares about, dedicating a piece of land for a bus shelter at the intersection of Cascade Drive and Race Street north of the airport, where people waiting for a bus were killed or injured by a car. I find it troubling that no one publicly proposed doing something to improve the safety of those workers while waiting for a bus. There is still a bus stop sign in place on the airport side at the intersection of Cascade Drive and Race Street, but no shelter or protection for riders.
A new Ackermanville Bridge: This year for sure?
March 30, 2014
Q: A few years ago, PennDOT bought and demolished the Ackermanville Store in an effort to remove a hazardous curve on Route 191. I have heard that PennDOT now intends to abandon those plans, and instead demolish a house on the downstream side of the bridge, replacing the existing bridge. How many tax dollars were wasted by eminent domain in acquiring the land where the store was, and why was the original plan scrapped?
Will road improvements fix FedEx truck traffic?
March 27, 2014
Q: I have done the math about FedEx truck traffic on Route 22 and it's obvious the public is getting boondoggled here. All tractor-trailers will use Airport Road and Schoenersville Road. It is mathematically impossible to enter and exit about 2,000 large trucks per day on those two roads without causing total chaos. The on/off ramps will not handle those trucks without backing traffic onto the highway. The way I understand it, a large truck will enter and exit 22 about every 40 seconds, every hour, every day, all in that one area.
Traffic signs would clarify priorities at Whitehall Walmart
March 23, 2014
Q: When entering the Walmart/Giant shopping center on MacArthur Road in Whitehall and attempting to make a left turn to head toward Burger King, it seems you always take your life in your hands. Traffic exiting the shopping center heading toward MacArthur Road doesn't care that the traffic entering the plaza does not have a stop sign. The new left-hand turn lane heading toward Burger King hasn't helped. Is there a plan to add a simple 'oncoming traffic does not stop' sign to the stop signs at that intersection?
Three-way stop signs confuse in Bethlehem
March 20, 2014
Q: The intersection of Elizabeth Avenue, Mauch Chunk Road and the entrance to the paint mill in Bethlehem is posted with a three-way stop. I believe this has caused several accidents since its inception. Traffic heading east up the hill on Elizabeth Avenue toward Moravian College has no stop, but westbound traffic coming down the hill has to stop, as do cars on Mauch Chunk Road and the outlet from the paint mill. Mauch Chunk motorists assume it's a four-way stop when they observe westbound vehicles stopping at the intersection. Mauch Chunk drivers, after stopping at the sign, pull out directly in front of westbound cars on Elizabeth, expecting them to stop. This is confusing and dangerous. It should be a two-way stop, with traffic on Elizabeth flowing freely in both directions. Even a four-way stop would be an improvement, by eliminating the confusion created by the unusual condition.
Old Saucon will deliver new traffic signal
March 16, 2014
Q: The intersection of Route 378 and Colesville Road on the border of Upper Saucon and Lower Saucon townships has been in need of a traffic signal for many years, and traffic generated by the popular Promenade Shops has heightened the situation. Signals were promised several years ago, and I understand Upper Saucon officials gave formal approval a couple of months ago, but still we have seen no action. What can be done to make this safety improvement finally happen?
Crossing signs coming for Parkettes pedestrians
March 13, 2014
Q: Heads-up to a problem that has great potential for a nasty accident. My 4-year-old granddaughter is a member of Parkettes and attends on Saturday mornings. Clearly people need to heed the crosswalk and the extremely battered and worn sign to stop for pedestrians. Instead, it resembles a speedway on that bend of Martin Luther King Drive. Allentown could reap a ton of revenue if they would put some police there between 9:30 and 11:30 every Saturday morning.
Warm reception planned for piece of Cold Springs Bridge
March 9, 2014
Q: PennDOT's District 5 website lists the Cold Springs Bridge as a bridge-replacement project. The bridge is located on Second Street over Spring Creek in Whitehall Township. The project status is listed as 'preliminary engineering phase,' with an estimated construction start date of 2014. The concrete arch bridge dates to 1930. The deck is bumpy, because the expansion joints have buckled above the road surface from freeze and thaw cycles this winter. Also the bridge has no drains to drain the water beneath the deck. For about 20 years, the bridge has been limited to one truck at a time, and a 25 mph speed limit is imposed on trucks weighing over 26,000 pounds.
DUI level for marijuana stirs pot of controversy
March 6, 2014
Q: I've been reading about the legalization of marijuana for recreational use in Colorado and Washington state, and how it's raising questions about DUI enforcement. They're developing testing standards for marijuana levels that cause impairment, similar to the 0.08 blood-alcohol limit for drunk driving. Apart from marijuana still being illegal in Pennsylvania, does the state specifically prohibit driving while 'stoned,' and if so, how do police determine that drivers are under the influence? (I moved to Florida, but I still have family there in the frozen north.)
'Blue goose' blows away other snow-clearing devices
March 2, 2014
Q: Lower Macungie Township has a neat snow-removal system that was utilized this year for the first time since 2009. It's called the 'blue goose' and uses a snowblower system to remove deep snow from the streets. Township Manager Bruce Fosselman videotaped the device in operation and discussed the system at a recent township commissioners' meeting. Come see how efficiently snow can be removed from municipal streets. Allentown and others could learn a lot about this system.
American Parkway: Pearl Harbor Memorial Bridge?
February 27, 2014
Q: In regard to the new bridge being built over the Lehigh River, it would be nice to name it Pearl Harbor World War II Bridge in honor of the men and women from this area who served our country, or the John "Jack" McHugh Bridge, for the man who did so much as an Allentown teacher, school administrator and Lehigh County commissioner.
Missing road signs confuse motorists
February 23, 2014
Q: Since moving to South Whitehall, I enter Route 309 off of Tilghman Street, and it seems to me there is a sign missing. Heading west on Tilghman Street just before the 309 interchange, a sign indicates "PA 309 South" with a straight-ahead arrow. But the entrance ramp to the right, immediately after the overpass, is unmarked. I can't imagine an unfamiliar driver making this entrance correctly. Is there no sign placement due to the overpass, or is PennDOT missing the mark?
Snow piles up at municipal 'dump' sites
February 20, 2014
Q: Fifty years ago when I was a kid, Allentown would dump snow from the Linden Street Bridge into Jordan Creek. I believe this practice was stopped for environmental reasons. These days, when we have winters such as this one, where do Allentown and other cities go with all this snow?
Can FedEx deliver a down payment for six lanes on Route 22?
February 17, 2014
Q: The proposed addition of a FedEx Ground package-sorting center and two nearby warehouses in Allen Township will add 14,000 cars and trucks to the roads each day. However, the plans filed by FedEx with the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission only address extra traffic on Airport Road, Race Street and Willowbrook Road. Won't nearly all of the additional traffic end up on Route 22? Who is going to pay for the extra delays and business losses, the increased collisions, the higher road maintenance and the necessary expansions of Route 22, which is already stressed — and stressful? The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission should demand improvements to Route 22 before accepting this plan.
Will PennDOT pay for pothole damage?
February 13, 2014
Q: There was a large pothole on Geryville Pike in Milford Township, near the Route 663 intersection. I was one of 22 motorists that had hit this crater, which claimed two of my tires and one rim. For several days no warning signs were posted and you weren't able to swerve around the pothole because you'd hit an oncoming car. They finally filled it and put a cone out two days later. The township tells me that PennDOT maintains the road. I'm sending PennDOT my bill.
Will Allentown mix hockey traffic with Hamilton Street repair?
February 10, 2014
Q: Allentown has scheduled the resurfacing of Hamilton Street between 10th and 15th streets, and between Fourth and Sixth streets, including the installation of wheelchair ramps and other safety improvements, for 2015, the year after the hockey arena, hotel and new office buildings are scheduled to open. With thousands of visitors expected downtown to attend hockey games and other arena events, along with many new employees commuting to work, would it not be better to do the work this year to avoid further delays to traffic that could be difficult enough during the first summer season after all this development?
Parkland scrapes by with low-tech snow-removal device for buses
February 6, 2014
Q: I've seen publicity about a device used by the Coca-Cola bottling plant in Bethlehem to remove snow and ice from the roofs of the company's tractor-trailers to comply with state law, and more importantly, to help protect all motorists. I've suggested that Lower Macungie Township officials consider requiring such devices at the current and future warehouse facilities in our township that store more than five trailers.
Whitehall hits the brakes on intersection widening
February 3, 2014
Q: Do you have any idea what is going on at Third and Grape streets in Whitehall? First, what seemed to be a perfectly good building was torn down, and then the gas station on the corner across Grape was closed. Maybe they are going to widen the intersection, which would be welcome by many.
Bumpy road ahead for Whitehall's Fifth Street Bridge
January 30, 2014
Q: When the reconstruction of the Route 22 Fullerton Avenue interchange begins, will the Fullerton Avenue Bridge be kept open during construction? I've heard rumors that traffic will not be maintained on the bridge, and all traffic will be diverted instead to the nearby Fifth Street Bridge. And will the Fullerton interchange access ramps be kept open throughout? Finally, what was decided about the fate of the Fifth Street Bridge — traffic bridge or pedestrian bridge?
Are tow trucks out of control?
January 26, 2014
Q: Regarding your past columns on towing charges, I once filed an unsuccessful civil case contesting a towing bill, and still wonder why I didn't prevail. Unlike your Kmart stories in which 'parking for customers only' signs were clearly posted, my car was towed from a private lot that had no signs other than 'Parking Lot/Buses Welcome' and 'No Skateboarding.' The towing company admitted in court that the parking lot owner nailed a 'customers only' parking sign to a tree minutes before they towed my car, yet still I was forced to pay $305 — $195 for towing the car 0.3 mile, and $55 each day for 'two days' of storage (read: 4 p.m. to 9 a.m.). Aren't there, or shouldn't there be, regulations on these fees and practices to reasonably protect consumers?
Singing the blues over headlight glare
January 23, 2014
Q: My question is about the bluish colored headlights, and the fog lights and parking lights that many drivers have on at night. I thought there were laws regulating the number and brightness of the lights on the front of the car. In many cases the drivers just don't care if they blind the oncoming drivers.
Third Street Ramp signal needs tweak
January 19, 2014
Q: Southbound on Route 378 at the south end of Bethlehem's Hill-to-Hill Bridge, the traffic patterns at afternoon rush have turned up an inefficiency in the traffic-signal function. Southbound traffic backs up on both the straight and left-turn lanes, and for some motorists (like me), either way can get you where you need to go. Which means that after picking a lane to wait in, you play the game of 'did my lane get through the light first?' (Let's ignore the people who go down the shorter lane and then shoehorn into the other one at the last minute.) When using the left-turn lane to go down the new ramp, the green-arrow phase sometimes is good for 12 or 15 cars to get through, other times for only eight or 10 cars. So it can take several cycles to get through the light. Recently when I made it to the front and waited for my green arrow, I noticed that the opposing northbound 378 traffic gets stopped by the adjacent light at East Third Street, leaving a gap we could use to make our left turn and be on our way. So why not add some southbound left-turn green-arrow time at our light when this happens?
Gem of a new bridge flanked by ratty roads in Allentown
January 16, 2014
Q: I thought prior to the completion of the 15th Street Bridge project that the contractor would be repairing the entire curved stretch of cobbled concrete road on the south end all the way up the intersection at Wyoming Street and the north end leading up Elm Street at the YM/YWCA. These roads are in serious disrepair and it is ridiculous that they were not repaired or replaced while the bridge was under construction.
Limeport crossing signs assist pedestrians
January 12, 2014
Q: Can you look into the reason Lower Milford Township put in 'yield to pedestrians in crosswalk' signs? The location is Limeport Pike at Blue Church Road. There are three yields, two on Limeport Pike and one on Blue Church Road. I have yet to see people walk there. What is the reason? Limeport is a village.
Detour put Bucks traffic light on the road
January 9, 2014
Q: Last summer a stop light was erected at the intersection of State Road and Richlandtown Pike in Springfield Township, Bucks County. This has been a dangerous intersection for a number of years, the site of several accidents, including at least one fatality. With the installation of the traffic signal, hopefully drivers in all directions would be more cautious and accidents would diminish. However, I noticed about a month ago that the light has disappeared. The poles, the signals, everything gone! Why? I know it is not an inexpensive operation to install a traffic signal, and to have it just as quickly taken down makes no sense. Not to mention that now a dangerous intersection has returned. Why this waste of taxpayers' dollars and resumption of risk to human life?
'But officer, the speed limit is 70 mph, can't I go 80?'
January 5, 2014
Q: As you know, the 10-over-the-speed-limit allowance is an unwritten rule permitted in Pennsylvania and in many other states. Is it likely to continue when the 70 mph law goes into effect?
Four-way flashers: For emergencies only?
January 2, 2014
Q: When is the correct time to use your four-way flashers? I say you should use them when the following conditions exist: When your speed drops below the posted speed limit; when the roads are icy and/or snow covered, causing you to reduce your speed; when there is heavy rain and/or fog, or when traffic has slowed or stopped unexpectedly. My friend says the only time you should us your four-way flashers is: When you are pulled along side the road or you car has broken down. A dinner is pending on your answer.
Pennsylvania gasoline taxes go up Jan. 1
December 31, 2013
HARRISBURG — In an east Allentown industrial zone on Quebec Street north of Union Boulevard, 23 tanks rise high into the sky, the pipes that connect them running deep underground.
GPS units overtaking road maps
December 29, 2013
Q: I have been looking for a New Jersey highway map to replace my Christie Whitman model, which is showing its age. New Jersey has no welcome stations that I know of in our region, but at a rest stop on the Jersey Turnpike recently, the only map of the Garden State was on sale for $4.95, which I purchased. It is printed on a poor quality paper, and has already ripped, among other quality-control problems. Are free Jersey maps for tourists an item of the past, and is Pennsylvania next? I have tried to replace my maps every four years to keep up with road improvements. Now I wonder if I should hoard.
Odd traffic light is meant to signal pedestrians
December 26, 2013
Q: I'm unsure about the traffic light at the top of the hill going south on South Pike Avenue (Route 145) at Rock Road in Salisbury Township. For southbound Pike traffic waiting at a red light, when northbound traffic gets a left-turn green arrow, the light suspended over the road in front of you stays red for about 10 seconds to account for the green-arrow phase. That's as it should be. However, the signal mounted to the pole to your left turns green without delay. A driver seeing only that light to the left could proceed on green, causing an accident. I don't think the signal to the left is meant for pedestrians, because if so, it should depict the word 'walk.'
Is it wise to chase a hit-run driver?
December 22, 2013
Q: I was involved in a recent accident at Route 309 and Saucon Valley Road in the dark of early morning. I was heading east through the intersection turning left onto Route 309; the light turned green, and as I started through the intersection, I heard a horn and then the crunch. A tractor-trailer on southbound 309 had bumped the rear of my truck, which was not severely damaged. I continued until I found a safe place to pull over. The tractor-trailer had pulled over with the flashers on, but as I got out to inspect the damage, the rig was starting to creep out onto the highway. I did not get a good look due to the distance and darkness, and did not think chasing the truck was a good idea, as it was headed in the opposite direction. I called 911, the response time of the police was great, and they did a good job gathering what little info I had. However, as I run the scene over in my mind, I continue to question whether I should have attempted a chase.
