According to Osolo Emergency Management Services, since 2004 there have been 103 automobile or truck accidents and 25 injuries. Within the last seventeen months, there have been three fatalities along State Road 19 in the Simonton Lake area. "With the high number of accidents, injuries and fatalities taking place, this is a priority area," said Neese. “The Simonton Lake area of S.R. 19 has proven to be a safety concern and we need to be aware of what steps to take to prevent future fatalities.” Rep. Neese spoke with some of the business owners in the area for input and also spoke with staff from the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) from both the Elkhart and Fort Wayne offices. Rep. Neese has also talked with INDOT Commissioner Michael Cline to set up a possible visit to the Simonton Lake stretch of road within the next few weeks. "Unfortunately, alcohol and excessive speed have been factors in some of the accidents," said Rep. Neese. "There were six accidents involving pedestrians crossing S.R. 19 with four of the six occurring due to intoxication. We are looking at ways to prevent these occurrences and further increase the safety of the area." Proposed changes under consideration would be a modification of S.R. 19 which would allow for a safer means of crossing the road, thus reducing the potential for rear end crashes of left turning vehicles. This improvement would require signage and pavement markings. The installation of flashing beacons over the existing advanced warning curve signs, both north and south bound, would be instituted to better alert drivers. Rep. Neese would like to hear input from business owners, residents, and users of this area. Rep. Neese can be reached by email at H48@in.gov or by phone at 800-382-9841. -30- |
