Gate Crashes

[BrianL99]

I played golf last week, with someone who works for Community Watch. He told me that we average 10 "gate crashes" per day.

I went to a dog park today. Of the 3 gates I went through (or around), 2 were under repair. There's a gate in front of the Mallory Club House, that seems to get broken at least 3 times/week.

I assume the "crashers" get billed? I assume their insurance pays? Are there really 10 per day? How much does the crasher get charged? How much does an average repair really cost?

I assume this has been going on since The Villages began? Maybe it's time for a different solution?

Perhaps equipping the Guard Shack attendants with Paint Ball guns?

[asianthree]

Yesterday coming from UPS store and square one in golf cart stopped to push the gate button.

Gate started up hesitated At moving 2’ then back down. Pressed the button again gate slowly went up and they proceeded to swing sideways and fall across the road. Good thing I didn’t rush the gate.

This would be the third gate in a week that I have watched fall down all by itself. Wonder if they count those 10 gate crashes are in the numbers he spoke of. When in reality it could be the bolts just giving away, or poorly installed bolts. So yes gate crashed, but no vehicle involved.

The camera will pick up car plate, but carts have no I’d, so once a year TV posts the pics and ask for help to Id carts. Last post fee was $250. But that been awhile

[Michael 61]

Besides paying the cost of a new gate, the guilty party should also pay for admin fees, a hefty punitive fine, and be ticketed as well.

[Chi-Town]

Perhaps gate visibility may be part of the problem.

[Two Bills]

They say about $250 a pop for knocking down a gate.
I take out a Gate Crasher annual season ticket for $450 every year.
I am allowed 5 gates for free, and the others at half price.:icon_wink:

[ThirdOfFive]

They say about $250 a pop for knocking down a gate.
I take out a Gate Crasher annual season ticket for $450 every year.
I am allowed 5 gates for free, and the others at half price.:icon_wink:
I heard that as well, from several folks. At $250 a pop, seems like a money maker for TV: those arms are held on the mechanism by shear-away bolts so that, when hit, the arm suffers no (or very little) damage. A guy with a wrench and some new bolts could put things back in order pretty quickly, one would think.

That number per week unfortunately seems all too believable. Our gate seems to be down about twice a month, but one week recently saw no fewer than three such events. Another poster mentioned visibility and IMO this could be an issue. Those arms are painted red and white, which is very visible when the arm is up but when it is down it is at precisely the level of automobile taillights so that red striping, especially when traffic is heavy, might be doing more harm than good.

[Normal]

200 dollars is invoiced per license plate. The gates are secured with plastic Teflon shear bolts. Not really a major issue.

[Marathon Man]

Perhaps gate visibility may be part of the problem.

No, that's not it.

[fishon]

I went through an exit gate the other day and I think I saw a license plate reader, just like on Trooper cars, under the video camera.

[Papa_lecki]

Perhaps gate visibility may be part of the problem.

I’ve probably seen 4 or 5 arm crashes - every time it was a second car trying to get through an arm opening with the car in front.

[photo1902]

I went through an exit gate the other day and I think I saw a license plate reader, just like on Trooper cars, under the video camera.

Every gate has a camera

[Chi-Town]

I’ve probably seen 4 or 5 arm crashes - every time it was a second car trying to get through an arm opening with the car in front.


I'm going to add stupidity to visibility.

[fdpaq0580]

I'm going to add stupidity to visibility.

And impatience. Any more reasons? I'm sure there are.

[MrFlorida]

Get your cataracts fixed !

[asianthree]

Gate pole doesn’t get replaced, look at the many you know have fallen get dinged and back up they go.

The gate that almost fell on my car at 3am (coming home from work) was witnessed by community watch guy. Gate was completely up as I started to go, the gate fell right in front of the car.

It had just been bolted earlier. Banking if it hit hood or windows it would be my insurance paying instead of the person who replaced the $10 plastic bolts.

[DonH57]

Been here since 2013. Never ever came close to striking a gate or seeing it was there. All the gates were here when we shopped for a house so it was no surprise when we closed unlike the folks buying near the interstate, quarry, Coleman or newer villages with few shopping, country clubs or restaurants and acting surprised. Do your due research.

[asianthree]

Been here since 2013. Never ever came close to striking a gate or seeing it was there. All the gates were here when we shopped for a house so it was no surprise when we closed unlike the folks buying near the interstate, quarry, Coleman or newer villages with few shopping, country clubs or restaurants and acting surprised. Do your due research.

Have no idea what your post has to do with gates either falling down on their own, or run into by a vehicle.

So your insulting post is “ those buying near turnpike, quarry, Coleman or new villages few retail,CC or restaurants are basically clueless that gates exist?”

I do believe that this is the BEST BASH POST of 2023. Congratulations, you should be proud.

Been here since 2007, and live south of 44.

[crazygery]

I say just install spike strips ahead and behind the gates that are automatically deployed whenever someone is to intellectually challenged or impatient to work the gate, then when the gate gets taken out they have to wait for security or get 4 flat tires.

[PersonOfInterest]

How would you expect the Villages to enforce and collect fees from non-Villages offenders?

If a collision occurs because of a gate malfunction and there is damage to a vehicle is the Villages responsible for damages?

[Priebehouse]

Perhaps gate visibility may be part of the problem.

There have been dozens of threads about this and it's been beaten down to a bloody mess. You live in The Villages...You know there age gate entries...you know that the gates are there. SLOW DOWN. TAKE YOUR TIME. Using the button or card key, the gate takes a mere 5-7 seconds for the cycle to occur. If that is going to cause you be late for your tee time, or delay dinner, or whatever excuse, you plan your time poorly. The comment about the gate falling off without any motive is like saying to your mom, the lamp broke by itself! Something whacked that pole to bend, crack or snap those breakaway aluminum bolts. Easy, Evel Knievel. God will call you home in HIS time, so make the most of your time while here. :D

[Southwest737]

Perhaps get rid of the gates. Put in speed bumps and/or caution lights warning with a carts crossing sign.

[Oneiric]

One thing of note I have observed several times. In the visitor lane, only, in which there is some distance between the card and the gate arm, one must wait until the car ahead goes completely through the gate BEFORE you swipe your card. Several times I have seen cars stuck in the middle that swiped their cards before the preceding car had TOTALLY gone through, only to get stuck in the middle or worse, the arm coming down on their car.

[asianthree]

The comment about the gate falling off without any motive is like saying to your mom, the lamp broke by itself! Something whacked that pole to bend, crack or snap those breakaway aluminum bolts. Easy, Evel Knievel. God will call you home in HIS time, so make the most of your time while here. :D

My guess is you have only lived here for a few years….yes gates malfunction, from constant use..with bolts that are made to break.

At 3am when the gate fell, community watch was exiting his vehicle to remove the gate, because it was reported as malfunctioning. I was exiting at the same time. The gate fell, all by itself. By the way if you have to move the gate it’s not as light as one would think.

I asked if the gate fell on my vehicle, what would happen, his reply “I know it has happened, but am unaware of the outcome” Very scripted and text book answer. Trust me if the gate malfunctioned, fell on you, you would make the call, the cameras are available to provide information.

But you seem to question my account experience. One should be aware that if a gate seems to rise oddly, the bolts may be at their end life. Call community watch, a vehicle will be at that gate within minutes.

[Rwirish]

There is a solution. Drivers need to pay attention, slow down and one car thru the gate at a time.

[GizmoWhiskers]

Have no idea what your post has to do with gates either falling down on their own, or run into by a vehicle.

So your insulting post is “ those buying near turnpike, quarry, Coleman or new villages few retail,CC or restaurants are basically clueless that gates exist?”

I do believe that this is the BEST BASH POST of 2023. Congratulations, you should be proud.

Been here since 2007, and live south of 44.
Just curious, I didn't know of a Village south of 44 since 2007. But then my brain fog cleared up to realize that would be outside of The Villages (?) which would mean you have seen a lot of the growth in T V.

I do think the reference posted referred to new people to the area maybe not reading, and/or accepting and/or adhering to the signs and/or honoring what is posted. They then don't see or bum rush (or not) the gates.

Gates falling down shouldn't happen for sure!

I have a great inexpensive Garmin dashcam. I love it. It would catch a falling/broken gate like it caught a man and his wife that almost caused me to t-bone them as I passed toward a gate coming out of the roundabout. He did not even look left. His wife did. I can still see the look of terror on her face and so can my camera!

To be fair it does take an adjustment period to learn how to drive in T V. T V is full of unexpected driving anomalies per regular towns that are in chapters of the dmv manual a lot of people may have only skimmed through in Driving 101.

I have a friend who owns a driving school outside of the Bubble but does most of their business in the Bubble and for good reason.

[Black Beauty]

We need our false sense of security

[Rzepecki]

Perhaps gate visibility may be part of the problem.