Right-on-red postings: Right or wrong?
December 19, 2013
Q: I am perplexed by how the 'right turn on red' prohibition is applied at different intersections. In East Allen Township, Snowdrift Road joins Airport Road at an oblique angle, opposite Hanoverville Road. Drivers on Snowdrift stopped at the light at Airport routinely turn right on red. I think right on red should be prohibited.
Does road surface on bridges crumble faster?
December 15, 2013
Q: The Hamilton Boulevard bridge over the Turnpike near Minesite Road needs some tender loving care. Previous cracks in the concrete have now turned into holes, and cracks are developing in other sections. It may be time to lock the door before the horses get out. — October 2008
'Don't block intersection' road markings: Good for the Lehigh Valley?
December 12, 2013
Q: I know the mess at the intersection of Route 22 and MacArthur Road is only temporary because of the construction, but I see a lot of intersections being blocked there and elsewhere (including in New York City). Recently I was in Ireland, where two things struck me: The speed limits are realistic, i.e., this is the fastest speed you can travel safely on this road, whereas in the U.S. they are silly, so low that everybody ignores them; and in Ireland, busy urban intersections are painted with a grid of yellow lines to indicate 'If you can't pass through, don't enter the cage.' And people obey it. Maybe they would here, too.
Bound by law to rest, truckers find few places to park
December 9, 2013
Q: Recently I have noticed many trucks pulled over and using the emergency lanes of the Route 222 Bypass for overnight parking, especially northbound between Macungie and Route 100 and on the entrance ramp from Route 100. This was not the intended use of the Bypass, and it's dangerous because trucks can be struck from behind, or they can be hit pulling into traffic. Upper Macungie police would rather catch speeders on the Bypass than enforce this law. No signs on the Bypass or Route 100 prohibit parking on the shoulder.
The right answer for left turns on red
December 5, 2013
Q: A few years ago, my fiancee received a fine for making an 'illegal' left-hand turn on a red signal. She was westbound on one-way Auburn Street at the intersection of Sixth and Lehigh streets in Allentown. After stopping at the red light and, [after] looking right to make sure there was no conflicting traffic, she turned left onto Lehigh. Since both streets are one-way at that intersection, in my mind that is a legal turn on red, yet she was pulled over and cited for making an illegal turn on red. Any insight on this matter?
On-ramp stop signs: Friend or foe?
December 1, 2013
Q: Why are stop signs posted at the end of some highway on-ramps? Examples include the ramps from Tilghman Street east to Route 22 east, and from Tilghman west to Route 309 south. These signs seem dangerous and unnecessary. The ramp from Tilghman to 22 is short to begin with, giving the driver little time to gain speed to safely merge, but now I need to bring my car to a complete stop at the merge point. This must be an impossible feat for tractor-trailer drivers. A yield sign would be appropriate. Why are stop signs used here and at some other places in the Valley?
Caught on camera: Speeding through work zones
November 29, 2013
Q: Friends from North Carolina recently attended their daughter's wedding in our area, and soon after returning from the joyous event, they received a speeding ticket in the mail. It's an electronic ticket for going 68 in a 55 mile zone in Maryland on their way home. The fine is $40. Did you know there was such a process? Is it legal?
Route 22 interchange reconstruction designs anticipate possible widening of highway
November 25, 2013
Q: Now that the state Legislature has passed a transportation funding bill, what is the likelihood that Route 22 will be widened between Cedar Crest Boulevard and Airport Road in consideration of the planned reconstruction of the Fullerton interchange and replacement of the Lehigh River Bridge, which seems to undergo inspections every other week? Seems that economy-of-scale savings could be realized and duration of construction reduced if a comprehensive approach is taken to improving and adding needed capacity to this ailing road, arguably the Lehigh Valley's economic lifeblood, used by many to get to valuable jobs.
Rural roads pose greater safety risk
November 21, 2013
Q: I read with interest earlier this year the report on Pennsylvania highway fatalities for 2012. There were a lot of data in addition to the 2 percent increase in total roadway fatalities versus 2011 that might suggest 2012 did not qualify as another year of fatalities 'trending downward.' Most interesting, though, was the disproportionate number of fatalities per crash in Schuylkill County compared to the same ratio in Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe and Northampton counties. Is that all about the roads? Speed limits? A disastrous crash or two? Patrol coverage? Or was the high Schuylkill fatality rate attributable to some other factor?
Air bags drive change in proper position of hands on steering wheel
November 17, 2013
Q: My son, currently taking a driver's ed class in high school, tells me that recommendations have changed (because of air bags) for where to place hands on the steering wheel, and also how far back to adjust the seat (he maintains as far back as possible). What are the current recommendations, and are they backed up by research?
Do LANTA buses tie up traffic more than necessary?
November 14, 2013
Q: I'd like to know if city buses have to follow common traffic rules. When buses pull over at a bus stop, do they have to yield to traffic before pulling back into traffic? I know they are doing a public service, but it is sometimes dangerous to other drivers the way they just pull out in front of oncoming traffic.
It's OK to pass 'no thru street' sign on Hamilton Street in Allentown
November 10, 2013
Q: When traveling west on Reading Road in west Allentown, after crossing Ott Street, Reading Road runs into Hamilton Street near the VA Clinic. However, you can't access Hamilton that way, because Reading Road becomes one-way eastbound at the 30th Street intersection. In addition, a 'no thru street' sign is posted for westbound Reading traffic at College Drive, so that traffic headed to Hamilton should be turning right onto College to Hamilton. The majority of cars go past the 'no thru street' sign, turn right into the bank's parking lot, and get onto Hamilton from there at the traffic signal. I'm under the impression this is an illegal maneuver, but some of my neighbors say it's not. Does the sign have legal repercussions, or is it simply there to alert motorists to the impending dead end at 30th Street?
A case of mixed signals
November 7, 2013
Q: While driving to work the morning of Sept. 27, I came across an unfamiliar situation. I approached an intersection with traffic signals posted with temporary stop signs in all four directions, I assume left over from a power outage. When my direction got the green light, the first car went through, but the next car stopped at the stop sign. Every car ahead of me followed suit, stopping despite the green light, backing up traffic. When our light was red, cross-street traffic went through continuously, per normal traffic laws. It was the same condition at the next intersection, where my idea was to continue through on the green light, but a cross-street motorist thought it was his turn, assuming we were alternating like at a four-way stop sign. He got mad when I continued, forcing me to swerve out of his way. Which takes precedence, the light or the stop sign?
Unwanted passenger: Roadway litter
November 3, 2013
Q: Regarding your column a few years ago on the trashing of the Lehigh Valley, I started traveling Route 22 to visit the area weekly in the early '70s, and never noticed a significant amount of trash. As a permanent Valley resident, I'm now appalled by the amount of trash on our highways. My husband and I take time to clean up a beautiful country road near our home that is always being littered with beer and soda cans and bottles, cigarette boxes and fast-food containers. The amount of trash on our roads seems to correlate with the fact that we have many more convenience stores in our area — not the fault of the store owners, just an observation.
LED billboards: As distracting as cell phones?
October 31, 2013
Q: Now that everyone has joined the chorus on distracted driving due to texting, tweeting, eating, cell phones, etc., someone should consider electronic signs and billboards. Thanks to the inaction of many local governments, the busiest section of Route 22 now looks like the Las Vegas Strip. The sole purpose of these electronic signs is to distract, which is why ad agencies pay so much for them. PennDOT has joined in with distracting messages on its big, across-the-road signs on the interstates. Intended for emergencies and traffic problems, these signs now say 'Drive sober ....' or another inane slogan that a bureaucrat thinks might be of benefit to somebody. This safety issue could affect every driver.
Road work, accident scenes: Who has the authority to direct traffic?
October 27, 2013
Q: Please address the way drivers need to act when coming upon fire police directing traffic at accident, fire or other emergency scenes. We are yelled at, threatened, treated to obscene gestures. Drivers go around barricades because we are interfering with their routines. We are volunteers, but it gets very frustrating. Pennsylvania law dictates that people must obey fire police on scene.
Taking the slow lane to E-ZPass
October 24, 2013
Q: I travel the Turnpike on a regular basis. I thought one of the ideas for E-ZPass was to eliminate some of the traffic backups at Turnpike toll booths. Guess I am incorrect, because why would they still have 5 mph speed limits posted at the E-ZPass lanes?
Odd Route 309 intersection raises question on left turns
October 20, 2013
Q: I often turn left from Camp Meeting Road onto Route 309 southbound in Center Valley. To my right is a concrete barrier dividing the northbound and southbound lanes. To my left, the wide, grassy median begins. Should opposing vehicles, both turning left, turn in front of each other? Or should they go straight past each other, and only then turn left? The question is complicated in situations involving multiple vehicles lined up to go straight or turn left. Vehicles turning left from Lanark Road to 309 north might think that the answer is to turn in front of opposing traffic, but in my direction, the answer seems to be the opposite. Yet to avoid a collision, both vehicles must choose the same answer!
PennDOT using motorists as political pawns?
October 17, 2013
Q: PennDOT recently placed signs on southbound Route 100/29 approaching St. Peters Road, warning of a bridge with a 31-ton weight limit ahead and posting the detour on St. Peters. As a result, numerous tractor-trailers take the dangerous detour route on this narrow, winding and hilly residential road, as well as other, similar 'back roads'. This traffic is constant, all day and all night long. I feel we are all being used as political pawns by PennDOT. They're trying to make all our lives miserable with these trucks to help secure the bridge-repair money they want from the Legislature. I don't think that's right, regardless of where you stand on the overall funding question.
Would four-way stop benefit Upper Macungie intersection?
October 13, 2013
Q: I am writing about a dangerous intersection with poor visibility to see traffic coming from the left and right. In Upper Macungie Township, at the intersection of Hilltop Road and Haasadahl Road, there are stop signs for the traffic coming up and down the steep hillside east and west of the intersection. As one approaches the intersection coming off Route 100 going east and reaches the stop sign, it is extremely difficult to see the traffic coming down the hill from the right, as well as those coming down from the north on Haasadahl Road (due to a bridge and the change in elevation). Why can't they put stop signs on Haasadahl Road as well, to avoid accidents at this dangerous intersection?
Red arrows show their (signal) faces in Lehigh Valley
October 10, 2013
Q: I used the new ramp from Route 22 east to MacArthur Road north recently, and noticed something a bit peculiar at the end of the ramp. There are two left-turn only lanes controlled by a set of traffic lights, but the lights have a red left-turn arrow instead of the usual solid red light. I have seen the red arrow in other states, but I believe this is the first time I have seen it in Pennsylvania. Has PennDOT come around to doing this the way other states do, or were the lights installed by and out-of-state contractor?
Do speed limits apply to highway access ramps?
October 7, 2013
Q: While I know the yellow 'advisory' speed signs are not regulatory signs, what is the legal speed on off-ramps for drivers, such as for motorists traveling eastbound on Route 22 and taking the Airport Road south exit ramp?
Health risks for police using radar guns?
October 3, 2013
Q: Your recent column on local police being prohibited from using radar for speed monitoring was interesting and brought another aspect of that subject to mind. Years ago an area woman established a scholarship fund for children of state police in memory of her husband, a trooper who had died at a very young age. She died a few years ago. She had told me her husband died of cancer caused, the doctors believed, by his use of a radar gun in his work as a state trooper, and that similar cancers had been reported elsewhere in the country among officers who used radar. Obviously, I'm not a doctor. Perhaps in the past two decades the link has been disproved. But this concern could help explain why use of radar guns is not more widespread.
'Fill Hill' not stopping American Parkway bridge
September 29, 2013
Q: Just talked with two field engineers working on the American Parkway Bridge. The huge mound of fill between Front Street and the new overpass they're building to the east has to be removed. They estimate a delay of six months. The 'fill hill' has a lot of remnants of historic structures from the area, pediments of columns and portions of columns. Fascinating, and something I'm not going to climb.
Do motorists have to stop for white school vans?
September 26, 2013
Q: When a white van with "school students' written on the rear is unloading students, what are the rules for passing? Is that an official school bus?
MacArthur Road traffic signals seem to be headed in the wrong direction
September 22, 2013
Q: I never noticed it before, but I'm sure this has been in place for years. Traveling north on MacArthur Road approaching the Lehigh Valley Mall entrance, there are three traffic lights facing motorists. One of those signals is positioned over the southbound lanes on the other side of the median barrier. Why is it necessary to have a light over the opposing lanes? This seems to be in the same category as the third brake light, or people leaving their outside lamps on during the day: a waste of energy, and with the traffic lights, a waste of material and maintenance. The two signals positioned properly over the northbound lanes are plenty visible without the need for a third light facing the wrong direction.
Concrete island at new Whitehall intersection cuts turn lane short
September 19, 2013
Q: Why in the new construction did they make the concrete island so long on northbound MacArthur Road approaching Mechanicsville Road? If it were smaller, more cars could stage farther back in the left-turn lane for Mechanicsville and not be blocking the straight-through lanes. I have already seen a few instances of cars putting the left tires on the island to get around waiting cars so they could get in line and make it through the left-turn green arrow before it goes red. I think this is actually worse in this direction than prior to construction.
Shankweiler Road drainage drop-off to be addressed
September 15, 2013
Q: PennDOT repaved Shankweiler Road between Route 309 and Cedar Crest Boulevard in mid-August. On Shankweiler just west of Cedar Crest, there is a deep ditch adjacent to the south side of the road. This drop-off, without any guardrail, is extremely unsafe. Each day I watch as eastbound motorists drive dangerously close to it. It worries me that this is an accident waiting to happen. Can PennDOT install just a short section of guardrail there to improve safety?
Close enough: Students near Fourth and Emmaus intersection
September 12, 2013
Q: With the new CVS going up on the northeast corner of South Fourth Street and Emmaus Avenue in Allentown, it appears they're trying to improve the intersection, and they may not be doing quite enough. The need to add a fairly long right-turn lane on northbound Fourth, also widen the east side of the intersection. This would allow the trucks and buses turning right from Fourth to eastbound Emmaus Avenue to negotiate the turn without holding up the straight-through traffic behind them. Often during rush periods, buses and trucks have difficulty making that right-hand turn, causing a longer backup on Fourth Street. Are there any plans for additional widening or improvements after CVS relocates across the street?
PennDOT paving job goes begging on Route 309
September 8, 2013
Q: The exit ramp from Route 309 north to Tilghman Street west has been ground up for quite some time now. Is there any schedule of when this exit ramp will finally be resurfaced and finished? It is a rather bumpy exit.
Objects hanging out on rear-view mirrors obstruct motorists' vision
September 5, 2013
Q: I'm not sure if you've ever commented on this topic, but when my mother's handicapped placard arrived, it clearly stated that it was not to be displayed while driving. I'm not sure how people are able to see around this large visual block, but I would appreciate a gentle reminder in your column if you feel it is worthy.
