An aerial view of the newly completed roundabout at the intersection of Old Arcata and Jacoby Creek roads. | Photo: City of Arcata
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IT IS FINALLY DONE!!!!
The construction project from Jacoby Creek Road to Sunnybrae is now complete (except for a few minor items) and it is marvelous. There is now sidewalk all the way and bike lanes on both sides with crosswalks and flashing crossing signs. There is also added parking across from the Grange, which was necessary because when there were events, traffic would park on both sides of the road and it would be down to one lane. The drainage ditch had underground culverts installed with pavers on top so it is safer to park, ride a bike and walk. Riding my bike to Sunnybrae used to feel like I was riding over train tracks. It is so smooth now.
Before the Jacoby Creek roundabout, people would be driving on Old Arcata Road towards Jacoby Creek School up to 48 miles per hour in the 25 mph zone. I was able to verify the speed because there was a radar speed sign as one would approach the school. Now, the traffic is much safer for all people in a car, on a bike or walking. There are still a few problems but they are minimal compared to the improvements that were made!
Now I would like to discuss the elephant in the room! It is particularly sad how the work crew from GR Sundberg was treated by the vehicle drivers. I heard stories about people yelling, cussing and spitting on them. The vehicle drivers would also ignore the flaggers by driving right past them, almost hitting them.
What was particularly sad was that adults with children in the car were displaying such horrible behavior and teaching the children that it was the way to handle a situation. Imagine if those adults saw their children being talked to like they talked to the flaggers and workers. Would they object to that treatment? Adults, please set an example and stop what is becoming common practice in today’s society. It was only a few and you know who you are!
People serve us every day no matter where we go. We need them to be there or we would not be able to get what we need. We don’t know what people are going through in their lives. One worker at the site opened up to me that he had cancer and has a port for his infusions. I said I wanted to write a letter to the editor and asked if I could mention his situation and he said, yes. We don’t know their financial, physical or emotional struggles they have just to serve us. I told the worker I make it a goal of mine to make someone smile every day and am particularly kind to those who serve me. I say “Thank You For Working” and smile. I hope I change someone’s attitude every day. Please help to pass a smile on to others. You may be the only positive interaction they have that day and it will mean a lot.
Paul Nicholson
Bayside
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