Opening HOV lanes will do very little

In regard to Mr. Fischbach’s June 15 letter (“State transportation: Open HOV lanes for non-peak hours”). I have a couple responses. As I work in traffic control and spend much time on the freeways, both day and night, I can say with authority that during off-peak hours, the general-purpose lanes are not full except for blockages due to accidents. Opening the HOV lanes during these hours isn’t necessary to allow traffic to flow at posted speeds, so making this change accomplishes no realistic purpose in relieving congestion. I suppose the state could open these lanes, but that would mean spending money to change the signs for these lanes. Isn’t this kind of waste just what the author is against?

As far as Sound Transit, I agree this agency has had problems and that light rail may not be the best solution for our transportation gridlock. But complaining about the money for art is misleading. It is a small percentage of the total budget, and I believe required by state law. I suppose we should just build bare bones freeways and bus stations, not spending a little more for good looking concrete facing, attractive art, or maybe doing away with those expensive sound barriers and saying too bad for those impacted by traffic noise.

With property values so high, any addition to our road system is going to be expensive. Building the same while keeping existing roads open requires lots of planning and more expensive solutions. Building up to new standards, including salmon and other habitat protection, earthquake proofing, adds yet more to the bill.

I’m sorry the writer has a couple misplaced pet peeves and plans to vote against any funding for solutions to our gridlock problems. Hopefully other voters are more enlightened, and will get our state moving into the new millennium with traffic solutions that are both needed and will work.

Snohomish

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

toon
Editorial cartoons for Saturday, Feb. 15

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

Rivian, based in Irvine, Calif., has introduced its new R2 models, smaller and more affordable SUVs. (Rivian)
Editorial: Open electric vehicle market to direct sales

Legislation would allow EV makers to sell directly to customers, making lease or purchase easier.

Eco-nomics: Climate change is making insurance a risky bet

Keeping home insurance affordable amid climate change will take adaptation to threats and broader efforts.

Comment: Keeping health care fair, affordable as costs rise

Bills in the state Senate would look to control costs and keep decisions in the hands of providers.

Comment: Proposal takes a swipe at credit card swipe fees

State legislation would exempt taxes and gratuities from the fees that credit card firms charge businesses.

Forum: State church leaders call for compasion for immigrants

Scripture repeatedly instructs us to love our neighbor and show the stranger hospitality.

Forum: Support state legislation to reform policing, corrections

One bill would harmonize standards for agency leadership; another would clarify review of corrections facilities.

The Buzz: When you gotta boogie, best to shake it off, kid

A pasquidadian review of the week’s news.

People walk adjacent to the border with Canada at the Peace Arch in Peace Arch Historical State Park, where cars behind wait to enter Canada at the border crossing Monday, Aug. 9, 2021, in Blaine, Wash. Canada lifted its prohibition on Americans crossing the border to shop, vacation or visit, but America kept similar restrictions in place, part of a bumpy return to normalcy from coronavirus travel bans. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
Editorial: U.S. and Canada better neighbors than housemates

President Trump may be serious about annexing Canada, but it’s a deal fraught with complexities for all.

Schwab: If you’re OK with foreign aid cuts, guess who’s next

At some point, if they haven’t already, Trump’s and Musk’s cuts will hit all but a very elite few.

Poor planning behind Snohomish PUD rate increase

It did not take long in 2025 for the Snohomish Public Utility… Continue reading

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.