View Full Version : Meredith Traffic
bruinsfan
08-07-2019, 02:14 PM
It is worse off than before.
I've sat through three light cycles because the new pedestrian Red Light walkway that has everyone confused.
Drivers need to understand that you only STOP when the lights are red. You don't stop for every person that stands near the crosswalk, because after they cross because you've been "kind" the light turns red a minute later and no one is there, but cars stop again for no reason.
I feel better now that I've got that off my chest.
Have a great day! :)
VitaBene
08-07-2019, 02:22 PM
Agreed, they need better signage for drivers. Pedestrians get good info including countdown timers.
Sue Doe-Nym
08-07-2019, 02:23 PM
You are right...it’s a mess! There should be a sign: STOP On RED ONLY. It pays us to take the “short cut “ around Meredith (25B, past old print barn) during summer months.
Orion
08-07-2019, 02:31 PM
You are right...it’s a mess! There should be a sign: STOP On RED ONLY.
....... or have a green light when you shouldn't stop. The light being dark (when not red) just looks like it's broken, requiring drivers to stop for a normal non-light-controlled crosswalk.
Outdoorsman
08-07-2019, 03:40 PM
For those that may not realize..... Life happens in the Lakes Region 24/7/365.
This stuff may not be occurring while you are in the area, but it happens
https://www.unionleader.com/news/safety/pedestrian-hit-by-suv-seriously-injured-in-meredith/article_06ff812e-e5c0-5525-b1c4-53df3fe920f7.html
jbolty
08-07-2019, 03:48 PM
The real solution is a bridge or tunnel for pedestrians.
I found myself going through Meredith about 8 times in three days last week and every time after making the left the whole flow of traffic was stopped and as mentioned a couple times when the ped light was off. Definitely need a full time green,
another option would be to not let the ped light go red when the left turn is green
camp guy
08-07-2019, 04:07 PM
Hold it!, jbolty, you are starting to make sense, don't you realize that traffic engineers spent years in school to learn the fine art of traffic (out of) control.?
When we were taught as kids you looked both ways before crossing and only crossed when clear regardless of being in a crosswalk. Vehicles should have right of way when traffic signals are in their favor.
TiltonBB
08-07-2019, 05:27 PM
Vehicles should have right of way when traffic signals are in their favor.
No "should" about it. They do.
garysanfran
08-07-2019, 06:04 PM
The real solution is a bridge or tunnel for pedestrians.
I found myself going through Meredith about 8 times in three days last week and every time after making the left the whole flow of traffic was stopped and as mentioned a couple times when the ped light was off. Definitely need a full time green,
another option would be to not let the ped light go red when the left turn is green
I was in that mess today and thought a REALLY, REALLY, REALLY nice bridge that would actually be something people would enjoy looking at would be better than the debacle happening now.
There's one out near where I live...painted International Orange that has become quite popular. Cost a small fortune to get over, however, but that's with a car. Still free to walk.
tummyman
08-07-2019, 06:04 PM
Help me...what happens when the red light flashes. Cars are still stopped even after there are no people crossing. Drivers stay stopped until lights go out. What is the law?
Hillcountry
08-07-2019, 06:32 PM
Help me...what happens when the red light flashes. Cars are still stopped even after there are no people crossing. Drivers stay stopped until lights go out. What is the law?
Red flashing “used to” mean stop then go if clear but those same lights had me baffled the other day too...sat there for a bit and the wife said “just go!”
Why are there 3 of them??
Wifi-1
08-07-2019, 06:32 PM
Stop on Red...
Could be solved with a human directing traffic during busy times, just like should be done at Hannafords (on a regular basis)
Major
08-07-2019, 07:17 PM
I just witnessed an accident on Memorial Drive at the exit for Main Street. There is a similar red flashing light nearby and a car inexplicably stopped for the yellow flashing light. The car behind it rear ended the car that stopped. Obviously it was the car that rear ended the other car’s fault, but my sympathy lies with the guy who rear ended the car that stopped. The red flashing lights are confusing especially for the uninitiated!
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tbonies
08-07-2019, 07:17 PM
Have been through the lights daily and think it is a great improvement and much safer for pedestrians. While we have to stop every now and then, it never crossed my mind as something worth complaining about.
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Sue Doe-Nym
08-07-2019, 07:29 PM
I don’t think anyone is complaining for the sake of complaining, but the new signals are very confusing to many, and that’s causing slowdowns and fender benders. This requires immediate review and possible modifications, imho.
joey2665
08-07-2019, 08:14 PM
Stop on Red...
Could be solved with a human directing traffic during busy times, just like should be done at Hannafords (on a regular basis)
That is exactly what the had and replaced it with this system. There is an easy fix. The light should be like a regular traffic light. It should only turn from green to red when pedestrians are going to cross otherwise stay green and no one would stop unnecessarily
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Sue Doe-Nym
08-07-2019, 08:28 PM
You might have the perfect solution, simple as it is. The only problem I see with it is that many pedestrians step off the curb without looking, assuming that people will stop.....which isn’t always the case. What’s happened to actually looking both ways before crossing??? 🤨🙄😣
jimkberry
08-07-2019, 09:15 PM
....... or have a green light when you shouldn't stop. The light being dark (when not red) just looks like it's broken, requiring drivers to stop for a normal non-light-controlled crosswalk.
^This. Actually a green arrow would be the best, but there should always be a visible light.
Doesn't help drivers not knowing that a flashing red light is a stop sign (pretty basic driver's test stuff) but it *would* help with basically well-intentioned, but misguided, drivers thinking they might be supposed to yield to pedestrians when there is no light at all.
-jim
tummyman
08-07-2019, 09:52 PM
2015 New Hampshire Revised Statutes
Title XXI - MOTOR VEHICLES
Chapter 265 - RULES OF THE ROAD
Section 265:12 - Flashing Signals.
Universal Citation: NH Rev Stat § 265:12 (2015)
265:12 Flashing Signals. –
I. Whenever an illuminated flashing red or yellow signal is used in a traffic sign or signal it shall require obedience by vehicular traffic as follows:
(a) Flashing red (stop signal). When a red lens is illuminated with rapid intermittent flashes, drivers of vehicles shall stop before entering the nearest crosswalk at an intersection or at a limit line when marked, or if none, then before entering the intersection, and the right to proceed shall be subject to the rules applicable after making a stop at a stop sign.
My interpretation only....stop like at a stop sign, then proceed if no pedestrians in cross walk. Other cars that follow would have to do the same.
garysanfran
08-08-2019, 06:01 AM
2015 New Hampshire Revised Statutes
Title XXI - MOTOR VEHICLES
Chapter 265 - RULES OF THE ROAD
Section 265:12 - Flashing Signals.
Universal Citation: NH Rev Stat § 265:12 (2015)
Everyone...EVERYONE knows this. I always thought this was the absolute first thing taught in driver's ed.
Kinda like boating on Lake Winnipesaukee...Everyone took the boating course and now knows the rules.
garysanfran
08-08-2019, 06:04 AM
Because Meredith hates "traffic lights" and will do everything and anything to put something up that can be called something else. How about one at Pleasant and 25? Call it a puppy!
thinkxingu
08-08-2019, 06:14 AM
Have been through the lights daily and think it is a great improvement and much safer for pedestrians. While we have to stop every now and then, it never crossed my mind as something worth complaining about.
Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=92687)We only go through a couple times a week, but it's usually during busy times and we've not really noticed an issue.
