To the editor,
The people of Pictou County are well aware of the tragic history of the Abercrombie/Trenton connector intersection, and the ongoing debate of what is the best course of action to rectify this dangerous location.
I myself experienced an extremely close call at this perilous area. Just last week, while driving with my young son in the back, I approached the intersection and was met with a green light. Fortunately, I have recently made it a habit of stopping, regardless of the light colour, to ensure the approaching traffic is obeying the signal before proceeding through the intersection myself.
On this occasion a white suburban, heading east toward Trenton failed to adhere to the red light and proceeded through the intersection at approximately 80 km per hour. Needless to say, things may not have ended well if I had just assumed I would be safe because of the green light signal.
I have heard all the talk of a possible future solution to this dangerous area, whether it be a round-a-bout or some variation of it. I commend all for recognizing the dangerous situation and the consultation needed to find a permanent, safe, cost effective solution, but we need to act immediately before we have another tragic accident .
I would propose we immediately make this intersection a four-way stop with flashing red lights and rumble strips for all approaching traffic. While it is true there will still be some who purposely or inadvertently may ignore the stop signals , chances are that all other traffic would have stopped to access the situation and thus avoid a terrible accident.
This may or may not be a permanent solution , but it is something that is cost effective, and will increase the safety of this area until a final decision is made on what is best for this high traffic area. The time for action is now. Put an end to the Russian roulette that now exists at this intersection.
Frank Proudfoot
Pictou County resident
