The push by Citizens Transportation Coalition for a traffic light at this intersection was never about convenience.  It was about safety.  It was about John Wiegenstein and his six year old grandson, Parker Meyer losing their lives in October of 2004.

Commissioner Frank Halas did his best to convince Florida Department of Transportation that a traffic signal was needed at this intersection.  In a letter to FDOT dated Sept. 13, 2006, Commissioner Halas cited the crash history,  " ... 25 crashes logged in the past three years, of which seven were injury crashes and one was a fatal crash".

At Commissioner Halas' suggestion, Citizens Transportation Coalition formed in 2007 to pressure FDOT into reconsidering their position against installing this traffic signal.  Two years later, with FDOT approval, with Bonita Springs City Council and Collier County Commissioners working together, a safer intersection has been achieved.

The cost for installation of the light was borne by Collier County and the cost for maintenance of the light will be borne by Bonita Springs.

Government crossing boundaries and coming together for the good of the people.

Thank you to the many good people who helped support this cause in so many ways. Almost 40 people turned out on Monday, June 15th to help set this light in motion.

Together, we DID make a difference!!! 

Monday, June 15, 2009 11:30  Light is ON

Commissioner Frank Halas and CTC Director Gina Downs discuss their accomplishment ... a safer intersection in Collier County

CTC Supporters join with elected officials and transportation department workers to participate in the 'throwing of the switch' to make the new traffic light operational at Woods Edge Parkway and US41.

Voila!  The switch is thrown and we have a light.  A light that took two years to get approved.  A light that should save lives.