Solutions sought for Irvine Avenue

Another death on Irvine Avenue. Is it speed? Is it alcohol that’s the

cause? Or is the city of Newport Beach negligent in having such a

road?

Boy, am I sick of people blaming the city for their and other

people’s mistakes. I’m roaring mad when these people get an attorney

and sue the city, blaming the city that Irvine Avenue has curves and

turns. The city of Newport Beach can be sued because a road goes up

and down and left and right? This is too much. Accidents happen, and

as long as people are allowed to drive there are going to be

accidents. Accidents do happen for reasons that can mitigated by

speed enforcement, checking reckless driving and drunks screwing up.

But accidents are still going to happen. Coast Highway, Balboa

Boulevard, San Miguel Road, MacArthur Boulevard, it doesn’t matter,

accidents are still going to happen.

I’ve been driving on Irvine avenue for 32 years, and accidents

have always been part of scenery. Now I’m not saying I approve of or

accept accidents, but the road has been improved and the road is a

wonderful drive along the Back Bay and should remain so. Straighten

it out? No way.

I enjoy this drive along the Back Bay on Irvine Avenue. It’s

beautiful, and in our car culture it is one of the most scenic drives

to be had. Sure, it’s not a “Sunday” drive so to speak, but when

driving is a necessity it sure is a cool view whether it’s of the

Santa Ana mountains or the high rises of Newport Center or just the

Back Bay itself.

I guess the biggest problem really is speeding. With the increased

traffic and faster cars, and the need to rush through our lives

faster and faster, the traffic flow and safety along Irvine Avenue

needs to be addressed, although not by straightening the road out as

some suggest. Times change and we must change with them.

I hate to suggest it, but adding another traffic signal on Irvine

Avenue is what’s needed. Maybe two. And for goodness sakes, time the

signals all along Irvine Avenue so traffic will flow at decent and

safe speeds. If we time and regulate the traffic flow I will be able

to enjoy even more this little but fantastic drive. There will be

fewer accidents and less deaths, happier residents and life will be

good.

* PAUL JAMES BALDWIN is a Newport Beach resident.