You know the gate is there.

[Mardys]

I understand this happens, but I would like to add that the gate at Mallory is hard to see in the bright sunlight. I almost hit the gate when I first moved here. I know it’s there, now, and am careful. I totally understand how someone not familiar with the area can accidentally hit the gate.

[Wilson02852]

Hopefully this is the "last" gate post of 2023. Anyone have an idea how many there were? Closest one to correct number wins.

[bowlingal]

there are weekly district meetings given every week ( although not this week) and you can go to them and voice your complaints, questions, and advice there.

[rpalumberi]

They say about $250 a pop for knocking down a gate.
I take out a Gate Crasher annual season ticket for $450 every year.
I am allowed 5 gates for free, and the others at half price.:icon_wink:

funny

[golfing eagles]

My guess is you have only lived here for a few years….yes gates malfunction, from constant use..with bolts that are made to break.

At 3am when the gate fell, community watch was exiting his vehicle to remove the gate, because it was reported as malfunctioning. I was exiting at the same time. The gate fell, all by itself. By the way if you have to move the gate it’s not as light as one would think.

I asked if the gate fell on my vehicle, what would happen, his reply “I know it has happened, but am unaware of the outcome” Very scripted and text book answer. Trust me if the gate malfunctioned, fell on you, you would make the call, the cameras are available to provide information.


No doubt that sometimes the gate bolts get worn and sometimes the arm falls on its own, but my gestalt is that drivers hitting the gate far outnumber the spontaneous malfunctions.

[golfing eagles]

Perhaps gate visibility may be part of the problem.

No, that's not it.

Get your cataracts fixed !

You know the gate is there.

Personal thought: If you can't see a red and white gate arm at eye level that you KNOW is there, please don't drive anywhere near anybody's grandchildren. Also, I would doubt that person's ability to avoid an animal that darted into the road or dangerous debris. Bottom line: if you vision is that bad, don't drive!

[Ritagoyer]

I heard that as well, from several folks. At $250 a pop, seems like a money maker for TV: those arms are held on the mechanism by shear-away bolts so that, when hit, the arm suffers no (or very little) damage. A guy with a wrench and some new bolts could put things back in order pretty quickly, one would think.

That number per week unfortunately seems all too believable. Our gate seems to be down about twice a month, but one week recently saw no fewer than three such events. Another poster mentioned visibility and IMO this could be an issue. Those arms are painted red and white, which is very visible when the arm is up but when it is down it is at precisely the level of automobile taillights so that red striping, especially when traffic is heavy, might be doing more harm than good.
We all know there is a gate there, and enter the area as if it is down and stop. I see so many that are down for what ever reason and they have that little stop sign placed there instead of the arm that just blow thru and not even stop. They should be handling out tickets for people running that stop sign also.

[paulajr]

And impatience. Any more reasons? I'm sure there are.


I almost got hit by the gate yesterday, when the person in the lane next to me exited their gate..then decided to STOP and wave on golf carts…which caused me to be stuck under MY gate! I panicked as it started coming down..but luckily went back up. The guy behind Him/her was also trapped. 🤬

[Papa_lecki]

Personal thought: If you can't see a red and white gate arm at eye level that you KNOW is there, please don't drive anywhere near anybody's grandchildren. Also, I would doubt that person's ability to avoid an animal that darted into the road or dangerous debris. Bottom line: if you vision is that bad, don't drive!

TRUE -
The same person who can’t see a red and white gate is hitting a 2 inch golf ball and finding it around the green.

[Normal]

No doubt that sometimes the gate bolts get worn and sometimes the arm falls on its own, but my gestalt is that drivers hitting the gate far outnumber the spontaneous malfunctions.

Agree. Along Meggison we have seen construction vehicles take out the gates at various times. Trusses catch, large containers etc. they are all to blame.

[defrey12]

No, that's not it.

Nope, it isn’t. I see “two” trying to make it through all the time. Never works out well. What’s the hurry, people. You’re retired. Oh, you’re late you say. Leave earlier. If you find the gates but a nuisance? Too bad. You moved here.

[photo1902]

We need our false sense of security

No, we need the ability to safely cross these areas in a golf cart, which the gate arms provide.

[TeresaE]

I played golf last week, with someone who works for Community Watch. He told me that we average 10 "gate crashes" per day.

I went to a dog park today. Of the 3 gates I went through (or around), 2 were under repair. There's a gate in front of the Mallory Club House, that seems to get broken at least 3 times/week.

I assume the "crashers" get billed? I assume their insurance pays? Are there really 10 per day? How much does the crasher get charged? How much does an average repair really cost?

I assume this has been going on since The Villages began? Maybe it's time for a different solution?

Perhaps equipping the Guard Shack attendants with Paint Ball guns?

Maybe the solution is to limit those “happy hours” to an actual Hour instead of half the day. Just thinking outside the box.

[BlackHarley]

" I was hit by a BIG GATE while out riding my Hawwlee". Perfect Dan Newlin commercial.

[airstreamingypsy]

Hopefully this is the "last" gate post of 2023. Anyone have an idea how many there were? Closest one to correct number wins.

The thing about gate posts..... it's not like any of us have to go out and fix the gates.... am I the only one who doesn't care if they are down..... it would be nice if they didn't get hit, but they do and it's no skin off my teeth.

[Mrfriendly]

Yesterday coming from UPS store and square one in golf cart stopped to push the gate button.

Gate started up hesitated At moving 2’ then back down. Pressed the button again gate slowly went up and they proceeded to swing sideways and fall across the road. Good thing I didn’t rush the gate.

This would be the third gate in a week that I have watched fall down all by itself. Wonder if they count those 10 gate crashes are in the numbers he spoke of. When in reality it could be the bolts just giving away, or poorly installed bolts. So yes gate crashed, but no vehicle involved.

The camera will pick up car plate, but carts have no I’d, so once a year TV posts the pics and ask for help to Id carts. Last post fee was $250. But that been awhile

Is it possible this Repair system is set up to be a moneymaker for The Villages? Some people seem to think $250 repair is way in excess of actual cost to replace gate.
$250 X 10… Hmmm

[DonH57]

Have no idea what your post has to do with gates either falling down on their own, or run into by a vehicle.

So your insulting post is “ those buying near turnpike, quarry, Coleman or new villages few retail,CC or restaurants are basically clueless that gates exist?”

I do believe that this is the BEST BASH POST of 2023. Congratulations, you should be proud.

Been here since 2007, and live south of 44.

Actually, It's not my best insulting post. I just know I left some other Darwin Award contestant out! Golf cart jackals maybe?:evil6:

[waterflower]

Money laundering,

[Wondering]

First of all why would you have your insurance pay for the damage and then have your rates go up? Secondly, I believe the cost to repair/replace is $250. Lastly, the gates are a joke. The roads belong to the county and anyone can have access to the community, so the gates don't serve a security purpose, just a window dressing.

[brianherlihy]

y do we have gates we all can get in not . just push the red dot and drive in

[mminternet]

They need to have flashing lights on the gate arms! Some stop signs have flashing red lights throughout the Villages. Why not the gate arms???

[kcrazorbackfan]

Perhaps gate visibility may be part of the problem.

Well, if they can’t see the gate they DO NOT need to be driving.

[kcrazorbackfan]

First of all why would you have your insurance pay for the damage and then have your rates go up? Secondly, I believe the cost to repair/replace is $250. Lastly, the gates are a joke. The roads belong to the county and anyone can have access to the community, so the gates don't serve a security purpose, just a window dressing.

You don’t drive a cart, do you? Carts crossing the streets where gates are at least gives them somewhat of a chance to not get run over by the crazies.

[BrianL99]

Is it possible this Repair system is set up to be a moneymaker for The Villages? Some people seem to think $250 repair is way in excess of actual cost to replace gate.
$250 X 10… Hmmm

When I posted the original post, that was in the back of my mind, but no one seemed to pick up on it ... which is why I asked about Auto Insurance picking up the tab. I suspect a lot of people just turn it over to their insurance company and they probably get a big bill from TV.

Food for thought.

[Gizemo33]

Besides paying the cost of a new gate, the guilty party should also pay for admin fees, a hefty punitive fine, and be ticketed as well.

Michael,I am so happy you weren’t on my jury. You sound like a “hang them high” guy.

[Rodneysblue]

Yesterday coming from UPS store and square one in golf cart stopped to push the gate button.

Gate started up hesitated At moving 2’ then back down. Pressed the button again gate slowly went up and they proceeded to swing sideways and fall across the road. Good thing I didn’t rush the gate.

This would be the third gate in a week that I have watched fall down all by itself. Wonder if they count those 10 gate crashes are in the numbers he spoke of. When in reality it could be the bolts just giving away, or poorly installed bolts. So yes gate crashed, but no vehicle involved.

