Modified 3-lane design may be best for Hwy 34

Dear Editor:
I would first like to thank the Aurora City Council for addressing the issue of how best to replace the deteriorating Highway 34.  It’s a decision that will impact our town for decades to come, and I’m sure they weighed the options carefully. 
I attended the meeting with the state engineers last year. Going into that meeting, I was convinced that a four-lane would serve us better. After listening to the explanations from the state engineers, I changed my mind and agree that the modified three lane they proposed would be the best choice for both safety and traffic flow. 
I live on Highway 34 and can speak from personal experience that I’ve come very close on multiple occasions to being rear ended while attempting to turn left into my driveway. A center turn lane would be a lifesaver -- no pun intended. 
I know that change is hard for our community and things that are different can seem threatening.  In this case, I think the course is clear and we should err on the side of safety. If it takes an additional minute to drive across town, that seems a small price to pay.  I’m looking forward to a beautiful and safe new Highway 34. 
Loren Berthelsen,
Aurora