Bridge collapse could cost Washington state millions, jobs

[Capt.Rocky300]

27. I'm afraid it is a very big deal for those of us who live here.......

The Mt.Vernon area has had a huge population increase in the past 10 years without a commensurate improvement of the roads. The roads are already inadequate to handle normal, daily traffic without experiencing heavy congestion. It has been complicated by the additions of Costco, Home Depot and other major shopping areas along that route. The intersection where College Way goes under I-5 to gain access to the Southbound freeway onramp is a nightmare due to not enough lanes, multiple signals and just too may cars trying to get to Lowe's or the new Super Walmart. And, Riverside Drive is no highway. True, it is 4 lanes but it is a surface street with businesses, restaurants and retailers on both sides and this additional volume of traffic will keep locals away from those enterprises. As much as we may want to patronize our favorite places, few people have the time to sit in traffic for a long time trying to get there and then on to their next destination. And then factor in the inconsiderate drivers who are unwilling to give someone a break coming out of one of these establishments' parking lots. With all due respect MineralMan, it is a very big deal for everyone and especially those of us who live and work in the area.