The camera will pick up car plate, but carts have no I’d, so once a year TV posts the pics and ask for help to Id carts. Last post fee was $250. But that been awhile

Previously hit but didn’t fall off completely.

[Nancy@Pinellas]

Each gate crashes gets billed $250. This happened to our neighbor and he had reported that he did it.

[BrianL99]

I almost got hit by the gate yesterday, when the person in the lane next to me exited their gate..then decided to STOP and wave on golf carts…which caused me to be stuck under MY gate! I panicked as it started coming down..but luckily went back up. The guy behind Him/her was also trapped. 🤬

I've only been in TV for 3 years, but this is something that always aggravates the heck out of me. Automobiles have the right of way. When someone stops to let me pass in a golf cart, I always wave them through. I don't want to take the chance if they change their mind or not paying attention.

I think the average "visitor" to TV, believes golf carts have the right of way and I think that causes a lot of problems.

Yesterday's "access gate" problem was on Morse Blvd (near Barraza Ct), where you need to drive your cart on Morse to get up to Tierra del Sol. There's some dope manning the gate with a "Stop Paddle", waving cars through. It's like a 3 Ring Circus, trying to make the left turn to get back on the MMP. One day last week, there were at least 6 carts sitting in the middle of Morse Blvd, while the on-duty "guard" was completely oblivious to what was going on.

Just my opinion, but when operating properly, the gates do their intended job. When there's an "attendant" on duty, potential disaster sets in.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Besides paying the cost of a new gate, the guilty party should also pay for admin fees, a hefty punitive fine, and be ticketed as well.

Hyperbole , I hope Michael

[asianthree]

Just curious, I didn't know of a Village south of 44 since 2007. But then my brain fog cleared up to realize that would be outside of The Villages (?) which would mean you have seen a lot of the growth in T V.

I do think the reference posted referred to new people to the area maybe not reading, and/or accepting and/or adhering to the signs and/or honoring what is posted. They then don't see or bum rush (or not) the gates.

Gates falling down shouldn't happen for sure!

I have a great inexpensive Garmin dashcam. I love it. It would catch a falling/broken gate like it caught a man and his wife that almost caused me to t-bone them as I passed toward a gate coming out of the roundabout. He did not even look left. His wife did. I can still see the look of terror on her face and so can my camera!

I have a friend who owns a driving school outside of the Bubble but does most of their business in the Bubble and for good reason.

We started renting in Caroline in 2007, (LSL was newer, SS very established) went to Mallory in 2008. We bought in Pennacamp, 2010, Fernandina, 2012 Duvall 2014, and built in Richmond 2023.

I travel while pretty much everyone else is sleeping, newspaper guys, community watch, and I wave to the Wildwood leo sitting at 44 and Buena Vista.

Sometimes gates almost look like they’ve had too much to drink when they start wobbling back-and-forth then swing sideways and fall off. My guess would be that one of the bolts has fractured and the other one just barely holding on. Since January have watched 4 gates fall all by themselves. Usually I am the second car waiting. As I said the gates weigh more than you would expect them too.

[BrianL99]

Sometimes gates almost look like they’ve had too much to drink when they start wobbling back-and-forth then swing sideways and fall off. My guess would be that one of the bolts has fractured and the other one just barely holding on. Since January have watched 4 gates fall all by themselves. Usually I am the second car waiting. As I said the gates weigh more than you would expect them too.


I would guess that's ripe for a lawsuit against TV. If I gate fell on my car, I'd have my lawyer on the phone, before I got the rest of the way through the gate.

[bsloan1960]

I played golf last week, with someone who works for Community Watch. He told me that we average 10 "gate crashes" per day.

I went to a dog park today. Of the 3 gates I went through (or around), 2 were under repair. There's a gate in front of the Mallory Club House, that seems to get broken at least 3 times/week.

I assume the "crashers" get billed? I assume their insurance pays? Are there really 10 per day? How much does the crasher get charged? How much does an average repair really cost?

I assume this has been going on since The Villages began? Maybe it's time for a different solution?

Perhaps equipping the Guard Shack attendants with Paint Ball guns? Skin in the game: Have strips made of an abrasive material hang from the gates. You try to dash under the gate as it closes and this material scuffs your car's paint. Some entitles people will only modify their behavior due to self interest.

[fdpaq0580]

Well, if they can’t see the gate they DO NOT need to be driving.

Fog, rain, lost against the background, etc. Lots of reasons someone might miss seeing the gate. Even old eagle-eyed individuals (I assume you're ne by your comment) may have missed a few things over the years, and probably never realizes it. Just mho.

[BrianL99]

Fog, rain, lost against the background, etc. Lots of reasons someone might miss seeing the gate. Even old eagle-eyed individuals (I assume you're ne by your comment) may have missed a few things over the years, and probably never realizes it. Just mho.

In most cases, there's a building to help you notice.

Then a fairly large "box" that houses the controls and mechanism. Hard to miss.

Then a big white stick with stripes on it.

Anyone who doesn't notice a gate, shouldn't be driving a vehicle ... or be out in public, without a guide dog or white cane.

[fdpaq0580]

I would guess that's ripe for a lawsuit against TV. If I gate fell on my car, I'd have my lawyer on the phone, before I got the rest of the way through the gate.

And your head bandaged, arm in a sling, while being pushed in a wheelchair. Wonder how much Dan will get you?

[fdpaq0580]

In most cases, there's a building to help you notice.

Then a fairly large "box" that houses the controls and mechanism. Hard to miss.

Then a big white stick with stripes on it.

Anyone who doesn't notice a gate, shouldn't be driving a vehicle ... or be out in public, without a guide dog or white cane.

True the building and gate entry box, but he gates are dull, dirty, and faded and having them more visible might help wake up those involved in conversation, yelling at the kids, or just driving on "autopilot".

[DARFAP]

Until you accidentally crash one

[golfing eagles]

TRUE -
The same person who can’t see a red and white gate is hitting a 2 inch golf ball and finding it around the green.

Even worse, the golf ball is 1.68" in diameter

[golfing eagles]

They need to have flashing lights on the gate arms! Some stop signs have flashing red lights throughout the Villages. Why not the gate arms???

No, they don't. If you can't see the gate, then YOU'RE the problem

[golfing eagles]

Fog, rain, lost against the background, etc. Lots of reasons someone might miss seeing the gate. Even old eagle-eyed individuals (I assume you're ne by your comment) may have missed a few things over the years, and probably never realizes it. Just mho.

Sorry, but if you can't see a gate, THAT YOU KNOW IS THERE, 10 feet in front of you, even under diminished visibility conditions, YOU SHOULDN'T BE DRIVING!

[golfing eagles]

True the building and gate entry box, but he gates are dull, dirty, and faded and having them more visible might help wake up those involved in conversation, yelling at the kids, or just driving on "autopilot".

So you're suggesting that we all pay to "improve" the gates for the benefit of those that are distracted drivers???? I'd much rather see those clowns PAY the $250 for their stupidity than have everyone ELSE pay to prevent it

[Bwanajim]

Maybe they should hang up orange flag on the gates also for better visibility

[fdpaq0580]

Maybe they should hang up orange flag on the gates also for better visibility

Great! Any thing that might be an attention getter.

[fdpaq0580]

So you're suggesting that we all pay to "improve" the gates for the benefit of those that are distracted drivers???? I'd much rather see those clowns PAY the $250 for their stupidity than have everyone ELSE pay to prevent it

Don't get your knickers in a twist. When I make my official motion on any upgrade, it shall be noted that golfing eagles be held without any financial responsibility for said upgrade. And, FYI, I am only hitting keys at this time and have (currently) no intention of doing anything more than that at this time.

[golfing eagles]

Don't get your knickers in a twist. When I make my official motion on any upgrade, it shall be noted that golfing eagles be held without any financial responsibility for said upgrade. And, FYI, I am only hitting keys at this time and have (currently) no intention of doing anything more than that at this time.

In a golf tournament, even though it might be distasteful, you are responsible for calling attention to a rules violation that an opponent might have "overlooked". It's called "protecting the field". In the case of gate arms, don't feel obligated to save me my $5 contribution, but I am protecting the taxpayer by pointing out something that would be a completely useless waste of money designed to prevent someone who shouldn't be driving in the first place from paying a $250 fine for their ineptitude.

[fdpaq0580]

In a golf tournament, even though it might be distasteful, you are responsible for calling attention to a rules violation that an opponent might have "overlooked". It's called "protecting the field". In the case of gate arms, don't feel obligated to save me my $5 contribution, but I am protecting the taxpayer by pointing out something that would be a completely useless waste of money designed to prevent someone who shouldn't be driving in the first place from paying a $250 fine for their ineptitude.

