Dangerous intersection has a big upgrade to make it safer

A Fort Myers intersection with a bad reputation now has a new, possibly safer design.

Traffic signals now replace stop signs and temporary flashing lights at Winkler Ave. and Challenger Blvd. It is a design that drivers, such as Cathalen Way, told WINK News was dangerous.

“The first time I went through I was hesitant because you wonder exactly what they have set up,” Way said. “Is it just the blinking light? Are there signs that you’re supposed to read before you get to it?”

Fort Myers Police said there were 32 crashes at the intersection between 2017 and 2018. Compared to 15 crashes already this year, two of which occurred last weekend.

“You cringe,” Way said. “It’s March. We haven’t even finished a whole quarter and there’s been 15 crashes in front of the school. I mean something has to be done.”

The traffic signals aim to decrease crashes significantly, costing more than $300,000, but there might be problems that go beyond how the intersected was constructed.

“I mean you can’t stop drivers from not paying attention,” Way said. “But at least if you have the proper setup, you can do the best you can.”