We need to slow down on U.S. 95

U.S. Highway 95 is a busy and dangerous roadway, especially in the summer. I’ve only lived in Sagle for seven years, but have been made aware of the many accidents, sometimes fatal, from Sagle to the Long Bridge.

A stop light was installed at Sagle Road. Good.

Then the “Texas turnaround” to assist left-turners from Lakeshore Drive onto 95. Good. (Kind of different, but good.)

Now a “right turn only” change at the Lakeshore intersection. Good.

Faster traffic makes more dangerous intersections for motorists trying to enter from and exit to other side streets such as Shop Road, Pit Road, Brisboys, Bottle Bay, Denali... etc.

Slower traffic reduces this hazard. Agreed?

Like many others, I have an idea for the next “safer driving” step that could take place on 95.

Eliminate the 55mph zone between Sagle and Sandpoint, making it 45 mph the whole way. (I’m certain I’m not the first person to suggest this.)

Here’s the math:

From the 55-mph sign in Sagle to the 45-mph sign at the north end of the Long Bridge is almost 4.2 miles.

• 4.2 miles at 55 mph takes 4.58 minutes.

• 4.2 miles at 45 mph takes 5.6 minutes.

One minute faster just to go 55 mph. One minute?

Us old-timers remember “55 Saves Lives.” Think 45 could be better?

What is the real need for 55 mph through that section of U.S. 95?  One minute?

If you are in such a hurry, you should have left yesterday.

D. CLYDE COSSETTE

Sagle