Reader Responses

Timed lights? In a news broadcast it was reported the timers for traffic lights in Tyler had been installed at a cost of $500,000. I have two questions: Where are the timed lights and, when will we see an improvement in traffic flow now the city has spent so much?

Traveling through Waco on Highway 84 I was able to drive from the east side of town to the west side without stopping once! It was great. That is what a timed system should allow.

When I moved to Tyler in 1988 I could drive down Fifth Street to Glenwood without stopping, as long as I did the speed limit. That was a timed system! Now I know if I drive in Tyler I will hit numerous red lights no matter what speed I go.

Our city's governing body saw fit to spend millions putting a median down South Broadway and now the loop that does little to nothing about making it more proficient to get around Tyler. They had the concrete molded to look like brick and planted flowers so it would be pleasing to the eye.

As Tyler grows so does the traffic problem, we all know that! As fuel costs rise it is more imperative we all conserve. So when will the city do its part and time the lights? By having a timed traffic system the city will accomplish several things; lower drivers' frustrations, save fuel, have fewer red light runners and encourage drivers to do the speed limit.

If, as in the past, lights were timed to allow a positive traffic flow of ongoing traffic and not the turning traffic Tyler would once again be an enjoyable place to live, shop, work and visit instead of a place where people hate to drive. I have friends in surrounding communities who state, "I used to shop in Tyler, but now I hate to because of the traffic, so I just don't come to Tyler." I suggest Tyler's governing body do something now or the voters will elect people who will!

Jerry Wrinkle
Tyler