TAKE a TURN or TWO

We live in a busy town, that can only get busier as more houses are built and renovated. Traffic (and parking) are increasingly becoming problematic issues. 
Raglan has a one lane bridge that connects the east side of our town with the west side. Long queues of traffic, especially in Summer can bring out the worst in people. Patience is stretched, tempers fray and road rage simmers. 
In past years, temporary traffic lights were twice installed and twice they were thrown into the water. Motorists also tried to obey the red Give Way arrow which meant that west side traffic always gives way to east side traffic, but that wasn’t that efficient either as the dominant traffic flow means that traffic builds up at one bridge end. 
Who would have thought that a form of kindness has helped to solve the problem? The ‘greater good’ solution reduces the wait times for all drivers, no matter what time of day or season. Simply put, it is common sense and consideration. As each side consistently lets through 4-6 cars, traffic doesn’t have a chance to build up. 
Last night after Waka Ama (outrigger canoe) training around 5.45pm I watched cars that legally had the right of way wait for other cars to come over and, as a result, traffic flowed efficiently. Let’s also encourage these acts of kindness with a friendly wave (and smile) of thanks. 
Your turn…


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