That being said, I get the confusion and having a green light there is certainly simple enough.
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SAMIAM
08-08-2019, 06:51 AM
We drive through daily and find that the confusion at the crosswalk is causing traffic to back up so that it blocks the intersection at 3/25 so that southbound traffic can't move when the light changes.
jbolty
08-08-2019, 07:34 AM
We drive through daily and find that the confusion at the crosswalk is causing traffic to back up so that it blocks the intersection at 3/25 so that southbound traffic can't move when the light changes.
exactly.
on a full cycle some number of cars can get thru, call it 100. But when everything stops for the crosswalk then maybe only 50 get through and before you know it's backed up to moulton's farm.
a nice looking timber bridge with a "welcome to Meredith" archway would solve the problem.
Or, a tunnel which could be closed in the winter.
Wifi-1
08-08-2019, 08:05 AM
Just wait for some wise guy to start walking back and forth to back up traffic from the Weirs to M'boro, LOL
whalebackpoint'r
08-08-2019, 08:32 AM
How about a gate, controlled by the light that would keep pedestrians on sidewalk until the light turns red? Sort of like the gates at rr crossings.
bilproject
08-08-2019, 09:12 AM
Go here to get official instructions on the new cross walk https://www.meredithnh.org/home/news/town-docks-crosswalk-information
Andromeda321
08-08-2019, 09:27 AM
This might sound odd, but I always feel a little guilty as a pedestrian at that cross walk. Mainly because it takes a minute or two for the light to change once you press the button, and I have always had someone stop to let me cross before that happens. Then the lights always go once there is no one in the crosswalk any more!
I frankly wonder if the timer could just be shorter between the button being pressed and the lights flashing, like every other place I've ever lived with similar. It would probably cut down on a lot of the confusion.
jbolty
08-08-2019, 09:55 AM
This might sound odd, but I always feel a little guilty as a pedestrian at that cross walk. Mainly because it takes a minute or two for the light to change once you press the button, and I have always had someone stop to let me cross before that happens. Then the lights always go once there is no one in the crosswalk any more!
I frankly wonder if the timer could just be shorter between the button being pressed and the lights flashing, like every other place I've ever lived with similar. It would probably cut down on a lot of the confusion.
Funny, I was meeting some friends at dockside the other day and got there too early by mistake. Thought I would take a walk up to main street but didn't because it did not seem important enough to stop all the traffic.
people stop thinking they are being polite but it causes anarchy and a huge backup on 25
no reason for a delay on the button. unless it's synched with the signal at 3/25 it might as well go red instantly; it's not like there is a yellow pre warning
What P's me off at any cross walk is when they press the walk button then immediately cross. 30 seconds after that all the lights at the intersection stay red and there's nobody there anymore needing to cross. Happens everywhere! Ugh!!!
garysanfran
08-08-2019, 12:51 PM
Go here to get official instructions on the new cross walk https://www.meredithnh.org/home/news/town-docks-crosswalk-information
How many people would go on the internet for instructions on the new crosswalk before they come to Meredith...Is this done by real people with logical brains? You have to go to a web site for instructions on a street sign...WOW! And maybe another WOW is deserved.!!!
Would a proper defense be "I don't have access to the internet, so I just didn't know what to do when the red started flashing."
jbolty
08-08-2019, 02:24 PM
How many people would go on the internet for instructions on the new crosswalk before they come to Meredith...Is this done by real people with logical brains? You have to go to a web site for instructions on a street sign...WOW! And maybe another WOW is deserved.!!!
Would a proper defense be "I don't have access to the internet, so I just didn't know what to do when the red started flashing."
Ignorance of the law is no excuse!
What about the color blind?
garysanfran
08-08-2019, 02:36 PM
Ignorance of the law is no excuse!
What about the color blind?
Red on the top...Green on the bottom...Hmmm, Or is it the other way around.
Ignorance of the law is why we have lawyers
loony
08-09-2019, 07:10 AM
I was also confused. I get that a flashing red is the same as a stop sign but alternating flashing red lights are like those on a school bus where you must stop no matter what.
They should add a green light to avoid confusion. A pedestrian gate would also prevent polite drivers from stopping when lights are off. Would Would certainly be cheaper than a tunnel.
TheTimeTraveler
08-09-2019, 08:17 PM
I was also confused. I get that a flashing red is the same as a stop sign but alternating flashing red lights are like those on a school bus where you must stop no matter what.
They should add a green light to avoid confusion. A pedestrian gate would also prevent polite drivers from stopping when lights are off. Would Would certainly be cheaper than a tunnel.
They should have a flashing yellow light to tell people to slow down and be prepared to stop if needed......
Not standard lighting for this area, if not this country. Dumb system.
frank m.
08-11-2019, 02:56 PM
I communicated with the Meredith Town Manager, Phil Warren about this. He's a good guy and knows how to get things done, but his hands are a bit tied over this. The Feds paid for all the redevelopment of the stretch and they required the HAWK crossing signal. I had recommended a RYG crossing signal synced with the big intersection so that pedestrians would need to wait until the southbound traffic was already stopped at the intersection anyway to cross. The crossing light would go yellow to red a bit after the southbound light went red and if there were pedestrians waiting to cross. After giving them time to cross it would go green. Driver's presumably know to GO at a green light. The problem with the HAWK signal is that despite what they were taught in driver's ed, they don't know that they can go, if safe, at a blinking red. This is delaying things until traffic back up through the intersection and only 4-5 southbound cars are getting through the intersection on their green light. It is also causing a lot of honking and swearing and is surely going to result in some road range or a pull-around accident.
The problem could go away as HAWK signals get more familiar, as did the initial problems with right-on-red. Or we could make an effort to convince the Feds to let it be changed to a synchronized RYG crossing signal.
But the later would need the raising of some money, and maybe a connection to someone high up in the USDoT, to get an allowance around the HAWK requirement. Meanwhile, it would not hurt the cause to have people expressing their frustration to Phil... so he can appreciate how bad it is... pwarren@meredithnh.org
DickR
08-12-2019, 09:23 AM
I thought the purpose of the whole project was to improve traffic flow at critical high-volume times. Has there been any improvement at all? If there hasn't been, due to how the crossing area signals are set up, then I would think Meredith would have a strong case to present to the Feds. I don't go through there on weekends, due to congestion, so I'm going by what I hear on this forum.
Meredith AK
08-12-2019, 09:51 AM
The new "formal with lights and walk signal" crosswalk replaces the two former crosswalks that cars were forced to stop at as soon as any pedestrian stepped forward. The fact that there's only one there now, along with lights and walk signals has made some improvement to the traffic flow. We recommended that a gate or a "wait for walk signal here" be placed near the walk button on each side to the town office, but that still wouldn't cure the fact that cars stop as soon as they see a pedestrian near the crosswalk.
So to answer the question of has the traffic flow improved in Meredith after the new signal was put it; the answer is sort of, but a long ways to go.
garysanfran
08-12-2019, 10:23 AM
The traffic is worse now than before. Bruinsfan did not start this thread because it was only a marginal improvement.
How someone at the Fed level, who probably has never been on Rt3. in Meredith, can dictate how Meredith needs to solve it's local traffic/pedestrian dilemma is bizarre.
jimkberry
08-12-2019, 10:26 AM
The problem with the HAWK signal is that despite what they were taught in driver's ed, they don't know that they can go, if safe, at a blinking red.
