Alderman asks state to address major traffic issues in Norwich

By By LIZ MUGAVERO Norwich Bulletin

Norwich Bulletin

NORWICH -

Alderman Larry Goldman Wednesday asked the Public Safety Committee to request action by the state Department of Transportation regarding traffic issues in two major areas of town.

Goldman cited the Route 82 commercial corridor and the Route 2 area near The William W. Backus Hospital for "major traffic problems and safety concerns."

Goldman said the DOT had begun studies in the past, but stopped because of funding issues.

"I want a rekindling of the issue at the state level," he said. "You have to squeak the wheel or nothing gets done."

Route 82, commonly referred to as "Crash Alley," is an issue because of the retail stores and the turns on both sides of the street.

"We proposed a fifth lane in the past, and it's more than needed," Goldman said.

Of the Washington Street area, he said, "It's brutal."

In the memo he sent to the committee, he suggested the section be expanded into four lanes up to the Norwich Free Academy area to ease congestion for commuters and emergency vehicles.

Alderman John Crooks, also on the public safety committee, said though there are issues with both roads, there are issues throughout the city.

"We need a complete look at our entire traffic pattern," he said. "We need a larger approach."

Crooks said the committee is working under the direction of police Chief Louis Fusaro Sr. as the traffic authority.

Norwichtown resident Richard Erickson said the Backus area of Washington Street sees very heavy volumes of traffic.

"Safety is complicated by left turn movements, and the opportunity for geometric changes like widening roads is very limited given the high land use on both sides," he said.

"I can't imagine suggesting a four-lane road in that area," he added. "The cure would be worse than the problem."