Gate Posts Improvement ??

[DALEPQ]

It is very common to see the T.V. gate posts knocked down. Virtually every day somewhere.
At times it is hard to see the gate posts in the very bright sunrise/sunset sun.
Recently we visited in Estero, were they have gate posts just like in T.V., but with a big difference!
That is, they have bright Red LED lights on their gate posts. WOW, so much easier (100 x's) to
see when the gate posts are up/down, both in daylight and after dark.
Seems like that would be a great thing to do in T.V., can't believe it would not be that costly.
Not sure how to try to get this done in T.V.??

[Bogie Shooter]

Current District bulletin has latest gate info.
https://www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20230413001301

[Bill14564]

It is very common to see the T.V. gate posts knocked down. Virtually every day somewhere.
At times it is hard to see the gate posts in the very bright sunrise/sunset sun.
Recently we visited in Estero, were they have gate posts just like in T.V., but with a big difference!
That is, they have bright Red LED lights on their gate posts. WOW, so much easier (100 x's) to
see when the gate posts are up/down, both in daylight and after dark.
Seems like that would be a great thing to do in T.V., can't believe it would not be that costly.
Not sure how to try to get this done in T.V.??

According to the bulletin linked in Post #2, there are approximately 134 gate strikes per month or a little more than four per day. Also, there were nearly as many malfunctions which brings the total to about 8.6 problems each day. With that many incidents it doesn't surprise me that we constantly see a gate down somewhere.

The idea of lights on the gates was raised at the PWAC meeting as recently as this past Monday. The argument against the lights was the cost and the fact that most strikes occur during daylight hours when the lights would be less effective. While the cost per gate might be minimal, the cost for the hundreds of gates throughout the Villages would quickly add up.

Why do gate strikes happen anyway? You mention that they are hard to see but how does that factor in?

- I know there is a gate at each entrance but since I couldn't see it I decided it must not be there and drove through without stopping?

- I know the entrance gate comes down after each vehicle but since I couldn't see it I decided it must be staying up for me and drove through it without stopping?

- The sun was in my eyes and I couldn't see anything so I just drove blindly through the entrance while hoping for the best?

I have noticed that entrance gates are down far more often than exit gates. Is that because exit gates don't always come down between each vehicle so a second car can go through without stopping and without hitting the gate? If so, this just gives more reason to believe that the problem isn't being able to see the gate, the problem is making the choice to go through the gate without stopping.

[villagetinker]

I had personally asked for a YELLOW (or similar bright color) triangle sign to be added to gates so they could easily be seen under ALL lighting conditions. At the time I was told "these are COUNTY roads and therefore subject to FDOT requirements, and because of this the sign could NOT be added" or something very similar, I gave up.
The EXIT gate a Pinellas plaza has a very LONG wait time to closing. I have seen several very close calls as people approaching this gate ASSUME it is stuck up, and continue at speed, barely missing or actually hitting the gate as it is coming down. My point there needs to be CONSISTANCY in the operation of ALL of the gates.
There have been many comments previously about the RED and White gates blending into the background under various lighting conditions. I know this is true, after cataract surgery I have 20/15 vision, and YES these arms do disappear under various ighting conditions.
While the CDDs may have some limited say on the gates, it appears that any major changes need FDOT approval.

[Michael G.]

Most frogs know how these gates work from the number of times that they are coming and going.
That leaves most part-time visitors that are confused.

Honestly, when we first moved here, no body told me there should only be one car at time going
though when the gate is up.

Stonecrest has the lighted gates that seem to work better, but I suppose they get hit also.

[MsPCGenius]

Why do gate strikes happen anyway? You mention that they are hard to see but how does that factor in?

- I know there is a gate at each entrance but since I couldn't see it I decided it must not be there and drove through without stopping?

- I know the entrance gate comes down after each vehicle but since I couldn't see it I decided it must be staying up for me and drove through it without stopping?

- The sun was in my eyes and I couldn't see anything so I just drove blindly through the entrance while hoping for the best?


:bowdown:
(Thanks for the giggle)

[asianthree]

Duval Gate at 3am stopped working. Wouldn’t let me out to enter to BV. Just as I was backing out. Community Watch pulled up, and started removing the gate. In all the years we have been in TV, this past year seems to have had more gates stop working,either to enter, or exit.

More importantly I have seen multiple gates, just fall down, in the past year, no need to strike them

[Number 10 GI]

There are gate arms at all the entrances to the different villages. If someone can't remember that, they shouldn't be driving a motor vehicle. A prudent person slows down, stops and waves their card in front of the sensor or pushes the red button. If you can't see the arm at that time, get off the road. It's about 10 feet in front of your face. If you can't see a gate arm at 10 feet, how are you going to see a bicyclist, a golf cart or pedestrian walking along the road? If you can't see a gate arm 10 feet in front of you while stopped, you are selfishly endangering a lot of people. Get rid of the car and get a golf cart.

[mntlblok]

Current District bulletin has latest gate info.
https://www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20230413001301

We must comply with the Manual
for Uniform Traffic Control Devices
(MUTCD) standards. MUTCD
requires gate arms to be marked
with alternating red and white 16-
inch sections of reflective tape. We
use Type 2 Retro-reflective Medium
High Intensity, often referred to as
“super engineer grade.” Again, gate
arm visibility is not the major cause
of gate strikes, it is drivers not paying
attention, speeding and failing to
brake in a timely manner.

[Rwirish]

Gates are way to see. People need to slow down, pay attention and only One car thru the gate at a time ( as posted at each gate ).

[luterdan]

Why not just install traffic lights lights like they have on metered highway entrances? One time cost vs continuous replacement (except for bulb costs). If someone runs it, not a problem since nothing gets broken.

[dhdallas]

A simple solution is to add a speed bump and increase the gate strike fine to $1000. TV might as well make some money off these people.

[dhdallas]

According to the bulletin linked in Post #2, there are approximately 134 gate strikes per month or a little more than four per day. Also, there were nearly as many malfunctions which brings the total to about 8.6 problems each day. With that many incidents it doesn't surprise me that we constantly see a gate down somewhere.

The idea of lights on the gates was raised at the PWAC meeting as recently as this past Monday. The argument against the lights was the cost and the fact that most strikes occur during daylight hours when the lights would be less effective. While the cost per gate might be minimal, the cost for the hundreds of gates throughout the Villages would quickly add up.

Why do gate strikes happen anyway? You mention that they are hard to see but how does that factor in?

