AUBURN — The intersection of Washington Street, Beech Hill, and Danville Corner roads has been identified as Maine's most hazardous locale for potential fatal or serious injury crashes.

On May 14, a tragic collision occurred at this intersection, claiming the lives of two passengers in a van operated by John F. Murphy Homes after it was struck by a pickup truck. This location has topped the state's crash risk database, pointing to a long-standing need for safety improvements.

Despite discussions about a demonstration project to implement concrete barriers and safety barrels aimed at redirecting traffic away from Washington Street, progress has stalled. City officials had considered these measures in collaboration with the Maine Department of Transportation, yet disagreements among councilors and concerns over broader traffic implications delayed action.

Traffic signals currently control vehicles coming from Beech Hill and Danville Corner roads, while cars on Washington Street continue without a stop signal. The state is evaluating plans to introduce a traffic light at the site, although this proposal has not been finalized.

Mayor Jeff Harmon emphasized the need for community feedback before moving forward, as a demonstration project could potentially impact traffic flow at nearby intersections. Authorities are scheduled to discuss findings from a comprehensive study of the Washington Street corridor in June, which may inform future safety measures.

City Manager Phil Crowell noted that design concepts for the intersection will be presented to the City Council soon. Meanwhile, traffic engineering experts have raised concerns over the high-speed nature of Washington Street and the limitations of a traffic signal in addressing safety issues.

Local officials continue to explore viable short-term solutions while recognizing the urgent need for long-term planning to mitigate crash risks at this intersection.