Copyright berkshireeagle
To the editor: I am writing to express concern about the ongoing public health and safety crisis along Route 8 (often called Snake 8 due to the lack of enforcement of DOT and speed regulations), from the Connecticut border to Route 20 in Becket, passing through Otis and Sandisfield. This road has become a dangerous corridor that poses serious risks to residents and visitors alike. The frequency of accidents, combined with inadequate safety measures, has contributed to a growing sense of insecurity in our communities. Vehicles, both commercial and personal, are blatantly disregarding laws that should be protecting us all. Speed limits are often ignored, with speeds exceeding 50 MPH well over the posted limits. Furthermore, the routine use of exhaust brakes and the lack of noise-reducing mufflers around the clock cause sound levels exceeding 100 decibels, disturbing residents and potentially leading to hearing loss. The aftermath of recent accidents resulted in life flights, road closures, and significant environmental clean-ups. Contaminants from these frequent accidents flowed into the Farmington River. While the towns of Sandisfield, Otis and Becket police do their best to manage the situation, their limited resources are vastly overwhelmed, akin to trying to hold back a flood with a few sandbags. Immediate action is essential before this crisis results in further injuries or loss of life. To ensure the safety and well-being of all who travel through this area, I strongly urge the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and State law enforcement agencies to prioritize enforcement along this critical route through the following means. 1. Enforce Weight and Speed Limits: Enforce current restrictions on commercial vehicles to ensure compliance. Enforce Speed limits on all who use this section of Route 8. 2. Construct Detours or Alternative Routes: Designate and construct alternative truck routes to divert commercial traffic from residential areas. 3. Implement Traffic Management Measures: Install traffic calming measures such as large instant feedback signage, speed cameras, and/or drone technology, and restricted transport for non-local commercial traffic. 4. Establish Community Buffer Zones: Create green belts or buffer zones between roads and residential areas to mitigate pollution and noise. 5. Monitor and Enforce Regulations: Regularly monitor traffic and pollution levels and enforce relevant regulations and penalties. Timothy G. Wighton, M.D., Dr.PH, Otis
