NDOT Says Summer 2020 for Sheckler Light

The recent tragic traffic accident at the intersection of Sheckler Cut-off and Highway 50 has brought more pressure for answers about what is being done to prevent further destruction at that intersection as well as the McLean/Highway 50 area. NDOT has provided the following statement in response to a request for an update on the progress being made toward traffic controls. (From NDOT) Traffic safety is our top priority. Ultimately, we live in our Nevada communities and are dedicated to helping keep our fellow Nevadans, our neighbors and our families safe. With safety as top priority, NDOT has analyzed a full range of potential traffic safety improvements at the intersection, including a traffic signal warrant analysis and other intersection evaluations to closely analyze all potential intersection enhancements and determine the most effective intersection improvements. While traffic signals are not the most appropriate for all intersections, the U.S. 50 and Sheckler intersection meets specific federally-prescribed warrants, or prerequisites, needed to consider installation of a traffic signal. NDOT continues to fast-track development of a future traffic signal at the intersection of U.S. 50 and Sheckler Cutoff. This summer, all utilities in the area were identified to reduce conflict with the new signal infrastructure. Geotechnical analysis of area soils have also been completed to determine the needed sizes of signal and light pole foundations. NDOT is currently finalizing design of the new signal. Many traffic signal components such as poles and mast arms are custom-manufactured to fit the specific intersection where they will be installed. Many of these custom-fabricated components have a production and manufacturing lead time of six to nine months or more. We are scheduled to install the traffic signal next year. Based on lead time for production and manufacturing of signal poles and mast arms, the signal will likely be installed in the summer of 2020. As we have listened to presentations by NDOT at County Commission meetings, it has been said that by installing the light at Sheckler Cut-Off, that will create gaps in the traffic that will allow for better entrance/exit at the McLean intersection. We at The Fallon Post will continue to provide updates as these plans roll out.         Support local, independent news – contribute to The Fallon Post, your non-profit (501c3) online news source for all things Fallon. Never miss the local news — read more on The Fallon Post home page.