Drivers in Oregon are showing frustration as the stoplights at the Route 2 and Route 64 intersection has malfunctioned and now only flashes red. According to the road rules, an intersection with flashing red lights means it is a four way stop.
At the most recent Oregon City Council meeting the city was asked if stop signs could be installed to help tell travelers to treat it as a four way stop. Since both roads are state roads, the intersection is the state’s responsibility. Public Works Director Bill Covel told the council they asked IDOT if they could put up stop signs and IDOT very quickly said no.
City Administrator Darin DeHaan was asked if the city could be held liable if they do not put up the signs. He said if they do put up the signs they could be held liable, so it is best to just let IDOT handle it.
Part of the reason given by IDOT against the city putting up signs is the possible confusion it would cause if the lights begin working again. Now IDOT needs certain electrical parts to repair the lights and they are not expected for another 4 weeks.
The city has posted driving instructions for the public when coming to a flashing red light and that is to treat it as a four way stop.
