BLAIR, NEBRASKA (2024 November 9, Saturday)
Don Harrold, Writer / Editor
blairtoday@mail.com – Facebook
A collision at the increasingly controversial intersection of the Blair Bypass and Highway 75 occurred Saturday at approximately noon, bringing renewed attention to an area that local residents have flagged as hazardous for the past two months. (We wrote about this very issue on September 11.)
The accident, which took place November 9, resulted in emergency vehicles being dispatched to the scene. While initial reports indicate no critical injuries, the incident has reinforced community concerns about the intersection’s safety.
Local social media channels have been active with warnings about this particular crossing, where drivers must navigate high-speed Highway 75 traffic from both directions. The situation becomes particularly challenging when semi-trucks are present, as they can significantly obstruct visibility for drivers attempting to cross.
“What more evidence do we need?” has become a common refrain among area residents. Many are questioning whether it will take a fatal accident before traffic signal installation is considered for this location.
“It was predicted by many on here,” posted Renee West, on Facebook, sparking a flood of worried responses from neighbors checking on family members and sharing their own close calls at the intersection. According to Matt Saunders, stop lights are coming – but not until spring 2025, replied Ann Karls. That timeline isn’t sitting well with locals who’ve been demanding immediate action.
While complete details of today’s accident will be available in forthcoming police reports, the incident has already sparked renewed calls for action from the community. With winter weather approaching and January’s traditionally slippery conditions on the horizon, concerns about the intersection’s safety continue to mount.
Local officials have yet to announce any plans for additional safety measures at the crossing. However, today’s events may prompt a reassessment of the intersection’s current configuration.
Further details about Saturday’s accident will be reported as they become available.
