By Elizabeth Farina
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It’s not rocket science, but why is navigating the traffic circles at the Westchester Commons so difficult?

Go ahead with the snarky laughter, but after 20 minutes of observing folks use the circles, more than nine cars traveled from the inner left lane to connect to Route 60. Their actions, with a few added horn blasts and not so friendly gestures, may mean that the circles are confusing for some.

The signs from the east, before Watkins Centre Parkway, display that the outside right-hand lane can go to the right or straight from that point. It’s not too difficult. Yet, for cars caught on the inside of the rotary, the signage one peeks at before entering into the nether zone is completely forgotten and the urge to drive like one operating a shopping cart, during Black Friday deals, takes over. A nudge here and a cut-off another car there - it all eventually works out at the traffic light.

But the problems continue to plague the navigation at the center. A drive-thru Starbucks has opened its doors to one slight issue. The interior is welcoming and the baristas are focused on top-notch service. However, behind the building, the drive-thru lane can meet up with oncoming traffic in one of the many lanes that divide up multiple free-standing buildings. Luckily, we’re all driving 15 mph to make sure no one has a head-on collision on their way to get a latte. We’re remembering how this is a walkable community, right?

But the truth is, the traffic pattern situation at the center needs to be addressed. If customers are ready to spend discretionary money at the many businesses that continue to open their doors, then hopefully the powers-that-be will readdress the hodge-podge design for traffic patterns.

Let us know your comments and thoughts about Westchester Commons traffic circles and the parking lot situation.