It has been about a month since changes were put in place at the Hwys 5 and 20 intersection in Humboldt and so far it has been running smoothly.
On August 24-26, the city changed the lights at the Hwy. 5 and 20 intersection - also known as the Main Street and 8th Ave. intersection - to include left hand turning lanes and signals from all directions.
"So far it has been running quite smooth," said Kerri Martin, Director of Community Development and Communications for the city.
Although they have had some negative feedback, from long-time Humboldt drivers when the changes were first made, Martin feels it has been a fairly smooth transition.
"It's new and people need time to get used to the changes," said Martin.
The changes have been for the better, said Martin. They have been monitoring the traffic that goes through the intersection to watch for any potential problems. She explained they will make improvements if necessary.
"I think traffic is moving better through that intersection," said Martin. "There doesn't seem to be line-ups like there was before (on Hwy. 5)."
Not only did the changes add turning lanes and lights, it also removed the fourth lanes, which people formerly utilized when turning right.
"There is no room to have a legal fourth lane with the turning lanes," explained Martin.
The city still has plans to change the intersection a little more in the future.
"We do have plans to widen the south east corner," said Martin. "We are just waiting for funding to make it possible."
She does not feel the new intersection will be a problem in the winter, when the lines get covered by snow.
"The residents are going to have time to adjust before then," said Martin.
There are signs marked above, showing the designated lanes, which should also help drivers if the lane lines do become covered.
"We will do the best we can with snow removal plans as per our budget," said Martin.
Although they have put in as many precautions as possible to help drivers, Martin still encouraged drivers to pay attention while driving fro changes.
"It will take time to get used to changes," said Martin. "We encourage everyone to drive safe and be aware of the changes."