Thanks for the HAWK info. A quick web search shows the the confusion is pretty well-known and documented. I disagree (politely, of course) with you that the blinking red is the major problem at the Town Docks, though in fairness it does seem to be the one most quoted complaint the literature that I saw.
It appears to me that the main issue here in Meredith is that drivers in a pedestrian-heavy tourist area - in a place that is not familiar to them - will very frequently assume that a brightly-painted crosswalk is a pedestrian right-of-way. Even folks who think that it isn't the case might stop anyway just to be safe - more to avoid a ticket that an accident.
I may be mistaken, but I am under the impression that pedestrians have the right of way at the identically painted crosswalks on Main St?
Given the HAWK requirement I suspect we'll just all have to live with it. I do think it seems better than it was.
-jim
thinkxingu
08-12-2019, 10:40 AM
My wife stopped at the blinking red this morning AND some pedestrians walked out without waiting for the light. I rescind my comment above about it not being a problem.
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rick35
08-12-2019, 11:44 AM
Put up some signs! How hard is that?
Biggd
08-12-2019, 11:45 AM
I cross that walk way every weekend and even though I push the button and wait for the walk sign people stop before it turns red. I usually wave them on but some people just walk right out.
Garcia
08-12-2019, 12:13 PM
The new system is a great idea, but from what I see there are too many motorists who are too nice or not aware of the procedure and stop to let pedestrians cross anytime one is close to the crossing. Hopefully with time people will get used to an understand the new crosswalk.
WinnisquamZ
08-12-2019, 01:42 PM
You must stop if someone jumps into the crosswalk. Do you all believe that you would not be held responsible if you hit the jaywalker? If you can see the individual you must stop. The responsibility should be the Meredith police. Ticket the jaywalkers. I suggest you have a Saturday traffic detail instead of the lights during the summer months
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The Real BigGuy
08-12-2019, 02:31 PM
The traffic is worse now than before. Bruinsfan did not start this thread because it was only a marginal improvement.
How someone at the Fed level, who probably has never been on Rt3. in Meredith, can dictate how Meredith needs to solve it's local traffic/pedestrian dilemma is bizarre.
I’m betting federal $ we’re used in some way, shape, or form to design, purchase, or install the crosswalk. Take federal $ and you have to play by their rules. Most often I find myself scratching my head after I read them. I live by the rule that, if they make sense after I’ve read them, I’ve obviously misunderstood something.
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Orion
08-12-2019, 02:53 PM
Maybe there should be a yellow line set back a bit from the road and a sign for pedestrians to "Stand behind Yellow Line and wait for crossing light".
Garcia
08-12-2019, 03:06 PM
You must stop if someone jumps into the crosswalk. Do you all believe that you would not be held responsible if you hit the jaywalker? If you can see the individual you must stop. The responsibility should be the Meredith police. Ticket the jaywalkers. I suggest you have a Saturday traffic detail instead of the lights during the summer months
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Of course and I absolutely agree drivers have to be aware and stop. However, what I see (happened Sunday as I was headed home) is motorists who stop before pedestrians are in the crosswalk and wave them along.
WinnisquamZ
08-12-2019, 03:33 PM
Of course and I absolutely agree drivers have to be aware and stop. However, what I see (happened Sunday as I was headed home) is motorists who stop before pedestrians are in the crosswalk and wave them along.
So you are angry at people for being nice to others, and people call me a grumpy bastard
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Garcia
08-12-2019, 03:51 PM
So you are angry at people for being nice to others, and people call me a grumpy bastard
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Not angry at all - what I see people doing causes confusion for both pedestrians (who are waiting for the light but encouraged to cross) and for the cars going in the other direction, who are not stopping because there is no red light.
Twinkeltoes19
08-12-2019, 10:22 PM
The real solution is a bridge or tunnel for pedestrians.
I found myself going through Meredith about 8 times in three days last week and every time after making the left the whole flow of traffic was stopped and as mentioned a couple times when the ped light was off. Definitely need a full time green,
another option would be to not let the ped light go red when the left turn is green
I agree with the idea of a pedestrian bridge. I contacted the town offices yesterday to see what if anything is being done as I am a year round resident that needs to get through town on a daily basis. In short, there is no plan to change up traffic patterns or rectify.
It took a solid 15 minutes to get through town from inter lakes school and this is a regular occurrence.
jbolty
08-13-2019, 07:27 AM
the real lesson from all this is not to take federal money for a local project.
Biggd
08-13-2019, 07:36 AM
Not angry at all - what I see people doing causes confusion for both pedestrians (who are waiting for the light but encouraged to cross) and for the cars going in the other direction, who are not stopping because there is no red light.This is what I see also. Pedestrians push the button and wait on the sidewalk for the light but cars automatically stop before the light turns red to let people cross. Sometimes people will wait for the signal, usually people with kids, but other times people will just cross when cars stop. And if people cross before the signal then the light turns red and no one is crossing because they are already on the other side.
It's very confusing for everyone involved. :confused:
I think the only solution now is to have a traffic officer at that light during the busiest times.
joey2665
08-13-2019, 07:53 AM
This is what I see also. Pedestrians push the button and wait on the sidewalk for the light but cars automatically stop before the light turns red to let people cross. Sometimes people will wait for the signal, usually people with kids, but other times people will just cross when cars stop. And if people cross before the signal then the light turns red and no one is crossing because they are already on the other side.
It's very confusing for everyone involved. :confused:
I think the only solution now is to have a traffic officer at that light during the busiest times.
They had traffic people there during the busy season. This was their cost savings alternative.
Just add a green light that goes to yellow before pedestrians cross and red while crossing. A regular traffic signal. It’s not rocket science
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rick35
08-13-2019, 08:01 AM
If I remember correctly there’s only a small Stop on Red sign next to the red lights on the cross beam. That doesn’t say enough.
TiltonBB
08-13-2019, 08:05 AM
So you are angry at people for being nice to others, and people call me a grumpy bastard
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The problem is that traffic laws were designed for a reason.
If there is a signal at a crosswalk or intersection you have to obey the signal and should not stop to let people cross, just obey the signal. The problems occur when people think they are being polite and stand on the brakes in the middle of nowhere because they see someone who may want to cross the street. This causes people behind them to panic stop and is a lot less safe than just having the pedestrians wait for the traffic to go by.
When the pedestrians know the law they will sometimes wave the stopping vehicle on and wait for their turn. Many people in vehicles are oblivious to other vehicles around them and the problems they cause by their operation.
Hey wait! I see that in boats in the Weirs Channel too! Maybe "common sense" is not all that common?
gillygirl
08-13-2019, 08:34 AM
Three of us pushed the button to cross, and waved cars through who stopped as we waited for the light. One driver yelled out his window at us “@$$holes!” Nice!
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Biggd
08-13-2019, 08:46 AM
Three of us pushed the button to cross, and waved cars through who stopped as we waited for the light. One driver yelled out his window at us “@$$holes!” Nice!
Sent from my iPad using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=92687)We all recognize there's a problem. Hopefully the town does also.
I have a house in town so as a driver I know how to avoid that area but as a pedestrian you can't avoid it if you want to get to the waterfront.
jbolty
08-13-2019, 09:27 AM
Three of us pushed the button to cross, and waved cars through who stopped as we waited for the light. One driver yelled out his window at us “@$$holes!” Nice!
