Roundabouts might not be best choice

To the editor:

Recently a publication, the Marion Messenger, was sent updating residents on the need for changing traffic patterns through downtown Marion. The purposed solution is to insert traffic roundabouts to keep traffic flowing smoothly.

Within the publication, facts stated there is a reduction in fatalities and serious injury accidents where roundabouts were used. No city official was able to give actual numbers as to these facts on the proposed roundabout streets. Some mentioned that they wanted downtown Marion to become a destination for walking and bicycling, encouraging people to use alternate transportation choices. Roundabouts are one solution they give to accomplish this. No one addressed the danger that roundabouts present to pedestrians or the fact there are many spaces to walk and ride.

Who wants these changes to downtown Marion? Where are the facts from studies? A huge red flag was thrown when I was told it is a trend across the country. A trend doesn't make it feasible or right. It would be hard to believe that you can't walk the Marion square. There are sidewalks. A great deal of money has been invested in bike trails and walking trails fulfilling those needs. If places to walk are still an issue then assess by gathering facts, looking at possible solutions and asking affected groups for opinions.

Those pushing the roundabout decision should take another look and consider all the facts and all the people.

Donna Aljets

Marion