Houston highways

For my first post, I felt the need to question something that has been on my mind for awhile now. A question that I ask just about every time I enter or exit the Katy Freeway (Interstate 10), usually on the west side of Houston. In fact, it's this question that prompted me to start this blog in the first place. And, that question is this... WHO dreamed up the idea that drivers should be forced to enter and exit the highway in virtually the same space?

Now, I'm sure that this isn't just specific to Houston, but given the fact that I drive on this road so frequently, I'm going to use it as my prime example.

Seriously, people, WHO thought this was a good idea? Houston traffic is notoriously crazy as it is without the added frustration of trying to get on or off the highway while others attempt to do the same in a small amount of space, and that's not to mention the many 18 wheelers and crotch rockets that are whizzing by at exactly the same time.

Why couldn't we use the same system that hundreds and hundreds of other cities use and give those getting on the highway adequate space to do so and let those getting off the highway the same amount of space?? I don't think I should have to say a prayer each time I exit or enter the highway!

Tomorrow, my goal is to attempt to take a picture of these ramps, so those who don't live in Houston and have no idea what I'm talking about will, well, get it! Wish me luck and say a prayer for me!

And, so, now you know (hopefully) what this blog is supposed to be about. It's not that I'm actually LOOKING for answers (although, if anyone has them I'd love to hear), but it's more of a sounding off spot. A bitching post at times, I'm sure. ;)





OK, I finally figured out how to upload my photos. Woo!




Here I am, heading west on I-10. You can see where vehicles entering the freeway from the onramp have to merge with oncoming traffic. You can also see (in the distance) the next exit sign, and that is where the problem begins. There is a very small area where vehicles will be able to try to exit while other vehicles are attempting to enter. I know it's hard to see, but the white truck on the right is just entering the freeway and will be moving left while the blue truck on the left is trying to get into the far right lane so that he can exit.