Highway engineers evaluating ‘dangerous’ intersection

By Christy Marsters

The Hants Journal

NovaNewsNow.com

It was a relief for many when Highway 101 was twinned and an overpass replaced the level crossing to Lockhartville and the Ben Jackson Road at Exit 8A.

But many drivers continue to view Exit 8A as dangerous.

Peter Murray lives in Hantsport but commutes to Kentville for work. He says there is no doubt in the world this new exit is a great advantage from before. “However, after heading east – homeward to Hantsport – I’ve noticed that you have to creep into this intersection to check to see if there is traffic coming up over the bridge.”

It’s a very dangerous situation coming off this ramp at Exit 8A, Murray noted, “and, if something is not done, there’s going to be an accident for sure.” “I have witnessed almost one accident already at the location,” Murray said. “A car in front of me one evening coming home pulled out at this stop sign to turn left … and it almost got hit by a vehicle [coming across the overpass.]”

The biggest concern is safety and the Department of Transportation needs to make a modification here before someone gets hurt, Murray added. “I called [the DOT] and voiced my concern. They left me a voicemail to say that the traffic division was looking into what they could do.”

The Department of Transportation Communications Advisor Patricia Jreige said that the construction of the overpass at Exit 8A was built to standards set by the Province.

Still, complaints of visibility at this exit intersection were received, and a review was done, which lead to a new line being re–painted further south at this stop sign, Jreige said. “Since, we have received more complaints. So, we’re reviewing it again.” “[Engineers] will determine options based on their review ... to ensure this is safe for drivers,” Jreige added. “I don’t have a firm timeline ... but we are aware [of this issue] and will go out as soon as possible.”