If there was a memorial for every traffic fatality on our nation’s highways, there wouldn’t be room for traffic signs; not to mention, to enshrine a spot on a roadside shoulder where someone died reduces a life to its final, awful moments.
The new one on Interstate 240 east is tragic in several ways. First and foremost, a young woman’s life was lost. Second, the assumption is that this has been created for drivers to look at, so on a busy road with merging lanes, a distraction has been created that could lead to more casualties.
The city and state have spent time and money creating a beautiful approach to Asheville that is marred by the defacing of the rock cliff. I cannot believe anyone would want to be remembered in this manner. There is an appropriate place for an outpouring of grief and a laying of tributes — it is the graveside service at a cemetery and not beside public roads.
— Steve Woolum
Asheville
1 thought on “Letter writer: Roadside tribute on Interstate 240 is tragic in several ways”
Yes, it is rather tacky… and needs to be removed before the new school year.