Billy Adams for Stowe

Traffic Mitigation

Stowe’s traffic congestion is a complex problem impacting both residents and visitors, demanding effective and proactive solutions. Improving traffic flow and enhancing safety at key intersections is paramount. While improvements at all intersections are important,
the Luce Hill intersection is critical and VTrans is currently undertaking scoping studies. Additionally, Moscow Road and Route 100 intersection requires immediate attention. The most recent Stantec traffic report paints a concerning picture: with just 300 additional housing units,
eight intersections—including Moscow Road and Route 100—are projected to operate at Level of Service E or F, representing near or total failure. This translates to significant delays, increased frustration, and potential safety hazards. The fact that these are state-owned highways
presents a major obstacle. VTrans’s priorities and timelines don’t always align with Stowe’s urgent needs. Therefore, we must advocate more strongly for local control over our roads. Greater local control will enable us to be more proactive in investing in necessary improvements,
including:

  • Targeted Intersection Improvements: Beyond the intersections at Luce Hill and Moscow Road and Route 100, we need a comprehensive plan to address all failing and near-failing intersections. This includes exploring solutions like:
    • Optimized Signal Timing: Adjusting traffic light patterns to improve flow of through traffic entering Stowe from the north.
    • Temporary Traffic Lights: Assess the feasibility of using temporary traffic signals to more effectively manage traffic flow at intersections operating at E and F levels of service.
    • Roundabouts: The Moscow Road and Route 100 intersection presents a significant traffic challenge. We must continue to prioritize the creation of a roundabout at this location, a proven and effective method for increasing intersection capacity and reducing accidents.
    • Turn Lanes: Adding dedicated turning lanes, as recommended in the Stantec Report, to help reduce traffic congestion.
    • Intersection Redesign: Physically altering intersection geometry for better efficiency, as recommended in the Stantec Report.
  • Infrastructure Enhancements: Investing in our roads and bridges is essential. This includes not only maintenance and repairs, but also upgrades to accommodate increased traffic volume and promote alternative transportation.
  • Alternative Transportation Investment: We need to reduce reliance on single-occupancy vehicles. This means:
    • Expanding Public Transit: Improving the frequency and reach of public transportation, both within Stowe (beyond the Mountain Road corridor) and connecting Stowe with neighboring towns, is essential for a more effective and efficient transportation system.
    • Creating Bike and Pedestrian Networks: Developing safe and connected pathways for walking and cycling, encouraging active transportation.
  • Collaboration and Advocacy: We must work closely with VTrans and the Lamoille Regional Planning Commission, but also advocate forcefully for Stowe’s needs. We need to demonstrate the urgency of the situation and the economic and quality-of-life benefits of effective traffic mitigation.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making: Future decisions must be based on solid data and analysis. Regular traffic studies and ongoing monitoring are crucial for understanding traffic patterns and evaluating the effectiveness of implemented solutions. An updated study of through traffic entering Stowe from the north is crucial. The last VTrans study, conducted in 2010, is outdated. We cannot afford to make reactive decisions based on anecdotal evidence and obsolete data.

By taking a proactive and multi-faceted approach, we can mitigate traffic congestion, improve safety, and preserve the quality of life in Stowe for both residents and visitors. This requires strong leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to investing in solutions that address the root causes of our traffic challenges.