Urgent Safety Fix Needed – US-93 & Retail Drive Intersection - Dedicated Arrows Public Comment from Ben O'Connor Aimee Brunckhorst
From: Ben OConnor <events@benjaminoconnor.com>
Sent: Monday, August 11, 2025 1:01 PM
To: Itribel horn @mt.gov;jwingerter@mt.gov; pburke@mt.gov; sbrelin@mt.gov;
tmurfitt@mt.gov; gpriebe@mt.gov; info@ryanzinke.com; Kalispell City Council;
amy.regier@legmt.gov
Subject: EXTERNAL Urgent Safety Fix Needed — US-93 & Retail Drive Intersection - Dedicated
Arrows
Good Afternoon,
There's an urgent safety matter I feel obligated to notify you of.As a Kalispell, MT homeowner and
traffic/infrastructure enthusiast who studies roadway design, I'm concerned about the US-93 and
Retail Drive intersection serving Best Buy, Harbor Freight, and nearby retail.
Without dedicated left-turn arrows, drivers must turn across high-speed, multi-lane traffic,
creating multiple conflict points.This setup reduces efficiency,frustrates drivers, and leads to
aggressive, risky maneuvers I have personally witnessed.The Federal Highway Administration
notes left turns account for roughly 22%of all intersection crashes, and this location's high
volume, multiple entrances, and mixed driver familiarity compound the danger.
Beyond safety,these conditions deter shoppers from the area, potentially impacting local business
revenue.Adding protected left-turn phases for both directions would improve safety,traffic flow,
and commercial accessibility. I urge MDT to review and address this before a serious accident
occurs.
You can reach me directly at 4013695124.
Thankyou foryour attention to this matter!
Respectfully,
Ben OConnor
Ben O'Connor Music Group LLC.
www.benoaminoconnor.com
events(abbeniam i nocon nor.corn
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