October 11, 2008
Watchdog
Traffic lights stay under wraps
There are two sets of traffic signals at Liberty Heights and Granada avenues; the second set has been covered for more than two years. (Sun photo by Andre F. Chung / June 12, 2008)
The problemNew traffic signals at a Northwest Baltimore intersection have been covered in burlap for more than two years.
The backstoryYou've seen them at intersections all over Baltimore: traffic lights hooded by black plastic bags or burlap, right next to functioning signals.
Reginald V. Burley has been bugged by a double set of traffic signals - one covered in burlap, one operating - at Liberty Heights and Granada avenues since they were put up more than two years ago.
"Those bags are dry-rotted," Burley said. "Why waste the money and effort putting these things up if you're not going to turn them on?"
Burley, who used to live near Northern Parkway, e-mailed Watchdog about the problem in early March. The problem still had not been resolved as of last week.
"I just got tired of looking at them and wondered when are they finally going to activate those things," he said yesterday.
Rosita Sabrosso-Rennick, a spokeswoman for the city's Department of Transportation, said the traffic division is looking into the problem.
They plan to schedule point control and inspections to have this signal operating by the first week in July, she said.
Who can fix thisFelicia Shelton, traffic division chief for the Department of Transportation, at 443-984-2150.
City residents can also call 311 to report problems.
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Copyright © 2008, The Baltimore Sun
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