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A car might stop but there's no assurance the cars going the other way will so it's real life Frogger. Short term a bunch of signs might help some but on a busy weekend I bet a large number of drivers are going through there for the first and maybe only time ever. Learning is not going to be enough.
fatlazyless
08-13-2019, 11:11 AM
For years and years, drivers here have always stopped to let a waiting pedestrian cross in the crosswalk.
Now, with this 'hawk' walking signal, if you stop for a waiting pedestrian you get honked at by the car behind you.
Meredith is a long way from Manhattan, but now drivers act like its downtown New York City.
To those who honk, you ever hear that courtesy counts, and it pays to be polite.
hoopdawg
08-13-2019, 04:45 PM
pedestrian crosswalk light is not the only issue there , what about the two lanes that merge into one on the north side of the crosswalk ,, merge signage is fully hidden by overgrown tree but the right lane has right of way for merging there but the ones in the left lane (closest to double yellow line ) are by the signage suppose to merge to the right but they don't !!! and they will honk at the ones in the right lane like they are doing something wrong , I just smile and wave when Im being honked at !!!!!!!!
Hillcountry
08-13-2019, 05:16 PM
pedestrian crosswalk light is not the only issue there , what about the two lanes that merge into one on the north side of the crosswalk ,, merge signage is fully hidden by overgrown tree but the right lane has right of way for merging there but the ones in the left lane (closest to double yellow line ) are by the signage suppose to merge to the right but they don't !!! and they will honk at the ones in the right lane like they are doing something wrong , I just smile and wave when Im being honked at !!!!!!!!
Sounds like the whole thing is a Fuster cluck...
jbolty
08-13-2019, 05:29 PM
pedestrian crosswalk light is not the only issue there , what about the two lanes that merge into one on the north side of the crosswalk ,, merge signage is fully hidden by overgrown tree but the right lane has right of way for merging there but the ones in the left lane (closest to double yellow line ) are by the signage suppose to merge to the right but they don't !!! and they will honk at the ones in the right lane like they are doing something wrong , I just smile and wave when Im being honked at !!!!!!!!
this. two left lanes do not make the traffic go faster since there is a merge almost as soon as you get around the corner which means a lot of braking and dodging, then add in the crosswalk.
fatlazyless
08-13-2019, 06:12 PM
No, is not quite like that ..... at the crosswalk, there is ONE lane for travel in both directions.....plus a CENTER lane that's only one block long, the length of the town docks parking lot ..... and this center lane gets very little use, is usually empty and is basically a turning lane for cars going south that want to take a left turn into the town docks parking lot, or for car going north that wants to take a left up hilly Dover St to get to Main St.
Trail Goer
08-13-2019, 07:48 PM
For years and years, drivers here have always stopped to let a waiting pedestrian cross in the crosswalk.
Now, with this 'hawk' walking signal, if you stop for a waiting pedestrian you get honked at by the car behind you.
Meredith is a long way from Manhattan, but now drivers act like its downtown New York City.
To those who honk, you ever hear that courtesy counts, and it pays to be polite.
For someone who has to go to New York City every weekend (work related), I find this topic quite amusing. But I understand, people around here aren't always accustomed to traffic delays.
chipj29
08-14-2019, 07:56 AM
A HAWK signal was installed on 3A in Bow (where Grappone is). It is the most confusing signal I have ever come across in ~40 years of driving. I understand traffic signals, and that when a red light is blinking you can go if it is safe. But this one, with the alternating red flashing lights...what the heck do you do? Well now I know, from reading this thread. But it is just so strange. Not sure why that type of signal is preferred by the traffic guys over a plain old normal stop light.
garysanfran
08-14-2019, 08:07 AM
That statistic by itself shows massive confusion over what should be something very simple...Shouldn't traffic signals be very simple?
Lots of very simple people driving....
The Real BigGuy
08-14-2019, 11:07 AM
Maybe they need something like railroad gates to stop people from crossing and then dropping to stop cars and raising to let people cross. One thing I’ve learned is some people don’t read signs (or don’t care) and most people are courteous and will stop for people to cross (except for Montreal, New York, Boston, etc)
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Orion
08-14-2019, 12:40 PM
this. two left lanes do not make the traffic go faster since there is a merge almost as soon as you get around the corner which means a lot of braking and dodging, then add in the crosswalk.
Actually, multiple lanes to get through a light with a later merge do, in fact, increase flow through the light since too many people are too slow to get moving when a light turns green. The merge later is usually pretty efficient as long as people are exercising normal courtesy. I have studied traffic analysis and intersection design in a former life.
Courtesy is not universal. Last week I did experience a jerk (black diesel pickup) who was on his phone in the left lane and left a huge gap in front of him when the light turned green. I was in right lane and got to the merge well ahead of him and was doing the alternating merge when he roared up and forced his way in ahead. Whatever. We're "at the lake" everybody. Relax. Being a jerk to get 20' ahead is dumb. The case of the pedestrians who got cursed for waiting their turn is another example of how we're losing it as a "society".
jbolty
08-14-2019, 12:48 PM
Actually, multiple lanes to get through a light with a later merge do, in fact, increase flow through the light since too many people are too slow to get moving when a light turns green. The merge later is usually pretty efficient as long as people are exercising normal courtesy. I have studied traffic analysis and intersection design in a former life.
Courtesy is not universal. Last week I did experience a jerk (black diesel pickup) who was on his phone in the left lane and left a huge gap in front of him when the light turned green. I was in right lane and got to the merge well ahead of him and was doing the alternating merge when he roared up and forced his way in ahead. Whatever. We're "at the lake" everybody. Relax. Being a jerk to get 20' ahead is dumb. The case of the pedestrians who got cursed for waiting their turn is another example of how we're losing it as a "society".
I agree with a normal merge but this is a special case. If the crosswalk is red both lanes stop and the cars stack up close together and back up into the intersection.
For years we have been programmed to stand on the brakes as soon as a pedestrian approaches the crosswalk. There is not going to be a solution to this until the light is synched, a gate is added, there is a bridge or worst, move the whole thing up to the Lake St intersection and put in a whole traffic light system
macbeth
08-14-2019, 02:24 PM
Who gave Meredith permission to put a Pedestrian Crosswalk LIGHT up across a Major New Hampshire Highway? It almost seems not legal. Yes, pedestrians have to wait for the walk light to go at TRAFFIC LIGHTS. However this is not Traffic light, so did Meredith over step their boundaries? No dog in the fight, just a curious by-stander, not looking to use the cross walk.
Not to Worry
08-14-2019, 02:29 PM
pedestrian crosswalk light is not the only issue there , what about the two lanes that merge into one on the north side of the crosswalk ,, merge signage is fully hidden by overgrown tree but the right lane has right of way for merging there but the ones in the left lane (closest to double yellow line ) are by the signage suppose to merge to the right but they don't !!! and they will honk at the ones in the right lane like they are doing something wrong , I just smile and wave when Im being honked at !!!!!!!!
Wait? The right lane is losing its lane and must merge into the existing single lane or as you say left. Since when does the merging traffic have the right of way?
Seaplane Pilot
08-14-2019, 04:56 PM
Who gave Meredith permission to put a Pedestrian Crosswalk LIGHT up across a Major New Hampshire Highway? It almost seems not legal. Yes, pedestrians have to wait for the walk light to go at TRAFFIC LIGHTS. However this is not Traffic light, so did Meredith over step their boundaries? No dog in the fight, just a curious by-stander, not looking to use the cross walk.