- I know there is a gate at each entrance but since I couldn't see it I decided it must not be there and drove through without stopping?

- I know the entrance gate comes down after each vehicle but since I couldn't see it I decided it must be staying up for me and drove through it without stopping?

- The sun was in my eyes and I couldn't see anything so I just drove blindly through the entrance while hoping for the best?

I have noticed that entrance gates are down far more often than exit gates. Is that because exit gates don't always come down between each vehicle so a second car can go through without stopping and without hitting the gate? If so, this just gives more reason to believe that the problem isn't being able to see the gate, the problem is making the choice to go through the gate without stopping.

Best reply ever! You nailed it!!

[bonrich]

Instead of a round tube gate arm, have a flat arm, pick a width, instead. More to see when approaching, does not blend into the background.

[golfing eagles]

Why not just install traffic lights lights like they have on metered highway entrances? One time cost vs continuous replacement (except for bulb costs). If someone runs it, not a problem since nothing gets broken.

Except maybe the golf cart or bicycle crossing the road

[golfing eagles]

There are gate arms at all the entrances to the different villages. If someone can't remember that, they shouldn't be driving a motor vehicle. A prudent person slows down, stops and waves their card in front of the sensor or pushes the red button. If you can't see the arm at that time, get off the road. It's about 10 feet in front of your face. If you can't see a gate arm at 10 feet, how are you going to see a bicyclist, a golf cart or pedestrian walking along the road? If you can't see a gate arm 10 feet in front of you while stopped, you are selfishly endangering a lot of people. Get rid of the car and get a golf cart.

Exactly!!!!! And don't forget my favorite: When a gate arm is down and the BIG, RED, OCTAGONAL stop sign is there, motorists actually speed up to run right through it. This is especially fun when that lane's view is blocked by the gate house when you are trying to cross.

[Rzepecki]

According to the bulletin linked in Post #2, there are approximately 134 gate strikes per month or a little more than four per day. Also, there were nearly as many malfunctions which brings the total to about 8.6 problems each day. With that many incidents it doesn't surprise me that we constantly see a gate down somewhere.

The idea of lights on the gates was raised at the PWAC meeting as recently as this past Monday. The argument against the lights was the cost and the fact that most strikes occur during daylight hours when the lights would be less effective. While the cost per gate might be minimal, the cost for the hundreds of gates throughout the Villages would quickly add up.

Why do gate strikes happen anyway? You mention that they are hard to see but how does that factor in?

- I know there is a gate at each entrance but since I couldn't see it I decided it must not be there and drove through without stopping?

- I know the entrance gate comes down after each vehicle but since I couldn't see it I decided it must be staying up for me and drove through it without stopping?

- The sun was in my eyes and I couldn't see anything so I just drove blindly through the entrance while hoping for the best?

I have noticed that entrance gates are down far more often than exit gates. Is that because exit gates don't always come down between each vehicle so a second car can go through without stopping and without hitting the gate? If so, this just gives more reason to believe that the problem isn't being able to see the gate, the problem is making the choice to go through the gate without stopping.

Exactly. You know the gate is there, stop and don’t go forward until the gate is up. I live near the Lynnhaven gate. Many, many employees use this gate and it’s down a lot. The employees piggy back other vehicles and crash the gate. Time of day is what distinguishes employee from non-employee traffic. Charter School and Southern Trace Shopping Center employees mostly.

[banjobob]

You nailed it, so many incompetent drivers ,lack of driving skill, drugs, booze, cell phones. Recently was over at Stone Crest and they had installed bright red LEDs the length of the crossing bar making it very visible day or night. Possibility ?

[PoolBrews]

It is very common to see the T.V. gate posts knocked down. Virtually every day somewhere.
At times it is hard to see the gate posts in the very bright sunrise/sunset sun.


While I think the idea of adding a light similar to a stop light is good, I find this comment to be a poor excuse for hitting a gate.

Most people here know that each village has a gate, AND you can certainly see the gatehouse regardless of the viewing conditions. This seems to be a reason given by folks that are inattentive, careless, or shouldn't be driving.

Also, a number of these hits are caused by impatient drivers trying to scoot through with another vehicle, because they don't have time to wait for the gate to descend and lift again for them. I've seen this behavior numerous times at numerous gates.

[LonnyP]

If you cannot see the current gates you really should not be driving.

[MandoMan]

According to the bulletin linked in Post #2, there are approximately 134 gate strikes per month or a little more than four per day. Also, there were nearly as many malfunctions which brings the total to about 8.6 problems each day. With that many incidents it doesn't surprise me that we constantly see a gate down somewhere.

The idea of lights on the gates was raised at the PWAC meeting as recently as this past Monday. The argument against the lights was the cost and the fact that most strikes occur during daylight hours when the lights would be less effective. While the cost per gate might be minimal, the cost for the hundreds of gates throughout the Villages would quickly add up.

Why do gate strikes happen anyway? You mention that they are hard to see but how does that factor in?

- I know there is a gate at each entrance but since I couldn't see it I decided it must not be there and drove through without stopping?

- I know the entrance gate comes down after each vehicle but since I couldn't see it I decided it must be staying up for me and drove through it without stopping?

- The sun was in my eyes and I couldn't see anything so I just drove blindly through the entrance while hoping for the best?

I have noticed that entrance gates are down far more often than exit gates. Is that because exit gates don't always come down between each vehicle so a second car can go through without stopping and without hitting the gate? If so, this just gives more reason to believe that the problem isn't being able to see the gate, the problem is making the choice to go through the gate without stopping.

I’ve noticed that when the gates are down, quite a few cars speed right through without stopping. This is very risky for golf carts that may be about to cross. I’m glad we have the bars.

[Joecool]

I am worried there are actually people that drive their car and cannot see the gate and don't know what's in front of them and just drive forward and hope they don't hit anything. Those people should not be driving anymore. If you're going 5 miles an hour and make a complete stop the gate will magically appear in front of you you will see golf carts and people and bicycles. Please slow down if you need sunglasses or antdeclare shades or something do what you need but don't drive if you can't see in front of you

[eyc234]

According to the bulletin linked in Post #2, there are approximately 134 gate strikes per month or a little more than four per day. Also, there were nearly as many malfunctions which brings the total to about 8.6 problems each day. With that many incidents it doesn't surprise me that we constantly see a gate down somewhere.

The idea of lights on the gates was raised at the PWAC meeting as recently as this past Monday. The argument against the lights was the cost and the fact that most strikes occur during daylight hours when the lights would be less effective. While the cost per gate might be minimal, the cost for the hundreds of gates throughout the Villages would quickly add up.

