“It’s almost a regular occurrence’: York County intersection still causing safety concerns

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The intersection of Highway 34 and Highway 81 in York County has been the scene of several incidents.

Stop sign violations, traffic stops and car accidents are a constant at the busy intersection.

The York County Commissioner, Daniel Grotz, made a public statement Thursday expressing their concerns with the dangers of the intersection.

Grotz stated in their last board meeting, “They (accidents) just continue to be a problem, especially that intersection.”

Drivers in the area spoke with Channel 8, describing what they see often.

“I’ve had a lot of cars pull out in front of me, or if there’s a car traveling and that semi pulls out, they’re hitting their brakes and trying to get in the next lane,” Charity Winn said. “It’s almost a regular occurrence where those things are happening.”

Over the past year, there’s been at least four crashes resulting in six deaths.

SEE ALSO: ‘A very scary place’: Officials want more safety measures at deadly York intersection

The state recently added rumble strips to improve safety in response to the crashes.

Over the weekend, authorities reported a two-vehicle crash that caused minor injuries.

This latest accident pushed the commissioners to say enough is enough, and that more needs to be done.

The sheriff’s department said it’s routinely cleaning up crashes at this intersection.

They said its important to stay alert at all times in the area.

“It’s just important for people to realize that when it comes to stop signs, you don’t just stop. You need to make sure the intersection is clear and there’s no oncoming traffic,” said Sgt. Jordan Dickson. “You have to yield to the right away for anyone who’s in the road. Take that extra second to stop and think before you cross,” Dickson said.

SEE ALSO: York County deputies cracking down on stop sign violations at two dangerous intersections

Drivers in the area, including Charity Winn, said two things could be done to improve safety: adding stop lights, but also removing some of the large street signs.

“When you’re sitting on Highway 34 and you’re looking down 81 for traffic, a lot of the street signs along there are kind of in the way,” Winn said. “It blocks some of your view. You kind of almost have to get out in traffic to see around far enough to make sure its safe. Moving those into a better area would be nice too, but I really think a stop light would be very beneficial.”

Channel 8 has reached out to the county commissioners for further comment on their concerns.