CAMBRIDGE, Md. - A new traffic pattern is coming to the city of Cambridge, but exactly what that will be remains up for debate.
After speaking with several residents, many agree the intersection of Stone Boundary Road and Maryland Route 16 is too dangerous. The Maryland State Highway Administration plans to install a traffic light, while the city of Cambridge is proposing a roundabout instead.
"There's evidence that roundabouts slow traffic down in a more reasonable matter and help prevent accidents," said Cambridge City Manager Glenn Steckman.
About two weeks ago, the city received a letter from the State Highway Administration notifying them of the plan to install a traffic signal at the intersection. Steckman said the state did not specify a reason for the decision, but he believes it is in response to safety concerns raised by area residents.
"Cars speed and fly up and down the road. People just don't pay attention. They're always constantly pulling out. School buses come here. Kids are constantly getting off school around here," said Cambridge resident Michael Watts.
"I don't like it. It is dangerous. It's the caution set up, it's no good," said Robert Thompson, another Cambridge resident.
"One day last week I can say I saw a terrible accident," said E.R. Mapp, an Easton resident who frequently drives through the intersection.
In response, the city has drafted a letter explaining why it believes a roundabout would be a better solution. The city council will vote Monday evening on whether to send the letter to the state.
Some residents agree with the city’s preference for a roundabout.
"People don't pay attention to the red lights," said Thompson.
"The roundabout has done pretty good right up the street here that we have. So, I mean, I could see a roundabout going in," said Watts.
However, others believe a traffic signal is necessary to control speeding drivers.
"Because with the roundabout, as I said, you have to yield. With the red light, you have to stop. That's why I think a red light would be better," said Mapp.
If the council votes in favor of urging the state for a roundabout, the letter will be sent immediately.
UPDATE: During the City Commissioner meeting, the commissioners voted unanimously, in favor, of sending the letter to Maryland's SHA.