PennDOT grass-mowing destroyed roadside reflectors
September 1, 2013
Q: Recently PennDOT mowed along South Fifth Street and Brunner Road in Upper Milford Township. Afterward I walked along my Fifth Street frontage and could not believe what an operator did to my property. He shredded several recently installed white reflectors and ripped the surrounding vegetation down to dirt, and along Brunner he bent other reflectors and banged into a road sign and bent it. Then he proceeded to shred vegetation in front of my home for no apparent reason, making a mess that I have to clean up. This machine doesn't so much cut or mow as it does rip and tear and shred. This is quite effective for vegetation removal where needed, but devastating where not needed. I understand the need for trimming to keep sight lines clear at intersections, but this was nowhere close, and dozens of reflectors were destroyed or damaged. If I did my job this way, I would not have it for long.
Trees on Allentown's Hanover Avenue median pose safety risk
August 29, 2013
Q: Something I've been wondering about regarding the pedestrian-safety improvements installed on Hanover Avenue in Allentown last year: If this was all about safety, why were trees planted in the median strip? The trees are still pretty small, but they're growing, and as they get bigger they could block motorists' view of pedestrians trying to cross at the crosswalks. If they're meant to be decorative, maybe some kind of shrubs or bushes would be better.
County should tow away 'no outlet' sign
August 25, 2013
Q: Earlier this year, in discussing road signs at a construction zone on Broadway in South Whitehall Township, you wrote about ' … the four motorists I saw go straight across Broadway into the soccer complex at Cedar Creek Parkway West … making U-turns after seeing the 'no outlet ahead' sign … ' I was surprised you didn't mention that the 'no outlet ahead' sign is false. You certainly can continue driving on the road in the park, and it brings you out to Cedarbrook Road and West Walnut Street. What are the rules for false or misleading road signs?
Radar restricted to state police only in Pennsylvania
August 22, 2013
Q: A few months ago, at a public meeting with state Rep. Bob Freeman in Hellertown, borough police Chief Robert Shupp requested that Freeman propose legislation to allow local police to use radar for speed enforcement in Pennsylvania. Freeman and others have supported bills to allow this to happen, but there seems to be no real progress in the Legislature. I believe radar in the hands of municipal police would be a money-saving, and more importantly, a life-saving safety improvement.
Bethlehem left-turn ban is questioned
August 18, 2013
Q: Motorists blocked from what should be direct travel routes tend to innovate, and sometimes safety goes out the window. That's the result of the concrete island on Eaton Avenue west of Eighth Avenue in Bethlehem, scene of creative but unsafe driver behavior. Motorists exiting the St. Luke's parking lot, wanting to turn left (west), are confronted by the island. Some turn left anyway, proceeding in the eastbound lane, cutting off traffic there, until they get past the island, then try to merge into the correct westbound lane. A saw a nose-to-nose encounter there before the wrong-way driver sheepishly backed up to get out of the way. Similarly, when westbound Eaton motorists wanting to turn left into St. Luke's are blocked by the island, they pass it and pull a fast U-turn, nearly causing accidents, so focused are they on getting to that property. Why was this island put in?
Legalize 'rolling stops' for bicycles
August 15, 2013
Q: In Idaho, cyclists are allowed to treat stop signs like yield signs, and stop lights like stop signs. I thought this sounded like a bad idea until I read more about it and watched an explanatory video. This law does not give bicyclists the right to 'blow through' intersections, and they still must yield to cars and pedestrians. But it does allow them to use discretion at intersections where there is no impediment to proceeding without coming to a complete stop. The law reflects how most of us actually ride. I think it would improve cycling's image if so many of us were not observed breaking the law at many intersections.
Author covers all the roads in 'Traffic'
August 12, 2013
Q: I'm writing not to ask a question, but to recommend a book I'm sure you'll enjoy, and would recommend to your readers. The book is 'Traffic: Why we drive the way we do (and what it says about us,' by Tom Vanderbilt. This eye-opening, fascinating investigation looks at driving from the human-nature point of view — the perceptions, assumptions and dynamics of individual drivers. Vanderbilt explores many aspects of driving, from eye contact and social interaction to the psychology of late merging to etiquette and oddities to what the future of driving will look like. I recommend this book to anyone who is applying for a driver's license, spends a lot of time commuting or stuck in traffic, is a traffic engineer or planner, and especially to Road Warrior columnists and readers!
Motorists ignore left-turn bans
August 8, 2013
Q: What happened to the 'no left turn' sign at the Lehigh Street entrance/exit of the Wawa across from Queen City Airport? There was a sign prohibiting motorists exiting the Wawa from making a left onto the very busy Lehigh Street. Since then I have watched many close calls as exiting cars make the turn directly into the path of northbound Lehigh Street traffic. This seems to be a real safety hazard for all concerned. Although not quite as convenient, it is much safer to go out the back entrance onto Downyflake Lane and south to the traffic light at Lehigh Street if you need to turn left.
Signs aim to limit herbicide spraying
August 4, 2013
Q: I understand that vegetation is nasty at this time of year. However, going west on Greenleaf Street in Allentown, there's a maple tree on the right that blocks the view of the stop sign at 23rd Street. The tree needs to be trimmed.
At night, repairs underway to stabilize slabs on I-78
August 1, 2013
Q: Attending the great plays and musicals at DeSales University sometimes puts us on Route 78 around 11 p.m. Recently on those trips we've run into long construction delays. What are they doing? I have never seen road work like this. They cut out a small, square section of the road surface, and by the next day it is covered again. The only guess I have is that they are installing a de-icing system. Can you explain this very usual work?
Top layer of asphalt subject to rippling
July 28, 2013
Q: My wife is convinced that the west end of Schadt Avenue at Mauch Chunk Road in Whitehall, where Schadt Avenue goes down a moderate grade to the traffic light, contains deliberate high ripples that act as speed bumps. I think it's just slippage of the asphalt in the hot months because of the grade, but she says periodically the ripples get higher even in cooler seasons. I do agree that unless one knows about them and moves to the right to avoid the worst bumps, going down that hill can be a jarring experience. Whether deliberate or not, those ripples certainly slow traffic (or destroy suspensions).
Turnpike interchange on track for 2014 opening
July 25, 2013
Q: Do you know anything about the status of the new Turnpike entrance/exit at Route 903 in Penn Forest Township? They have been talking about this for over 20 years, and actually put the beginnings of a new bridge crossing over the Turnpike on Route 903 a couple of years ago. Nothing has happened, however, in the meantime. Looks like a lot of money has been spent with nothing to show for it.
Historic bridge in Allentown is target for vehicle strikes
July 21, 2013
Q: The stone bridge on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive near 15th Street in Allentown has been hit hard by a vehicle. On the right side going south over the bridge, someone must have hit the wall and it has separated from the foundation. It needs to be looked at.
Motorist: Road realignment should put traffic-signal removal in gear
July 18, 2013
Q: It's been years since Airport Road was relocated north of Lehigh Valley International Airport, creating a new intersection at Schoenersville Road. However, the 'old' intersection of Airport and Schoenersville roads at Gregory's restaurant still has operating traffic signals, with minimal traffic. I have often wondered about the annual cost of operating and maintaining traffic lights at any intersection, not to mention the installation costs. It seems that at Gregory's, a two-way stop sign would suffice, allowing a free flow of traffic on Schoenersville and Weaversville roads, and saving the operating costs of a traffic signal.
In road markings, colors are crucial codes
July 18, 2013
Q: I have been seeing road markings in and around the town of Bath, and also along Township Line Road. The attached photo was taken along Penn Dixie Road near Route 248 (Bath Pike). It looks like a red dot with a water drop inside, and there's an arrow near it. I have also seen them with blue dots. I would love to know what these markings indicate. It does not seem to be where public water would run.
What the heck does that sign mean?
July 11, 2013
Q: A few signs popped up just recently in the Emmaus area announcing, 'Water Supply Area, Next 15 Miles." We have had a few family discussions trying to figure out what it means, and why we need to call 911 if there is a 'spill,' and have not come up with a plausible explanation. Hoping you can help!
Allentown bike-patrol officers: Blocking traffic lane yields safest ride
July 7, 2013
Q: It is my understanding that Pennsylvania law requires bicyclists to travel in the street in the same direction as traffic, observe the same traffic signals and signs as autos, and bike in the streets and not on the sidewalks, among other regulations. We travel often in Allentown and regularly see people biking in the street against traffic, and going through stop signs without stopping or making sure there is plenty of space between themselves and moving autos. As a driver, this is disconcerting, distracting, and dangerous for occupants of autos and bikes. There seems to be no police enforcement or biker education.
Frustrated motorists: Why does PennDOT take so long to fix bridges?
July 5, 2013
Q: A bridge near us on Township Road in Springfield Township closed suddenly more than a year ago, and no work has been done on it since. It is terribly inconvenient to have it closed, but more than that, it is a safety issue. We are cut off from police, ambulance and fire-company response. The detour is six or seven miles out of the way over steep, hilly terrain, and is treacherous in winter. Please let us know what is being done to fix this bridge in a timely manner.
Should lanes at Walmart entrance in Lower Macungie be reversed?
June 30, 2013
Q: I have often wondered who decided on the lane arrows when you turn from Hamilton Boulevard onto Mill Creek Road south— toward Walmart. At the intersection created by the Walmart entrance/exit, it seems to me the right lane should be for right turns and through-traffic, since those vehicles will keep moving. The left lane should be for left turns only. The actual design is just the opposite, which seems illogical. Anyone who has come in the northbound direction, from Lower Macungie Road toward Hamilton Boulevard, will know what I mean, as it's always an adventure trying to get across the intersection. What do you think? Makes more sense to repaint the arrows?
Speed bumps: Too bumpy?
June 27, 2013
Q: I agree with your assessment that some speed bumps provide an excessively jarring ride. If you do a story on speed-bump design, please include the ones on N. Graham Street in Allentown, between Hanover Avenue and Union Boulevard. I'm not sure, but I think they're a vestige of the old Western Electric days (10,000 cars leaving the parking lots at the end of a shift, the residents on Graham not wanting them to use 'their' street?), and if true, those bumps should have been removed years ago.
Tires can't get a grip on wet MacArthur Road, 15th Street
June 23, 2013
Q: Sections of MacArthur Road between Route 22 and the Allentown line seem to be much more slippery than other sections. When it's wet in these areas, it is very hard to get traction. I can attest to this because I was rear-ended by a vehicle unable to stop on the rainy surface a few years ago, and I notice various other accidents as I travel that road. Can the state or township do anything to improve this condition? Horizontal grooves across the roadway to help with water drainage or traction? Is there maybe a better surface material that can be used?
Motorist: Tricky intersection needs traffic signals
June 20, 2013
Q: There's just been another accident at the intersection of Broadway and Susquehanna Street in Salisbury Township. People don't yield at the yield sign from Emmaus Avenue to Broadway; that should be changed to a stop sign. Or maybe the intersection needs major improvements such as widening with traffic signals, or conversion to a roundabout; I heard such plans were being considered a few years ago. In any case, the existing 'triangle' design is not working.
Road Warrior: Security officers, not police, at Fairgrounds
June 16, 2013
Q: The concern I have is with the security company at the Allentown Fairgrounds, Lehigh Law Enforcement Officers Association. When you read that title, what comes to mind? Police officers, right? This a group of security officers, not police. Aren't they illegally presenting themselves as police officers? They dress in police-style uniforms (similar to those worn by Bethlehem police). They run red-and-blue lights on their vehicles. I looked up the emergency-lights laws and this company is allowed to use only amber, not red, not blue, not red-and-blue lights. These security officers should follow all rules and regulations.
Modern road work: Too much noise?
June 16, 2013
Q: I live right next to the site of the 15th Street Bridge replacement in Allentown and I was wondering if they have some special dispensation allowing them to operate heavy machinery hours before city sound ordinances allow. More than once I've been awakened before 6 a.m. to the dulcet sounds of heavy construction equipment.
In light of recent bridge collapse in Seattle: Is Route 22 Lehigh River Bridge really safe?
June 10, 2013
Q: The deterioration of Pennsylvania bridges was Topic A at the Schoenersville Road Starbucks one morning in March when you wrote about the many local bridge closures. The repairs are critical, of course. Our questions had to do with the current condition of one of the region's most critical bridges, the Route 22 crossing over the Lehigh. How do we know it's safe? This bridge is vital to the economic well-being of the Lehigh Valley. If something were found, would there be sufficient political will to close it? Where are the contingency plans in the event all traffic had to be pulled from it for an extended period?
Double trouble: Oxford Drive, 15th Street bridges to be under repair at same time
June 6, 2013
Q: Recently signs were erected indicating the Oxford Drive Bridge over Little Lehigh Creek in Allentown will be closed for construction beginning Monday. There is no mention of detours, or how long traffic will be affected. City officials told me it's a PennDOT job that will continue through August, and that northbound traffic will be detoured to Fish Hatchery Road, Cedar Crest Boulevard and then to Hamilton Street. This will require northbound vehicles to turn left across the path of southbound traffic, which will be maintained on the bridge. Interesting that this outage will occur during the time the 15th Street Bridge continues to be out of service.
PennDOT assigns rules for warning signage
June 2, 2013
Q: I am a commuter on Broadway to Cetronia Road to Tilghman Street in South Whitehall Township. With only a day's notice, road-closure and detour signs appeared on Broadway at the Parkway Road intersection, indicating Broadway was closed through to Cetronia Road. Please advise the estimated duration of the closure, its purpose, and the reason more advance notice wasn't given. It appears that officials did not take into consideration the inconvenience, traffic backups and aggravation caused to the general public.
Ackermanville project is just around the curve
May 30, 2013
Q: A few years ago, PennDOT bought and demolished the Ackermanville store as part of the effort to remove a hazardous curve on Route 191 in Washington Township. I've heard the state has abandoned those plans and now intends to demolish the house on the downstream side of the bridge at the curve, and replace the existing bridge. How many tax dollars were wasted by eminent domain in acquiring the land where the store was, and why was the original plan scrapped?
PennDOT throws Race, Lehigh streets project into reverse
May 27, 2013
Q: Traffic at the intersection of Race and Lehigh streets in Catasauqua has been horrible for years. One night last year, when the Pine Street Bridge was closed for repairs, the stop sign had been knocked over and people were driving on the sidewalks to go around waiting vehicles. Even after the bridge reopened, it's been a nightmare. Having fire police at the intersection during rush hours to direct traffic would be fantastic, or temporary stop signs in all three directions could help. Prohibiting left turns from Lehigh onto Race would be beneficial. Something needs to be done.
Slow road for Turnpike's electric-car charging stations
May 23, 2013
Q: The planned Turnpike car-charging stations you wrote about some time ago raise a few questions. How much will the Turnpike Commission be charging car owners to 'charge up' their plug-in hybrid or electric cars? Are there reliable studies showing that a sufficient number of electric vehicles will be using the toll road for these charging stations to be self-sustaining, or will this be yet another program requiring ongoing subsidies to survive? Where is the money coming from to install the system, given the state's preoccupation with cutting or reducing more valuable and necessary programs? What happens if people simply don't want to buy electric cars?
