traffic lights at the new Publix

[Camellia]

So it appears that in the imminent future we will have a traffic light at the new Publix location on 98 in SRB? Traffic moves at a comfortable pace along that corridor now, and I am not thrilled at the prospect of stopping for the privilege of allowing shoppers to enter and exit from a superfluous grocery store. Who pays for the traffic light, and what governing entity approves the efficacy of this traffic solution?

And while I'm whining.... anyone else disturbed that Chelco charges $1 for the privlege of getting a billng notice on-line, thereby saving them the need for using paper and incuring mailing costs?

 

[30ABandMan]

I believe that the cost of the intersection usually falls with the developer. I think that the extra charge is completely bogus just like the freakin' "convenience charge" that many lame businesses access us for NOT going in and standing in their line. I think they should charge a fee for having to have someone man an office to take your payment.

 

[Matt J]

As far as the light goes we could do like most lights around here and wait until several people have needlessly died.

 

[Smiling JOe]

The FL DOT is the "governing entity" for Hwy 98. What is amazing is that the FL DOT didn't think a traffic light was necessary at 98/283 and 98/395, and it took people dying and mucho hell raising to change their minds.

You haven't seen anything yet. Currently, we enjoy hwy 98 as an express hwy through most of Walton County. When the private parcels along 98 get built out, traffic will be very slow, with many traffic lights. It will take forever to get anywhere.

 

[Allifunn]

Putting a traffic light at that location will save many lives, I have no doubt! It might be a superfluous store to some (especially during the off season) but during the season it will be mobbed every Sat & Sun I am sure! It will help create jobs for many locals and will alleviate the pressure on the small Publix at Watercolor (which will not suffer much business) Being a foodie, I welcome another Publix just as I welcome new restaurants.Grocery stores are not obtrusive like fast food and chain restaurants are.
NOW, what I would REALLY love to see is a Fresh Market.
As for produce and specialty items I still love Toni's and For the Health of It

 

[30abob]

"Superfluous" is in the eye of the beholder. I live in Blue Mountain Beach and my office is just North of 98 on 393, so my "eye" obviously has a different view towards the convenience of the new location than does yours.

I'll chime in with support for the traffic light with one minor caveat, FDOT needs to update/correct the posted speed limits between Hwy 395 and the Destin city limits sign. The posted speeds (and frequent speed limit changes up & down) aren't conducive to "safe" travel. Visitors (and some locals) can't seem to catch on and travel either "too fast" or "too slow" compared to the posted speed and other traffic. One car traveling 45 MPH in a 65 MPH zone is "almost" as dangerous as one driving 65 MPH in a 45 MPH zone.

 

[Miss Critter]

I agree with the other posters in favor of the light and the store. In addition to regular traffic, I have no doubt it will be frequneted by many South Walton High School students both before and after school, and the the light is a necessary safety feature. The location is a good one, and should also relieve the seasonal crowding at Publix Grand Boulevard, as well. I'm hoping a couple of inexpensive lunch places go in there, as well.