WEST SENECA, N.Y. (WKBW) — The volume of traffic on Union Road, West Seneca between the Rt. 400 exit and Southgate Plaza has grown to a point where there are serious concerns about safety due to accidents, traffic light backups, and more pedestrians crossing Union Road by the new community center & library.
Since Union Road is a state route (Rt.277), Supervisor Sheila Meegan asked the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to consider putting in roundabouts at Union & Center Street and Union & Seneca Street.
Meegan felt roundabouts would calm traffic, help traffic flow, reduce accidents, and boost foot traffic for business by making the central part of West Seneca more walk-able.
In addition, the supervisor asked the NYSDOT to install a HAWK signal near the new community center / library because of an increase in pedestrians crossing Union Road at Legion Parkway.
However, a statement from NYSDOT said the requests for roundabouts and a HAWK signal will not happen "at this time."
According to the NYSDOT:
"The New York State Department of Transportation is committed to working with the Town of West Seneca to enhance the section of Union Road between State Route 400 and Cazenovia Creek and is planning to install a new pedestrian crossing sign with a rectangular rapid flashing beacon in that area next year. We have reviewed the town's request for roundabouts and a HAWK traffic signal and determined that traffic conditions do not support their installation at this time."
Supervisor Meegan said the decision was "unfortunate" and the town will continue to work towards a change in traffic control on Union Road. Meegan added that her experience working with NYSDOT has been positive as they "are good people to work with."
