Pinehurst Development News

Traffic Circle Concerns and Growth Projections Highlighted by Council

Mayor Pro Tem discussed ongoing issues with the traffic circle, emphasizing safety, property rights, and aesthetics as primary concerns. He noted that the 70-year-old traffic circle has had no automobile fatalities. Communications with the governor and lieutenant governor's office are ongoing. He also mentioned a recent article quoting Board of Transportation members on fatalities being important but not the sole measure for roadway projects. Mayor Pro Tem expressed willingness for the Village to participate in a 'locked room' discussion to reach an agreement. Separately, Councilman Fitzpatrick reported on a postponed meeting with DOT regarding the traffic circle project, rescheduled for July 1st. He also detailed concerns about the SMPO's transportation demand model, which uses a higher growth rate (1.75%) than county population projections (1.3% for county commissioners, <1% from state demographer) to compete for funding. This higher growth rate significantly impacts traffic projections, forecasting substantial issues on major roads, including the traffic circle, with projected trip times increasing by 65% by 2055. Councilman Fitzpatrick suggested re-forecasting wait times using a lower number (around 65,000 trips instead of 80,000) and questioned the efficacy of current planned projects, suggesting a focus on smaller, more impactful improvements. Councilman Hooper added that the SMPO's data indicates projected traffic volumes at the circle will be 'E or F' by 2055, regardless of planned improvements. Councilman Fitzpatrick also noted that the SMPO's data shows average trip times increasing by 65% by 2055, despite planned investments, and questioned if this is the most effective use of funds.