Lights create traffic jams

There has been quite a lot of discussion lately about our inefficient traffic-light delays due to poor timing at intersections.

Heading west on Pandora Avenue at Blanshard Street, the light turned green, indicating all clear to cross the intersection and proceed to Douglas Street. I was waiting to make a right to go north on Blanshard. I waited 20 seconds for the right-hand turning red light, while the nonexistent bikers were allowed to cross Blanshard toward Douglas.

When the light finally signalled a go, I had five seconds to make the turn before the amber light kicked in. Due to the fact I was fourth in line, I was unable to make my turn, and had to wait until the next sequence permitted a turning opportunity; and this at one of our busiest intersections.

This is ridiculous. Not only are these mostly unused bicycle paths taking up valuable space on our busy roadways, but we four-wheel roadies are getting stuck in needless traffic jams due to a horrendously inefficient traffic-light system.

It is high time that our overly paid city officials earned their keep by making our increasingly busy city more traffic friendly in all respects, and stopped spending precious taxpayer dollars on bicycle paths that are not being used in any worthwhile volume. Why do radio stations and the public need to raise these concerns when city hall should be ahead of the curve and not behind it, as usual?