Drivers wonder what in world DOT engineers were thinking

For some time I have felt the N.C. Department of Transportation operates autonomously and makes decisions that are not in keeping with citizen or business desires. When they seek input, it is rarely considered in the design process.  Issues such as interchanges, traffic circles and toll lanes/bus lanes/HOV lanes, etc., seem to be the most objected DOT projects. A Charlotte Observer article regarding I-485 in south Charlotte is an example of how ridiculous some of the DOT’s decisions can be. Refusing to use the full potential of a recently completed widening project because sometime in the next five years they want to turn it into a toll lane is just nuts! Supposedly federal guidelines are involved but toll lanes “period” are objectionable to motorists.

Other local projects making no sense include the interchange designs for exits 58 and 63; the I-485/I-85 interchange using 100 acres and costing over $100 million; and the love affair with crossover interchanges such as the Poplar Tent/I-85 interchange. What lunacy exists in Raleigh. Since the state has high gas taxes, transportation hubs and tourist destinations, the problem isn’t funds collected but usage of said funds that make the NC DOT fall in love with tolls. I am asking our elected representatives and local officials to help  rein in the DOT and bring projects more in line with how they affect us, not the whim of a design engineer.

The revisions to Poplar Tent Road, where turning motorists have to pass the intersection, make a U-turn and return to the intersection are frustrating and require more stops at traffic lights than allowing the left turn would have been.  How these crazy traffic patterns solve anything is beyond me,

Please engage representatives around the state and the governor and demand better accountability and common sense solutions from the NC DOT.

— Grant Rader

Kannapolis

Oppressive politics

Reginald Brown’s effort to lessen the guilt of the Democratic Party in oppressing blacks by projection is sad but understandable.  How else could Democrats get elected?

As for Ron Turbyfill’s comments, he is quite content to ignore the role Strom Thurmond played in today’s Democratic policies. Blacks are still oppressed by Democrats but through different means. Promises they make are to get votes, not to improve lives.

— David Wilson

Salisbury

Strangers as angels

On Dec. 11, our path crossed with that of two angels who were at Cracker Barrel in Salisbury.

It was near lunch time when my mother and I arrived to meet a friend for lunch. Having arrived a little early, we made a quick trip to the restroom before being seated.

Upon entering the restroom, my mother fell, unresponsive, to the floor. I ran to the door calling for help. While the employees called 911, a lady (I did not get her name, but she was a nurse) who had just run into the shop to pick up a gift, and a gentleman, named Jimmy who had been a customer, did not hesitate to come to our assistance.

Both knew exactly what to do and took control of the situation until help arrived.

The staff at Cracker Barrel was excellent, remained calm, and took good care of me. I’m sorry I did not get your names to thank you in person, but with all the excitement, it just slipped. Thank you for caring for my mother and me.

To the EMS and Fire Department responders, I want to thank you for your quick arrival and treatment of my mother. Although she was unaware of what was happening, you were so respectful and professional.

To the doctors and staff at Novant Health Rowan Medical Center, I can never thank you enough for the care and treatment she received, and for taking good care of us.

Jane Shuping

Salisbury

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