Which is actually a Federal Highway, US Route 3.
garysanfran
08-14-2019, 05:52 PM
A car with Mass plates, two cars in front, stopped at the crosswalk with no traffic lights on and no pedestrians. The car in front of me, NH plates, started blowing the horn like crazy. The car behind me, NH plates, then chimed in.
I'm sittin' in the middle with California plates wondering if I should join the locals and thrash the ignorant Flatlander...I didn't, but had to wonder if the car in front and the one behind were Forum members doing some educatin'...I wasn't in a hurry. :rolleye2:
fatlazyless
08-14-2019, 08:22 PM
Which is actually a Federal Highway, US Route 3.
Even though it's part of the U.S. road system which means it travels through more than one state, the NH section is owned and maintained by the State of New Hampshire. The MA section is owned and maintained by the State of Massachusetts.
macbeth
08-14-2019, 09:49 PM
Okay, so did New Hampshire give permission to do that?
tbonies
08-15-2019, 05:31 AM
Between the new stop light and the merge issue, this road must be one of the most dangerous ones in Amerika.
Wait? The right lane is losing its lane and must merge into the existing single lane or as you say left. Since when does the merging traffic have the right of way?
Hillcountry
08-15-2019, 08:41 AM
Amerika.
Is this a joke? the "c" and the "k" are not close to each other.
AMERICA...love it or leave it...or:fire: at least spell it correctly.:patriot:
tummyman
08-15-2019, 08:37 PM
So Meredith has a couple of different pedestrian crosswalk lights. AtRT3 and 25, there is the traditional pedestrian light with a countdown timer when traffic is stopped. Get rid of those stupid flashing lights and install a set of the timers with only a RED LIGHT. I was stopped again tonight in back of 4 cars while the lights flashed red, nobody was in the crosswalk, and the cars did not move until the lgiths went out. Time for a fix.....but will the design engineer desk jockeys do anything???? Seems like another long term delay..........stupid.
kawishiwi
08-15-2019, 09:44 PM
Wait? The right lane is losing its lane and must merge into the existing single lane or as you say left. Since when does the merging traffic have the right of way?
When I did driver ed, almost a million years ago in what is now known as Illinois, I was taught mergers have the right of way.
Garcia
08-15-2019, 09:58 PM
When I did driver ed, almost a million years ago in what is now known as Illinois, I was taught mergers have the right of way.
The lane that is continuing has the right of way while the lane that is ending has to yield.
exlakesregioner
08-16-2019, 04:59 AM
Traffic nowadays is nothing but a free for all, as hardly anyone cares about traffic rules.
TiltonBB
08-16-2019, 06:05 AM
When I did driver ed, almost a million years ago in what is now known as Illinois, I was taught mergers have the right of way.
Hey, are you that guy that comes in from the right and cuts into my lane every time I get to that merge in Meredith?
Remember, you are attempting to get into someone else's lane because your lane is going away. You have to yield the right of way to the vehicle that has already established themselves in that lane that continues on.
Did you think when you enter the interstate from an on ramp that the vehicles on that road have to yield to you too?
joey2665
08-16-2019, 06:33 AM
When I did driver ed, almost a million years ago in what is now known as Illinois, I was taught mergers have the right of way.
Mergers maybe in Illinois have right of way but not where I drive.
As stated the established lane has the right of way. However common courtesy dictates if every other car let the merging car enter traffic will move much more quickly.
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Hillcountry
08-16-2019, 08:36 AM
Traffic nowadays is nothing but a free for all, as hardly anyone cares about traffic rules.
Hmmmm...where have I heard that before?
Bigstan
08-16-2019, 08:39 AM
When I did driver ed, almost a million years ago in what is now known as Illinois, I was taught mergers have the right of way.
More likely you were taught the other way and you got that question wrong on the test, but if it was a million years ago we'll never know.
Hopefully someday soon you won't be parked in the front window of a storefront telling people that 'I was taught it was gas left, brake right....'.
:confused:
Garcia
08-16-2019, 08:40 AM
Given all the posts and threads about unaware and incompetent boat drivers, what do you expect when those same people get in their cars?:laugh::laugh::laugh:
macbeth
08-16-2019, 09:18 AM
Are these the Locals that don't know the rules or people from other states? Didn't know if you had happened to see any licence plates?
MAXUM
08-16-2019, 10:41 AM
I just find it comical that somebody seems to think that rearranging a light display is any more effective? Everyone knows what to do at a stop light irrespective of where it is. Why changing this now makes any sense is beyond any rational understanding - then again this is what happens when the Feds think they know better than anyone else and have lots of tax payer money to waste. Keep that in mind as it seems some feel that the government needs to take over and run everything. Yep works great doesn't it??
joey2665
08-16-2019, 11:03 AM
I just find it comical that somebody seems to think that rearranging a light display is any more effective? Everyone knows what to do at a stop light irrespective of where it is. Why changing this now makes any sense is beyond any rational understanding - then again this is what happens when the Feds think they know better than anyone else and have lots of tax payer money to waste. Keep that in mind as it seems some feel that the government needs to take over and run everything. Yep works great doesn't it??
Because as it is currently the light is completely off when no pedestrians are present and red when they are crossing. Easy enough to make it a much more clear by being GREEN instead of being blank when no pedestrians are present. Remember also those of us that travel through are a regular basis are used to the system but many tourists and out of state delivery trucks pass through there daily and if they do not understand it just slows traffic. I green light would alleviate this.
Wifi-1
08-16-2019, 11:44 AM
I remember, back in my youth, when red & yellow on together was for pedestrian crossing. When yellow went off, pedestrians had to wait, then the light would go green for traffic.
Life was much simpler back when common sense was still common.
MAXUM
08-16-2019, 12:04 PM
Because as it is currently the light is completely off when no pedestrians are present and red when they are crossing. Easy enough to make it a much more clear by being GREEN instead of being blank when no pedestrians are present. Remember also those of us that travel through are a regular basis are used to the system but many tourists and out of state delivery trucks pass through there daily and if they do not understand it just slows traffic. I green light would alleviate this.
That's kind of my point no confusion with conventional stop lights.
Biggd
08-16-2019, 01:20 PM
The traffic situation was better when pedestrians played chicken with on coming vehicles. :emb:
Sue Doe-Nym
08-16-2019, 01:26 PM
It was absolutely unavoidable, going to Meredith this morning. Terrible traffic jam, worse than we usually get. By the time we were through, I had a distinct feeling of being mentally unhinged. Hopefully, the traffic light/pedestrian crosswalk situation will somehow get solved.
Common sense? Hard to find these days!
Descant
08-16-2019, 03:12 PM
Who gave Meredith permission to put a Pedestrian Crosswalk LIGHT up across a Major New Hampshire Highway? It almost seems not legal. Yes, pedestrians have to wait for the walk light to go at TRAFFIC LIGHTS. However this is not Traffic light, so did Meredith over step their boundaries? No dog in the fight, just a curious by-stander, not looking to use the cross walk.
I think that section of road is an "Urban Compact" where the state has ceded control to the local political subdivision (town).
While it appears the red (only) light is not a success, a full light that close to the light at the intersection creates it's own set of problems. For example, if it is pedestrian activated at either location, that increases the number of times both lights will stop traffic, (if they are properly coordinated) even if there is not a pedestrian at both locations.
