Letters

In June, I read in this publication that there was a suggestion by East Hampton Town planners to the Town Board to create a traffic circle at the intersection of Stephen Hands Path, Long Lane and Two Holes of Water Road [“East Hampton Considering Roundabout At Stephen Hands Path Intersection,” 27east.com, June 19].

I disagree with Town Planning Director Marguerite Wolffsohn’s statement that traffic circles are “way safer” than regular intersections. I find them to be confusing and, in many cases, poorly designed.

Many of the issues that plague Stephen Hands Path could be remedied by widening the road, including the verges that, in many places, are not even wide enough to accommodate the width of an average human foot, much less a pedestrian or bicycle! The numerous drainage issues need to be addressed, as the deep depressions and pools of water are hazardous to drivers, pedestrians and cyclists, and are a breeding area for mosquitoes. Improved visibility with better landscaping and slightly less curvy roads would also improve safety conditions.

There are so many roads in the town that need improvement. We have too many with no verges or verges that are crumbling. Drainage is a constant issue. Just drive through Springs after even a moderate rainfall!

Keep storm drains clear, and stop wasting funds on street sweeping in residential areas on weekends. The white and yellow lines on our roads and crosswalks are not repainted often enough, with the reflective property of the paint wearing out much too soon. This is even more dangerous, because our rural location has fewer streetlights than more populated areas. When a section of roadway is resurfaced, it is often months before the lines are put down. All of our crosswalks need better illumination and markings.

It is time that the Town of East Hampton invest in its roads more wisely. We don’t need a costly study to tell us that!

Frances J. SteinSprings