Confusing Redmond intersection factor in crashes

Redmond has seen a string of crashes in recent weeks, and now some residents are pointing the finger at an intersection in town that they say is dangerous.

The intersection is at Southwest Sixth Street and Highland Avenue is busy. Both Highland are one-way streets. Plus, Highland feeds onto the parkway. There is only one left-hand turn lane for Sixth Street drivers to turn onto Highland.

But a one-way sign makes it look like drivers can turn left from two lanes, and that leads to accidents.

Jeanette Brunot works nearby at Windermere Real Estate. She said Tuesday the number of crashes happening is getting out of hand. She’s worried if something doesn’t change, someone will get seriously hurt.

“It’s concerning that somebody might end up dying on this intersection, and I feel it needs to be brought to attention,” Brunot said. “You know, it’s up to the city and ODOT to make sure our traffic signals are right and our intersections are good. It’s up to the people to mind the speed limit.”

According to Redmond police, between April 1, 2017 and March 31, 2018, there were 10 crashes at Sixth Street and Highland Avenue.

ODOT and city of Redmond officials said they have made some recent changes at the intersection, including changing the green light circle to an arrow.

And the city said it’s working to make the intersection safer for drivers.