Mom Wants Changes at Intersection Near Her Kids' School

Below is a letter that Palm Harbor mother Jenn Stryczny wrote to Pinellas County Transportation Department officials about an intersection that she thinks is dangerous.

Do you agree or disagree with her? Let us know in the comments section below.

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to express my concern for the intersection of Florida Ave and Alt U.S. 19 in Palm Harbor.  I travel through this intersection at least two times a day taking my children to Ozona Elementary.  To put it simply, this is the scariest intersection we have around here. 

I am attaching a picture of my view of the southbound lanes as I was waiting to turn onto Alt. U.S. 19 from Florida Ave east-bound.  

Can you see all of the cars heading south?  

Neither can I. Numerous light poles, street signs and a recently-installed bus bench make it nearly impossible to see all traffic coming.  

Also, you must strategize whether the drivers coming out of the two businesses on the east side of Alt. U.S. 19 (Bill's Super Gas and Marvin's) are going to turn onto the road at the same time as you, into their proper lane or zooming directly to the middle lane. It is insane. 

I have heard that traffic tests have been done here and that there is not enough traffic to deem a traffic light necessary, but I can tell you, as a regular driver through this dangerous intersection, it is not only necessary, but downright irresponsible that one has not been placed here already.  

Please, PLEASE take another look at this.

And in a related matter, I think a pedestrian bridge over Alt. U.S. 19 in this area, like the one between Tampa and Curlew would be another worthwhile investment and provide safe crossing for those on the Trail, making their way to school and/or visiting businesses in downtown Palm Harbor.  I think a wonderful place for it would be at the intersection of Delaware and Alt.U.S. 19.

Thank you for your consideration of these concerns.  I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Jenn Stryczny

What do you think about this intersection? Let us know in the comments section below.