Letters to the Editor

Town Center likely to add to signal woes

Given the subject of the lead article in The News Virginian ("Town Center's Other Big Impact: Traffic," Aug. 29) I would like to ask the following question:

To whom would we direct a request for an analysis of the current timing of the lights on U.S. 340 as one approaches the Interstate 64 interchange heading west-

This morning, in an effort to get onto I-64, I not only had to slow down to the 25-mph school zone speed limit, but I had to stop at every single light along the way.  Every.  Single.  One.  Martin's.  Lucy Lane.  Lew Dewitt Boulevard.  All within a few yards of each other.

Add the new traffic that the Town Center is expected to bring to the already poorly-timed lights that currently exist, and I see a recipe for hair-pulling frustration.

It's not even just a matter of the 'inconvenience' of having to stop three times within a 200-yard area and the time that  is entailed -- there is also the extra gas and wear and tear on a vehicle from the "stop-accelerate-stop-again-and-again-and-again"  action. 

It seems to me to be a fairly simple fix: Change the timing of the lights to better reflect the flow of traffic in that area.  Are our lights on a timing system-  Who is responsible for making the assessment that a change is needed-

Given the examples I have already seen regarding how quickly needed action is taken (prime example:  stormwater management), perhaps we could try being proactive on a small issue first, addressing it before it grows exponentially as traffic is expected to do along that corridor.

I'm hopeful it's a concern that can be addressed easily, and before the Town Center traffic becomes even more of an issue.

Deb Booth

Waynesboro

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Quit undermining Smith

I have been observing all of the publicity with regard to Lorie Smith's "alleged" conflict of interest with the stormwater issue.

As most people realize, there is no conflict of interest. Mrs. Smith has gone above and beyond the call of duty to get a legal opinion, which has stated that she has no conflict of interest. She should be commended.

It is time that this situation is seen for what it is. The businesses that are being referred to in the press which are pressing this issue should be revealed to the public.

Our present council is not beholden to any business group and fairly represents the interests of all citizens and businesses. This is obviously not sitting well with those who no longer have power.

It is quite disappointing to have our elected officials undermined in this manner. It is no wonder that more people do not run for office.

It is time for everyone to move on and support all of the wonderful work being accomplished by our council. Is this negative environment what we want Waynesboro to be known for-

Kim Craft

Waynesboro