Long road to traffic lights at Routes 33 and 191
May 20, 2013
Q: My work commute takes me on Route 33 to the exit at Route 191. At the end of the off-ramp I turn left, crossing two lanes of traffic, which on some days is next to impossible. On mornings when ramp traffic is backed out onto Route 33, I actually continue to the Belfast exit and backtrack several miles, rather than risking a rear-end collision. Why have the traffic lights installed during the bridge reconstruction not been made operational?
Is new MacArthur Road Bridge over Route 22 wide enough?
May 19, 2013
Q: The new MacArthur Road Bridge over Route 22 will accommodate a new acceleration lane on each side of 22. Anecdotally, it has been suggested that if Route 22 would be widened to six lanes, the bridge and interchange currently being constructed would be converted to a 'tight diamond' design, and the new acceleration lanes would become driving lanes. The offset between the existing interior walls of the bridge and the new interior walls appears to be only eight to 10 feet. It doesn't appear to be wide enough for the standard 12-foot lane width compatible with truck traffic. Will the new bridge be able to accommodate three driving lanes in each direction in the event Route 22 is widened, and if so, what will be the width of the driving lanes?
Sign yields confusion at Whitehall intersection
May 9, 2013
Q: Who has the right-of-way? When you cross the Pine Street Bridge from Catasauqua to Whitehall Township, and take the first right turn immediately after you cross the bridge, the single lane from the bridge leads to a three-way intersection. You come upon a yield sign, which normally means what it says, but in this case, the vehicles from the two other directions have stop signs. Generally if I don't have a stop sign and they do, I have the right-of-way, but this yield sign throws me a curveball. This setup has existed as long as I can remember, and most people ignore the yield sign, assuming the guy at the stop sign will wait. With the Hokendauqua Bridge closed for replacement, traffic volume has increased at this intersection, and I think it is time to clarify the etiquette of stop sign versus yield sign roadside manners.
Wrong-way Route 209 in Carbon County
May 5, 2013
Q: On trips to Jim Thorpe from Bethlehem I've noticed a weird situation after turning right onto Route 209 'south' after crossing the Lehigh River Bridge: According to my GPS, I'm going due north on that road. Why does it say on the signs that we are going south? On the return trip it says you're going north when you're actually going due south. What's up with this?
Do panhandlers have a right to be on Hamilton and Cedar Crest?
May 2, 2013
Q: Often when I drive eastbound on Hamilton Boulevard in the area of Cedar Crest Boulevard, there are people standing at the roadside collecting money. Once when I asked for information about who they were collecting for, I couldn't get a straight answer. I often wonder if these people are legit, and their blowing off my inquiry makes me smell a scam.
Dangerous traffic pattern for work at Routes 22 and 309
April 28, 2013
Q: The way PennDOT has the barricades, stop signs etc. set up for their construction activities at the Route 22/309 interchange creates a very dangerous situation. Drivers trying to enter 22 have a tendency to pull partially into the right-hand traffic lane before stopping. This happened to me recently and I was very nearly run over by an 18-wheeler that missed the side of my car by mere inches. I moved to the right as far as possible, but was limited by the concrete barricade. I witnessed a similar event that evening when another driver make the same mistake that I had. I don't know what the state could do differently to make the situation safer, but there could be a serious accident at that location.
Riegelsville bridge plan controversial
April 25, 2013
Q: PennDOT plans to replace a narrow, one-lane bridge over the Delaware Canal in Riegelsville with a modern bridge with two 11-foot-wide lanes. My neighbors and I own a historic twin home on the building line of the new bridge. We recently learned that PennDOT intends to use our neighbors' yard as a staging site during construction and to take a quarter of their yard permanently. We also discovered that the footings of the new bridge would go directly into our neighbors' septic tank, rendering their portion of our 1839 home uninhabitable, and greatly diminishing the value of my home. PennDOT wants to widen this tiny canal bridge to highway standards despite the fact that the road from the bridge leads only to the historic Riegelsville Bridge with its 8-foot lanes and 3-ton weight limit. This would be a giant waste of taxpayer money. The new bridge should simply remain within the footprint of the existing bridge.
Picking on pickup trucks: Are they driven aggressively?
April 21, 2013
Q: The Morning Call reported in February two people were killed in a fiery, two-vehicle crash on MacArthur Road in Whitehall Township. Even before reading the details, one question immediately came to mind: Was a pickup truck involved? The answer was yes. Call it profiling, prejudice or paranoia, but through the decades I've concluded that too many pickup-truck drivers share common and dangerous driving characteristics, including speeding, tailgating, and frequent and careless lane-changes. They seem to drive with an attitude that, if involved in an accident, they will be the ones walking away from it. Surely there are careful, courteous and defensive drivers behind the wheels of pickup trucks, but we need to be extra cautious and to expect the unexpected when these large vehicles suddenly appear in our rear-view mirrors.
Traffic pattern on new Hokendauqua-North Catasauqua Bridge explained
April 18, 2013
Q: I (and thousands of other folks) was glad to see your recent diagram of the future traffic patterns at the planned American Parkway Bridge. Could you post a similar map and explanation for the new North Catasauqua-Hokendauqua Bridge, also currently under construction? Images of the completed bridge and approaches would be appreciated by motorists who used the old bridge on a daily basis.
'Pass with care' confuses in Carbon
April 14, 2013
Q: Heading up the mountain on Route 903 north in Jim Thorpe, about a quarter-mile past the Jim Thorpe Memorial, there is a sign saying 'pass with care.' However, the solid double-yellow line never breaks. Can I still pass on the double yellow?
Bridge work near Lehigh Valley Zoo takes the slow road
April 11, 2013
Q: As a covered bridge enthusiast, I enjoy visiting covered bridges throughout Pennsylvania. After driving by Schlicher Covered Bridge in June [2011] I was surprised to see it closed, and by chance a few days later I read a Morning Call article indicating the bridge would soon be repaired. I returned in October to find nothing had been done. I read a recent article you wrote about Guth's Covered Bridge getting $500,00 for repairs, which is great, but what happened to Schlicher's Covered Bridge?
PennDOT's construction-debris site: Is it really a standard model?
April 8, 2013
Q: As a former compost-site operator, I think PennDOT's storage area for construction debris at the Tilghman Street interchange of Route 309 is in violation of state Department of Environmental Protection guidelines. From what I gather through Google's satellite view, the debris there qualifies as municipal solid waste and by law must be sent to a landfill. PennDOT was cited last month for a similar site in Philadelphia.
'Stop here on red' puts Carbon motorists in a rut
April 4, 2013
Q: When the Harrity Road Bridge near the Lehighton Turnpike Interchange was a two-lane bridge, the stop line for southbound bridge traffic was 6 feet back from the intersection, with a 'stop here on red' sign for emphasis. This allowed vehicles turning left onto the bridge from eastbound Interchange Road sufficient the room to make the turn. That was fine for the conditions, but the stop line wasn't moved when the new three-lane bridge opened, creating a problem:
Steel-cable barrier on I-78: Strong enough?
March 31, 2013
Q: After a number of bad 'crossover' accidents on I-78 in the Lehigh Valley over the years, it's good to see they finally installed a barrier on the grass median. But with the high percentage of truck traffic, it seems the wire fencing would be no match for tractor-trailers going 60 or more. Shouldn't they have put in concrete or steel barriers?
Why the gap at Wind Gap exit on Route 33?
March 28, 2013
Q: I use Route 33 for my work commute between Allentown and Tobyhanna Army Depot, and though the resurfacing of the highway has taken a long time, it's well worth it! However, I would like to know why it is not complete. They stopped repaving at the Wind Gap exit and resumed north of Wind Gap. This area is as much in need of repair as the rest of 33, yet it was passed over. The exit and entrance ramps also have not been addressed. Did the contract for the repaving skip this section on purpose, and if so, why?
Tickets for texting are scarce in Pennsylvania
March 24, 2013
Q: Pennsylvania's law banning texting while driving, with a $50 fine as the penalty, went into effect on March, 8 2012. Once pulled over, how is it determined that drivers were in fact texting if they contend they were not doing so? And by what means will the officer prove the driver was texting? Can the officer take the phone to check it for a prohibited text message? I know that other states have banned texting, but I'm interested to know how it is proven that texting really occurred. By the way, I do not text while driving!
ROAD WARRIOR: Gas prices at nine-tenths of a cent: When, and why?
March 21, 2013
Q: Why is gasoline charged at $3.799 per gallon? I'm questioning the nine-tenths part. Who was responsible for this addition to the price? Probably some government agency.
Left-turners should not encroach into oncoming lane
March 17, 2013
Q: Going from the Third Street ramp of Bethlehem's Hill-to-Hill Bridge and turning north onto Route 378 is dangerous, especially at rush hours. People coming in the other direction (south on 378 turning left onto the Third Street ramp) cut it so short that they enter the inner lane going north, and sometimes you actually have to wait or you'd hit them. It would be a great idea if a broken white line were painted around that curve so that cars turning left onto the ramp would stay in their lane.
Traffic plan detailed for American Parkway Bridge
March 14, 2013
Q: I would like to know exactly how the American Parkway Bridge will connect to the existing roads on either side of the Lehigh River. How will the traffic patterns really work? For example, at the west end of the bridge, will the parkway go over or under Front Street? Or will it intersect on grade? Will the parkway connect directly with Route 22 or not? I thought there was supposed to be a new exit for the parkway from 22, between Airport Road and the Lehigh River. What happened to the exit idea?
Do state police still set speed traps in the sky?
March 11, 2013
Q: We have seen the highway signs that read "speed enforced from aircraft." Is this really so? I don't know of anyone that was ever caught speeding in such a way. Today we hear so much about unmanned 'drones,' including a recent story in the Sunday paper about the increasing use of surveillance drones by various government agencies. Could it be that police will use such a device to keep an eye on highway speeders?
Road Warrior: Seasonal formulas for gas affect mileage
March 7, 2013
Q: I wonder if you can shed some light on this annoying problem I'm experiencing. During the winter months, I am told by various mechanics that the gasoline industry puts certain additives in our gas that in turn lowers my car's fuel mileage. Why are the oil companies doing this? Are they doing us a favor, or just causing us to use more gas and spend more money? Is this legal?
Did PennDOT bully motorist?
March 3, 2013
Q: Recently you wrote about PennDOT billing motorists for damage to state property, and that drivers who cause damage can expect to pay for repairs. This is all well and good. However, PennDOT also tries to collect payment from drivers who do not damage public property. In the foggy, rainy dark of an early morning in August, my husband was driving north on Werleys Corner Road, crested a hill and came upon a dead tree that had fallen across the road. With seconds to react, he laid over in the front seat as the car sailed into the huge branches of the tree. He was not seriously injured, but the car was totaled. Thankfully the air bags did not go off or he would have been unable to get out of the car, call 911, and run back to the top of the hill to flag down two approaching vehicles, including a motorcycle. The drivers were grateful for his warning. PennDOT came out to clean up the tree and subsequently sent us the bill. Our insurance carrier notified PennDOT they would not pay for the damages, and we sent them three letters explaining that the tree, not my husband, had caused the damage. PennDOT totally ignored the letters, finally threatening and 'bullying' us that they would revoke my husband's license and would sue us! We went to state Rep. Gary Day for help, and finally PennDOT listened, dropping the charge. I felt you should have this little insight into the bad, bullying side of PennDOT.
Time to rename Allentown's 'Ward Street Bridge'
February 25, 2013
Q: Could this be the time for the people of Allentown to learn that there is no bridge on 15th Street, and there never was? The bridge being replaced is the Ward Street Bridge. 15th Street connects to Martin Luther King Boulevard.
A sign of the times: Road signs need better maintenance
February 21, 2013
Q: I have a concern regarding the lighting for the overhead sign marking the exit from the northbound Turnpike (I-476) to Route 22. I often return from Philadelphia at night, and it is very difficult to read the sign. Once I failed to see it, missed the exit, and had to go all the way to the Mahoning Valley interchange, 22 miles to the north, to double back. I shall be most grateful if you can kindly alert the proper authorities to illuminate the sign.
Lehigh Parkway wall, and road, stable for now, permanent fix to come
February 17, 2013
Q: When you turn into the Lehigh Parkway from S. 12th Street approaching the stone wall, traffic cones are set out, making the road one lane. This continues for the length of the wall, and the bridle path on the other side of the wall is closed off. It has been this way for quite a while. What is going on? I don't see any work being done.
Does Upper Macungie intersection need three-way stop signs?
February 14, 2013
Q: I was wondering why three-way stops signs were installed at the T intersection of Schantz Road and Lone Lane a few years ago, while the much busier T intersection of Schantz and Blue Barn roads has only one sign, for Blue Barn traffic.
Short-sighted passing zone in Lower Macungie
February 11, 2013
Q: I'm curious as to why Minesite Road immediately west of Cedar Crest Boulevard has a passing zone. This seems ridiculous to me; it's an unusual and dangerous place to allow passing. The road was repaved just last year and the same center-lane passing zone was retained. Check it out and I'm sure you will agree.
Truck lanes on I-78 will give cars a pass
February 7, 2013
Q: A recent article described planned safety improvements to I-78 around the Krumsville interchange. The work will include truck lanes that slow-moving tractor-trailers could use to allow cars to pass safely. That's great, but I must wonder if PennDOT planners have recently traveled on 78 between Route 33 and the Route 309 split. The same conditions often prevail there as well. It is with little exaggeration that I claim to regularly be stuck behind two columns of traffic while a truck going 46 mph passes one doing 45. This creates a serious safety hazard with other traffic flowing at 65 mph or more. When will truck lanes be added to eastbound 78 approaching 33 and westbound 78 just beyond Route 412? I know this situation won't be resolved overnight, but it would be encouraging to know that PennDOT's engines are being revved at the starting line.
Bangor viaduct project hit speed bumps
February 4, 2013
Q: Just curious to know the status of the replacement of the Bangor viaduct, last cited in the news in 2008 and scheduled for completion last year. There's been no construction. If they're going to remove the bridge, are they going to build another one, or replace it with a regular railroad grade crossing, which in my opinion would cost a lot less money?
Intersection lane lines will benefit Third and Wyandotte
January 31, 2013
Q: As someone who drives through the W. Third and Wyandotte streets intersection multiple times a week, it is evident to me that painted radius lines are badly needed to guide the two left-turn lanes from Third Street onto Wyandotte (Route 378) northbound. I have observed several near misses and brakes being slammed on as some motorists are clueless as to how to properly navigate this turn.
Dark crossing for pedestrians at Route 222 Bypass
January 27, 2013
Q: There is a dangerous situation that we have observed at the intersection of Kressler Road and Hamilton Boulevard/Route 222 Bypass. Every weekday morning at 6:30 to 6:35, a LANTA bus drops off passengers, between 4 and 8 people, near the Subaru dealer. They then walk east along the turning lane to the traffic light at Kressler and walk across the four lanes of the Bypass. It is usually dark and difficult to see them at this already busy and tricky area. Drivers who are turning off the bypass onto either road often come close to hitting the walkers. We don't understand why there is not a safer route for the bus to drop off these passengers, perhaps at the first exit on the bypass.