While I don't totally disagree with you, I would like to point out that if everyone who ever had a moment of ineptitude were forever banned from driving there would be no one in the world on the roads ________ except for you, of course. Wouldn't you get lonely?

[golfing eagles]

While I don't totally disagree with you, I would like to point out that if everyone who ever had a moment of ineptitude were forever banned from driving there would be no one in the world on the roads ________ except for you, of course. Wouldn't you get lonely?

Don't ban them from driving for 1 instance of gate crashing----fine them the $250. And if I were the only one on the road, I'd be ecstatic. And I'd never worry about what some clown was doing in a RB.

[xcaligirl]

VERY poor vision or there could be alcohol involved ... just maybe!!

[Cliff Fr]

Since The Villages isn't really a gated community maybe they should remove the gates and put in speed bumps

[Bogie Shooter]

Since The Villages isn't really a gated community maybe they should remove the gates and put in speed bumps

No.

[golfing eagles]

Since The Villages isn't really a gated community maybe they should remove the gates and put in speed bumps

In which case the body count from hitting carts that are crossing will go up 10,000%

[asianthree]

Y’all realize that if the gate gets hit or fall down, it doesn’t get a new gate. The old one goes right back up.

So that $250. Is a fee for the 2 bolts, and employee to put it back up. Same gate back up next day, so either bolts are expensive, or employee wage is $$:MOJE_whot:. Or it’s a great fund raiser for the eventual new gate.

[golfing eagles]

Y’all realize that if the gate gets hit or fall down, it doesn’t get a new gate. The old one goes right back up.

So that $250. Is a fee for the 2 bolts, and employee to put it back up. Same gate back up next day, so either bolts are expensive, or employee wage is $$:MOJE_whot:. Or it’s a great fund raiser for the eventual new gate.

AKA "punitive damages" :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[JMintzer]

First of all why would you have your insurance pay for the damage and then have your rates go up? Secondly, I believe the cost to repair/replace is $250. Lastly, the gates are a joke. The roads belong to the county and anyone can have access to the community, so the gates don't serve a security purpose, just a window dressing.

No one on this thread ever suggested they serve a "security purpose".

We all know that they're put in place to help control traffic so golf carts don't get creamed on a regular basis...

[bsloan1960]

There is a solution. Drivers need to pay attention, slow down and one car thru the gate at a time.
No. This is not the solution. This answer has no real-world practicality. This is the same answer as, "Prisons would stay empty if everyone would behave". When seeking solutions to problems there is zero value in suggesting universal behavior as the answer. Solutions/Answers to problem behaviors must target behaviors with the understanding that many people will no modify their behavior unless they are exposed to stress and consequences.

[Bill14564]

No. This is not the solution. This answer has no real-world practicality. This is the same answer as, "Prisons would stay empty if everyone would behave". When seeking solutions to problems there is zero value in suggesting universal behavior as the answer. Solutions/Answers to problem behaviors must target behaviors with the understanding that many people will no modify their behavior unless they are exposed to stress and consequences.

But perhaps people will modify their behavior to pay attention, slow down, and go through the gate one car at a time if they feel the stress of vehicle damage and embarrassment and are subjected to the consequences of repair bills and a $250 fine.

[Johnnyxi]

I’ve probably seen 4 or 5 arm crashes - every time it was a second car trying to get through an arm opening with the car in front.
As a person concerned with greenhouse gasses and pollution et cetera and understanding that cars idling create a considerable amount of Pollution, when I come to a gate such as Belvedere, and there are large number of cars waiting and idling to get through, I always follow the car in front. I have done this at least 50 times at various gates in the villages and have never yet even come close to having a problem or hitting the bar. Stay alert and I'm waiting for some **** **** someday to stop as soon as he gets through the gate, but of course the sensors will sense that he is there and not lower the gate. One could question the legality of having these gates on a public road, but that's another topic. For those of you who don't have good reactions, I definitely don't recommend this activity otherwise do your bit to save the planet.

[Papa_lecki]

As a person concerned with greenhouse gasses and pollution et cetera and understanding that cars idling create a considerable amount of Pollution, when I come to a gate such as Belvedere, and there are large number of cars waiting and idling to get through, I always follow the car in front. I have done this at least 50 times at various gates in the villages and have never yet even come close to having a problem or hitting the bar. Stay alert and I'm waiting for some **** **** someday to stop as soon as he gets through the gate, but of course the sensors will sense that he is there and not lower the gate. One could question the legality of having these gates on a public road, but that's another topic. For those of you who don't have good reactions, I definitely don't recommend this activity otherwise do your bit to save the planet.

Oh good, this will turn into a global warming discussion.

[photo1902]

Oh good, this will turn into a global warming discussion.

You can’t make this stuff up!

[Bogie Shooter]

As a person concerned with greenhouse gasses and pollution et cetera and understanding that cars idling create a considerable amount of Pollution, when I come to a gate such as Belvedere, and there are large number of cars waiting and idling to get through, I always follow the car in front. I have done this at least 50 times at various gates in the villages and have never yet even come close to having a problem or hitting the bar. Stay alert and I'm waiting for some **** **** someday to stop as soon as he gets through the gate, but of course the sensors will sense that he is there and not lower the gate. One could question the legality of having these gates on a public road, but that's another topic. For those of you who don't have good reactions, I definitely don't recommend this activity otherwise do your bit to save the planet.

Nice first post……..to add nothing.
Looking forward to you following me thru a gate.
Do you run red lights?

[Parteeinga]

They need a gate that is hinged. If a car runs into the gate it will open like a door, except that it would put a long scratch down the side of their car. Once they went throughout the gate would return to it’s normal position. No need to collect money from the driver. Gate won’t be ripped off the frame.

[fdpaq0580]

Nice first post……..to add nothing.
Looking forward to you following me thru a gate.
Do you run red lights?

Red lights and stop signs cause wear on brakes and tires and that produces grud from the brakes and tires and introduces it into the environment. And since stopping when a traffic light turns red means pollution from idling, I would presume "John" would run the red, or, at least floor it to try and get to the intersection on the yellow.

[fdpaq0580]

As a person concerned with greenhouse gasses and pollution et cetera and understanding that cars idling create a considerable amount of Pollution, when I come to a gate such as Belvedere, and there are large number of cars waiting and idling to get through, I always follow the car in front. I have done this at least 50 times at various gates in the villages and have never yet even come close to having a problem or hitting the bar. Stay alert and I'm waiting for some **** **** someday to stop as soon as he gets through the gate, but of course the sensors will sense that he is there and not lower the gate. One could question the legality of having these gates on a public road, but that's another topic. For those of you who don't have good reactions, I definitely don't recommend this activity otherwise do your bit to save the planet.

FYI John,
Many times, for various reasons, I have had to hit the brakes coming through gates. Tailgaters would have have had a hard time explaining to the court why they thought it would be a good idea to not spend less than a minute for the gate to come down and go back up again.
Tailgaters don't/can't see what the driver ahead can see and might react to. Be safe! Back off and wait your turn!

[Drammy]

I’ve been saying for a long time that the gate arms need better reflection. They are just too worn and dull.

[asianthree]

As a person concerned with greenhouse gasses and pollution et cetera and understanding that cars idling create a considerable amount of Pollution, when I come to a gate such as Belvedere, and there are large number of cars waiting and idling to get through, I always follow the car in front. I have done this at least 50 times at various gates in the villages and have never yet even come close to having a problem or hitting the bar. Stay alert and I'm waiting for some **** **** someday to stop as soon as he gets through the gate, but of course the sensors will sense that he is there and not lower the gate. One could question the legality of having these gates on a public road, but that's another topic. For those of you who don't have good reactions, I definitely don't recommend this activity otherwise do your bit to save the planet.


Thanks for the warning that you piggyback through the gates. Can’t wait for that person to break for the squirrel and you will be visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, Dan Newlin and Morgan and Morgan:clap2:

[twoplanekid]

From the Villages District staff point of view - data now almost year old - there is a lot of misinformation out there

District Property Management Department (DPM) Gate Operations, Maintenance, Visibility and Safety Presented
By: Bruce Brown, Assistant District Manager


[

[BrianL99]

From the Villages District staff point of view - data now almost year old - there is a lot of misinformation out there

District Property Management Department (DPM) Gate Operations, Maintenance, Visibility and Safety Presented
By: Bruce Brown, Assistant District Manager


[


The need to do a better job at collection. They're only collecting 70% of their billings.


Also, there are almost as many "gate malfunctions", as there are gate crashes (3.6 malfunctions/day and 4.4 crashes/day). Seems like a lot of malfunctions.

[RobinM]

Perhaps gate visibility may be part of the problem.

