Traffic Congestion

Do you recognize this section of the so-called "Commercial Core" of Sunset Hills?

• Developers, who have made proposals to the City, want to redevelop both sides of S. Kirkwood Rd - The Viking on the west and Sunset Manor on the east.

• These developers (who do not live  in the area) do not welcome  discussions of limiting left turns (for traffic safety).

• Counting roadway intersections and curb cuts for driveway, there are more than a dozen conflict points (including the center left turn lane) where accident exposure is high.

What are the effects of traffic congestion on commerce?

• Astute retailers are beginning to recognize that consumers tend to avoid spending time in congested areas.  Studies by the FHWA and various state DOTs show that:

  •  "8 out of 10 drivers avoid shopping in congested areas"

  • Reducing travel time enlarges market reach

• While the S. Kirkwood Rd section is Sunset Hills' "poster child" for implementing Access Management practices, it is not alone.  Consider:

  • Lindbergh Blvd (including the S. Kirkwood Rd section) from Eddie & Park north to I-44

  • Gravois from Sappington Rd southwest to Lindbergh Blvd.

Future proposals for development & redevelopment need to be considered in the context of "access management" for traffic flow.

The citizens of Sunset Hills and commuters traveling thru deserve safe passage on our highways!  Also, Residential streets shall NOT be made to be traffic arteries to alleviate main thoroughfare congestion.

S. Kirkwood Rd from Watson north to I-44