Surprise: Two new tires should go on rear
January 24, 2013
Q: I made an appointment at a 'chain' tire store for two new front tires for my front-wheel-drive minivan. Not till I arrived was I told the new tires had to go on the rear if there was significant difference between the amount of tread on the new tires compared to the old. I said I was replacing the front tires only because I'd experienced poor traction in several inches of snow, so putting the new tires on the rear would provide no benefit. We inspected the tires and the salesman concluded there was a significant difference, and said company policy dictated the new tires had to go on the rear. (By my estimate, the existing tires had about 25 percent tread remaining, and would have passed state inspection.) A different tire store granted my request, but only after I signed a form indicating I was taking this action against their recommendation. Other sources support the rear-wheels claim, but I disagree.
'Yellow dot' program spotlights medical needs at accident scenes
January 21, 2013
Q: At the Pennsylvania Farm Show the other week, while picking up my complimentary state map, I also grabbed a flier about the PA Yellow Dot Program. Seems like a decent idea, but I've never seen a yellow dot on a car. Is this a new program? What's your opinion of it?
License plate readers raise privacy issues
January 17, 2013
Q: Some time ago a car was parked for several weeks in line with our driveway on a narrow street. Though parked legally as far as we knew, this posed a hazard, and safer places were available nearby. I called the Allentown police to ask if they could identify the owner from the license plate, so that I could call the person to ask that the car be moved. The police were very nice, and said they'd send an officer to see if the car was parked legally, but added that they are not allowed to provide information obtained from 'running the plate.' I think that's a silly provision in light of all the 'right to know' legislation. License plates are issued by the state, and there is no reason to keep registrants' names secret. It costs money to dispatch police for a service I could provide as a common courtesy. Assuming this policy is state law, whom should I contact to suggest a change?
Lead-content warning in Whitehall confuses motorists
January 13, 2013
Q: I am wondering if you have looked into the signs that have been posted about not breathing or disturbing the dust around the construction area of the Hokendauqua-North Catasauqua Bridge in Whitehall Township. What exactly is going to come off that bridge that is so toxic? Also, are they shutting down the Ironton Rail Trail at the bridge? I use the trail frequently for jogging or biking, but I think I'll be avoiding it now, as I wouldn't want to be inhaling anything toxic while I'm exercising!
Traffic signals at Airport and Catasauqua roads back to normal
January 10, 2013
Q: Regarding the intersection at Airport and Catasauqua roads, there are some signage issues, but the most immediate problem results from the re-timing of the lights. I understand there was an accident and the lights were reset as a result. Now westbound Catasauqua right-turn traffic cannot turn onto Airport during the time that traffic exiting 22 east gets a green onto Catasauqua eastbound. This results in long lines on Catasauqua, and has been going on since late December. Is there a plan to re-time it?
In microelectronic age, why are traffic-signal controllers so macro?
January 6, 2013
Q: In this age of microelectronics, why are traffic-control boxes still so huge?
Crash into a Jersey barrier? Expect a bill from PennDOT
January 3, 2013
Q: My daughter was going west on Center Valley Parkway on a wet afternoon in October when she turned onto the access road leading to Route 309 north, and struck the barrier. Though she and her son recovered fully from their injuries, her car was 'totaled'. Ambulance personnel told her they respond to similar accidents at this intersection several times a month. Subsequently she received a PennDOT demand that she and her insurance company pay $8,575 to repair damage to 37.5 feet of the barrier. She was shocked; there was no way she caused that amount of damage. I realize PennDOT needs money for road repairs, but this intersection is so poorly designed that accidents are going to continue to happen until it is reconfigured. Neither my daughter nor the insurance company should have to pay the amount demanded by PennDOT.
Sidewalk would benefit new bridge on Cedar Crest Boulevard
December 30, 2012
Q: The recent column on the bumpy storm drain that wasn't addressed when the nearby Tilghman Street bridges were reconstructed brought to mind another issue: Why wasn't the new Cedar Crest Boulevard bridge over Cedar Creek built with a sidewalk? I realize the nearby Broadway/Parkway Boulevard intersection is posted 'no pedestrian crossing' at all four corners (which is ludicrous, since two corners are occupied by jogger-friendly parks), but it seems PennDOT could have taken a step toward improving the 'livability' of the Cedar Crest corridor by adding a sidewalk, even though it would connect to nothing on either side — for now. I suspect the cost impact would have been modest considering the $865,800 expense of the bridge replacement. Do any laws or policies cover the addition of sidewalk to new or reconstructed sections of road?
Short sight-line at Lower Macungie Walmart
December 27, 2012
Q: I have concerns about the safety of exiting from the south entrance of Walmart onto Millcreek Road in Lower Macungie Township. In the last few years, traffic has increased on that road due to the development in that area. I had notified the township about the situation, and some trees may have been removed for better visibility, but the problem persists. I had suggested a three-way stop before the tire store was constructed across Millcreek.
Will new MacArthur interchange stop Route 22 back-ups?
December 23, 2012
Q: I think the new MacArthur Road bridge and interchange at Route 22 will be obsolete before it is even built. A new ramp is replacing the old ramp for northbound MacArthur traffic coming from 22 east. I have seen traffic backed up on the old ramp all the way back onto Route 22, and the new ramp looks like it will not hold as many cars as the old ramp did. Northbound MacArthur traffic will fill the ramp, block traffic trying to go to south, and soon it will again be backed up onto 22 — hopefully only during the holiday shopping season. Judging by the plans, it also looks like the new bridge will not be wide enough to support 6 lanes on 22, which are needed now, and will be needed desperately in the near future.
Roadwork hassles on MacArthur Road, Route 22 in Whitehall
December 20, 2012
Q: The traffic light installed recently (and temporarily, I hope) where the ramp for traffic from Route 22 west meets MacArthur Road south has got to be malfunctioning. It stays red for MacArthur traffic for insane periods — two or three minutes sometimes. The traffic volume on MacArthur is at least 20 times that coming from 22, so the light backs up traffic on MacArthur unnecessarily. I've seen many frustrated motorists go through the red. I'm guessing (hoping) this is just temporary, but someone needs to fix the timer on that light.
Grass on the roadway: Leave it be?
December 17, 2012
Q: Could you please comment on the behavior of those inconsiderate knuckleheads who spray their grass clippings into the street while mowing their lawn? As a motorcyclist, I have occasionally been placed in a hazardous situation due to the presence of a slippery, grass-covered roadway. By the way, these are the same yahoos who plow and shovel their snow into the road each winter.
Road Warrior: Fair warning of Route 22 construction zone?
December 13, 2012
Q: With all the accidents happening on Route 22 and the troubling issues of traffic getting onto 22 from MacArthur Road, why does PennDOT not have speed-reduction signs approaching the construction zone? While there are construction signs posted approaching this very dangerous area, I see no signs that require speed reduction, which would certainly reduce the large number of crashes occurring here due to the construction.
Signs would signal new traffic light ahead on Route 100
December 9, 2012
Q: I was wondering if there were plans to post signs or some type of signal cautioning drivers of the new traffic signal ahead on Route 100 south when approaching the Kernsville/Claussville roads intersection. The signal was in 'flash' mode for a while, but switched to the normal stop/go function Nov. 29. A temporary sign on 100 south alerts drivers of the new traffic pattern ahead, but I still was surprised when I came upon the fully operational signal. Many drivers pass when going up the hill, cutting off others in the course of merging back into one lane before the intersection. Adding stopped traffic to that area when the light is red will definitely make for an interesting commute.
Wheelchair ramp that vanished isn't gone forever
December 3, 2012
Q: As long as I can remember, probably since Village West shopping center was built at Cedar Crest and Tilghman streets, there was a curb-cut and wheelchair ramp in front of what is now the Dollar Tree store. Handicapped people, either walking or in wheelchairs, had wonderful access to the sidewalk from the parking lot. Recently when I dropped off my wife at the entrance to Dollar Tree, I noticed that the ramp is gone, having been replaced by a regular high curb and no ramp. There is no other curb-cut all the way to the north end of the row of stores. Removing sidewalk features for the handicapped seems like a return to the Dark Ages. Wheelchair riders beware!
Storm grates, 'manholes' have motorists feeling low
November 29, 2012
Q: Why would PennDOT replace both bridges on Tilghman Street over Chapmans Road and the railroad tracks in Upper Macungie and not repair the blatant problem of the low storm-sewer inlet on the right-hand westbound lane just west of the railroad bridge? During the project I was thinking, 'Thank God that will be fixed when the work is done,' but no. The inlet depression/pothole was the first thing I hit when the road reopened, and it seems I hit it every day. One would think it would have been the perfect time to raise the grate while there was no traffic on the road.
No clear answer to what is 'Lehigh Valley'
November 25, 2012
Q: Most of us do a lot of driving around an area commonly known as the Lehigh Valley. But what exactly is the Lehigh Valley? What would be the definition of that term?
Seidersville Road, W. High Street bridges remain closed
November 22, 2012
Q: I'm wondering if you can find out some information regarding the closing of the metal truss bridge on Seidersville Road and the nearby High Street Bridge in Bethlehem. They've both been closed since earlier this year and it doesn't look like any work is being done on them. Are there plans to open them any time in the near future?
Would signs boost safety at Kings Highway curve?
November 18, 2012
Q: We have this problem in Old Zionsville, especially during rain and light snow, but even in dry conditions. In a month-long period in June and July we witnessed three accidents and two close calls on the sharp curve in the middle of the village. Drivers heading south on Kings Highway do not see the curve, and they slide into the guardrail or into oncoming traffic. There is a light warning sign and some arrows, but we'd like to see a 'sharp curve ahead' sign or something similar to prevent these accidents.
Allentown: Get rid of some one-way streets?
November 15, 2012
Q: I know I'm known as a bicycle nut-case, but I'm just as much of a pedestrian nut-case when it comes to wanting our city streets to be vibrant and safe for all road users. The attached news article is about how Cincinnati recently turned a one-way street back to two-way along a commercial shopping district. It only took them 45 years to right the wrong. I wonder how much longer it will take for Allentown to come to its senses for Hamilton Street from 10th to 6th, and for 7th Street from Washington south to Union.
Temporary stop signs may turn onto Permanent Road
November 12, 2012
Q: When the Tilghman Street bridge reconstruction in Kuhnsville began last spring, several roads were detoured, and to deal with increased traffic volume on Chapmans Road, stop signs were posted for Chapmans traffic at the Ruppsville Road intersection, where previously only Ruppsville traffic had a stop sign. We thought the Chapmans signs were placed there temporarily; however, though the bridge reconstruction is long finished, the signs remain. We do not see the necessity of the signs. Why are they still in operation?
Hanover Avenue changes will slow traffic, boost safety
November 8, 2012
Q: I would like to know whom to commend for deciding to place a sprawling slab of concrete in the middle of Hanover Avenue at the Irving Street intersection. I have often thought what a good idea it would be to place a huge obstacle to traffic flow at that very location, particularly during peak traffic hours. However, one should be wiser when considering the cost of such an endeavor. Wouldn't it be less expensive to simply park an old tractor-trailer in the middle of the street? Think of the savings to the taxpayers!
Stop-sign cameras: Coming to an intersection near you?
November 4, 2012
Q: This is what Allentown needs: photo enforced stop signs. They have been very successful in California and Washington, D.C. These camera systems improve safety at intersections by monitoring vehicles and also help prevent pedestrians from being hit by cars that don't come to a full stop. Allentown certainly could use the revenue generated by these systems.
Post-hurricane question: Do we really need traffic signals?
November 1, 2012
Q: Regarding your observation that traffic seemed to be flowing smoothly through the intersection of 19th and Tilghman streets in Allentown when the traffic signals had no power, I've noticed the same thing. At your request, I continued to check, and had no issues for an entire week going through there with temporary stop signs posted. As long as you don't have some rude motorist to deal with, the only complication at this intersection is the turning lanes, and even that runs smoothly as long as everyone plays nice. Four stop signs might work well there permanently.
'Village' signs: A sign of times past?
October 28, 2012
Q: I've been trying for some time to find the answer to what constitutes a "village." PennDOT has signs identifying locations as being "Village of Scherersville," "Village of Kuhnsville," etc. I'm comfortable in assuming PennDOT has some rules about how a region qualifies for such a designation. I have been unsuccessful in discovering what they are. Can you find the answer?
Signs forbid a legal practice: using cell phone while driving
October 25, 2012
Q: I've seen signs indicating 'no cell phone while driving' at several entry points to the city of Bethlehem, including on southbound Route 512 (Center Street) just past the Route 22 overpass. I thought there was a texting ban that was a state law, but that the courts ruled municipal cellphone bans illegal. If that's the case, why are the signs posted in Bethlehem?
Angled utility poles along Route 222 are temporary
October 21, 2012
Q: We live in the Kutztown area and use Route 222 eastbound several times a month. Just about a half-mile after we pass the Terry Hill water park on the right side of 222, there are several utility poles leaning toward the highway. We've noticed this since the early snowstorm of October 2011 and subsequent heavy rains. Who owns these poles, and are they not required to inspect this type of situation periodically as a matter of preventive maintenance? This could be a serious road hazard should one of those poles decide to pull out of the ground and land on any passing cars.
Motorist sheds light on Freemansburg Bridge lights
October 18, 2012
Q: The overhead lights on the Freemansburg Bridge are on during the day and off at night. I called PennDOT's 'Pothole Hotline' and they said it's not their responsibility. PennDOT seems to maintain the rest of the bridge. In the past I called about weeds obstructing the view of traffic coming from the south, and PennDOT took care of the problem. Whoever is paying the bill for the lights is not getting their money's worth.
Jury still out on 'late merge' concept
October 14, 2012
Q: On eastbound Tilghman Street just east of the Route 309 bridge, the two lanes of Tilghman merge into one, and a sign indicates that the right lane merges into the left lane. During peak traffic times, the left lane often has a line of cars extending past the Route 309 interchange. Cars exiting southbound 309 onto eastbound Tilghman often stop at the end of the ramp because they are unable to enter Tilghman's left lane, though the right lane is open. Drivers seem to think the right lane exists solely for entering the ramp to 309 north, just on the other side of the overpass, or for turning into the nearby the gas station. If the signage at the merge point were changed to give the two lanes equal standing, instructing drivers to alternate at the merge point, traffic exiting southbound 309 would flow more freely. The ramp for cars exiting northbound 309 onto Tilghman could also be included in the alternating-vehicle merge pattern.
American Parkway could rev up Allentown revival
October 11, 2012
Q: What's the status of the American Parkway Bridge project? The estimated completion is about the same time as the arena, right? What is the city's vision for the parkway once it's done? This looks like it's going to be huge in the economic future of Allentown. People entering the city from the east might have a wonderful welcome into town once they make landfall on the west side of the Lehigh River. I'm looking forward to coming into town from Bethlehem once the bridge is complete. It's going to be a fast drive, and I believe the parkway will enhance Allentown's image because it will make the best parts of the city more accessible to those of us in the eastern part of the Valley.
Off-ramp lanes restricted at Route 22/MacArthur Road interchange
October 8, 2012
Lehigh Valley motorists are facing traffic slowdowns over and above the usual peak-travel sluggishness at the MacArthur Road interchange of Route 22, as a major reconstruction project there pinches the flow.