Just yesterday we approached (from inside) the Calumet gate. My husband was driving and he remarked that the gate was camouflaged by the vegetation across the street. I’ve been thinking that for a long time but thought it might just be my eyesight. Nope. You can hardly see that the gate is there until you’re practically up to it. I’m sure it’s not the only one.

[Dusty_Star]

As a person concerned with greenhouse gasses and pollution et cetera and understanding that cars idling create a considerable amount of Pollution, when I come to a gate such as Belvedere, and there are large number of cars waiting and idling to get through, I always follow the car in front. I have done this at least 50 times at various gates in the villages and have never yet even come close to having a problem or hitting the bar. Stay alert and I'm waiting for some **** **** someday to stop as soon as he gets through the gate, but of course the sensors will sense that he is there and not lower the gate. One could question the legality of having these gates on a public road, but that's another topic. For those of you who don't have good reactions, I definitely don't recommend this activity otherwise do your bit to save the planet.

You tailgate & run through the gate & you think that the person you are tailgating would be an **** **** for stopping. Amazing, incredible. I hope this was a facetious post. The gate arm is there to stop, or slow the flow of traffic for the safety of walkers, golf carts, & bikes who all use the MMPs & the roadways in The Villages. If you are so concerned with pollution, I suggest giving up your car & becoming a walker yourself would yield the best results for all.

[asianthree]

:MOJE_whot::MOJE_whot::MOJE_whot:
Thanks TwoPlane

Gates really do malfunction almost as much as gate strikes, sometimes it’s good to know people, :ho:

[coconutmama]

Thanks for the warning that you piggyback through the gates. Can’t wait for that person to break for the squirrel and you will be visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, Dan Newlin and Morgan and Morgan:clap2:

Good one. 🤣

[chuckpedrey]

I have been to more than one community that have gate arms illuminated from one end to the other with red lights. The new STOP signs on Rio Grande are illuminated with red lights around the edge that unmistakably draws your attention to the sign.

[deejew]

I have long wondered why the gate arms are not painted with an obnoxious neon color. I have perfect vision and I am surprised how many times I have had to do a double take when approaching from bright sun into a shadowed gate area (ie, Morse approaching 466) where the gate arms are frequently left up so your assumption is its not there. Clearly a bad assumption, but I'm not surprised people hit them with regularity. Seems a little paint or even a flashing LED could go a long way.

[Bogie Shooter]

Just yesterday we approached (from inside) the Calumet gate. My husband was driving and he remarked that the gate was camouflaged by the vegetation across the street. I’ve been thinking that for a long time but thought it might just be my eyesight. Nope. You can hardly see that the gate is there until you’re practically up to it. I’m sure it’s not the only one.

Do your part and call District Property Management.

[Kathyo]

Nice first post……..to add nothing.
Looking forward to you following me thru a gate.
Do you run red lights? No, just stop signs like everyone else in The Villages .

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

As a person concerned with greenhouse gasses and pollution et cetera and understanding that cars idling create a considerable amount of Pollution, when I come to a gate such as Belvedere, and there are large number of cars waiting and idling to get through, I always follow the car in front. I have done this at least 50 times at various gates in the villages and have never yet even come close to having a problem or hitting the bar. Stay alert and I'm waiting for some **** **** someday to stop as soon as he gets through the gate, but of course the sensors will sense that he is there and not lower the gate. One could question the legality of having these gates on a public road, but that's another topic. For those of you who don't have good reactions, I definitely don't recommend this activity otherwise do your bit to save the planet.this is a joke isn’t it ? Your trying to troll as many posts as you can on your first post., but if your that concerned about saving the planet ,you could just eat one meal a day to cut down on the energy cost to bring your food to a market

[MrFlorida]

You know the gates are there, so just STOP !!!!

[BrianL99]

this is a joke isn’t it ? Your trying to troll as many posts as you can on your first post., but if your that concerned about saving the planet ,you could just eat one meal a day to cut down on the energy cost to bring your food to a market

Are you suggesting that TV access gates don't contribute to Green House Gases and "climate change"? :1rotfl:

[jimjamuser]

Perhaps gate visibility may be part of the problem.
I am sure that is the problem with the crashes involving vehicles. Thai problem KEEPS happening......Einstein stated that insanity was doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. So, The Villages should try a NEW solution. maybe paint the gates dayglow orange. Maybe put flashing led lights on all gates. I hate speed bumps, but maybe put those before the gates. Maybe warning lights along the side of the road heading toward the gates. Maybe design the gate to break at a spot that is easy to remove and repair thus keeping down replacement costs.

[OhioBuckeye]

Is TV getting that bad!

[jimjamuser]

Nope, it isn’t. I see “two” trying to make it through all the time. Never works out well. What’s the hurry, people. You’re retired. Oh, you’re late you say. Leave earlier. If you find the gates but a nuisance? Too bad. You moved here.
The driver of 2nd car through must be thinking, " I am so COOL that I outsmarted the SYSTEM". They are special and play by their own rules!

[harby]

I did make some suggestions of installing very visible gates or better gates several times, but TV seems not to accept them or just ignore...just wants to keep what it has...will TV reply my comment?

[fdpaq0580]

Is TV getting that bad!

Absolutely horrible! Grrrrr!

[fdpaq0580]

:MOJE_whot::MOJE_whot::MOJE_whot:
Thanks TwoPlane

Gates really do malfunction almost as much as gate strikes, sometimes it’s good to know people, :ho:

Thank, by all means. Interesting is that after ten years the only malfunctions I ever personally witnessed was the arm not coming back down, either after the vehicle ahead of me went through or after I went through.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I heard that as well, from several folks. At $250 a pop, seems like a money maker for TV: those arms are held on the mechanism by shear-away bolts so that, when hit, the arm suffers no (or very little) damage. A guy with a wrench and some new bolts could put things back in order pretty quickly, one would think.

That number per week unfortunately seems all too believable. Our gate seems to be down about twice a month, but one week recently saw no fewer than three such events. Another poster mentioned visibility and IMO this could be an issue. Those arms are painted red and white, which is very visible when the arm is up but when it is down it is at precisely the level of automobile taillights so that red striping, especially when traffic is heavy, might be doing more harm than good.

Is that why people don't stop at stop signs? Because they're red and white? Y'know, like the stop signs present at all the gates?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I did make some suggestions of installing very visible gates or better gates several times, but TV seems not to accept them or just ignore...just wants to keep what it has...will TV reply my comment?

This isn't an official Villages website. If you want The Villages to reply to your comment, you have to comment to The Villages.

[Topspinmo]

I played golf last week, with someone who works for Community Watch. He told me that we average 10 "gate crashes" per day.

I went to a dog park today. Of the 3 gates I went through (or around), 2 were under repair. There's a gate in front of the Mallory Club House, that seems to get broken at least 3 times/week.

I assume the "crashers" get billed? I assume their insurance pays? Are there really 10 per day? How much does the crasher get charged? How much does an average repair really cost?

I assume this has been going on since The Villages began? Maybe it's time for a different solution?

Perhaps equipping the Guard Shack attendants with Paint Ball guns?


I think there lot of assuming going on…:shocked:

[Topspinmo]

I did make some suggestions of installing very visible gates or better gates several times, but TV seems not to accept them or just ignore...just wants to keep what it has...will TV reply my comment?

Don’t we all know there are gates? So why don’t some stop and wait?

[Topspinmo]

I am sure that is the problem with the crashes involving vehicles. Thai problem KEEPS happening......Einstein stated that insanity was doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. So, The Villages should try a NEW solution. maybe paint the gates dayglow orange. Maybe put flashing led lights on all gates. I hate speed bumps, but maybe put those before the gates. Maybe warning lights along the side of the road heading toward the gates. Maybe design the gate to break at a spot that is easy to remove and repair thus keeping down replacement costs.

Don’t we all know there age gates? What’s easier than two plastic bolts?

[Topspinmo]

I heard that as well, from several folks. At $250 a pop, seems like a money maker for TV: those arms are held on the mechanism by shear-away bolts so that, when hit, the arm suffers no (or very little) damage. A guy with a wrench and some new bolts could put things back in order pretty quickly, one would think.

That number per week unfortunately seems all too believable. Our gate seems to be down about twice a month, but one week recently saw no fewer than three such events. Another poster mentioned visibility and IMO this could be an issue. Those arms are painted red and white, which is very visible when the arm is up but when it is down it is at precisely the level of automobile taillights so that red striping, especially when traffic is heavy, might be doing more harm than good.

5 dollars for two plastic bolts? and 245 for labor?

[Topspinmo]

No, that's not it.


Maybe some glasses and turn off I phone?

[Topspinmo]

Every gate has a camera

Every gate had crasher.

