Changes could save fuel in Cape

To the editor:

I want my $200. E-mail Mayor Jay Knudson (jknudtson@cityofcapegirardeau.org) or call city manager Doug Leslie (334-1212) and ask for your $200.

What $200? The $200 every car owner in Cape Girardeau would save annually in fuel costs if the city improved traffic flow. With gasoline approaching $4 a gallon, saving a gallon a week would save you $200 a year.

How can the city save us money?

1. By replacing many stop signs with yield signs.

2. By eliminating unnecessary four-way stops.

3. Re-timing traffic lights where appropriate and by the selective elimination of unneeded red left-turn arrows.

4. Re-marking roads where lane markings have worn off or re-marking to allow for turn lanes.

5. Install more roundabouts. Now that we have eventually got our one roundabout properly laid out, let's think about others.

All these are actions which will keep traffic moving.

That's right. The above action would not affect traffic safety but would easily raise average in-city fuel economy from 15 mpg to 16.5 mpg. And not only would it save all drivers in Cape Girardeau money, it would be good for the environment and promote conservation. And we will get to our destinations quicker too. Everyone wins.

How about empanelling a citizens committee, consisting of representatives of city hall, the police department and local drivers to make recommendation of where these changes may most effectively and safely be made?

Remember, there's still time to save over $120 before Christmas. Call and ask for your money.

PETER GORDON, Cape Girardeau