BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Mixed signals from signage on a Burlington bridge.
In September, we told you how yield signs were causing issues on a one-lane bridge on Queen City Park Road.
In November, the city swapped them for stop signs, hoping to ease congestion and confusion.
Now, the city is returning to yield signs.
Viewer Michael emailed us about the change, writing: “Neighbors say the stop signs were an improvement. Yesterday, they replaced the stop signs with yield signs again. Why?”
City officials originally swapped the yield signs for stop signs after locals complained of traffic and frustration. While the viewer who wrote in says the stop signs helped, the city says otherwise.
A department of public works memo shows several residents and businesses complained of increased traffic delays due to the stop signs.
The department surveyed locals, and 80% of respondents said they preferred yield signs. For these reasons, city officials decided to bring back yield signs.
One resident told us he preferred the stop signs.
“I think it’s more clear when it’s a stop, but if you just pay attention and try to be fair to oncoming traffic, yield should work as well,” said Craig Johnsen.
Several survey respondents suggested making the bridge wider to accommodate two lanes or installing a flashing yellow light.
City officials say they hope bridge traffic dies down when the Champlain Parkway opens this year.
