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That dangerously congested construction zone on I-80 between State Street and 1300 East is a tragedy waiting to happen.
A recent accident that sent a couple of motorists to the hospital offers an example of just how threatening the two-mile stretch can be. The pavement is uneven with confusing lane shifts. On some days there is no way to tell when one lane ends and another begins. People speed and large trucks barrel through the narrow lanes.
Frankly, it's remarkable more wrecks haven't occurred.
KSL has no argument with UDOT's decision to keep traffic flowing through the busy thoroughfare during construction. To shut it down completely would be unacceptable. But, we feel more can be done to promote safety.
First, motorists need to know speeding through the construction zone won't be tolerated. A more visible presence from the Highway Patrol would help with that.
Second, the lane markings must be unmistakably clear. That should be easier now that the winter snow storms mostly are behind us.
Third, large trucks ought to be completely banned from that narrow section of freeway. It would be a minor inconvenience for semis, mostly on interstate runs, to divert to I-215.
KSL encourages UDOT to take action before more serious wrecks occur.