[Topspinmo]

One thing of note I have observed several times. In the visitor lane, only, in which there is some distance between the card and the gate arm, one must wait until the car ahead goes completely through the gate BEFORE you swipe your card. Several times I have seen cars stuck in the middle that swiped their cards before the preceding car had TOTALLY gone through, only to get stuck in the middle or worse, the arm coming down on their car.


Where is there visiting gate entry without guard in shack?

[Topspinmo]

My guess is you have only lived here for a few years….yes gates malfunction, from constant use..with bolts that are made to break.

At 3am when the gate fell, community watch was exiting his vehicle to remove the gate, because it was reported as malfunctioning. I was exiting at the same time. The gate fell, all by itself. By the way if you have to move the gate it’s not as light as one would think.

I asked if the gate fell on my vehicle, what would happen, his reply “I know it has happened, but am unaware of the outcome” Very scripted and text book answer. Trust me if the gate malfunctioned, fell on you, you would make the call, the cameras are available to provide information.

But you seem to question my account experience. One should be aware that if a gate seems to rise oddly, the bolts may be at their end life. Call community watch, a vehicle will be at that gate within minutes.

“ IF” so it didn’t fall on you vehicle. And why would community watch know all those answers?

[Topspinmo]

First of all why would you have your insurance pay for the damage and then have your rates go up? Secondly, I believe the cost to repair/replace is $250. Lastly, the gates are a joke. The roads belong to the county and anyone can have access to the community, so the gates don't serve a security purpose, just a window dressing.

Not in Marion County, county has nothing to do with roads off BV.

[Topspinmo]

The need to do a better job at collection. They're only collecting 70% of their billings.


Also, there are almost as many "gate malfunctions", as there are gate crashes (3.6 malfunctions/day and 4.4 crashes/day). Seems like a lot of malfunctions.


And how many times do they go up and down? 3.6 out of 100K or more times? It that data collected?

[BrianL99]

Where is there visiting gate entry without guard in shack?

You need to get out more.

At least 40% of the gates I go through, are unattended.

[Papa_lecki]

You need to get out more.

At least 40% of the gates I go through, are unattended.

There are 4 gates I could go through to get to my house, 3 are not attended.

[Dusty_Star]

Where is there visiting gate entry without guard in shack?

Many places. They have a red button to allow entry without a resident card. A fairly large red button.

[bonrich]

Flatten the gate arms. Instead of tubular shape, make it at least 4" flat arm, larger area to be more visible.

[golfing eagles]

Flatten the gate arms. Instead of tubular shape, make it at least 4" flat arm, larger area to be more visible.

That is a good suggestion, like many others aimed at increasing the visibility of gate arms. However, the underlying question remains: Is the so-called visibility of gate arms that everyone knows are there a problem for anyone but the small minority of visually impaired or unskilled drivers who shouldn't be on the road in the first place? And what is the cost to everyone if hundreds of gate arms are replaced to accommodate those very few? The other categories of gate crashers include the drunk and the impatient. And all of these gate crashers will probably find a way to break an "enhanced visibility" gate anyway. I vote for saving the tax $$$ and continue fining those that destroy a gate, maybe even double the fine.

[Normal]

Flatten the gate arms. Instead of tubular shape, make it at least 4" flat arm, larger area to be more visible.

Flat gate arms are not as wind resistant and could cause damage as well as the potential for personal injury.

Why not use all metal, with razor spikes and explosive tips? Repeat offenders would be limited.

[bonrich]

That is a good suggestion, like many others aimed at increasing the visibility of gate arms. However, the underlying question remains: Is the so-called visibility of gate arms that everyone knows are there a problem for anyone but the small minority of visually impaired or unskilled drivers who shouldn't be on the road in the first place? And what is the cost to everyone if hundreds of gate arms are replaced to accommodate those very few? The other categories of gate crashers include the drunk and the impatient. And all of these gate crashers will probably find a way to break an "enhanced visibility" gate anyway. I vote for saving the tax $$$ and continue fining those that destroy a gate, maybe even double the fine.
For me, when I approach a gate exit, my brain says there is a gate arm there, but my eyes are not seeing the arm right away, sort of a disconnect between the two senses. When I do see the arm, sometimes I am closer than I would ordinarily be. Also, it depends on what the arm is in front of, sometimes combining with the sun, it disappears until the last minute. If the crafters can put card copies of your gate card in your outside mirror, why couldn't the powers to be do the same, with a step-up in the quality of the copy? I thought I read where the software was going to be updated for the mechanisms of the arms.

[Normal]

Personally I am so stumped by the tangent of visibility even being discussed!

People aren’t stupid, but they sure can make up excuses!

First of all, they are cognizant of an approaching gate. There is no mystery about where you live. Let alone the fact that there is a large structure (minimum 4 foot pillar) supporting the said gate. Further, some of these gates are close to known building guard house structures.

We are all human, with a vast repertoire of excuses. Not knowing a gate is somewhere around, should be grounds for the loss of a driver’s license.

[golfing eagles]

For me, when I approach a gate exit, my brain says there is a gate arm there, but my eyes are not seeing the arm right away, sort of a disconnect between the two senses. When I do see the arm, sometimes I am closer than I would ordinarily be. Also, it depends on what the arm is in front of, sometimes combining with the sun, it disappears until the last minute. If the crafters can put card copies of your gate card in your outside mirror, why couldn't the powers to be do the same, with a step-up in the quality of the copy? I thought I read where the software was going to be updated for the mechanisms of the arms.

OK, how would a gate card chip in the side view mirror prevent someone from crashing a gate? In fact, knowing, they don't have to fully stop, pull out a card after opening a window, and then wave it at the sensor might lead to even more gate crashing. I suspect more gates are crashed on the exit side, perhaps Two Plane has those statistics. But the underlying question remains: How many gates are crashed due to their so called "poor visibility" as opposed to poor driver vision, poor driver skills, drivers who can't see over their steering wheel, drunk drivers, speeding towards the gates and trying to piggyback with the vehicle ahead?

[golfing eagles]

Personally I am so stumped by the tangent of visibility even being discussed!

People aren’t stupid, but they sure can make up excuses!

First of all, they are cognizant of an approaching gate. There is no mystery about where you live. Let alone the fact that there is a large structure (minimum 4 foot pillar) supporting the said gate. Further, some of these gates are close to known building guard house structures.

We are all human, with a vast repertoire of excuses. Not knowing a gate is somewhere around, should be grounds for the loss of a driver’s license.

Well, that's certainly true. But I would think for it to count against a driver's license a LEO would have to ticket the offender for something like reckless driving.
Perhaps a scale of escalating fines---$250, first gate, $500 second, $1,000 third and so forth.

[Normal]

Well, that's certainly true. But I would think for it to count against a driver's license a LEO would have to ticket the offender for something like reckless driving.
Perhaps a scale of escalating fines---$250, first gate, $500 second, $1,000 third and so forth.

Throw in reporting to the infraction to the county for further review, mandatory driving school and a retesting for the driver’s license.

[bonrich]

Move the card reader so it reads your card sooner for those that look for the pillar.

[Normal]

I’m thinking that if the gate arms were:

Designed like large razor sharp meat cleavers and constructed of reinforced steel people would take less chances?

Designed where impact of the arm would activate chemical lasers strong enough to burn through steel?

Designed to automatically eject road spikes filled with lethal poison when tripped?

Designed to eject cluster munitions when tripped?

Or backed up by Villages Community Watch machine gun nests with all weapons set on auto?

All of these could contribute eventually to the end of the gene pool of stupidity?

[fdpaq0580]

I’m thinking that if the gate arms were:

Designed like large razor sharp meat cleavers and constructed of reinforced steel people would take less chances?

Designed where impact of the arm would activate chemical lasers strong enough to burn through steel?

Designed to automatically eject road spikes filled with lethal poison when tripped?

Designed to eject cluster munitions when tripped?

Or backed up by Villages Community Watch machine gun nests with all weapons set on auto?

All of these could contribute eventually to the end of the gene pool of stupidity?

Merry Christmas!

[BrianL99]

3"-4" diameter, 8' horizontal pole, painted to look like a reflective Barber's Pole and folks can't see them?

Anyone on this thread who suggests they had a problem seeing the gates, should immediately turn in their Driver's License and hope your children didn't read your post.

[kkingston57]

Besides paying the cost of a new gate, the guilty party should also pay for admin fees, a hefty punitive fine, and be ticketed as well.

If there was a punitive fine for hitting a gate, what would be next? Besides Florida does have laws on punitive damages. Knew headline Villages goes to Florida Supreme Court fighting punitive charges after KILLING $250 gate. How about getting rid of them. Push of a little red button allows entry.

[golfing eagles]

If there was a punitive fine for hitting a gate, what would be next? Besides Florida does have laws on punitive damages. Knew headline Villages goes to Florida Supreme Court fighting punitive charges after KILLING $250 gate. How about getting rid of them. Push of a little red button allows entry.

