Traffic experts blame confusing signs for crashes at Fort Myers intersection

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FORT MYERS, Fla.- Residents are concerned about a busy intersection at the center of many crashes.

Traffic safety experts are now blaming the confusing street signs near the Winkler Avenue extension and Challenger Boulevard.

The busy crossing has several lanes, going in all directions. An expert says the signs to direct traffic, do more harm than good.

Traffic on Challenger Boulevard has stop signs that some drivers seem to ignore. Winkler Avenue has no stop signs, but some drivers come to a halt, believieng it must be a four-way stop.

The Fort Myers Police Department tells WINK News there have been 21 crashes at the intersection in the past two years.

Jay Anderson is executive director of “Stay alive, just drive.”

“I’ve seen several stop sign-running crashes,” said Anderson.

Challenger Boulevard has hatches in the middle of roadway. They’re supposed to separate vehicles to allow drivers a better view of cars on Winkler Avenue, instead, they become holding areas for drivers who can’t decide which lane to take.

Traffic at the intersection is likely to get worse in the near future, with apartment buildings,  and single family homes being built nearby. There also are  schools.

“As these residents and apartments begin fill up, there will be more children walking to school,” said Anderson.

The City of Fort Myers  says it is aware of the concerns and is studying the intersection with an eye to possibly changing the signage.

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