I feel like there have been times when there was an officer directing traffic at the cross walk. Perhaps when the craft fair was open, and they paid for the extra detail?
If there were reason to close the intersection of Rt 3 and 25, there would be a planned detour, right? Why not sign it as a "Bypass" and remove some of the traffic?
rick35
08-16-2019, 03:48 PM
I was reading some town minutes and there’s was a comment that traffic attendants would supplement the lights. Has that happened?
Bigstan
08-16-2019, 09:22 PM
I was reading some town minutes and there’s was a comment that traffic attendants would supplement the lights. Has that happened?
Police cadets used to manage pedestrian traffic, and it worked great forever.
Someone thought free GOV money was worth this I guess?
fatlazyless
08-17-2019, 02:21 AM
The traffic situation was better when pedestrians played chicken with on coming vehicles. :emb:
From my memory, the old pre-2019 crosswalks had two in-street pedestrian crossing signs which were a black, white and high visibilty fluorescent yellow sign, about 12"wide x 44"high, cost maybe $200-each, positioned in the center of the road, in the center lane, within the two cross walks that used to be there at the Lake St and Dover St crossings. It is a pedestrian crossing sign used all across NH and other states, designed to be placed atop the center line in the middle of the road. They work by getting the driver's extra attention and the driver gets more attentive with their driving.
Those two cross walks that are no longer there seemed to actually work better. Drivers would see the pedestrians lined up to cross, would slow down or stop their cars and wave them across.
Oh well ..... so now there is one crosswalk and this new Hawk signal system is an improvement to be here forever, so's drivers gotta get familiar with it ... and be patient.
tummyman
08-17-2019, 06:33 AM
It is time to take more serious action on this topic. I suggest EVERYONE write to the members of the Meredith Selectboard expressing their frustration. Go to MeredithNH.org, then under Boards and Committees click on Selectboard, then write to each of the members by clicking on their name. Simple, easy way to get the message out to them. If we can get 50 letters, maybe they will at least try and get the state to re-evaluate. Also, let's write to the editors at Laconia Daily Sun....maybe they will do a story on it and the adverse impact it is having on Meredith business. Without this grass roots pressure, nothing will happen.
tummyman
08-17-2019, 07:24 AM
I just sent email letters to each of the 5 BOS members...easy to do, using copy for all your comments. Took ten minutes overall. Then I sent letters to Meredith News and Laconia Sun requesting they do a story on the issue. Will you help by sending your letters???? Please, let's get the letter writing campaign off to a great start before the summer season is over.
Meredith News..... mnews@salmonpress.news
Laconia Sun...... news@laconiadailysun.com
WinnisquamZ
08-17-2019, 05:30 PM
Another issue that has risen due to these lights is the amount of traffic that is avoiding them, traveling thru Meredith center.
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exlakesregioner
08-18-2019, 05:27 AM
Meredith center? You must mean downtown Meredith, two different places.
fatlazyless
08-18-2019, 06:10 AM
It's a bit of a cause and effect type of a stretch to blame the recently installed hawk signal on Rt-3 for the Main St, post office pedestrian crossing, pedestrian death, where a 72-year old woman was struck by a young driver that occurred in June?
With the Route-3 slow & go, mostly slow, now happening, some drivers get very frustrated with all the waiting, so when they finally see that open road, some want to put the pedal down to the metal, and just hit it, to get on outta there?
Is this just idle Winni forum conjecture, or did the newly installed hawk signal somehow play a psychological cause and effect role with the extremely unfortunate pedestrian death that occurred on the alternate Main St route used to avoid the traffic jam?
One has to wonder? So, the hawk goes operational in June, and a pedestrian death which basically never happens here, also occurs in June ..... is that a coincidence or a cause?
TheProfessor
08-18-2019, 09:41 AM
Few know, comprehend, understand . . .
that there is another way around Meredith.
No need for all of these traffic jams.
fatlazyless
08-18-2019, 09:58 AM
Meredith Scenic Detour
For an extremely scenic and lovely back roads route around the traffic clogged hawk signal in Meredith:
On Rt-104 eastbound, take a left onto Winona Rd at the big stop lights intersection of Winona Rd-Pease Rd/Rt-104, proceed for about two miles to ..... go right onto Waukewan Rd at the Old Print Barn, slowly drive around Lake Waukewan and up the steep Waukewan Golf Course ..... arriving at Rt-25 in Center Harbor ..... and proceed 100-yards south and across Rt-25 to College Rd for two miles and right onto Rt-25B for three miles to Center Harbor-Rt-25 .... totally avoiding the Meredith hawk.
Some beautiful scenic back roads ..... driving that golden road .... not stuck at the Meredith hawk ....... driving around back the old NH with a beautiful Lake Waukewan.
... too bad all the cows have left the scene. Is easy to imagine from not too long ago, all the 'country air' and all those black & white spotted cows that used to graze the steep, hilly pasture fields, along this here drive. Cows may come, and cows may go, but that town docks hawk traffic will be there, forever!
DickR
08-18-2019, 11:16 AM
I've timed that alternate route in the reverse direction, 25B out of Center Harbor to 3/25 to Waukewan Rd to Winona Rd to rte 104. It's about five minutes longer than when there is little/no traffic at the Meredith lights. So, take your best guess as to how much time traffic at the lights will cost you and decide accordingly.
camp guy
08-18-2019, 11:48 AM
There is no question the traffic in Meredith is confusing, but, if you drive around the Lake you will find several different sets of circumstances with respect to vehicles and pedestrians - different crosswalk designs, different lighting patterns, the total absence of either. So, it is no wonder drivers and pedestrians are confused, and, ad to the mix that many of the drivers are from "somewhere else" and are used to whatever may be their style of crosswalk or lighting pattern. Just remember this, the time of year is fast approaching when you can park sideways any where you want and not get in trouble, and the pedestrians and drivers (mostly) have gone back to "somewhere else".
WinnisquamZ
08-18-2019, 01:47 PM
There is no question the traffic in Meredith is confusing, but, if you drive around the Lake you will find several different sets of circumstances with respect to vehicles and pedestrians - different crosswalk designs, different lighting patterns, the total absence of either. So, it is no wonder drivers and pedestrians are confused, and, ad to the mix that many of the drivers are from "somewhere else" and are used to whatever may be their style of crosswalk or lighting pattern. Just remember this, the time of year is fast approaching when you can park sideways any where you want and not get in trouble, and the pedestrians and drivers (mostly) have gone back to "somewhere else".
So true
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JEEPONLY
08-18-2019, 03:01 PM
For an extremely scenic and lovely back roads route around the traffic clogged hawk signal in Meredith:
On Rt-104 eastbound, take a left onto Winona Rd at the big stop lights intersection of Winona Rd-Pease Rd/Rt-104, proceed for about two miles to ..... go right onto Waukewan Rd at the Old Print Barn, slowly drive around Lake Waukewan and up the steep Waukewan Golf Course ..... arriving at Rt-25 in Center Harbor ..... and proceed 100-yards south and across Rt-25 to College Rd for two miles and right onto RT-25B for three miles to Center Harbor-Rt-25 .... totally avoiding the Meredith hawk.
Some beautiful scenic back roads ..... driving that golden road .... not stuck at the Meredith hawk ....... driving around back the old NH with a beautiful Lake Waukewan.