Again, good luck crossing the road on a MMP in your cart without the gates. Prediction: high body count.

[kkingston57]

I’ve probably seen 4 or 5 arm crashes - every time it was a second car trying to get through an arm opening with the car in front.

Sounds like a person who is trying to sneak in. Put up a sign that says Push Red Button on panel opens gate, at every gated area. If the 2nd car caused the damages, problem solved, but some people might not read that sign.

[DonH57]

If there was a punitive fine for hitting a gate, what would be next? Besides Florida does have laws on punitive damages. Knew headline Villages goes to Florida Supreme Court fighting punitive charges after KILLING $250 gate. How about getting rid of them. Push of a little red button allows entry.

If you feel that strongly about them good luck convincing the state of Florida to remove them from the MMP and public street crossings. That's why they're there. The Villages aren't the only ones with the same set up.

[Papa_lecki]

Sounds like a person who is trying to sneak in. Put up a sign that says Push Red Button on panel opens gate, at every gated area. If the 2nd car caused the damages, problem solved, but some people might not read that sign.

The “push button for help” doesn’t explain what to do.

2 of the arm crashes I witnessed were golf carts.

Didn’t want to unzip (it was colder) to push button, followed the car through, and arm came down on roof.

[golfing eagles]

The “push button for help” doesn’t explain what to do.

2 of the arm crashes I witnessed were golf carts.

Didn’t want to unzip (it was colder) to push button, followed the car through, and arm came down on roof.

Great! We have the first Darwin Award nominee of Christmas Day.

[fdpaq0580]

The “push button for help” doesn’t explain what to do.

2 of the arm crashes I witnessed were golf carts.

Didn’t want to unzip (it was colder) to push button, followed the car through, and arm came down on roof.

Do you think they learned anything from that? Or is it somebody else's fault?

[fdpaq0580]

[QUOTE=Papa_lecki;2285430]The “push button for help” doesn’t explain what to do.

E]

Actually it does, in a way. If they push the button, they will receive the help as the gate will go up. Hopefully, that will be the only help they require.

[fdpaq0580]

Great! We have the first Darwin Award nominee of Christmas Day.

Thought you had to die to receive, or even be nominated, for the coveted Darwin.

[golfing eagles]

Thought you had to die to receive, or even be nominated, for the coveted Darwin.

I thought you could be nominated for egregious stupidity, pending death, but only needed to die in order to win. :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[BrianL99]

I thought you could be nominated for egregious stupidity, pending death, but only needed to die in order to win. :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

So it would be an Honorable Mention Darwin?

[Normal]

Literally, sprinkle the poles with heavy duty glitter! It would be all seasons visually clear.

[bonrich]

Literally, sprinkle the poles with heavy duty glitter! It would be all seasons visually clear.
Finally, a good idea! Practical, easy to apply, change with seasons. I envision contests between Villages, glam and glitter, camo, and mix in high profile sight.

[Topspinmo]

There are 4 gates I could go through to get to my house, 3 are not attended.

But, do they have visitors gates with guard?

[asianthree]

But, do they have visitors pass?

Do you mean a visitor gate? If there is not a visitor gate and residents gate, the single gate has a Red Button and availability to use gate pass. Richmond has one entrance with gate house with 2 gates and at the other entrance no gate house and only one gate with a red button

[JMintzer]

But, do they have visitors pass?

If they're coming off of a circle, usually. Or on Moyer Loop at both ends, Deskin Loop after you turn off Morse...

Same with Hillsboro and Pinellas, and Odell Loop where they cross Morse and Buena Vista if memory serves me...

Those are the ones I can think of off the top of my head...

[Dusty_Star]

But, do they have visitors pass?

I'm confused. Visitor pass? Visitors, landscapers, delivery trucks, anyone without a gate card approaching an unmanned gate uses the RED BUTTON.

[golfing eagles]

Literally, sprinkle the poles with heavy duty glitter! It would be all seasons visually clear.

Not sure that's a great idea. Some of our more lascivious residents will take the glitter as a sign that they should try to stuff dollar bills in the gate arm's G-string:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[fdpaq0580]

Finally, a good idea! Practical, easy to apply, change with seasons. I envision contests between Villages, glam and glitter, camo, and mix in high profile sight.

Glam, glitz and glitter, great. But NO to camo! What were you thinking? The idea is to increase visibility and awareness, not hide them.

[fdpaq0580]

I'm confused. Visitor pass? Visitors, landscapers, delivery trucks, anyone without a gate card approaching an unmanned gate uses the RED BUTTON.

You would think so. But apparently some don't.

[Dusty_Star]

Not sure that's a great idea. Some of our more lascivious residents will take the glitter as a sign that they should try to stuff dollar bills in the gate arm's G-string:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

:clap2:

[Pairadocs]

Besides paying the cost of a new gate, the guilty party should also pay for admin fees, a hefty punitive fine, and be ticketed as well.

Hummm, any idea when that will actually happen ?

[fdpaq0580]

Hummm, any idea when that will actually happen ?

Probably never.

[Laker14]

I’ve been saying for a long time that the gate arms need better reflection. They are just too worn and dull.

Just yesterday we approached (from inside) the Calumet gate. My husband was driving and he remarked that the gate was camouflaged by the vegetation across the street. I’ve been thinking that for a long time but thought it might just be my eyesight. Nope. You can hardly see that the gate is there until you’re practically up to it. I’m sure it’s not the only one.

I have long wondered why the gate arms are not painted with an obnoxious neon color. I have perfect vision and I am surprised how many times I have had to do a double take when approaching from bright sun into a shadowed gate area (ie, Morse approaching 466) where the gate arms are frequently left up so your assumption is its not there. Clearly a bad assumption, but I'm not surprised people hit them with regularity. Seems a little paint or even a flashing LED could go a long way.

You know the gates are there, so just STOP !!!!

I have mentioned more than once that it has long been established that the reflective "optic green" is easier to see than reflective red, which is why you see the firefighters, EMTs, and roadside construction workers all wear optic green. I was invited to take my suggestion to the local agency in charge.
I was also referred to the Florida DOT site.
As it turns out, they all refer to Federal standards which dictate the red we see here. However, with written permission, other agencies may incorporate other, more visible, alternatives.

I could see it becoming a bureaucratic mess trying to effect any change. There are definitely some gates that are well hidden by mottled sunlight, background vegetation, low glaring early morning or late evening sunlight. The gate exiting Liberty Park, going eastbound on St. Charles at the Buena Vista roundabout is nearly invisible at times, and I know it's there. Unfortunately, as many here seem to forget, not everyone who travels the roads in TV are local residents. So the "YOU KNOW IT'S THERE!!" argument is silly and foolish.

However, the speed limit reduces to a crawl at all of these gates, and if someone actually hits the gate, they were probably ignoring the signage warning them to slow down.

It is almost laughable, the condition of some of the gate arms. The one I speak of at Liberty Park looks as if it has been dragged behind a truck for a few miles, yet they just bolt it back up, even more difficult to see than it was before it got knocked down (again).

However, as a frequent user of a golf cart, I am glad they are there to help me get across the busy streets, and I am very careful as I proceed across one that is missing.

[golfing eagles]

I have mentioned more than once that it has long been established that the reflective "optic green" is easier to see than reflective red, which is why you see the firefighters, EMTs, and roadside construction workers all wear optic green. I was invited to take my suggestion to the local agency in charge.
I was also referred to the Florida DOT site.
As it turns out, they all refer to Federal standards which dictate the red we see here. However, with written permission, other agencies may incorporate other, more visible, alternatives.

I could see it becoming a bureaucratic mess trying to effect any change. There are definitely some gates that are well hidden by mottled sunlight, background vegetation, low glaring early morning or late evening sunlight. The gate exiting Liberty Park, going eastbound on St. Charles at the Buena Vista roundabout is nearly invisible at times, and I know it's there. Unfortunately, as many here seem to forget, not everyone who travels the roads in TV are local residents. So the "YOU KNOW IT'S THERE!!" argument is silly and foolish.

However, the speed limit reduces to a crawl at all of these gates, and if someone actually hits the gate, they were probably ignoring the signage warning them to slow down.

It is almost laughable, the condition of some of the gate arms. The one I speak of at Liberty Park looks as if it has been dragged behind a truck for a few miles, yet they just bolt it back up, even more difficult to see than it was before it got knocked down (again).

However, as a frequent user of a golf cart, I am glad they are there to help me get across the busy streets, and I am very careful as I proceed across one that is missing.