Why do gate strikes happen anyway? You mention that they are hard to see but how does that factor in?

- I know there is a gate at each entrance but since I couldn't see it I decided it must not be there and drove through without stopping?

- I know the entrance gate comes down after each vehicle but since I couldn't see it I decided it must be staying up for me and drove through it without stopping?

- The sun was in my eyes and I couldn't see anything so I just drove blindly through the entrance while hoping for the best?

I have noticed that entrance gates are down far more often than exit gates. Is that because exit gates don't always come down between each vehicle so a second car can go through without stopping and without hitting the gate? If so, this just gives more reason to believe that the problem isn't being able to see the gate, the problem is making the choice to go through the gate without stopping.

:bowdown: Oh no it is much easier to blame something or someone else for failing to do what you should be doing!!!! When the arms are broken there is a STOP sign put up and I would guess that 60% or more of the cars do not stop and then there get to be cluster ----'s at the gates with cars and carts. The gate arms are not the problem, people are the problem.

[golfing eagles]

Exactly!!!!! And don't forget my favorite: When a gate arm is down and the BIG, RED, OCTAGONAL stop sign is there, motorists actually speed up to run right through it. This is especially fun when that lane's view is blocked by the gate house when you are trying to cross.

I’ve noticed that when the gates are down, quite a few cars speed right through without stopping. This is very risky for golf carts that may be about to cross. I’m glad we have the bars.

Gee, I wish I had already posted that as in post #16. Oh, yeah, I guess I did :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[nn0wheremann]

I had personally asked for a YELLOW (or similar bright color) triangle sign to be added to gates so they could easily be seen under ALL lighting conditions. At the time I was told "these are COUNTY roads and therefore subject to FDOT requirements, and because of this the sign could NOT be added" or something very similar, I gave up.
The EXIT gate a Pinellas plaza has a very LONG wait time to closing. I have seen several very close calls as people approaching this gate ASSUME it is stuck up, and continue at speed, barely missing or actually hitting the gate as it is coming down. My point there needs to be CONSISTANCY in the operation of ALL of the gates.
There have been many comments previously about the RED and White gates blending into the background under various lighting conditions. I know this is true, after cataract surgery I have 20/15 vision, and YES these arms do disappear under various ighting conditions.
While the CDDs may have some limited say on the gates, it appears that any major changes need FDOT approval.
In Sumter, and I presume in Lake counties streets are owned by the county. In Marion County the streets are owned by the property holders, and maintained collectively by CDD 4. Or so I have been told. Nevertheless the inconsistencies in gate operations, roundabout construction and signage, & MMP routing at intersections throughout The Villages is unpleasant, and sometimes dangerous.

[golfing eagles]

In Sumter, and I presume in Lake counties streets are owned by the county. In Marion County the streets are owned by the property holders, and maintained collectively by CDD 4. Or so I have been told. Nevertheless the inconsistencies in gate operations, roundabout construction and signage, & MMP routing at intersections throughout The Villages is unpleasant, and sometimes dangerous.

I have no idea about Marion County, but I doubt the property owners "own" the streets. If they did, they could make those villages a truly gated community with no obligation to allow access to anyone who is not a resident or an invitee. They would also be paying to maintain those roads separately from the county tax, so color me doubtful. Perhaps Don knows?

[RICH1]

I’ve never hit a Gate Yet…

[RICH1]

I have no idea about Marion County, but I doubt the property owners "own" the streets. If they did, they could make those villages a truly gated community with no obligation to allow access to anyone who is not a resident or an invitee. They would also be paying to maintain those roads separately from the county tax, so color me doubtful. Perhaps Don knows?
And that’s How it Should be ! Owning the Streets makes for HIGHER TAXES

[dewilson58]

:bowdown: Oh no it is much easier to blame something or someone else for failing to do what you should be doing!!!! When the arms are broken there is a STOP sign put up and I would guess that 60% or more of the cars do not stop and then there get to be cluster ----'s at the gates with cars and carts. The gate arms are not the problem, people are the problem.

Double Bingo.

:beer3:

[golfing eagles]

I’ve never hit a Gate Yet…

Yet????? Are you expecting to hit one in the future???? :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[bluecenturian]

How about cameras at face level and fines starting at $2500 for damage to the gate. When the “entitled” have to pay significant then will wait their turn instead of trying to piggyback and rushing past the gate box.

[golfing eagles]

How about cameras at face level and fines starting at $2500 for damage to the gate. When the “entitled” have to pay significant then will wait their turn instead of trying to piggyback and rushing past the gate box.

News flash----there ARE cameras, 24/7, at every gate. Which, btw, is how they catch the "gate crashers"

[Chi-Town]

It is very common to see the T.V. gate posts knocked down. Virtually every day somewhere.
At times it is hard to see the gate posts in the very bright sunrise/sunset sun.
Recently we visited in Estero, were they have gate posts just like in T.V., but with a big difference!
That is, they have bright Red LED lights on their gate posts. WOW, so much easier (100 x's) to
see when the gate posts are up/down, both in daylight and after dark.
Seems like that would be a great thing to do in T.V., can't believe it would not be that costly.
Not sure how to try to get this done in T.V.??

I have seen gates with the LED lights, and they are very visible for sure. I just wondered how costly it would be to replace them.

[golfing eagles]

I have seen gates with the LED lights, and they are very visible for sure. I just wondered how costly it would be to replace them.

Somehow, I think enhancing the visibility of gates for the visually impaired who are driving cars seems to be an oxymoron of sorts. Or does it fit in the category of "enabling"????

[wolterp]

I have noticed both day & night that it’s very hard to see the gate post at many places thru out the Villages !! I expect them and know where they are but someone new to our area should just crash thru them since they are so hard to see. Something needs to b done. More reflections ? or bright paint on them? Something done NOW!

[golfing eagles]

I have noticed both day & night that it’s very hard to see the gate post at many places thru out the Villages !! I expect them and know where they are but someone new to our area should just crash thru them since they are so hard to see. Something needs to b done. More reflections ? or bright paint on them? Something done NOW!

Solution for those that can’t see the gate: Get an eye doctor appointment

[Bill14564]

I have noticed both day & night that it’s very hard to see the gate post at many places thru out the Villages !! I expect them and know where they are but someone new to our area should just crash thru them since they are so hard to see. Something needs to b done. More reflections ? or bright paint on them? Something done NOW!

