by

Fred Swift

Hamilton County Reporter

(NOTE: Commentaries by Fred Swift are posted on my blog as part of a partnership between LarryInFishers.com and the Hamilton County Reporter.  Views expressed are those of Fred Swift and do not necessarily reflect the views of LarryInFishers.com)

Some major intersections in Hamilton County are being over-engineered and way too complicated. That’s my opinion, and one shared by others I talk with.

What do I mean? Take a look at the intersecting roads converging near Hamilton Town Center and I-69, or the confusing intersections along the “new” U.S. 31, especially at 31 and Smoky Row Road, or the incredible ‘Michigan Left’ at 96th and Allisonville Road.

There is no doubt these major highways experience a lot of traffic, and should be engineered and built to handle it. But, simple can be better in planning our roadways. Complex interchanges involving multiple roundabouts and circuitous access ramps are very expensive as well as sometimes confusing for motorists.

Various engineering firms have been responsible for the increasing number and complexity of our roads. We are told these roadways are being built to handle an anticipated increase in traffic. Of course, that seems like the right answer.

But, would a more simple cloverleaf interchange do the trick at some of these intersections? Take for example that Michigan Left or the intersection of 116th and 31. A traditional interchange would seem to accomplish the desired result at these and other locations. The road building industry benefits financially from complex construction, but they are building what they are told we want. Ultimately “we” are our elected officials, most of whom are not experienced highway design experts.

Now, the rebuilding of the intersections on State Road 37 is about to begin. Let’s hope those officials in control of this project insist on effective, but more practical solutions. And, it might save us a lot of money.