To the Editor:

The stated reason for the N.C. 107 project in Sylva is to reduce traffic problems and increase safety. Two problems that I have not seen addressed are:

• School zone safety in front of the elementary and high schools. Coming toward Sylva from Cullowhee there is a flashing yellow caution light/school zone advising drivers that the speed limit decreases near Cullowhee Valley Elementary and before the turn to Fairview. However, when coming from downtown toward Smoky Mountain High School and Fairview there is only a sign — no flashing light. Why? Drivers routinely fail to decrease speed during the designated hours.

• The speed limit is 45 from about the entrance to Lowe’s until after the light at Old Cullowhee Road. The limit increases to 55 after crossing the bridge but drops to 45 again before the main entrance to WCU. Few drivers adhere to these limits. Students are among the worst offenders.  Also, after passing the turn to Jackson Recreation Park there are a number of double yellow line no passing zones that some drivers ignore! 

Rarely do I see drivers stopped for speeding in these areas. If there’s no enforcement, why bother with signs?

Gene Tunnell

Cullowhee