Entrance gates are broken more often than exit gates so if the problem is visibility then why are the entrance gates so much harder to see?

Or maybe the problem isn't visibility at all. Maybe the problem is a failure to stop and use the card (or button) to open the gate. Maybe it's just easier to sneak through behind the car ahead of you.... except that doesn't always work.

[golfing eagles]

Entrance gates are broken more often than exit gates so if the problem is visibility then why are the entrance gates so much harder to see?

Or maybe the problem isn't visibility at all. Maybe the problem is a failure to stop and use the card (or button) to open the gate. Maybe it's just easier to sneak through behind the car ahead of you.... except that doesn't always work.

Which would bring up an interesting poll: What percentage of those that claim the gates are hard to see have actually hit one versus those who have no problem seeing them. Of course, we wouldn't get honest answers and the end would justify the means as well.

[Bill14564]

Which would bring up an interesting poll: What percentage of those that claim the gates are hard to see have actually hit one versus those who have no problem seeing them. Of course, we wouldn't get honest answers and the end would justify the means as well.

I had the same thought, particularly about the odds of getting honest answers.

[coffeebean]

Most frogs know how these gates work from the number of times that they are coming and going.
That leaves most part-time visitors that are confused.

Honestly, when we first moved here, no body told me there should only be one car at time going
though when the gate is up.

Stonecrest has the lighted gates that seem to work better, but I suppose they get hit also.

There are signs posted at some gates that state the gate comes down after each vehicle.

As and aside and a bit off topic so sorry in advance................

These gates are for traffic control. Today when waiting to go through an entrance gate, I waited for the gate to go up and when the gate did go up, I proceeded to move my vehicle in a forward motion. Low and behold, there comes a golf cart from my right and it passed right in front of me. The woman driver was looking straight ahead and seemed to be oblivious to my vehicle that would have creamed her if it weren't from me hitting my brakes. I had the right of way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

With driving like that, she is not long for this world!

Now back to the regularly scheduled programming.

[coffeebean]

I’ve never hit a Gate Yet…

I haven't either and I don't want to say that out loud.

[jimjamuser]

How about cameras at face level and fines starting at $2500 for damage to the gate. When the “entitled” have to pay significant then will wait their turn instead of trying to piggyback and rushing past the gate box.
Another poster seems to agree with my idea of MORE installed cameras. If you can't get enough uniformed Police in your community then make up for that LACK with MORE CAMERAS.

[golfing eagles]

Another poster seems to agree with my idea of MORE installed cameras. If you can't get enough uniformed Police in your community then make up for that LACK with MORE CAMERAS.

Is that from Stalin's handbook of friendly government or Mao's little red book??????

[Bilyclub]

I have noticed both day & night that it’s very hard to see the gate post at many places thru out the Villages !! I expect them and know where they are but someone new to our area should just crash thru them since they are so hard to see. Something needs to b done. More reflections ? or bright paint on them? Something done NOW!

Welcome to TOTV. So how do you miss seeing all the other changes made to the roadway that go along with the gates. Are you oblivious to the island in the middle of the road or the narrowing roadway?

[dewilson58]

Welcome to TOTV. So how do you miss seeing all the other changes made to the roadway that go along with the gates. Are you oblivious to the island in the middle of the road or the narrowing roadway?

:22yikes:

[JMintzer]

Another poster seems to agree with my idea of MORE installed cameras. If you can't get enough uniformed Police in your community then make up for that LACK with MORE CAMERAS.

They already have cameras at every gate...

[jimjamuser]

Solution for those that can’t see the gate: Get an eye doctor appointment
I believe that there is NO WAY to improve the vision of people with macular degeneration, which is common in older populations. It can only be somewhat STABILIZED with eye vitamins. These people can and WILL continue to drive so it is up to the particular authorities to develop the MOST VISIBLE gates possible. Or go to a stop light INSTEAD of rising gates, which obviously have problems, which we are discussing solutions to.

[Maker]

Every suggestion to "fixing" the problem involves spending money. Lots of money.
Except one option - remove all the gates. Also clear out all the landscaping blocking line of sight. Saves a bundle of money now, and every year in the future.
These are public roads, so golf carts have to yield to all cars until the road is 100% clear. No matter if its 10 cars in a row - golf cart cannot enter the road and impede a car in any manner. Gates do not alter the law; and do not give golf carts the right to enter a road in front of a car at a gate. Carts required to wait.
These are public roads, so speed bumps are not allowed here. Making a profit from a gate arm strike is also not allowed (interesting that TV may be doing that now, and could be heading for a class action lawsuit)

[JMintzer]

Every suggestion to "fixing" the problem involves spending money. Lots of money.
Except one option - remove all the gates. Also clear out all the landscaping blocking line of sight. Saves a bundle of money now, and every year in the future.
These are public roads, so golf carts have to yield to all cars until the road is 100% clear. No matter if its 10 cars in a row - golf cart cannot enter the road and impede a car in any manner. Gates do not alter the law; and do not give golf carts the right to enter a road in front of a car at a gate. Carts required to wait.
These are public roads, so speed bumps are not allowed here. Making a profit from a gate arm strike is also not allowed (interesting that TV may be doing that now, and could be heading for a class action lawsuit)

Any links to back up those last assertions?

And if you think tbings are dangerous now, just wait till you see what happens if they remove all of the gates...

[JMintzer]

I believe that there is NO WAY to improve the vision of people with macular degeneration, which is common in older populations. It can only be somewhat STABILIZED with eye vitamins. These people can and WILL continue to drive so it is up to the particular authorities to develop the MOST VISIBLE gates possible. Or go to a stop light INSTEAD of rising gates, which obviously have problems, which we are discussing solutions to.

Doesn't FL have a vision test for driver's license renewal?

Oh, that's right... They do...

From the Google Machine:

"Report of Eye Exam: For original licenses, and at the time of each renewal license, your eyesight will be tested by the driver license examiner designated by the department or by a licensed ophthalmologist, optometrist, or physician using FLHSMV Report of Eye Exam Form 72010."

Wouldn't that be the solution to stopping people who cannot see from driving?

[cjrjck]

I am not clear what purpose the exit gates serve. TV is not a gated community in the truest sense in that anyone can enter just about any gate I have been through, staffed or not. There may be a few exceptions. Therefore, why have exit gates, or perhaps simply leave them up unless special conditions call for them to be lowered. For instance if a security situation rises. If the concern is that an open exit gate will not slow down departing traffic, put small speedbumps there. I have worked at a number of locations with large numbers of entrance and exit gates (like huge seaports). When they can, the gates are left up to reduce the number of cycles and prolong the life of the mechanisms. Entrance gates are almost always left down but these are highly restricted areas.

