Over the years, motorists at the intersection of Kansas Highways 156 and 140 have faced four-way stop signs and an overhead red light on K-140 and a yellow caution light on K-156.
We have none of those traffic devices today — just rumble strips and large stop signs on K-140 to tell drivers that K-156 traffic does not stop.
Still, the intersection remains dangerous and is likely to become more so with the arrival of Dollar General and other businesses and activities on the highway.
The most recent change at the intersection was when former state representative, Jerry Aday, convinced the Kansas Department of Transportation to reduce the speed limit from 55 to 45 miles per hour, according to retired Ellsworth mayor Bob Homolka.
In an interview this week, Homolka said he thinks it’s time for the state to take another look at the intersection and perhaps lower the speed limit even more.
We’re no expert on traffic control. But we agree the state needs to conduct another review — and perhaps look at the intersection of K-156 and K-14 as well.
It’s impossible to stop accidents all together, but with growth comes increased traffic — and more signs and other information competing for the attention of drivers.
We need to make sure we do everything possible to keep everyone’s eyes where they need to be.