A fatal car crash in Port St Lucie on Memorial Day has heightened safety concerns among residents and local businesses regarding the intersection at Glades Cut Off Road and Commerce Center Drive. This problematic intersection in Port St Lucie has witnessed numerous accidents, prompting calls for immediate improvements, including the installation of a traffic light. Similar safety concerns have been raised recently by residents regarding the dangerous Crosstown Parkway intersection.
Port St Lucie Intersection Sees Multiple Crashes Since 2020
According to Port St Lucie police, the intersection of Glades Cut Off Road and Commerce Center Drive has seen 31 crashes since 2020, two of which were fatal. The latest incident, which occurred on Memorial Day, tragically resulted in the death of a 72-year-old woman and injuries to five others.
Residents Express Concerns Over Intersection Safety
Local resident Tom Ortolivo expressed his concerns, stating, “There’s been several accidents. These people are gunning across the street, trying to get across before people in the other lanes cross them.” Ortolivo believes a traffic signal is essential for improving safety at this intersection.
Brian Packard, owner of Packard Roofing and Waterproofing located on Commerce Center Drive, echoed these concerns. Packard described the intersection as confusing and dangerous, noting visibility issues: “You can’t see who’s coming or who’s going.” These visibility and safety issues mirror concerns raised by another Port St Lucie resident raising alarms over intersection safety elsewhere in the city.
Increased Traffic Linked to Nearby Development
Packard, whose business has operated on Commerce Center Drive for two decades, attributed the recent increase in traffic incidents to the nearby Wylder development. “Since the new development opened, there’s increased traffic,” said Packard, adding that the intersection has become increasingly difficult to navigate safely.
Port St Lucie Officials Respond to Safety Concerns
The city of Port St Lucie confirmed that the developer of the Wylder community is obligated to install a traffic signal at the intersection. According to city officials, the developer is committed to completing this installation by the end of 2025. Currently, the proposed traffic signal is undergoing review by St Lucie County.
Packard emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “There’s going to be more [traffic]. There’s not going to be less people using the intersection.” Recent events, including a fatal accidental fire at a Port St Lucie gathering, have further underscored the community’s concerns about overall safety in the area.
Community Calls for Immediate Intersection Improvements
Both businesses and residents continue to advocate for expedited action to address the intersection’s safety issues. Ortolivo stressed that installing a traffic light is “the only way that they’re going to be able to do it and provide safety.” Residents can contact city officials and attend Port St Lucie City Council meetings to express concerns and advocate for quicker implementation of safety measures.
With ongoing developments and increased traffic flow, community members hope city and county officials will prioritize this intersection to prevent further tragedies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Port St Lucie Intersection Safety
What is the most dangerous intersection in Port St Lucie?
Currently, the intersection at Glades Cut Off Road and Commerce Center Drive is considered one of the most dangerous due to multiple accidents, including fatalities.
Are there plans to install a traffic light at Glades Cut Off Road?
Yes, the developer of the nearby Wylder community is required to install a traffic signal by the end of 2025, and it is currently under review by St Lucie County.
How many accidents have occurred at Glades Cut Off Road intersection?
Since 2020, there have been 31 crashes at the intersection, with two fatalities reported by Port St Lucie police.
Can residents request faster action for traffic improvements?
Residents can contact city officials and attend city council meetings to express concerns and advocate for quicker implementation of safety measures.
Where is the Wylder development located in Port St Lucie?
The Wylder development is located near Glades Cut Off Road and Commerce Center Drive, contributing significantly to increased traffic at this intersection.
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