[dewilson58]

I am not clear what purpose the exit gates serve. .

It slows down traffic for golf cart crossings.

And before you jump.............for non-golf cart crossing exits, it trains old people to slow down at all gates. If all exits don't have gates, the old people will forget.

:clap2:

[Bogie Shooter]

[QUOTE=cjrjck;2208056]I am not clear what purpose the exit gates serve.
Five years on TOTV and you haven’t figured that out?

[JMintzer]

I am not clear what purpose the exit gates serve. TV is not a gated community in the truest sense in that anyone can enter just about any gate I have been through, staffed or not. There may be a few exceptions. Therefore, why have exit gates, or perhaps simply leave them up unless special conditions call for them to be lowered. For instance if a security situation rises. If the concern is that an open exit gate will not slow down departing traffic, put small speedbumps there. I have worked at a number of locations with large numbers of entrance and exit gates (like huge seaports). When they can, the gates are left up to reduce the number of cycles and prolong the life of the mechanisms. Entrance gates are almost always left down but these are highly restricted areas.

You can't just put speed bumps on any public road you wish...

[Maker]

Any links to back up those last assertions?

And if you think tbings are dangerous now, just wait till you see what happens if they remove all of the gates...

Imagine the cart crossing area at a former gate location. Cars do not stop anymore. No bulky walls, mechanisms, or large landscaping to block the view of those oncoming cars from the golf cart driver's seat...
Golf cart driver knows the car is not stopping, so why they drive into the road knowing they will get hit?
10 cars will go past faster than one would if stopping for a gate arm. Traffic would clear faster and everything would move faster. And safer.

Understanding that concept requires an open mind. A willingness to challenge the "we always do it this way" attitude. Not always being negative. Look for ways to do things better, and do it.

[DonH57]

I’ve never hit a Gate Yet…

Same here. Eleven years and I've yet to kill a gate!

[Bogie Shooter]

Imagine the cart crossing area at a former gate location. Cars do not stop anymore. No bulky walls, mechanisms, or large landscaping to block the view of those oncoming cars from the golf cart driver's seat...
Golf cart driver knows the car is not stopping, so why they drive into the road knowing they will get hit?
10 cars will go past faster than one would if stopping for a gate arm. Traffic would clear faster and everything would move faster. And safer.

Understanding that concept requires an open mind. A willingness to challenge the "we always do it this way" attitude. Not always being negative. Look for ways to do things better, and do it.

Keyword: Faster

[JMintzer]

Imagine the cart crossing area at a former gate location. Cars do not stop anymore. No bulky walls, mechanisms, or large landscaping to block the view of those oncoming cars from the golf cart driver's seat...
Golf cart driver knows the car is not stopping, so why they drive into the road knowing they will get hit?
10 cars will go past faster than one would if stopping for a gate arm. Traffic would clear faster and everything would move faster. And safer.

Understanding that concept requires an open mind. A willingness to challenge the "we always do it this way" attitude. Not always being negative. Look for ways to do things better, and do it.

Dream on...

[cjrjck]

You can't just put speed bumps on any public road you wish...

Huh? If you can put a gate arm there you can surely put a speed bump there. My point is that the exit gate arms serve no purpose in a community that really does not have controlled access. If you say it is to slow down traffic as it exits, then put a speed bump there instead. Then nobody will hit the gate arms.

[golfing eagles]

Huh? If you can put a gate arm there you can surely put a speed bump there. My point is that the exit gate arms serve no purpose in a community that really does not have controlled access. If you say it is to slow down traffic as it exits, then put a speed bump there instead. Then nobody will hit the gate arms.

Let's see (or not see as the case may be). If people claim they can't see a red and white gate arm at eye level, do you really think they will see a speed bump?????

[golfing eagles]

I believe that there is NO WAY to improve the vision of people with macular degeneration, which is common in older populations. It can only be somewhat STABILIZED with eye vitamins. These people can and WILL continue to drive so it is up to the particular authorities to develop the MOST VISIBLE gates possible. Or go to a stop light INSTEAD of rising gates, which obviously have problems, which we are discussing solutions to.

Hmmmm.... A capitalized "no way". Are you asking me or telling me???? If you are telling me, see picture below. If you are asking, many patients with MD get improvement with injections of avastin.

[billethkid]

If those who try to beat the gates or tailgate were eliminated from the numbers I am guessing there would not be as many broken gate arms! Those who are in a hurry and try to beat the system should bear the burden of the costs.

If the cameras serve their purpose then there should be a significant fine charged (enough to pay for gate repair/replace).

But like so many things these days, for what ever reasons there is no enforcement.....hence violations continue and those who violate feel free to continue doing so.

_________________________________________________

:censored:

[retiredguy123]

I hate speed bumps (and a lot of other things).

[Bill14564]

Let's see (or not see as the case may be). If people claim they can't see a red and white gate arm at eye level, do you really think they will see a speed bump?????

Oh.. wait for it......

[JMintzer]

Huh? If you can put a gate arm there you can surely put a speed bump there. My point is that the exit gate arms serve no purpose in a community that really does not have controlled access. If you say it is to slow down traffic as it exits, then put a speed bump there instead. Then nobody will hit the gate arms.

Ummm... No you can't... The FL DOT has to do it...

[Marathon Man]

I would like to see, "I hit a gate and here is why ..."

Hitting gates because they are "hard to see" is a theory. Hitting gates for other reasons seems more likely to me.

[dewilson58]

I would like to see, "I hit a gate and here is why ..." .

Ain't gonna hear why.....................the driver was doing something wrong. Period.

:eclipsee_gold_cup:

[Marathon Man]

Ain't gonna hear why.....................the driver was doing something wrong. Period.

:eclipsee_gold_cup:

Of course. But, I am looking for "because I did not see the gate". All this talk about making the gates more visible, and no one has confirmed that is the reason they get hit.

[Pairadocs]

Most frogs know how these gates work from the number of times that they are coming and going.
That leaves most part-time visitors that are confused.

Honestly, when we first moved here, no body told me there should only be one car at time going
though when the gate is up.

Stonecrest has the lighted gates that seem to work better, but I suppose they get hit also.

