If you live in the north end of Palmer Township, you already know how tricky it is to navigate the intersection of Newlins Mill and Tatamy roads.
Plenty of nonresidents have found out the hard way.
There have been 33 crashes there resulting in 19 injuries since 2022, according to Palmer Township Police Sergeant Tyson Unangst.
The speed of traffic on Tatamy Road and limited sight lines have long made this a troublesome intersection. Now, it’s getting a traffic light courtesy of a $795,000 state grant Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro announced Tuesday.
“This is great news for Palmer Township residents concerning a very dangerous intersection with a history of multiple accidents,” township manager Robert Williams said on Wednesday.
The grant will supplement the estimated $1 million to $1.2 million cost for the traffic light, he said. The light is funded through grants and contributions by developers.
Planning and permitting work will start immediately, Williams said. It will take a few years before the light is erected, he said.
The traffic light grant is one of 51 safety projects across 44 municipalities statewide approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation through the Automated Red-Light Enforcement program. Municipalities submitted 113 applications, and fewer than half were awarded part of the $27 million in funding.
“The township recognizes that traffic safety is a growing and very realistic concern for residents. This project is one of many measures we are initiating to address these concerns to respond to our residents,” added Palmer Township Supervisors Chairman Michael Brett.
Traffic backs up on Newlins Mill Road in the afternoon of
March 27, 2013. Drivers on Tatamy Road passing by Newlins Mll Road don’t stop, and the Newlins Mill drivers have to wait for an opportunity to turn.Matt Smith | For lehighvalleylive.comCRASHES BY THE NUMBERS
Crashes at Tatamy and Newlins Mill roads
2022: Six crashes involving 12 vehicles resulting in one injury 2023: Six crashes involving 14 vehicles resulting in seven injuries 2024: Thirteen crashes involving 25 vehicles resulting in six injuries2025: Seven crashes involving 15 vehicles resulting in five injuries2026: One crash involving two vehicles resulting in no injuries
Source: Palmer Township Police Department