Race Street deaths turn key on safety review
October 4, 2012
Q: As a frequent traveler on Race Street, I long worried that something bad would happen one day regarding the people waiting for the bus at the roadside. First, there should have been a shelter there for people to wait in. Second, some of the folks at the stop often stood close to the road, even standing on the white lane lines, both eastbound and westbound. Every time I drove by I felt they were in danger and worried that something would happen. I'm very sorry about the tragedy and offer my deepest condolences to the families involved. However, no one should stand so close to the road.
Bridge to be removed, closing portion of Werleys Corner Road
September 30, 2012
Q: PennDOT's plan to demolish the Werleys Corner Road bridge and replace it with a new bridge would be a waste of tax money. This bridge once carried traffic on a busy road, but that hasn't been the case for many years. Now, with a new traffic light at routes 100 and 309 just to the north, the bridge is totally unnecessary. It should be left as it is, for use only by pedestrians and bicycle riders.
Motorists have blinkers on regarding turn-signal use
September 23, 2012
Q: I have a question about the use of turn signals while waiting in a long line at an intersection while in a dedicated turn lane ("right turn only" or "left turn only"). Is it really necessary, or required by law, to have the blinker on for several minutes while in a lane with large white arrows and "only" painted on the surface, and a traffic signal with a green arrow? All other drivers, as well as pedestrians, know you'll be turning, so why bother with the wear on the signals and having to hear the annoying click-click sound? I know safety is important, but if you're in a long line of cars all required to turn the same way, I feel it isn't necessary to use the signal. What say you?
Gas-tax equivalent coming for electric cars?
September 20, 2012
Q: The state and federal road-use taxes are added to gasoline and diesel fuel for vehicles that use these fuels for 'propulsion' on the roadways. The new Chevy Volt does not use gasoline to 'propel' the car. Propulsion is provided by electrical power exclusively; the only function of the gasoline engine is to charge the battery. So how would owners of the Volt, as well as all-electric cars like the Nissan Leaf, pay their share of road-use taxes? It's an interesting quandary that may require Harrisburg and other state legislatures to re-word their tax codes, particularly if this technology becomes the wave of the future.
PennDOT guide rail blocks resident's off-street space
September 16, 2012
Q: I moved to Boston a few months ago, but my adult son is living at our home on Route 611 in Williams Township. Imagine my surprise when visiting him in late June to find a brand new guardrail installed on the canal side of northbound 611, directly across the road from our home. For more than 25 years there was a pull-off space there, as a 'break' in the railing, complete with end caps, that left a space big enough for a car to pull off the road safely. Since 611 has zero shoulder, and there's a blind curve just behind this spot, the pull-off seemed a sensible way to keep disabled cars from being struck from behind. The ground is level and it seems perfectly safe to park there. We also use this space to safely turn left out of our driveway, given the curve and speeding drivers on 611. No notice of this change was given. The ugly rail blocks our view of the canal and river. Ironically, a similar pull-over spot just north of ours was left untouched, though it is smaller and the ground slopes toward the canal. Is there any hope to have this unneeded, unwanted and highly inconvenient rail removed?
Rough ride on Route 22 will drag into next year
September 13, 2012
Q: Regarding the resurfacing project on Route 22 in Northampton County: Now that the eastbound surface has been torn up for two months, causing havoc with thousands of tires and shock absorbers, it appears that someone forgot to complete the job. When can we expect this stretch of highway to receive a new pavement?
MacArthur pedestrian bridge? Why not Hamilton Boulevard?
September 10, 2012
Q: Regarding the need for a pedestrian bridge crossing Route 22 at MacArthur Road, I travel there frequently, and rarely, if ever, see anyone crossing that intersection. Just days ago my friends and I questioned why a pedestrian bridge would be built there before one was built across Hamilton Boulevard at Dorney Park — then, on Tuesday, another person died trying to cross there. The swarms of people crossing Hamilton at Dorney should justify a bridge far more so than at MacArthur. In the past we heard there was no money to build a Hamilton bridge, but now there's money for a MacArthur bridge?
Energy-saving LED street lights could be headed our way
September 6, 2012
Q: Aug. 1 marked the five-year anniversary of the fatal collapse of the I-35 bridge in Minnesota. That bridge has been replaced with an improved design that is not 'fracture critical' and is considered to be a 'smart' bridge featuring 26 accelerometers that continuously monitor vibrations. It also has the first application of LED lighting. Are there any plans for LED highway lights in Pennsylvania in the near future?
Are cars with keyless ignition safe?
September 2, 2012
Q: I've been seeing news reports of possible safety problems with cars with keyless ignition, including cases of possible carbon monoxide poising from cars left running, and out-of-control vehicles that could not be shut off. Perhaps CO detectors with automatic engine shut-offs should be installed inside and outside of the vehicles, and more effective engine shut-off systems should be developed.
Sight distance rules meant for safety
August 30, 2012
Q: What are the state rules for sight triangles on the roadways and right of ways? Many people have been placing obstructions in these areas, making it extremely difficult to see when driving. You recently discussed advertising signs being placed in the highway sight lines, but what methods or measurements are used to determine the allowable sight distances? Sight lines should be kept clear at all times.
If natural-gas cars hit the road, who pays the gas taxes?
August 26, 2012
Q: Regarding the Aug. 2 Morning Call article about vehicles fueled by natural gas, maybe I've been missing something, but how do users of alternatively powered vehicles pay road-use taxes equivalent to the state and federal gasoline taxes the rest of us pay at the pump?
'Murphy's Law' for Spring Creek Road Bridge in Lower Macungie
August 23, 2012
Q: Can you get any updated information regarding the bridge replacement on Spring Creek Road in Lower Macungie? I was wondering if they have modified the anticipated completion date. Also, after walking over and looking at the site, I am curious about all the extra work they seem to be doing.
A grating question: Were bridge grates installed upside-down?
August 20, 2012
Q: I am sure you have addressed this before, but I never saw an answer. We have always been told that the grates on the Hokendauqua-North Catasauqua Bridge were installed upside-down. I sometimes think this is an urban legend. How about it?
ARAN van shoots PennDOT video
August 16, 2012
Q: I took the attached photo from my car (it was at a stoplight; I was not moving). It was a large van-type vehicle. Hope you can see the cameras that were sticking out all over it. Have you ever seen one of these? What is it?
Is PennDOT illegally dumping?
August 13, 2012
Q: In constructing the spoils pit at the Tilghman Street interchange of Route 309 in South Whitehall Township, PennDOT used its authority to disregard many environmental laws, and public notice was not given concerning this spoils project. Even if you accept it as a viable land use, it does not belong on the worst highway ramp in the Lehigh Valley. Why not place it on the Hamilton off-ramp where the ramps are longer and trucks would have an easier time with their ingress and egress? I would compare this situation to state government placing a nuclear plant on government ground without the public's knowledge. This is just plain wrong, and PennDOT should not have the authority to place any type of development (this is a development) other than temporary highway construction within its road right-of-ways.
New model for Allentown street signs
August 9, 2012
Q: I noticed the other day going up Linden Street in Allentown there are new street signs on certain corners. As I turned on to 12th Street I noticed the little alleys even had new signs. They have bold black lettering and they're posted on nice, thin black poles. I was surprised to see a very small alley with one. I have not seen these street signs anywhere else in the city except in this area. I am wondering why, and why money would be spent on these street signs. What's the purpose?
Sometimes, courtesy should trump right of way
August 6, 2012
Q: I was northbound on Hausman Road at Tilghman Street in South Whitehall, turning right onto Tilghman Street with the proper signal (either green or a green arrow) when an opposing car from southbound Hausman made a left onto Tilghman into the lane to my left, such that he was right next to me. I do not believe I have to stay in the right lane of Tilghman when I turn, especially if I want to switch lanes, moving to the left lane to turn into the Trivet diner, for example, but this car blocked me from doing that. Don't I have the right-of-way turning right onto Tilghman versus oncoming traffic turning left onto Tilghman?
LED stop signs should get the green light
August 2, 2012
Q: In reaction to the recent tragedy at Bake Oven and Mountain roads in Heidelberg Township, numerous suggestions have been made on ways to avoid a similar future accident. Ranging from leveling the road to reducing the speed limit, these ideas are commendable. However, the main problem is that motorists on Bake Oven Road are unaware of the upcoming intersection, and seem to 'miss' the stop sign. On the roads within the Lehigh Valley Hospital property I recently noticed stop signs with solar-powered red LED lights flashing around the edges. These blinking lights were noticeable even during daylight hours. In light of the Heidelberg accident, the cost of LEDs on one stop sign in the township would be minimal. They surely would get the attention of anyone traveling toward that intersection.
After test-drive, PennDOT hits the road with rubberized asphalt
July 29, 2012
Q: Back in 2007 or 2008 you answered a question about rubberized asphalt for road paving and said that PennDOT was doing some test pavings to try out the technology. Can you follow up to see how the test paving projects went, and what PennDOT is planning for using the technology? How is rubberized asphalt faring elsewhere in the road-construction marketplace?
Allentown steering away from bike lanes?
July 26, 2012
Q: My understanding through the grapevine is that Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski has killed the plan to eliminate vehicular lanes on one-way Linden and Turner streets and replace them with bicycle lanes. Is this true? I hope so, because I thought it was a foolish plan that would cause chronic traffic jams downtown, particularly after the hockey arena opens. Even without the bike lanes, I anticipate downtown gridlock after games or events. They say there is enough traffic capacity, but judging by figures in a city consultant's report on the bike lanes, I don't believe it for a minute. Unless they switch all of the streets around the arena to one-way outgoing after games, it will take about six hours to unlock the gridlock.
Tractor-trailer retread tires: Safe?
July 22, 2012
Q: I enjoyed your recent article on tire technology improvements and the demise of the full-sized spare. One area where technology appears to still need improvement is in recapping of tires. This observation is based on the amount of tire-tread debris on roadways, particularly on interstate highways. It is not uncommon to have to swerve around sections of tire tread on the roadway. I have had at least one instance where we were nearly struck by tread from the truck ahead of us while traveling at highway speeds. It would be interesting to learn how often accidents have been attributed to retreaded tire sections coming off of trucks and what process improvements have been made in recent years. As I understand it, retreaded tires are seldom used any longer on passenger vehicles, but they are common on truck tires for cost reasons.
Temporary pedestrian bridge takes shape over Route 22
July 20, 2012
A narrow pedestrian bridge over Route 22, complete with hefty concrete abutments and the framework for an overhead chain-link "roof," is taking shape adjacent to the vehicular bridge that takes MacArthur Road over the highway in Whitehall Township.
Purple lights coming down the road as funeral-procession markers
July 19, 2012
Q: It has always been my understanding that funeral processions had the right of way, even if they were going through red lights. Some time ago, northbound on 15th Street, the light at Hamilton Street was red and I was a number of cars back in line. The light turned green, the cars ahead of me started moving, and I followed suit. It wasn't until I got to the light at Linden Street and noticed cars coming up behind me, trying to catch up to their group, that I realized the cars ahead of me had interrupted a funeral procession. Only then did I see 'funeral' signs on the cars. Shouldn't the cars ahead of me at the light have waited for the procession to clear before moving across Hamilton Street, even though the light turned green?
A lights-out reopening for Pine Street Bridge in Catasauqua
July 15, 2012
Q: The Pine Street Bridge connecting Catasauqua and Whitehall Township was closed for repairs in March and reopened July 2. The improvements included replacing the lights, but that part of the project has been delayed. It's my understanding the lights will not be delivered for another four to six weeks, and that there will be lane closings and traffic delays when they're installed. Wouldn't it have been easier and safer to install the lights when the bridge was closed? Are the poles that special that it takes four months to deliver them, or did someone forget to order them?
Rockfall netting secures the slope off Route 248
July 12, 2012
Q: For many years I used Route 248 northbound through the Lehigh Gap near Palmerton, and often fallen rocks from the eastern slope would be strewn on the roadway in the cantilevered section. I hadn't driven that section for many months until recently, when I noticed that acres of steel mesh and fencing have been applied to the slope, extending several hundred feet above the road. Can you confirm that its purpose is to stabilize the slope and prevent rock slides? When was it installed, and at what cost?
Can PennDOT make stickers stick around?
July 8, 2012
Q: It was good the other week when you made it clear that it's illegal to mess with your license plate so it's hard to read. Now, does that mean I can arrest PennDOT for putting out that damnable Flagship Niagara plate? You can't read those numbers, even on a brand-new plate. Which reminds me, didn't PennDOT tell you some time ago they would change our inspection stickers so they wouldn't fall off the inside of the windshield all by themselves? The stickers I got at the last inspection are peeling back already.
Turn lanes cause confusion in Bethlehem
July 5, 2012
Q: Now that much of the Route 378/Hill-to-Hill Bridge/Route 412 reconfiguration in Bethlehem has been completed, I find myself with a traffic dilemma. I frequently drive east on Third Street, intending to turn left (north) onto New Street and the Fahy Memorial Bridge. With the new lane configuration, at what point should I enter the 'left turn only' lane? I've seen folks drive all the way in the left lane along this stretch, from the former Perkins restaurant, before finally making the left onto the bridge. Myself and others enter the turn lane later, after passing the Banana Factory entrance and Northampton Street. I would think you shouldn't enter the turn lane until you mean to turn, much like on roads where you don't enter the 'both ways' shared center turn lane until you intend to make your turn.
'Open house,' other roadside signs are litter for some motorists
July 2, 2012
Q: Why are builders allowed to plaster directional signs to their new developments along the roadway and at the exit ramps on routes 22, 191, and other highways? One day in May, on 22 westbound from 191, I counted 13 exit ramps that had two signs each, one for Heritage and one for Harvest Fields in the Macungie area. These signs are posted right along the highway shoulder and at the end of the ramps, some of which resemble garbage dumps. I am a Realtor, and if we all put our signs where the builders have them, you'd have 100 signs at each ramp. Does anyone have to pay for or get permission from PennDOT to place these signs? It seems an unsafe thing to do for whoever is getting out of their vehicle to post them. Of course, there are other signs as well, for junk haulers, kick-boxing, whatever else. In the case of builders or Realtors including myself, there is no need for directional signs because of Internet maps and GPS units to locate the properties. Someone should remove these signs, and/or fine the perpetrators.
PennDOT defends forced merger on Airport Road
June 28, 2012
Q: So, Mr. Road Warrior, when are you going to fix the intersection where Route 22 east dumps onto Airport Road south? You have about 15 feet in which to merge onto Airport Road, and then immediately switch to the right-turn lane toward the Airport Shopping Center. It's not like I can just go that way to shop. It's also my route to work!
Turnpike bridge over Route 29 gets underbelly supports
June 24, 2012
Q: Can you tell me what they are doing to the underside of the Turnpike bridge that passes over Route 29 (Chestnut Street) in or just outside of Emmaus? It's just past the Farmhouse Restaurant. I know they're putting up sheets of plywood held in place by 2x4s, but for what purpose? To catch pieces of crumbling cement from falling onto the traffic on Route 29?