LOL, when we were first looking years ago, the PROPERTY of the VILLAGES rep. showing us around offered his car. We thanked him but said we'd prefer to just follow him in our own vehicle. He said, "Oh of course, that's fine, just wanted to offer.... just be SURE to stay very close to my bumper when we come to a gate, stay close and just go through with me." So funny, many years ago, and at the time we thought all of it (gates process) strange, but sure enough, hubby hesitantly stayed close to the reps rear bumper as he said ... and thankfully we never hit a gate or had a gate hit us. Now I just shudder thinking who it was who told us that "tip"... the person is still around ! Another amusing (?) story, we brought a camcorder, anyone remember those ? We finished our tour with him at the S.S. office and parked in a parking space on the street, right behind him (plenty of street parking in the summer months back then). We were walking into the office with him and realized we had not locked the car and LEFT THE CAMCORDER ON THE FRONT SEAT. When hubby explained why he needed to go back and lock the car, our rep chuckled and said, "definitely do if you feel more comfortable, but nobody HERE is going to bother it, you don't have to worry here, that's for sure." This was the same time period when there were "warning signs" when you entered The Villages: Caution, YOU ARE ENTERING A GOLF CART COMMUNITY, GOLF CARTS HAVE THE RIGHT OF WAY. Time sure does march on, and things .... change... That wonderful old Buchara bakery, now DD !

[Pairadocs]

Most frogs know how these gates work from the number of times that they are coming and going.
That leaves most part-time visitors that are confused.

Honestly, when we first moved here, no body told me there should only be one car at time going
though when the gate is up.

Stonecrest has the lighted gates that seem to work better, but I suppose they get hit also.

LOL, when we were first looking years ago, the PROPERTY of the VILLAGES rep. showing us around offered his car. We thanked him but said we'd prefer to just follow him in our own vehicle. He said, "Oh of course, that's fine, just wanted to offer.... just be SURE to stay very close to my bumper when we come to a gate, stay close and just go through with me." So funny, many years ago, and at the time we thought all of it (gates process) strange, but sure enough, hubby hesitantly stayed close to the reps rear bumper as he said ... and thankfully we never hit a gate or had a gate hit us. Now I just shudder thinking who it was who told us that "tip"... the person is still around ! Another amusing (?) story, we brought a camcorder, anyone remember those ? We finished our tour with him at the S.S. office and parked in a parking space on the street, right behind him (plenty of street parking in the summer months back then). We were walking into the office with him and realized we had not locked the car and LEFT THE CAMCORDER ON THE FRONT SEAT. When hubby explained why he needed to go back and lock the car, our rep chuckled and said, "definitely do if you feel more comfortable, but nobody HERE is going to bother it, you don't have to worry here, that's for sure." This was the same time period when there were "warning signs" when you entered The Villages: Caution, YOU ARE ENTERING A GOLF CART COMMUNITY, GOLF CARTS HAVE THE RIGHT OF WAY. Time sure does march on, and things .... change... That wonderful old Buchara bakery, now DD !

[dewilson58]

Of course. But, I am looking for "because I did not see the gate". All this talk about making the gates more visible, and no one has confirmed that is the reason they get hit.

Roger that, but I doubt the response results will be accurate.........easier to blame something (gate's fault) or someone else.

:duck:

[jimjamuser]

Hmmmm.... A capitalized "no way". Are you asking me or telling me???? If you are telling me, see picture below. If you are asking, many patients with MD get improvement with injections of avastin.
There are 2 types of macular degeneration (MD).....wet type and dry type. Injections work for the WET type. The dry type (thinning of the retina) has NO CURE. I was talking about the dry type. I have a friend that has the dry type so I have personal knowledge of that type.

[jimjamuser]

Every suggestion to "fixing" the problem involves spending money. Lots of money.
Except one option - remove all the gates. Also clear out all the landscaping blocking line of sight. Saves a bundle of money now, and every year in the future.
These are public roads, so golf carts have to yield to all cars until the road is 100% clear. No matter if its 10 cars in a row - golf cart cannot enter the road and impede a car in any manner. Gates do not alter the law; and do not give golf carts the right to enter a road in front of a car at a gate. Carts required to wait.
These are public roads, so speed bumps are not allowed here. Making a profit from a gate arm strike is also not allowed (interesting that TV may be doing that now, and could be heading for a class action lawsuit)
I particularly agree with the statement advising " to clear away landscaping that is blocking line of sight. I see that often on the round-a-bouts there is landscaping blocking drivers' vision. I know of one swimming pool where to exit safely a driver must SLOWLY move out into about the middle of a street to be able to see around an overgrown plant. There is a resident owner that has a hedge that blocks the view of drivers leaving the parking area near the silver lake tennis court, rec center, and golf course - it is so OBVIOUS but nothing has been done in my 10 years here. Also, at the Shay Gate in the pre-historic village, there needs to be some land removed from the Church there in order to allow a smooth right turn from up the hill toward the Rec center.
........I could go on and on with simple fixes that would make for better traffic safety in TV Land. And I am sure that other residents in OTHER Villages could SUGGEST safety fixes that are CHEAP to expedite. I have NEVER understood why the Community Standards drivers are UNABLE to make these types of suggestions and get them approved. After all, I doubt that they are that busy as they leisurely drive around.

[jimjamuser]

Hmmmm.... A capitalized "no way". Are you asking me or telling me???? If you are telling me, see picture below. If you are asking, many patients with MD get improvement with injections of avastin.
Somehow that HUGE PICTURE proclaiming a MEDICAL DEGREE strikes me as somewhat less than understated! Somehow I see a psychological need for self-proclamation. But, I will be gracious and take the high road and by sheer willpower, remove that image from my consciousness in the interest of the coming together of social classes.

[jimjamuser]

LOL, when we were first looking years ago, the PROPERTY of the VILLAGES rep. showing us around offered his car. We thanked him but said we'd prefer to just follow him in our own vehicle. He said, "Oh of course, that's fine, just wanted to offer.... just be SURE to stay very close to my bumper when we come to a gate, stay close and just go through with me." So funny, many years ago, and at the time we thought all of it (gates process) strange, but sure enough, hubby hesitantly stayed close to the reps rear bumper as he said ... and thankfully we never hit a gate or had a gate hit us. Now I just shudder thinking who it was who told us that "tip"... the person is still around ! Another amusing (?) story, we brought a camcorder, anyone remember those ? We finished our tour with him at the S.S. office and parked in a parking space on the street, right behind him (plenty of street parking in the summer months back then). We were walking into the office with him and realized we had not locked the car and LEFT THE CAMCORDER ON THE FRONT SEAT. When hubby explained why he needed to go back and lock the car, our rep chuckled and said, "definitely do if you feel more comfortable, but nobody HERE is going to bother it, you don't have to worry here, that's for sure." This was the same time period when there were "warning signs" when you entered The Villages: Caution, YOU ARE ENTERING A GOLF CART COMMUNITY, GOLF CARTS HAVE THE RIGHT OF WAY. Time sure does march on, and things .... change... That wonderful old Buchara bakery, now DD !
A nice story about the good old safe, pre-crime days in TV Land. If only that time capsule had continued indefinitely. Today in every part of the US many bad crimes are occurring. For how much longer will TV Land continue to be SPARED ????? Australia could teach the US so many things, yet no ears are open to change TODAY..

