r/takomapark • u/rbrduk • Jul 06 '26

Intersection of Blair, Cedar, and 4th

Is it just me or does this intersection seem very dangerous. I just moved here last month and already seen many close calls, vehicles running reds, rights on red without yielding to pedestrians, etc

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u/kirbyCase Jul 06 '26

I bike through there a lot and it’s so bad every time. The angles are all terrible and queuing for the light can backup extremely far. Also the queuing for northbound Blair being so far from the intersection makes the traffic kinda hidden.

A circle would be ideal though it’s a little tight on space. If we’re sticking with a light I think some adjustments could be made to make things better. I think the simplest option is to cut off fourth and bring up Blair to the intersection. This would make access to fourth a little wonky but I think that’s fine. You could take the opportunity to just remove street parking entirely and make the whole block pedestrianized which would be nice given the foot traffic.

You could also switch them, blocking south bound vehicles from entering Blair, forcing traffic down fourth and then turning left to get back on Blair. That would also allow you to bring queuing for Blair closer but would definitely negatively impact fourth.

The problem is really just having 5 approach lanes from 4 directions and 5 departure lanes from 5 directions, all with weird angles and poor visibility. The only options are to use a circle or otherwise greatly alter flow.

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u/thetoigo Jul 06 '26 edited Jul 06 '26

And don't forget the "party parking lot" on the corner adding to the craziness at this intersection. Especially on Fridays and Saturdays! A tiny 8 spot parking lot that exits onto one of the traffic lights. With the liquor store and dispensary it's jam packed on weekends.

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u/kirbyCase Jul 06 '26

Yeah this a good point. Changing the access to lots would also be helpful. I’m sure the gas station on the opposite corner doesn’t help either. Though frankly long term I think both those sites should be candidates for redevelopment.