Marshalls Creek roundabout hits the showroom floor
June 21, 2012
Q: It will be interesting to observe how the public accepts the Marshalls Creek Bypass roundabout in the Poconos, and how well it works. This could be a test case for eastern Pennsylvania. It may turn out that the roundabout will work on the relatively low traffic volume of Route 209. But I really have a hard time seeing the concept work on Route 222 between Allentown and Reading, where at least one roundabout is planned and the traffic volume is much higher.
Small, outdated traffic lights near Emmaus
June 17, 2012
Q: The traffic light at Route 29 and Ramer Road in Upper Milford Township is the source of a lot of problems. We can see the intersection through our kitchen window and sometimes see two or three cars go through red lights in a few minutes' time. Dozens of cars run the red light daily. I believe the lights are too small for a road this size, and larger, more visible lights are needed. An increased police presence or camera would also deter red-light running. Many people cut through the Pickles Steakhouse parking lot just to avoid the light. Fortunately, we haven't seen a major accident in the months we've lived here, but it's only a matter of time. Who can I contact about this problem?
PennDOT websites keep motorists up to speed on road work
June 14, 2012
Q: I was wondering if PennDOT was planning on setting up a website for the I-78 Route 412 interchange construction project. It would be great if images of the planned road work were available, as they are for MacArthur Road interchange reconstruction at Route 22. Route 412 being a three-year project, I would assume something this large in scope would benefit from a dedicated website for informational purposes.
Sidewalks being installed on Tilghman Street in Allentown
June 10, 2012
Q: I notice a long sidewalk is being installed on Tilghman Street across from the Allentown Wegmans. There's no walk on the Wegmans side, though the new walk will connect to an existing sidewalk to the west. Is the new sidewalk a requirement, and if so, is it a city law, state requirement or what? Who's putting it in? Sidewalk requirements in Emmaus, Macungie and elsewhere have been controversial.
Rain keeps PennDOT in weed-whacking rut
June 7, 2012
Q: I recently drove on the interchange of Eighth Avenue and Route 378 in Bethlehem and was disturbed to see that PennDOT has allowed the grass to get so tall that visibility is impaired. Going from 378 north to Eighth Avenue south, I could not see oncoming traffic until I was almost onto Eighth Avenue itself. I had to slow to a crawl until I could see sufficiently to safely enter. Later I went from Eighth Avenue south to 378 south and could not see if cars were entering from Eighth Avenue north. I know that money is tight, but when the grass obstructs the view of oncoming traffic, it is a safety concern.
Kicking the tires on two PennDOT road-sign models
June 3, 2012
Q: On many roads and streets I see quite inconspicuous signs, usually attached to telephone poles or light standards, that have on the first line 'SR', on the second line a smaller four-digit number, and on the third line a number or 'end.' I assume that these mark state routes. I also assume that hardly anyone notices them or knows that the road being marked is a state route. Why are the signs there? What are they used for? What is the information on the third line? Why does the state bother to designate the roads and streets state route?
E85 ethanol: Let the buyer beware
May 31, 2012
Q: With my gas tank nearly empty, I mistakenly filled up with E85 ethanol recently at the Exxon station at 1825 Route 309 in South Whitehall. I did not know what this E85 was, nor that it could damage my engine. The pump had a yellow hose, and a white panel which read 'E85' in small characters, but no warnings or information despite plenty of room. All buttons to push for start of fuel flow were yellow. I picked up the yellow hose, pushed the 87 octane button, but couldn't get the gas to flow. Trying to solve the problem, I saw a slit of blue light blinking near the panel marked 'E85', thought I must have been pressing the wrong button, and hit the E85 button, successfully filling the tank. While paying, I asked the cashier about E85, and he said the fuel could wreck my engine! It cost $153 to have the fuel removed from my tank. Neither Exxon nor Lehigh Gas, which owns the station, would help me. At the very least, prominent information should be displayed warning that E85 is safe to use only in 'flex-fuel' cars designed for it.
Water tankers rumbling through Cetronia day and night
May 28, 2012
Q: Big-rig-size water tankers have been rumbling along Haines Mill Road in South Whitehall at all hours of the day and night for many weeks. What is the reason for this noisy and intrusive inconvenience? Why don't the drivers stick to the main roads?
Municipalities, not school districts, responsible for flashing lights
May 24, 2012
Q: Since we moved to the Lehigh Valley in 1989, we have been somewhat bewildered by the 15 mph flashing-yellow lights at elementary and middle schools during lunch hour. I can understand the precaution at arrival and dismissal times, but in more than 22 years I have yet to see a single student outside any of the school buildings at noon. So, if kids no longer walk home for lunch as we did in the '30s and '40s, why the inconvenience?
Partial interchanges accepted, not ideal
May 20, 2012
Q: We frequently use Route 33 to I-78 for trips to the Lehigh Valley, and recently we were heading to DeSales University. Unfortunately they designed I-78 without an interchange with Route 378, and partly because of this, there is no convenient way from 33 to DeSales. I hate having to drive west to Route 309 and then south before doubling back on 378, adding extra miles, so I decided to exit 78 at Route 412 and take the back roads to 378. I found it, with much effort. Can't PennDOT erect a few signs from the Route 412 interchange directing drivers to 378?
No hybrid needed: Tips for more mpg
May 17, 2012
Q: With the high price of gas these days, I've been able to increase the mileage on my 2002 Hyundai Accent by about 10 percent (from 34 to 37 miles per gallon) by coasting ("freewheeling"). On a slight downgrade, I throw it into neutral and coast. The car will maintain and sometimes even increase its speed. (On steep declines that require braking there is no advantage to coasting.) I also do some "pulse and glide" driving. By my calculations, my Accent coasting at 30 mph yields 100 mpg, and at 60 yields 200 mpg. Since the car uses a constant amount of fuel per hour when idling, the faster you coast, the better. I conservatively calculate that my car uses 0.3 gallons per hour when coasting, and it could be less.
Green flag for Route 412, I-78 Hellertown interchange project
May 13, 2012
Q: Are there any plans to upgrade the dangerous intersection of Route 412 and Silvex Road at the access ramps to I-78? Our vehicle was rear-ended in November while turning from Silvex onto 412. Fortunately, we were not injured.
Child seats required, front or back
May 10, 2012
Q: In regards to child car seats, we purchased a car seat for our 1-year-old granddaughter. Do we have to install the seat even though my wife will hold the child in the rear seat? Our vehicle is a 2002 Chrysler.
Schoenersville traffic signals seem to fade
May 7, 2012
Q: I live off of Macada Road in Hanover Township and I've noticed on numerous occasions as I'm waiting to turn left onto Schoenersville Road from the Route 22 off-ramp that cars routinely run the light (going southbound on Schoenersville) in front of the on- and off-ramps for 22. Its almost as if they don't see the light because they are focusing on the next light at Macada, Road which is only about 100 yards away.
No-ethanol, 'all-American' gasoline available in Kutztown
May 3, 2012
Q: Regarding your search for 'pure' gasoline without ethanol, I've seen ads indicating that it's offered at the Amerigreen station on Main Street in Kutztown. According to the 'Gas Buddy' app on my smartphone, their regular is $3.999 per gallon [on April 19], a dime more than the Turkey Hill station just down the street. Not sure if that is the 'with ethanol' or 'without ethanol' version, as Amerigreen sells both.
Section of Springhouse Road evades repair
April 29, 2012
Q: Can you explain why the short stretch of Springhouse Road between Little Cedar Creek and Parkway Road in South Whitehall Township is in such poor condition? Springhouse both north and south of this section and Parkway have been resurfaced, but this section seems to always miss out. This situation has existed for years and despite seeing township workers spreading some tar and gravel on it from time to time, the overall condition is terrible.
Smoking out the matter of tinted license-plate covers
April 26, 2012
Q: I was driving through center city Philadelphia one night and got behind a late-model BMW. The driver would proceed through red lights after a brief stop when nothing was coming. He never got too far ahead, and I would eventually catch up. He had one of those license-plate shields that makes it difficult to read the plate, and his license-plate light was not working. I could tell it was a PA license, but could identify no letters or numbers. Why are those shields, which I see everywhere, legal? I believe their only purpose is to avoid recognition.
PennDOT targets sales-tax shortcuts on car purchases
April 23, 2012
Q: I recently bought a "mechanic's special" vehicle from an individual, at a low price. The "blue book" value for this model and year is listed at well above what I paid. The reason for the low price is obvious: It's going to take some money, and a lot of work, to get this car back in shape. Later I got a notice from PennDOT asking for more proof of the low price, or else I could owe the sales tax on the full book value. I'm not worried, because I really did pay the amount claimed, but can they charge people tax based on the higher book value?
Spring Creek Road bridge closed, no work being done
April 20, 2012
Q: I applaud the replacement of the many structurally deficient bridges in the area. However, can you tell me why bridges marked for replacement are quickly blocked off to traffic, but then very little or no work is done on them? Case in point: The Spring Creek Road bridge was closed March 1, yet we haven't seen any progress, and work is scheduled through October. It's an inconvenience for residents and a real problem for emergency vehicles. We previously witnessed slow progress on the other bridges nearby, on Trexlertown Road and Route 100. Is PennDOT trying to irritate the taxpayer? Is there no common sense in planning and scheduling?
Will 15 percent ethanol gas rev up engine damage?
April 16, 2012
Q: Last year you wrote about how gas with 15 percent ethanol content might be coming our way, but if so it could be used only in cars from the 2001 model year or later. I was wondering how the government can increase the ethanol content in gasoline to an amount that can't be used in vehicles from 2000 or earlier. There are a lot of people out there with older cars who can't afford a newer vehicle.
No sure solution to hazard of deer crossing roads
April 12, 2012
Q: Almost every night on Seipstown Road between Fogelsville and Seipstown, a small number of deer can be seen on the south side of the road. You can see the glowing eyes and/or the silhouettes in the field. Even though there is a "danger — deer crossing" sign in each direction, I'm surprised there are not more injuries or damaged vehicles from hitting deer. There probably are, since many of them don't get reported. Recently my car was hit by a deer on that road, which is the fifth time since 1993. I've heard that someone living near the area may be feeding the deer. Whether that's true or not, there is no question the area has an excessive, uncontrolled deer population. All the fields surrounding this area are posted 'no hunting.' To my knowledge nothing is being done by the Pennsylvania Game Commission to alleviate this road hazard.
PennDOT upgrades traffic radio signal
April 8, 2012
Q: As far as I'm concerned, PennDOT might as well scrap the traffic reports they broadcast at 1630 AM. No matter where you are, it is virtually impossible to get clear reception. The station fades in and out, adjusting the volume does little to improve it, and heaven forbid if you want to pick up traffic reports while driving near power lines! If this information is deemed helpful and important, you'd think the powers that be would take steps to move the broadcast to FM, or find ways to boost the wattage.
Why water gushed from manhole
April 2, 2012
Q: After a pretty heavy rain, why is there water gushing out of a manhole in the middle of the street on Winchester Road, right by Pond Road, in South Whitehall Township? Where does that water come from? There has been a traffic cone next to the manhole for several months, and during the last rain, a township police cruiser was parked in the middle of the road too. Cars have to drive through several inches of water as it is gushing out.
PennDOT nukes trees, shrubs for dump site
March 26, 2012
Q: Why is PennDOT removing all the trees, shrubs and everything else growing inside the ramp from westbound Tilghman Street to northbound Route 309? The usual reasons like clearing the way for sight-distance don't seem to apply because they're ripping out everything, including low bushes in the center of the loop, hundreds of feet from the roadways.
Car gets 'the boot' in Allentown for expired state inspection
March 22, 2012
Q: My mother's vehicle got a parking ticket earlier this year in Allentown for having expired state inspection and registration. She received said ticket while parked on a public street in front of her house on the East Side. On March 2, her car was "booted" while parked near the YMCA, miles away on the South Side, as she was helping a friend move. Is the city allowed to "boot" a vehicle for lack of payment on a ticket that is for inspection and registration?
Can you take tree cuttings left at roadside? Road Warrior says you need to ask for them
March 19, 2012
Q: Regarding all the wood from the trees that the PPL contractors are cutting down to relocate the utility lines and along MacArthur Road for the widening and other improvements, is it legal for passing motorists to stop and take the wood? We have seen people loading up their car trunks, pickup trucks, and attached trailers. Does PennDOT consider this legal? Residents are asking about it; some feel this is stealing.
Willowbrook weight-limit signs can't agree on message
March 15, 2012
Q: There's some confusing signage regarding truck tonnage over a small bridge on Willowbrook Road at W. Bullshead Road in Allen Township, across from Catty High School. One sign states 'no trucks over 20 tons' and another sign 15 feet behind it states 'no trucks over 10 tons.' Which is it?
Road Warrior: Most new cars lack a spare tire
March 12, 2012
Q: I've heard that it has become difficult to buy a car with a spare tire, and almost impossible to buy a car with an exact matching spare to use in a five-tire rotation. In addition, on some cars that do have spares, I've heard of a design problem with the mounting mechanism, often on pickup trucks and vans. The spare is mounted outside, underneath the rear of the vehicle, suspended by a single cable that is cranked down to lower the tire for removal. The cable assembly corrodes and the tire and wheel can fall to the ground while driving. Imagine following someone whose spare tire falls onto the highway at 60 mph or more. Sometimes the driver is not even aware the spare has fallen. I'm also aware of people being unable to lower the spare tire when needed because the gear mechanism was corroded.
Why can't they make another lane for people turning left onto 100?
March 9, 2012
Q: I work in the industrial park in Breinigsville and I turn left from eastbound Industrial Boulevard onto Route 100 most every day at 5 p.m., usually with heavy traffic. Industrial has a left-turn lane, and a center lane for left turns or traffic going straight, but the volume overwhelms the intersection at rush hours. Why can't they make another lane for people turning left onto 100? I believe that would alleviate all the congestion. The current left-turn capacity is not enough.
Street-name sign moved in Upper Macungie; ambulance misses turn
March 4, 2012
Q: When a stop sign was installed on North Lane at Haasadahl Road in Upper Macungie Township last year, the street-name sign for North Lane was relocated from the eastern side of Haasadahl to the top of the stop-sign post, pretty far back and away from Haasadahl. The street sign had been visible from both directions on Haasadahl, but the new location made it invisible from either direction. People have had difficulty trying to find my residence, including a majority of attendees when I hosted a high-school class reunion picnic. Their comments concerning the street sign location are not appropriate for inclusion in this missive. However, my greater concern is that emergency-response vehicles might also miss the turn. Homes on our portion of North Lane have an Allentown mailing address, and many GPS systems do not return the correct location. I emailed Upper Macungie Township and eventually someone emailed in return, saying the new sign location was within the code and would not be changed. Hopefully this situation can be rectified.
State law gives bicycles wide berth on streets
March 1, 2012
Q: My understanding is that state House Bill 170 dealing with bicycle safety rules makes it legal for a motorist to cross a double-yellow line to pass a cyclist. If that's correct, that means it currently is illegal to do so! That might explain why some drivers don't move over when otherwise they could. In any event, I basically support the provisions of this bill, and the measure has been signed into law by Gov. Corbett.
