Strongsville Explains Traffic Congestion At Major Intersection

STRONGSVILLE, OH — Drivers may have noticed an intersection on Pearl Road, at Westwood and Route 82, has been plagued by poorly timed traffic signals. In a statement shared on Facebook, the city said, "We all know the timing of the signals is messed up" and then offered an explanation.

When the crews were installing new crosswalks and medians on Route 82 and Pearl, the underground loop detectors that monitor traffic, and tell traffic signals when to change, were dug up and removed. Their removals was part of a plan to install new video cameras, on poles, to monitor traffic.

"The problem? The poles for the new signals have been on order since last April and still aren't here. You've probably seen crews out the last few weeks installing foundations for the new poles at intersections around town as part of the citywide traffic signal upgrade. We'll be ready to roll when they get here," the city said on Facebook.

Currently, the traffic signals at the intersection are operating on a timer and are not adjusting to flow of traffic. Engineers are looking into changing the timers to keep southbound traffic from backing up on Westwood. However, traffic problems are being exacerbated because of the approaching holidays.

Officials hope the congestion will be relieved, at least a little, after Christmas passes.

"So that's the story. We just wanted to explain what's going on. As soon as we get the equipment, it will go up. Meanwhile, remember Strongsville's new motto: If at all possible, avoid the area," the city said on Facebook.