June 7, 2001--
A trouble spot on the new freeway got more attention today from UDOT engineers.
Last Tuesday we showed you dangerous examples of confusion at the link between westbound I-80 and I-15.
As News Specialist Richard Piatt shows us, UDOT is on the scene looking for ways to solve that confusion.
For thousands of drivers, the link from I-80 to I-15 has been an adventure in driving.
Tuesday, we showed you how painful that adventure has been.
On that day and every day, there are people making potentially dangerous last minute moves here.
The problem: confusion about which ramp goes north--which goes south.
After our story, people e-mailed us to share their experiences.
Many people told us the signs themselves were confusing--one person said they actually missed the correct ramp.
Others blame the design of the interchange, saying the links to I-15 north and south are exactly opposite of what you expect.
UDOT's Joe Walker can relate--but repeats the UDOT mantra.
Joe Walker/UDOT I-15 Spokesperson: THAT'S WHY WE'RE URGING PEOPLE NOT TO DRIVE BY YOUR MEMORY, NOT TO DRIVE WHAT YOU THINK WILL LOGICALLY BE THERE, BUT DRIVE BY WHAT THE SIGN SAYS.
At the same time, UDOT is responding in other ways. An electronic sign--normally used in emergencies--is temporarily set to help direct southbound drivers.
Engineers are also considering directional signs on the freeway surface.
Additional overhead signs, or directional arrows could also appear, although there is such a thing as too many signs.
And finally: People need to get used to the area.
Time is also an important factor.
Joe Walker/UDOT I-15 Spokesperson: ANYTHING WE WOULD DO AT THIS POINT WOULD PROBABLY BE TEMPORARY, TO GET PEOPLE THROUGH THE LEARNING CURVE. WE THINK LONG TERM WHAT EXISTS WILL BE FINE. ))
Unfortunatley, a lot of people already feel they've been scared into learning the right way to go.
UDOT engineers don't like hearing horror stories, but they are used in finding a solution.
The I-15 team is asking for your input on solutions to troubling traffic spots.
Contact them on- line at www.i-15.com or by phone toll free at 1- 888- INFO- I-15.
