Several more readers have written in to share opinions about the medians and planters on State Road 200 in Ocala. Here are some of those letters, along with links to previous letters on the topic:
“The planters they are talking about are not on the center island, they are on the right side close to the sidewalk. So when you go from one light to the next, you have to watch, because you need to veer to the left, a little, or you will hit your rims for sure. I almost did it because the guy in front of me stayed straight as we were leaving the light to continue to the next street. Unfortunately, he saw that flowery median at the last second and his car hit it. I was lucky enough in a second to view a little bit to the left and I missed it probably by inches. Absolutely the worst thing they could have done. The worst thing. Because if you’re not the first car, and you’re approaching the next street, you don’t see the stupid concrete that now has become part of the road. There’s no need for it. It’s a waste of money, a true waste of money. FDOT, wake up, fix the roads that have more cracks and bumps and whatnot and forget about putting in flower beds on the right side of the road.” – Bernadette Cunningham, Ocala
“To the person who said that these planters beautify our roads: Please realize that the ‘idea’ of these planters intend to do just that, however, in practical day to day life- let’s face it – it just isn’t safe. Drivers are now faced with more narrow lanes that snake across intersections. There are just too many cars on the road, too many distracted drivers and these diminished width lanes do not help an already volatile situation. Also, why are there pedestrian crossing signals on State Road 200 where I’ve never seen anyone crossing the road? Does FDOT really think drivers are going to see those signals when I see cars running regular intersection red lights daily? Since when can you turn left at a red light not on a one way street? Again, seen every day. Drivers in general just don’t follow rules anymore – we seem to live with a ‘me’ mentality nowadays. It’s sad.” – Cheryl Pfeil, Ocala…