Having attended DelDOT’s workshop on the Kings Highway roundabout project, I have several takeaways. My first question to a DelDOT representative was whether the Delaware River and Bay Authority (which operates the Cape May-Lewes Ferry) has been consulted. I was assured that it had been. I asked what the authority’s position was given that it is a major traffic contributor to the highway. The rep left to seek an answer only to return to tell me that DRBA has not had input at the inception of this massive project. Doesn’t it seem logical that knowing the traffic projections from a major traffic generator would be important at the very start?
One of the goals of a roundabout, as presented by the Historic Lewes Byway Committee, is that a traffic-calming device such as a roundabout slows traffic, maintains flow, increases traffic capacity. Having traffic slowed and flow maintained at the same time seems counterproductive. When the ferry discharges vehicles, the backup on Kings Highway is long and frustrating. How is the added impediment of drivers trying to navigate roundabouts going to help?
When I asked about the logistics of acclimating out-of-state drivers traveling to and from the ferry with Delaware’s roundabout rules, I was told that it would be a learning curve. Translation: accidents?
I also asked about the accommodation for ferry traffic while construction was ongoing (which will take years) and apparently that hasn’t been considered as of yet.
Moreover, the biggest enlightenment for me was how many of these roundabouts are dedicated to future development. Taxpayers should demand to know how much the massive bill for this project will be covered by these developers.
If the development is causing the need for these accommodations and these developers will benefit from this project, shouldn’t they pay for it?
Of the five roundabouts proposed, the only one that makes sense to me is the one for the Dartmouth intersection. The others seem like overkill where clear, signaled crosswalks and turn lanes would suffice rather than the gargantuan upheaval that is proposed. Please go back to the drawing board on this project.
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