The bill has a potential impact on state laws regarding speed limits and traffic controls at highway intersections. By requesting a formal study, it opens the door for possible changes in local traffic regulations that could significantly affect vehicle flow and safety measures at the intersection. If it results in a recommendation for lower speed limits or new traffic signals, this could align with the federal guidelines aimed at enhancing roadway safety based on the speed of prevailing traffic.
Summary
HCR65 urges the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) to conduct a traffic study at the intersection of Louisiana Highway 1 and Louisiana Highway 3090, which serves as a crucial route for large motor vehicles carrying oilfield equipment, particularly through Port Fourchon. The resolution recognizes the increased traffic in the area due to the elevated portion of Highway 1 and seeks to assess the feasibility of lowering the speed limit at this intersection and possibly installing a full traffic light or a four-way stop to enhance safety for drivers, especially given that caution lights are currently in use.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR65 appears supportive of proactive measures to ensure highway safety, particularly in light of increased traffic from oilfield activities in the region. Lawmakers advocating for the study underscore the importance of taking these factors into consideration to prevent accidents and improve transport conditions in a high-traffic area. There is a general consensus that assessing traffic patterns and potential adjustments is a necessary step to safeguard public safety.
Contention
While HCR65 demonstrates a concerted effort to improve roadway safety, there could be concerns regarding the potential costs or logistical challenges that may arise from implementing recommendations following the traffic study. Stakeholders involved in oilfield operations may express apprehensions about delays or disruptions if speed limits are adjusted or additional traffic controls are put in place. Balancing increased safety with the efficiency needs of transport operations is likely to remain a point of discussion.
Urges and requests DOTD to install a traffic light at the junction of LA 594 and Millhaven Road and the entrance to Millhaven Estates Subdivision in Ouachita Parish
Urges and requests DOTD to study four laning La. Highway 30 from its intersection with La. Highway 42 to the intersection of US Highway 61 in Ascension Parish
Requests DOTD to install a traffic light at the intersection of Airline Drive and Eagle Street and to establish a school zone near Bethune Elementary School in Orleans Parish
Requests DOTD to install a red light at the intersection of North Acadia Road on La. Highway 648 (Percy Brown Road) in Lafourche Parish and to reduce the speed along this route
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.