You are foolish if you do this!!! The trailers/trucks hauling to the dump, and the golfers who are late for their tee-times, do not care about you. They know what you are trying accomplish, but their agendas are at risk! Tail-gating, speeding and cutting people off only feed their desires to be on time! The early dump visitors don't want to be late for their tee-times - the early golfers don't want to miss the afternoon T.V. final round of their favorite tournament!
Beware of FLL's advice- he only plays tennis!
Newbiesaukee
08-18-2019, 03:28 PM
For an extremely scenic and lovely back roads route around the traffic clogged hawk signal in Meredith:
On Rt-104 eastbound, take a left onto Winona Rd at the big stop lights intersection of Winona Rd-Pease Rd/Rt-104, proceed for about two miles to ..... go right onto Waukewan Rd at the Old Print Barn, slowly drive around Lake Waukewan and up the steep Waukewan Golf Course ..... arriving at Rt-25 in Center Harbor ..... and proceed 100-yards south and across Rt-25 to College Rd for two miles and right onto RT-25B for three miles to Center Harbor-Rt-25 .... totally avoiding the Meredith hawk.
Some beautiful scenic back roads ..... driving that golden road .... not stuck at the Meredith hawk ....... driving around back the old NH with a beautiful Lake Waukewan.
I have used this route and the reverse for 16 years during the summer season and have never had a problem with it.
Downeast
08-23-2019, 09:22 PM
Thru traffic on Main in Meredith needs to SLOW DOWN, specifically in vicinity of the USPS.
The freight trains running through these congested areas need to chill out and drift through until passages are clear and wider.
As far as the crosswalk issues on 3, this will most likely take time for re-eval and adjustments, however the formentioned needs speed control attention yesterday.
Wifi-1
08-24-2019, 03:05 AM
Thru traffic on Main in Meredith needs to SLOW DOWN, specifically in vicinity of the USPS.
The freight trains running through these congested areas need to chill out and drift through until passages are clear and wider.
As far as the crosswalk issues on 3, this will most likely take time for re-eval and adjustments, however the formentioned needs speed control attention yesterday.
Yep, people trying to beat out the HAWK. Time for the famous Meredith radar traps :)
garysanfran
08-24-2019, 06:13 AM
When I moved to California in the '70's, you could make a right turn on a red light. I had never seen this before. CA was the only state allowing this then, I think.
I brought the idea "home" (New Hampshire & Massachusetts) and people were extraordinarily critical of such a thing. They envisioned all sorts of calamity. A red light meant "STOP". Don't complicate things.
When I drove cross-country in April, I made right turns at red lights in every state I went through and never thought twice as to whether it was legal or not. It appears to be generally accepted and allowed now everywhere, I assume.
Not sure how this pertains to the subject of the thread...I guess, although I think evolution is a slow "change" process, getting accustomed to those "hawk" signals is not going to take hold nationwide...Maybe not even locally. Sometimes bad ideas die right where they were born.
TheTimeTraveler
08-24-2019, 07:55 AM
When I moved to California in the '70's, you could make a right turn on a red light. I had never seen this before. CA was the only state allowing this then, I think.
I brought the idea "home" (New Hampshire & Massachusetts) and people were extraordinarily critical of such a thing. They envisioned all sorts of calamity. A red light meant "STOP". Don't complicate things.
When I drove cross-country in April, I made right turns at red lights in every state I went through and never thought twice as to whether it was legal or not. It appears to be generally accepted and allowed now everywhere, I assume.
Not sure how this pertains to the subject of the thread...I guess, although I think evolution is a slow "change" process, getting accustomed to those "hawk" signals is not going to take hold nationwide...Maybe not even locally. Sometimes bad ideas die right where they were born.
Right turn on Red is allowed in all 50 States. I believe Massachusetts was the last state to allow this back sometime in the 1980's.
Additionally (and unknown to most Mass drivers) you can take a left turn on a red light when you have two intersecting one way streets.
tummyman
08-30-2019, 06:02 AM
I had written and asked the Meredith News and Laconia Daily Sun to do an article on the lights issues. I also wrote to all the members of the BOS and asked readers of the blog to do the same.
In today's (8/30) LDS, there is an excellent article on the situation. Everyone should read it.....
https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news/local/new-pedestrian-signal-has-meredith-cross/article_3879cae8-ca94-11e9-a9cd-dba6e34ab2c0.html
joey2665
08-30-2019, 06:59 AM
I had written and asked the Meredith News and Laconia Daily Sun to do an article on the lights issues. I also wrote to all the members of the BOS and asked readers of the blog to do the same.
In today's (8/30) LDS, there is an excellent article on the situation. Everyone should read it.....
https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news/local/new-pedestrian-signal-has-meredith-cross/article_3879cae8-ca94-11e9-a9cd-dba6e34ab2c0.html
Informative article but I do not see a resolution just more observation. I just do not understand it’s so easy to fix. Change the signal to a traditional green yellow and red and you’ll be done.
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garysanfran
08-30-2019, 07:33 AM
Starting with "observation" and then requesting more info on Fed. issues for requirements seems to be a good start. Solution seems to be steering toward green, yellow, red.
I love "small town" activism. Gets stuff done. In San Francisco, my home base, getting someone to respond to anything is almost impossible. A neighbor recently had her car broken into. Called SFPD. Three days later the SFPD showed up to "take a report".
hilltopper
08-30-2019, 07:35 AM
Wiki has a pretty decent write-up on the HAWK Traffic Signal. This is the statement in the beginning that I don't fully understand but it may help explain the lack of a solution (IF a solution, other than patience, is actually needed):
Where standard traffic signal 'warrants' prevent the installation of standard three-color traffic signals, the HAWK beacon provides an alternative.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HAWK_beacon
Biggd
08-30-2019, 07:49 AM
Informative article but I do not see a resolution just more observation. I just do not understand it’s so easy to fix. Change the signal to a traditional green yellow and red and you’ll be done.
Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=92687)Your solution is too easy. It has to be studied 1000 times first before changes can be made.
Personally I think they should have built a bridge and it would have solved multiple problems, no traffic stop and no oversized trucks. They could have even built a platform at the top for a great view of the bay.
TheProfessor
08-30-2019, 08:07 AM
BYPASS.
Most/many/all are missing the solution.
A bypass around the lights in Meredith. To take/remove all of the through traffic.
Go from 104 to at least the top of the hill past the high school/schools.
Will not, of course, solve any pedestrian lights issues. But will provide much less traffic.
hilltopper
08-30-2019, 08:44 AM
Biggd … Big $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$!!!!!!.
TheProfessor … Wetlands and big $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$!!!!!!.
fatlazyless
08-30-2019, 09:23 AM
Posting a directional sign that says Meredith Scenic Detour with a directional arrow at the intersection of Winona Rd and Rt 104 to point the way would be a help. Add a few more similar signs along the detour and it would be good to go!
Signs, signs, everywhere a sign, we need some Meredith Scenic Detour arrow signs to point the way.:laugh::eek:
Ha ha ha .... will never happen ..... if anything, Winona Rd will be made a one way road, going the wrong way, to keep any detour traffic ..... away. Maybe a Winona Rd toll gate so's traffic can pay a toll to take the Meredith Scenic Detour!
tbonies
08-30-2019, 09:31 AM
BYPASS.
Most/many/all are missing the solution.
A bypass around the lights in Meredith. To take/remove all of the through traffic.
Go from 104 to at least the top of the hill past the high school/schools.
Will not, of course, solve any pedestrian lights issues. But will provide much less traffic.
