U.S. 17 traffic issues to be discussed in Orange Park

Plainfield Avenue and River Road used as detours to avoid U.S. 17 traffic

ORANGE PARK, Fla. – Residents and town leaders in Orange Park will be discussing solutions to major traffic problems.

People who live near Plainfield Avenue and River Road said drivers use the streets, near their homes, to get around traffic on U.S. 17 during the morning and evening rush hours.

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The problem is so bad some people said they can't even get out of their driveway, and residents said they've been dealing with this for far too long.

They also said people cutting through their neighborhood has really changed some of the peace and quiet they've had around there.

Many of us know driving on U.S. 17 can be quite tough because of traffic, but people who live on nearby side streets said driving there is tough as well.

"I think it's definitely excessive... It's definitely gotten worse," said Wade Whigham, who lives in the area.

People who live in the area said drivers bypass traffic on U.S. 17 by using Plainfield Avenue and River Road. Some residents said the traffic gets so bad, sometimes they're trapped in their driveways.

"I back into my driveway. If I had to back out, it would be pretty impossible," said Whigham. "As often as we can, we like to back in so we can drive straight out, otherwise it would be very difficult."

Other people we spoke with said drivers speed in that area. Some also said the traffic has impacted what was a much more peaceful neighborhood.

Now many are looking for possible solutions.

"No through traffic, speed bumps, whatever can help I'm all for it," said Whigham.

We're told this issue will be discussed Tuesday night during a town hall meeting.
It's going to start at 7 p.m. at the town hall, located on 2042 Park Avenue in Orange Park.