Road signs mar view of historic bridge
February 27, 2012
Q: At a recent meeting of citizens interested in protecting the historic Knecht's Covered Bridge in Springfield Township, our conversation included the array of signage that Bucks County has deemed appropriate to place in front of this beautiful structure. The majority of residents felt the signage was excessive. We understand the need for safety and to protect the bridge from damage by vehicle strikes, but the view of the bridge has been thoroughly trashed with signage, which devalues its historical importance. We think something could be done to eliminate or at least mitigate the stark visual intrusion while meeting reasonable notification requirements. Can you ask PennDOT to review the situation?
Cellphone chatter more distracting than passenger talk
February 23, 2012
Q: We have lately read how driving while texting is as dangerous, if not more so, than driving with a blood-alcohol level of .10. We have also heard that when driving with a phone in one's hand, or even while talking on a hands-free device, our concentration suffers and accidents increase. I do not take issue with those statistics. What I wonder, though, is whether safety studies have been done on the effects of distractions such as listening to the radio or having a conversation with a passenger. Has anyone studied accident rates stemming from listening to a radio talk show or having an animated discussion with a passenger, and compared them with those from cellphone use? If so, and if cellphone use is more dangerous, why might this be the case? Is the concentration process different? Does the use of a device require more concentration to listen and speak than listening and speaking to someone right next to you?
Headlights with wipers: Make it automatic
February 19, 2012
Q: Regarding people who fail to turn on their headlights in the rain, I have an idea: Require manufacturers to design vehicles so that whenever the wipers are turned on, the headlamps illuminate automatically. I don't know why car companies haven't done this already, voluntarily. Some models feature headlights that come on when it gets dark. How can we make this campaign a priority, much like the 'stop texting' program? You can help spread the word.
On-road fund-raising: Worth the risk to student safety?
February 16, 2012
Q: I need to preface my question with a statement that I am not against any particular group or their admirable fund-raising activities. However, I have a concern with the seeming increase in various groups collecting money at highway intersections. Over the years I have seen teenagers collecting funds at the intersection of Route 512 and Blue Valley Drive in Washington Township. Sometimes they stand in the middle of the highway and along the curbs collecting donations. I've seen several near misses with cars stopping abruptly to drop money in the bucket. The teens walk in the road without reflective safety vests and are barely visible. Is this legal, and if so, are there any restrictions? To me, it seems to be an accident waiting to happen with one wrong step or one distracted driver.
Crosswalk warning lights: wrong location?
February 13, 2012
Q: It was interesting to read about the high-tech illuminated crosswalk systems being installed along Chew Street through the Muhlenberg College campus to help improve pedestrian safety. However, most pedestrians at the college are young, healthy people. Why not prioritize, installing the most effective crosswalk warnings at locations such as 17th and Chew, where visitors to Lehigh Valley Hospital tend to be older and possibly ill, or Good Shepherd, where handicapped pedestrians abound?
Route 329: Dangerous road, or dangerous driving?
February 9, 2012
Q: It seems like once a week (but it's probably more like once a month) there's an accident on the stretch of Route 329 (Old Post Road) between Maple Street and Mauch Chunk Road. All the intersections are at odd angles and the beautifully paved road is deceiving in its curves and poorly banked angles. A baby died there a week ago — in an accident while seated on the lap of another passenger.
EPA estimates: Actual mileage will vary
February 6, 2012
Q: Anyone who buys a new car or truck and thinks he will get the miles per gallon stated on the window sticker is going to be very disappointed. A buyer should never make a purchase based on the listed mpg. The sticker estimate is taken from a controlled environment instead of everyday normal driving. I have been buying and driving new cars for 46 years, and my gas mileage has never matched the mpg listed on the sticker.
Bridge detour drags on, no sign of construction
February 2, 2012
Q: Why is there absolutely no progress on the 15th Street Bridge repair in Allentown? It seems like it's been at a standstill forever. This is a major city artery, one that I use frequently, still closed to northbound traffic. Our tax dollars at work? Somebody dropped the ball on this one and I am fed up.
Natural gas filling station fuels questions
January 29, 2012
Q: I noticed a few weeks ago that the gas station at 1825 Route 309 in South Whitehall is now selling natural gas as fuel for cars, at least according to their sign. It's listed at $2.89 (not sure if that's per gallon or per pound). Thought I would update you on this story, which has been developing at this station for over three years.
Snarls abound at Airport Center
January 27, 2012
Q: Anyone who had the misfortune of patronizing the new Airport Center shopping center over the holidays can attest to the poorly functioning traffic plan. On Airport Center Road coming off Airport Road, the two lanes are marked with ineffectual directional arrows that do little to notify drivers they need to be in the left lane to continue on Airport Center Road, or in the right-turn-only lane to enter the shopping center. Motorists exiting the shopping center at that point likely are in for a long wait and can risk an accident as they proceed into the intersection, hoping the car barreling toward them in the right-turn lane is actually turning right. The entire intersection is confusing and dangerous.
PennDOT turns to roundabouts on Route 222 in Berks
January 22, 2012
Q: Roundabouts! That's PennDOT's choice for two of the three congested intersections on Route 222 where roundabouts were being evaluated as possible replacements for 'standard' signalized intersections. The third one gets the standard treatment — widening, more turn lanes and the rest. Could the roundabouts work? Sure. Are they the best choices for those three intersections? I am not as sure. I'd want to see examples of rural roundabouts functioning elsewhere to determine what the benefits and pitfalls have been. That being said, doing something at those intersections is better than doing nothing, and roundabouts would certainly be better than the status quo.
Opposing traffic in parking-lot designs
January 19, 2012
Q: There are going to be a lot accidents at the entrance/exit lane for the parking lot at the new Giant market in Trexlertown. People don't realize that incoming traffic from Hamilton Boulevard does not stop. Those trying to exit the shopping center there are going to get hit because there are no signs informing them that oncoming traffic has the right-of-way. There should be a traffic light or a four-way stop there, before someone is seriously hurt or killed.
Applying the brakes to LED billboards
January 15, 2012
Q: Can anything be done to get rid of these electronic billboards? They are dangerous! Several times I've seen cars significantly drift out of their lanes because the drivers are watching the billboards instead of the road. Folks who would never consider texting while driving can't help but get sucked into these massive, bright, colorful screens that change every few seconds. It's like TV for the road warriors. So wha'dya think? Any prayer of getting rid of these evils before I get taken out in a drive-by reading?
Allentown bicycle plan would eliminate traffic lanes
January 12, 2012
Q: Allentown seems to be pushing forward with proposed bicycle-lane 'improvements' that concern many residents and businesspeople along the affected routes. Officials want to eliminate traffic lanes on parts of Linden and Turner streets, which would be bad enough any time, but will cause gridlock when hockey arena traffic is added. I think the city has dramatically underestimated the effects of these bike lanes on traffic flow and parking availability. Many more motorists will be affected negatively than bicycle riders who will benefit. The public has to get involved with this before the city goes too far with it. Can you help us get the word out?
Pedestrians: Be cautious near hockey arena site
January 8, 2012
Q: A serious accident or injury could result if some corrections are not made along Linden Street bordering the site of the Mayor's Ice Palace. My wife drives on Linden Street at night for her work commute, and she's worried about the chain-link fencing installed along the Ice Palace border, to the outer edge of the Linden sidewalk. Every night someone or several people are walking on the travel lane of Linden, coming east against traffic, without reflective clothing, sometimes pushing kids in strollers. Instead of building a 'roofed' scaffold over the sidewalk like the one that sheltered the sidewalk along the nearby Americus Centre building for several years, Ice Palace officials extended the fencing to the curb on Linden, forcing people to walk in the street. Someone is going to be hit and injured, or worse. A scaffold should be installed on Linden for pedestrian safety.
Would green arrows point to less congestion?
January 5, 2012
Q: The development growth in the Wescosville area and the arrival of the Route 222 Bypass have produced a bottleneck at the intersection of Hamilton Boulevard and Brookside Road. The entrances and exits at the nearby businesses further complicate matters, and continued growth is expected along Hamilton. Surprisingly, there is only one right-turn green arrow at this intersection, for northbound Brookside traffic turning right onto Hamilton. The other turning lanes do not have green arrows, and rush-hour congestion results from traffic waiting to turn in either direction onto Hamilton. Is there talk about putting more turning arrows at the intersection to alleviate the traffic jams?
Readers tune up suggestions for red-light cameras
January 2, 2012
Q: In lieu of a question, I'm providing some interesting suggestions from motorists on ways to clarify or simplify a common dilemma: When is it best to stop as the traffic light turns from green to yellow, versus the decision to continue through the intersection? The high beams are trained on this issue because red-light cameras might be heading our way. Philadelphia is the only city authorized by state law to use red-light cameras, but legislation is being considered that would allow other cities the option. Come to think of it, the suggestions below are worth considering regardless of the red-light enforcement method — food for thought for traffic engineers.
Bicycle lanes graced Fahy Bridge in the '70s
December 29, 2011
Q: In the 1970s, the community group BIKE promoted bicycle lanes and bicycle-safety programs. With the support of city officials, bike lanes were installed on downtown Bethlehem streets. Among BIKE's priorities was the inclusion of bike lanes and other safety improvements on the Fahy Bridge, where, nearly 40 years later, bicyclist Patrick Ytsma sadly lost his life. A June 29, 1973 letter to city and state officials concluded, 'A serious accident involving a bicyclist on this bridge will be directly attributable to poor design and a failure to correct the hazardous conditions … ' In spring 1974, bike lanes with graphic bicycle markings were added on the bridge in both directions. The lanes remained for years, but at some point were removed. They should be restored. The lanes may not totally prevent accidents, but they reduce the frequency, providing a desirable margin of safety.
Bright idea: Headlights always ride along with the wipers
December 25, 2011
Q: This is a good time of the year to remind people there are two reasons that cars have headlights. First, for drivers to see where they are going, and second, for other drivers to see them coming. It can be dark during both the morning and evening rush hours, yet some motorists continue to drive without their headlights on, apparently because they feel they can see well enough, and they are unconscious of the second reason for a car having lights. Others decide to drive with just their parking lights on, which doesn't save much energy. A reminder about this could probably save a few collisions.
Tight squeeze on Hill-to-Hill turning lanes
December 22, 2011
Q: Now that the road improvements basically are done at the south end of Bethlehem's Hill-to-Hill Bridge and the intersections to the east, it seems the two left-turn lanes from Delaware Avenue east onto Route 378 north are too narrow for two cars to pass through side-by-side, or at least, it seems pretty tight. I can't even imagine two Mack trucks trying to make the turn. Is this engineering design acceptable, and will it keep traffic moving through this high-traffic intersection as well as possible without causing confusion and contributing to fender-benders?
Fahy Bridge fatality flicks high beams on bicycle safety
December 19, 2011
Q: I am a bicycle commuter. I enjoy bicycling to work both for the exercise and to save money. I was very saddened to learn of the recent death of Pat Ytsma, a cyclist who was reported to be very concerned with bicycle safety and yet was hit by a car as he rode with the traffic and in the traffic lane on his way across Bethlehem's Fahy Bridge. I think many motorists need to be aware that bicyclists have every right to be in the road. It's safer for both motorists and bicyclists when cyclists ride in a way that makes themselves both visible and predictable, which means with the flow of traffic and it can mean in the center of the lane rather than off to the side where they are potentially out of sight to people in cars. Could you help us cyclists spread the word and encourage both motor-vehicle drivers and bicyclists to be courteous to each other?
White Castle entrance lane stalls out
December 16, 2011
Q: Why is the entrance lane from MacArthur Road into the new White Castle restaurant in Whitehall Township still closed, more than a month after the business opened?
Yellow phase not always mellow
December 11, 2011
Q: Is there a specific amount of time that a caution (yellow) light on a traffic signal needs to be? For example, the yellow light at Route 222 and Lincoln Avenue, near Dorney Park, seems to be a couple seconds less than the other caution lights along the same highway. I've witnessed people slamming on their brakes or, more frequently, running a red light.
Mystery structure graced Allentown Center Square
December 9, 2011
Q: Here is a challenge: Attached is a photo of the intersection of Seventh and Hamilton streets, Center Square in Allentown, in the late 1940s. What was the purpose of the little tower shaped like a cupola?
Yellow light to red a judgment call
December 5, 2011
Q: Regarding the red-light cameras used at intersections to catch drivers running red lights, what is the law, precisely? At what point is a driver in violation? Can you continue through if the light turns yellow? If any part of your vehicle is in the intersection when the light turns red, is that a violation? I know you can't go through if the light turns red before you get to the intersection, but there are some gray areas as to what constitutes a violation. When exactly is a driver in violation? With a police officer judgment is a factor as to whether a violation occurred. That will not be the case with cameras!
Don't horse around with equines on roads
December 1, 2011
Q: I have a subject I would like you to report on that would benefit the many Lehigh Valley residents who love to ride horses. Please look into the road etiquette and laws regarding who has the right of way and other rules for approaching and passing horses on the road or at the side of the road. Many motorists display great disregard for people riding their horses at the roadside. If you put the word out, it might help save the life of a horse, a horse's owner, or a motorist.
Easing jams at Eighth Street underpass
November 27, 2011
Q: I remember, many years ago, when a pedestrian walkway was added to the underpass at S. Eighth Street/Mack Boulevard in Allentown. A guardrail and stop signs were erected to slow traffic for the walkers' safety. I've noticed over the years that drivers are increasingly believing that the stop signs mean that cars should alternate from both sides to enter the underpass, and they drive in the middle of the road, whereas the road is wide enough for two cars to pass going in opposite directions if they would stay in their own lane. Why are the double-yellow lines leading to the underpass not continued through it, to let drivers know that, after they have stopped, they can continue on through?
'Tow plow' can clear two snowy lanes at once
November 25, 2011
Motorists who can't avoid traveling on Pennsylvania highways during snowstorms this winter should keep an eye out for oversized snowplow vehicles capable of clearing two highway lanes in one pass, according to state officials.
Missing signs yield safety concerns
November 24, 2011
Q: One of the problems I have on the highway involves drivers failing to honor the yield signs. They scurry to break into the flow without regard to where the traffic is. I have had many close calls, barely avoiding fender-benders and direct hits. At license renewal, PennDOT should provide information on the regulations for yielding to highway traffic. As I understand it, yield means you wait till there is no traffic coming or when the space is sufficient to enter the highway safely.
Odd traffic pattern aids police responses
November 20, 2011
Q: What is going on at 10th and Hamilton streets in Allentown? With the opening of the police station on the northwest corner, the street lights are being replaced and now they're adding confusing line painting on 10th Street. Turning from Hamilton onto one-way northbound 10th you'll now notice about 100 feet of double-yellow line along with a stop bar for southbound traffic at Hamilton. The line paint would make you think that 10th is now two-way at that spot, but the signs do not agree. If 10th is two-way at that spot, someone could turn from Hamilton into the left lane of 10th Street and be confronted by oncoming traffic. I'm assuming the police station needed access on 10th to Hamilton, but if this is the case shouldn't the signs change?