This makes sense. But they should require a $5 toll for using the bypass for any car with an out of state tag coming from Moultonborough, since they complain about everything. Just call it a Whiner Tax.
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tummyman
08-30-2019, 12:06 PM
And watch out for that right hand turning lane at LAGO heading to Rt25. It is a RED STOPLIGHT.....not a "right turn on red" intersection. They need to post a sign that says "no turns on red". If you make the turn now on a red, you risk a ticket. Beware.....
jbolty
08-30-2019, 12:46 PM
Here's the problem the way I see it. Everyone; tourists, locals or delivery trucks who are coming or going to Moultonboro, Ossipee, North Conway or anywhere in between and need to reach I93 have to go through the lights in Meredith so there is a constant stream of traffic. Add to that people who have never been here before, maybe towing a boat, on vacation and driving slow anyway and it all piles up.
Next, we are all conditioned to be aware of pedestrians and all over the place there are those yellow signs in the middle of the street saying to yield to pedestrians or else and people walking expect the right of way and the law is on their side.
If people were like robots maybe the hawk signal would work but because of the built in awareness of the law and general yankee manners people tend to stop as soon as someone gets close to the edge of the road; that is not going to change. Meantime the peds might not cross despite being waved at because the traffic going the other way isn't stopping. Finally they run across and are half way to getting an ice cream cone at dockside when the crossing light goes red for nothing. Meanwhile traffic is backed up to Moulton's Farm.
The various solutions, in no order:
Full stop light at the current crossing location. I can still see cars waving people across even under a green though.
Full stop light further up at Lake street. Same problems but at least cars could turn left out of Lake St as well as be able to make a left into the dockside parking.
Move the road closer to the lake and the parking lot to the other side which might reduce the amount of people crossing the street.
Synch the hawk light so it only allows crossing when the left at 25 is red.
Pedestrian bridge or tunnel.
I have been beating the drum for a bridge for years and still think it's really the only option that would make a difference. I could envision a big wood timber structure like a covered bridge that could also have a place to sit and watch the lake; decorative and functional.
Lakemamma
08-30-2019, 01:27 PM
So today driving by they had a police officer waiting on one side and when people would stop to let people cross he would wave traffic to keep going. He kept watching for the lights to go on then he would go out in the road and and have people stop.
Wifi-1
08-30-2019, 01:37 PM
Problem with a bridge or tunnel is how to make it ADA compliant ?
jbolty
08-30-2019, 01:43 PM
Problem with a bridge or tunnel is how to make it ADA compliant ?
Have to have an elevator for ADA or a really long ramp. Of course the bridge could be closed or optional for off season.
joey2665
08-30-2019, 02:38 PM
Have to have an elevator for ADA or a really long ramp. Of course the bridge could be closed or optional for off season.
An ADA Compliant bridge although aesthetically pleasing would cost a fortune. Try a normal light first, easy inexpensive and hopefully it will work you can additionally add signage to stop only on a red signal
The Real BigGuy
08-30-2019, 04:41 PM
Why not move the crossing down to the corner and use the existing lights? Fence off the roadside if you have to.
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fatlazyless
08-30-2019, 04:43 PM
An all wood, timber style bridge with a steep staircase on both sides for crossing Rt-3, there, is an excellent suggestion. Build a five foot high, steel security fence along the docks area so climbing the steep stairs, up and down the bridge, will truly be the only way to cross the road.
People will be better off climbing a pedestrian bridge with steep stairs ....... 3/4 of everybody will benefit from the extra exercise ...... build it steep .... with a covered wood bridge up top to keep the rain and snow out.
An elevated, traditional covered timber bridge will bring a lot of public attention to Meredith. Build it and tourists will come here, just to walk the Meredith covered bridge. How's about naming it ........ ta-da ..... drum roll here ...... the MEREDITH BRIDGE .... a major improvement over the Meredith hawk signal.
........
If there's no funding to build an elevated covered bridge ....... then get it done on the cheap ...... with an Indiana Jones style ..... rope and wood slats style bridge accessed by 20' high ladders, on both sides ...... what a bridge!:banana:
WinnisquamZ
08-30-2019, 08:43 PM
Where are all these people going? There is not much there
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joey2665
08-30-2019, 09:22 PM
Where are all these people going? There is not much there
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?? Downtown Meredith? I think this is sarcastic but anyway.... shops, docks, hotels, restaurants, and obviously a big thruway to get to Center Harbor, Moultonborough and other points east
TheProfessor
08-30-2019, 09:31 PM
Biggd … Big $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$!!!!!!.
TheProfessor … Wetlands and big $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$!!!!!!.
The authorities are exempt from all of that.
The/A bypass is the only real long term solution.
joey2665
08-30-2019, 09:52 PM
The authorities are exempt from all of that.
The/A bypass is the only real long term solution.
I disagree I think this is complicating simplicity.
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MAXUM
08-31-2019, 08:45 AM
LOL it is rather comical in that the town wants to attract people and tourists but has no clue how to handle them when they come. What was done on Rt3\25 was nothing other than rearranging the chess pieces on the same board which did nothing to IMHO improve traffic flow, in fact, it basically was all cosmetic except for those dumb HAWK signals that made the situation worse.
Thank goodness for 8 months out of the year it's not a big deal to get through town. After this weekend should be a breeze again till Memorial Day next year.
TheTimeTraveler
08-31-2019, 02:48 PM
Informative article but I do not see a resolution just more observation. I just do not understand it’s so easy to fix. Change the signal to a traditional green yellow and red and you’ll be done.
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This is an interesting article....
The Town of Meredith used Federal Money to do this project, so they have to follow the federal guidelines and rules.
Simple solution would be for the Town to reimburse the Federal Government and then the Town could alter the signal set up as it sees fit according to NH State Guidelines.
Of course all this is easier said than done......
fatlazyless
08-31-2019, 04:10 PM
About 20-minutes north of Meredith, the Holderness School has a pedestrian tunnel, constructed under Route 175 in 2011, so their students and staff can walk from the new dorms and eight outdoor tennis courts to the classroom buildings without having to cross the lightly trafficked road. Have seen riders on bicycles and skate boards using the tunnel, there.
www.andrewsconst.com/project/holderness-school-pedestrian-tunnel/
Maybe a tunnel is a doable improvement for the Meredith traffic hawk signal, pedestrian crossing? Probably, all tunnels have water leaks, so it would need a sump pump or something, to keep it dry.
Hillcountry
08-31-2019, 04:30 PM
About 20-minutes north of Meredith, the Holderness School had a pedestrian tunnel constructed under Route 175 in 2011 so their students and staff could walk from the new dorms and eight outdoor tennis courts to the classroom buildings without having to cross the lightly trafficked road. Have seen riders on bicycles and skate boards using the tunnel, there.
www.andrewsconst.com/project/holderness-school-pedestrian-tunnel/
Maybe a tunnel is a doable improvement for the Meredith traffic hawk signal?
FLL There’s already a tunnel up the street a ways...strap on your noodle and have at it! Don’t slip on the goose pucky!
Sue Doe-Nym
09-01-2019, 07:31 AM
This is an interesting article....
The Town of Meredith used Federal Money to do this project, so they have to follow the federal guidelines and rules.
Simple solution would be for the Town to reimburse the Federal Government and then the Town could alter the signal set up as it sees fit according to NH State Guidelines.
Of course all this is easier said than done......
According to one of the selectmen I talked to state money was used,not federal.
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