[GypsyRN]

While I agree with your assessment, please don't steer these idiots towards golf carts instead of their motor vehicles!!! You can't cure STUPID regardless of the vehicle that they can't operate effectively.

[golfing eagles]

There are 2 types of macular degeneration (MD).....wet type and dry type. Injections work for the WET type. The dry type (thinning of the retina) has NO CURE. I was talking about the dry type. I have a friend that has the dry type so I have personal knowledge of that type.

Again, are you telling me?????

Rather than repeat the picture, I'll just :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[golfing eagles]

Somehow that HUGE PICTURE proclaiming a MEDICAL DEGREE strikes me as somewhat less than understated! Somehow I see a psychological need for self-proclamation. But, I will be gracious and take the high road and by sheer willpower, remove that image from my consciousness in the interest of the coming together of social classes.

Not at all, I don't need any affirmation from you. You are the one that started with the didactic post. It's kind of like me trying to give a golf lesson to Tiger Woods, if you get my drift.

[Two Bills]

You are the one that started with the didactic post.

OK. Lets be honest. How many others had to look that word up?
I know I did.
Word of the week!

[jimjamuser]

Again, are you telling me?????

Rather than repeat the picture, I'll just :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:
I stand by my statement about the DRY TYPE of macular degeneration. I am absolutely, unassailably, and 100% correct MEDICALLY about my statement. I may NOT know many medical facts, but I stand tall among the giants in the medical field on this PARTICULAR situation. Jonas Salk agrees with ME!!!!!!!!!

[jimjamuser]

Not at all, I don't need any affirmation from you. You are the one that started with the didactic post. It's kind of like me trying to give a golf lesson to Tiger Woods, if you get my drift.
I try to NOT get any DRIFTS that are allusions to the sport of golf, which I have forever banished from my mind or television. Maybe a sports car DRIFT by a classic Porche negotiating a winding country road. But as a special gift, I will give out a free didactic affirmation that can stop a sliced drive in mid-DRIFT.

[golfing eagles]

I stand by my statement about the DRY TYPE of macular degeneration. I am absolutely, unassailably, and 100% correct MEDICALLY about my statement. I may NOT know many medical facts, but I stand tall among the giants in the medical field on this PARTICULAR situation. Jonas Salk agrees with ME!!!!!!!!!

Never said you were wrong about dry MD. Your original statement was that nothing could be done for MD except vitamins. But you should realize the statement " I stand tall among the giants in the medical field in this situation" is delusional.

[jimjamuser]

Never said you were wrong about dry MD. Your original statement was that nothing could be done for MD except vitamins. But you should realize the statement " I stand tall among the giants in the medical field in this situation" is delusional.
Either delusional or good old-fashioned word play.

[wisbad1]

It is very common to see the T.V. gate posts knocked down. Virtually every day somewhere.
At times it is hard to see the gate posts in the very bright sunrise/sunset sun.
Recently we visited in Estero, were they have gate posts just like in T.V., but with a big difference!
That is, they have bright Red LED lights on their gate posts. WOW, so much easier (100 x's) to
see when the gate posts are up/down, both in daylight and after dark.
Seems like that would be a great thing to do in T.V., can't believe it would not be that costly.
Not sure how to try to get this done in T.V.??
At over $200.00 charges to repair them, someone is making great money $$$$$.

[Maker]

I stand by my statement about the DRY TYPE of macular degeneration.....

Please stay on topic. Hijack your own thread

[JMintzer]

Please stay on topic. Hijack your own thread

Good luck with that...

[golfing eagles]

I stand by my statement about the DRY TYPE of macular degeneration.......

Please stay on topic. Hijack your own thread

Just be glad he didn't go off on global warming, internal combustion engines, and other such factitious fantasies :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[JMintzer]

Just be glad he didn't go off on global warming, internal combustion engines, and other such factitious fantasies :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

The day is still young...

[jimjamuser]

Please stay on topic. Hijack your own thread
Actually, it relates perfectly! Older people have vision problems like Macular which makes it difficult for them to see the gate poles in low light conditions. And the gates need to be painted optic yellow and have lights on them. Or maybe remove the gates and have timed red lights controlling the flow of traffic.
........The vision problems of older Villagers is EXTREMELY pertinent to the current thread!

[jimjamuser]

Just be glad he didn't go off on global warming, internal combustion engines, and other such factitious fantasies :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:
People today laughing about Global Warming and the associated cause (IC engine pollutants) are NOT having consideration for the FUTURE generations that will suffer because of today's generation of Climate DENIERS. We all have seen the time-lapse photos of the DISAPPEARING glaciers. Warming is undeniable!

[golfing eagles]

People today laughing about Global Warming and the associated cause (IC engine pollutants) are NOT having consideration for the FUTURE generations that will suffer because of today's generation of Climate DENIERS. We all have seen the time-lapse photos of the DISAPPEARING glaciers. Warming is undeniable!

Of course warming is undeniable. 20,000 years ago NY City was under 2 miles of ice, now it is temperate, and in 20,000 years it will be under 400 feet of water. Then the cycle will repeat as it has done at least a dozen times in the last 4 million years of our current ice age. And some glaciers are shrinking as others are growing, just as parts of the Antarctic ice shelf are shrinking as other parts grow. The only unanswered question that I have posed multiple times is : What kind of SUV did Fred Flintstone drive that caused the last 20,000 years of global warming?????

[Papa_lecki]

While I agree with your assessment, please don't steer these idiots towards golf carts instead of their motor vehicles!!! You can't cure STUPID regardless of the vehicle that they can't operate effectively.

Actually the golf cart is a logical step down from a car as you age. I will look for it later, but there’s research indicating a golf cart community allows the elderly, who shouldn’t be driving to keep some degree of independence.
Lower speed, lighter vehicles and less traffic on MMP vs streets.
I’m not saying the elderly should drive from Richmond to LSL - but to drive golf cart a few streets to paly a game of cards is better than the isolation of sitting in the home alone.

