An ongoing public health and safety crisis is taking place along Route 8

To the editor:

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the ongoing public health and safety crisis along Route 8 (commonly referred to as “Snake 8” by commercial and personal vehicles and motorcycles due to the lack of any enforcement of DOT regulations and speed enforcement, so they snake on through) in Berkshire County from the Connecticut state line to Route 20 in Becket, passing through Otis and Sandisfield. This stretch of road is far more than a transportation route; it has become a dangerous corridor that poses serious health and safety risks to residents and visitors alike.

The frequency of accidents, combined with inadequate safety measures, has contributed to a growing sense of insecurity in our communities. Vehicles, both commercial and personal, are blatantly disregarding laws that should be protecting us all. Speed limits are often ignored, with speeds exceeding 50 miles per hour, well over the posted limits.

Furthermore, the routine use of exhaust brakes and lack of noise reduction mufflers around the clock causes sound levels in excess of 100 decibels, disturbing residents and potentially causing hearing loss. The aftermath of recent accidents resulted in life flights, road closures, and significant environmental cleanups. Contaminants from these frequent accidents flowed into Farmington River.

Immediate action is essential before this crisis results in further injuries or loss of life. While the police departments of Sandisfield, Otis, and Becket do their best to manage the situation, their limited resources are vastly overwhelmed, akin to trying to hold back a flood with a few sandbags.

I urge the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and state law enforcement agencies to prioritize enforcement along this critical route to ensure the safety and well-being of all who travel through this area.

1. Enforce Weight and Speed Limits: Enforce current restrictions on commercial vehicles. Enforce speed limits on all that use this section of Route 8.
2. Construct Detours or Alternative Routes: Develop designated truck routes away from residential and community areas to minimize exposure.
3. Implement Traffic Management Measures: Use of large instant feedback signage, speed cameras, and/or drone technology, traffic calming measures, restricted transport for non-local commercial traffic
4. Establish Community Buffer Zones: Create green belts or buffer zones between roads and residential areas to mitigate pollution and noise.
5. Monitor and Enforce Regulations: Regularly monitor traffic and pollution levels and enforce relevant regulations and penalties.

Timothy G. Wighton, M.D., Dr.PH
Otis

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