NIPOMO, Calif. - A new traffic circle in Nipomo is drawing mixed reactions from people in the community.
Last month, The San Luis Obispo County Department of Public Works installed the traffic circle at the intersection of S. Tejas Place and Ida Place.
The project came as a result from numerous complaints the County received from residents that live in the residential area.
They complained people were often driving too fast through the residential street, often times approaching speeds more suitable for the freeway.
The County then came up with idea to build the circle, which it believed would be an effective and inexpensive way to slow down traffic.
In April, the simple rubber barrier was built at minimal cost using recycled materials.
Now, just over two weeks since it was installed, people are expressing their opinions.
"Waste of time and money. It hasn't slowed any cars down,” said Adam Kolkowski, who lives at corner of the intersection. "Not a good idea. Not a good idea at all.”
Kolkowski's neighbor across the street, Carlos Dominguez also isn't a fan. He believes the traffic circle is dangerous.
“I think it's more of a traffic hazard,” said Dominguez. "Sooner or later, there's going to be a collision."
Several residents said the directional sign posted in the middle is awkward and leaves many drivers scratching their heads.
Kolkowski asked County officials why a four-way stop couldn't have been created instead. He said he was told state regulations require a certain volume of traffic would be required, which is not met on S. Tejas Place
"Two more signs would have been so much more effective and a lot less expensive,” said Kolkowski said. “I don't see why can't make an exception to that rule and figure someway of doing it."
Dominguez added the circle, as well as the increased signage that has been put up along the streets is simply an eyesore.
"I hate looking at it,” said Dominguez. “I used to come outside and drink my coffee in the morning and enjoy the trees, now I have to see this darn sign in front of me."
While some people are against the traffic circle, there are others who say it's making a positive difference.
"I think it's made an improvement,” said Greg Maher, who lives just down the street. “The traffic doesn't go through here at fast and there isn't as much traffic going through here as there used to be."
"People are slowing down and being more cautious on this road,” said Johnny Segraves, who lives at the intersection. “So far, so good."
The County will measure speed over a seven period later this month.
Once it collects the data, it will compare it to speed measure on the street before the traffic circle was built.
County officials will also meet with residents to hear feedback and concerns this Thursday. Another meeting will likely come a couple of weeks later.
A final decision on the future of the traffic circle is expected to come by early June.
The circle will either stay and become permanent or be removed.
The traffic circle is the first build in unincorporated San Luis Obispo County.
The County previously said if it is successful, more traffic circles could be built in other areas.
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