Community Watch - Nov. 17

Community Watch

Working for a better South Sound

Community Watch is a weekly feature of The Olympian designed to help readers get action on local problems. Every Monday in South Sound, Community Watch focuses on complaints and suggestions raised by readers.

What needs attention

A Lacey resident writes that excessive speed and noise are a continuing problem at the intersection of College Street and 45th Avenue Southeast, which is controlled by a roundabout. The writer is especially annoyed about the noisy exhaust pipes on certain motorcycles and cars. He wants the city to install speed bumps to slow down motorists.

Where it stands

Assistant City Manager Scott Spence said he will ask police officers for an emphasis patrol at the intersection, but speed bumps aren't the answer.

Roundabouts are designed to slow motorists down to 20 mph because they have to turn to get through the intersection, although he acknowledged some motorists go faster than that. He said roundabouts are designed for an effective flow of traffic because motorists just need to slow down, not come to a complete stop. That benefit would be lost with the installation of speed bumps because motorists would have to nearly come to a stop to drive over them without damaging their cars.

Whom to call

Lacey Public Works Department, 360-491-5600.

Tell us what needs attention: Send your complaint to Jerre Redecker, Community Watch, The Olympian, P.O. Box 1219, Olympia, WA 98507, fax to 360-357-0202, or send e-mail to ­jredecker@theolympian.com.