As a daily commuter on Coastal Highway, I have noticed that the grassed medians between the inlet bridge and north to Dewey Beach are not being maintained properly by Delaware Department of Transportation mowing crews. The only areas being mowed are at the U-turn location vicinities. I would like to advocate on behalf of the wildlife and for vehicular safety that at least a 10-foot strip of grass shoulder be mowed along the entirety of both north- and southbound sides of the medians (if not the entire median).
Currently, the grass is at such a height that there is no sight distance beyond the edge of the pavement, which does not give motorists time to react should wildlife such as foxes, turtles, deer or other animals enter the roadway unexpectedly, which I observe often. Also of safety concern is traffic in the opposite direction. I have witnessed oncoming vehicles enter the median by accident, distraction or through medical issue. The current grass height would prevent drivers from seeing an oncoming out-of-control vehicle that entered the median and is crossing into their lane of travel.
The medians south of the inlet bridge are all entirely mowed, and I feel the medians to the north should be treated likewise. Please give the wildlife a chance and vehicle safety a thought, and mow these overgrown medians.
Ryan Phifer
Rehoboth Beach
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