[Number 10 GI]

At over $200.00 charges to repair them, someone is making great money $$$$$.

Have you ever had to call for a plumber or electrician to fix a problem? Most have a fee of $100 or more just to drive to your house and any parts and time to fix the problem is additional.

[jimjamuser]

If those who try to beat the gates or tailgate were eliminated from the numbers I am guessing there would not be as many broken gate arms! Those who are in a hurry and try to beat the system should bear the burden of the costs.

If the cameras serve their purpose then there should be a significant fine charged (enough to pay for gate repair/replace).

But like so many things these days, for what ever reasons there is no enforcement.....hence violations continue and those who violate feel free to continue doing so.

_________________________________________________

:censored:
I agree wholeheartedly with the last statement, "no enforcement, so violations continue. I live on a 25 MPH residential street and most Golf Carts that are NOT souped up adhere to that speed limit. Maybe 50% of the lawn maintenance outlaws observe that speed limit. Maybe 70% of resident cars and trucks observe the speed limit. I have seen occasional law enforcement speed traps in my Village, but NEVER on my street, which carries much of this Village's traffic. I have never heard of a Police trap to check for Golf Cart speed governor tampering.
......Once upon a time in NYC there was a concept of "broken windows" - which needed to be stopped before the lawlessness spread. That was a good concept and I for one would vote for MORE Police to prevent illegal tampering of the speed limits of Golf Carts. .........Because just like in NYC, you allow a small law to be broken and you have INCREASED lawlessness. Which we have now in TV Land in the form of speeding and at night, drunken driving AND speeding.
......This ruins the whole IMAGE of the Villages as a clean-cut, safe, crime-free, American destination city. Little negligences leads to bigger criminal activity. Today there is a thread about golf bags being stolen. That represents a lot of money invested by TV Landers and is just ONE ADDITIONAL attraction that those with nefarious intentions have to prey upon OLDER, wealthier retirees.
......Pretty soon, if the Police do NOT stop these smaller crimes from happening, we will have car theft rings preying on seniors and on and on to GREATER CRIMES.
....The Villages is at a TURNING POINT where it could LOSE its reputation as a great Senior Destination!

[golfing eagles]

I agree wholeheartedly with the last statement, "no enforcement, so violations continue. I live on a 25 MPH residential street and most Golf Carts that are NOT souped up adhere to that speed limit. Maybe 50% of the lawn maintenance outlaws observe that speed limit. Maybe 70% of resident cars and trucks observe the speed limit. I have seen occasional law enforcement speed traps in my Village, but NEVER on my street, which carries much of this Village's traffic. I have never heard of a Police trap to check for Golf Cart speed governor tampering.
......Once upon a time in NYC there was a concept of "broken windows" - which needed to be stopped before the lawlessness spread. That was a good concept and I for one would vote for MORE Police to prevent illegal tampering of the speed limits of Golf Carts. .........Because just like in NYC, you allow a small law to be broken and you have INCREASED lawlessness. Which we have now in TV Land in the form of speeding and at night, drunken driving AND speeding.
......This ruins the whole IMAGE of the Villages as a clean-cut, safe, crime-free, American destination city. Little negligences leads to bigger criminal activity. Today there is a thread about golf bags being stolen. That represents a lot of money invested by TV Landers and is just ONE ADDITIONAL attraction that those with nefarious intentions have to prey upon OLDER, wealthier retirees.
......Pretty soon, if the Police do NOT stop these smaller crimes from happening, we will have car theft rings preying on seniors and on and on to GREATER CRIMES.
....The Villages is at a TURNING POINT where it could LOSE its reputation as a great Senior Destination!

Yes, by all means let's spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to catch those arch-villains and criminal masterminds that drive a golf cart at 20.1 mph. Let's pro-actively give them the death penalty, since we all know that speeding at 20.1 leads to the greater crime of mass murder. Book 'em, Danno!!!!!

[jimjamuser]

Of course warming is undeniable. 20,000 years ago NY City was under 2 miles of ice, now it is temperate, and in 20,000 years it will be under 400 feet of water. Then the cycle will repeat as it has done at least a dozen times in the last 4 million years of our current ice age. And some glaciers are shrinking as others are growing, just as parts of the Antarctic ice shelf are shrinking as other parts grow. The only unanswered question that I have posed multiple times is : What kind of SUV did Fred Flintstone drive that caused the last 20,000 years of global warming?????
Yes, warming (recent man-made warming) IS undeniable. And it is always wrong to say that the problem of broken gates can be solved simply by Seniors getting eye exams. That is like saying after age 65 that ALL Villagers MUST relocate away from the Villages. We all know that perfection only exists in the afterlife, so we must be ready to give a helping hand up to Villagers with limited vision due to advancing age (no fault of their own). One possibility would be a useful, efficient bus line for residents who would gladly sell their car in favor of buses. Another possibility is to realize that many roads and streets are designed like ONLY 25-year-olds are driving on them. A lot of improvement (at a small cost) could be done in that area.
........There are a multitude of ways that TV Land could be improved for the PLUS 65 crowd. I really wonder if any of the POWERS THAT BE are EVEN interested in LISTENING to them. They do vote and they DO have POWER.
.........It appears that rapid development (and cutting home quality) are the current mantras and NOT resident life QUALITY.

[jimjamuser]

Yes, by all means let's spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to catch those arch-villains and criminal masterminds that drive a golf cart at 20.1 mph. Let's pro-actively give them the death penalty, since we all know that speeding at 20.1 leads to the greater crime of mass murder. Book 'em, Danno!!!!!
We all know of Golf Carts that can do 40 MPH. There was even recently a TOTV poster that bragged that his cart could do 45 or 50 MPH. It is not a matter of 1/10 of a MPH. That is REDICULOUS to the point of even my laughter.

[jimjamuser]

Yes, by all means let's spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to catch those arch-villains and criminal masterminds that drive a golf cart at 20.1 mph. Let's pro-actively give them the death penalty, since we all know that speeding at 20.1 leads to the greater crime of mass murder. Book 'em, Danno!!!!!
I will give EXTRA CREDIT for the use of effective HUMOR in the disparaging remarks. But, it FAILS to NEGATE in ANY way the logic of my remarks. And the seriousness of the suggestions for the community, which DOES appear to be at a crossroads leading to downward quality of life here in The Villages. (also property values).