Umm...Let's see: Take the exit gate at Liberty Park cited as an example. The residents of Liberty Park KNOW it's there. The landscapers working there KNOW it's there. Most other workers KNOW it's there. I would think that any visitor KNOWS it's there after their first time exiting. So we are left with the miniscule percentage of first time visitors on their first time through who are pretty much blind. So, tell us again how the argument is "silly and foolish"

[Dusty_Star]

The gate exiting Liberty Park, going eastbound on St. Charles at the Buena Vista roundabout is nearly invisible at times, and I know it's there. Unfortunately, as many here seem to forget, not everyone who travels the roads in TV are local residents. So the "YOU KNOW IT'S THERE!!" argument is silly and foolish.



I find that astounding. The exit/entrance at Liberty Park is the beautiful red, white & blue one with the white fencing. Even if the ARM itself is hard to see at times, the actual approach to the intersection has signs & is apparent.

Also, astute visitors having had to negotiate the entrance, should probably expect something at the exit - even if they didn't notice it upon entering.

[Laker14]

I find that astounding. The exit/entrance at Liberty Park is the beautiful red, white & blue one with the white fencing. Even if the ARM itself is hard to see at times, the actual approach to the intersection has signs & is apparent.

Also, astute visitors having had to negotiate the entrance, should probably expect something at the exit - even if they didn't notice it upon entering.

I agree. I wasn't trying to make a case that it is understandable that it would get knocked down, merely agreeing with the comment that some are hard to see, for a variety of reasons.

I think I mentioned that that there are also signs warning us to slow down. I am amazed sometimes at how fast people will try to zip through these areas, which is also why I am glad the devices are in place, so I have a chance to cross in my golf cart. Without the gates it would be much scarier.

[Laker14]

Umm...Let's see: Take the exit gate at Liberty Park cited as an example. The residents of Liberty Park KNOW it's there. The landscapers working there KNOW it's there. Most other workers KNOW it's there. I would think that any visitor KNOWS it's there after their first time exiting. So we are left with the miniscule percentage of first time visitors on their first time through who are pretty much blind. So, tell us again how the argument is "silly and foolish"

I think you just did. There is a "minuscule" percentage who have not memorized the roadways because they are new to them. Traffic control devices aren't well designed if they have to rely on memory. They need to be highly visible and designed to be effective for those who have not traveled the road before.
To defend a system that is deficient in that regard by stating "You know it's there" is silly and foolish.

[golfing eagles]

I think you just did. There is a "minuscule" percentage who have not memorized the roadways because they are new to them. Traffic control devices aren't well designed if they have to rely on memory. They need to be highly visible and designed to be effective for those who have not traveled the road before.
To defend a system that is deficient in that regard by stating "You know it's there" is silly and foolish.

Sorry to disagree, but my expectation is that someone driving 70 mph on I-75 can avoid a dead animal or debris on the road that they DON'T KNOW is there. Yet we want to excuse those driving at 5 mph to a well-marked exit with a red and white gate arm at eye level? No sale.

[JRcorvette]

They are designed to pop off… I wish that I had that business of replacing or resetting them! It would be a good idea to attach small streamers at the bottom of the gate. People with poor eyesight could see the gate better!

[golfing eagles]

They are designed to pop off… I wish that I had that business of replacing or resetting them! It would be a good idea to attach small streamers at the bottom of the gate. People with poor eyesight could see the gate better!

Which brings us back to the larger issue: should people with poor eyesight be driving AT ALL?

[Laker14]

Sorry to disagree, but my expectation is that someone driving 70 mph on I-75 can avoid a dead animal or debris on the road that they DON'T KNOW is there. Yet we want to excuse those driving at 5 mph to a well-marked exit with a red and white gate arm at eye level? No sale.

You have misrepresented my position. I did not excuse the crashing of a gate. I supported the statement that they are, at times and in certain locations, difficult to see, and that the argument that "you know it's there" is a silly argument to make when designing traffic controls.

[golfing eagles]

You have misrepresented my position. I did not excuse the crashing of a gate. I supported the statement that they are, at times and in certain locations, difficult to see, and that the argument that "you know it's there" is a silly argument to make when designing traffic controls.

And my point was that 99+% of drivers know they’re there and poor vision should not be an excuse for hitting a gate; it’s a reason to not be driving

[fdpaq0580]

FYI to whom it matters. Not all drivers going 70 mph on I-75 can or do avoid dead animals or debris in the road. Possible reasons may include, but are not limited to, items being located in a shadow, blending in with surrounds, driver misjudged distance to object by being surrounded by distractions, moving or bright objects attracting driver attention away from stationary objects that drivers don't perceive as a threat, etc.
Also, has anyone ever hit the accelerator harder than intended, or gotten closer to the car or object in front, or had you foot slip off the brake pedal accidentally? You may not have had an accident, but you could have.

[fdpaq0580]

And my point was that 99+% of drivers know they’re there and poor vision should not be an excuse for hitting a gate; it’s a reason to not be driving

Same with golf. 99+% of players know where they want their ball to go. Not hitting the spot dead on, you shouldn't be driving, or chipping, or putting. One error doesn't mean you shouldn't be playing.

[golfing eagles]

Same with golf. 99+% of players know where they want their ball to go. Not hitting the spot dead on, you shouldn't be driving, or chipping, or putting. One error doesn't mean you shouldn't be playing.

NOT EVEN CLOSE to the same thing, and you know it

[Laker14]

And my point was that 99+% of drivers know they’re there and poor vision should not be an excuse for hitting a gate; it’s a reason to not be driving

You are conflating "poor vision" with "poor visibility". Two different things. I can see a golf ball in the fairway from 200 yards away (convenient for me since that's about as far as I can hit one), and I can make out the spin and the holes on a fast moving pickleball, yet, in certain lighting situations, I find certain gates to be difficult to see.

My vision (corrected with lenses) is fine. The visibility of the gates could be better.

[golfing eagles]

You are conflating "poor vision" with "poor visibility". Two different things. I can see a golf ball in the fairway from 200 yards away (convenient for me since that's about as far as I can hit one), and I can make out the spin and the holes on a fast moving pickleball, yet, in certain lighting situations, I find certain gates to be difficult to see.

My vision (corrected with lenses) is fine. The visibility of the gates could be better.

In your opinion 😀

[Topspinmo]

Just yesterday we approached (from inside) the Calumet gate. My husband was driving and he remarked that the gate was camouflaged by the vegetation across the street. I’ve been thinking that for a long time but thought it might just be my eyesight. Nope. You can hardly see that the gate is there until you’re practically up to it. I’m sure it’s not the only one.


But we know gate there and the inside gate open automatically.

[EdFNJ]

I've talked to the folks who work on the Mallory gates a few time over the last couple of years since we walk by them every morning and they claim that MANY (not all) of the non-working gates in TV are MECHANICAL issues not due to crashes but due to AGE. Lot's of the gate equipment is well over 15 years old. The crashed gates are obvious, but the last few at Mallory have been mechanical and they are often waiting for parts. Often (at Mallory can't speak for them all) gates are down on both sides and both directions at the same time so obviously that isn't a "crashing" problem.

[It's Hot There]

I see tailgaters all the time.......trying to sneak two vehicles through one opening.

Why?? What's the hurry??

Gate crashing is not the result of poor gate design or poor operation.

I love the gates.

No sympathy for gate crashers.

[asianthree]

The only time I have had an issue seeing a gate was Bright Sun, but even with difficulty seeing the gate I know it’s there.

However, anytime you come off a round about to enter into a Village, “There is a Gate” When you exit ‘There is a Gate”

If the Sun blinds you one still knows there is a gate. If you don’t see the gate, most likely you have no idea you have left the round about.

[golfing eagles]

The only time I have had an issue seeing a gate was Bright Sun, but even with difficulty seeing the gate I know it’s there.

However, anytime you come off a round about to enter into a Village, “There is a Gate” When you exit ‘There is a Gate”

If the Sun blinds you one still knows there is a gate. If you don’t see the gate, most likely you have no idea you have left the round about.

OK, here's my assessment (then I'll duck:1rotfl:):

181 posts on this thread, and it looks like those few posters with poor vision or who have had an unnecessarily close call with a gate are all in favor of spending millions to "improve the visibility of gates"---that would be the gates that 99% of us know are there. According to the stats, just short of 1/2 of those gate "crashes" are mechanical failures, so discount them. I find the argument that people don't know that they are there to be lame. So, we now have those with poor vision---who shouldn't be driving. Those with poor driving skills---who shouldn't be driving. And those who are impatient and try to piggyback through--who should fined repetitively.

Basically, the gate-crashing problem is just a microcosm of the general problem of driving in TV---especially in RB's. I also suggest that spending that $$$ to improve visibility will only minimally impact the number of gate crashes since if you can't see or control your vehicle, you'll hit them anyway.

OOPs, I forgot the drunks----who should have the book thrown at them before they hit something that's living.

[Marathon Man]

OK, here's my assessment (then I'll duck:1rotfl:):

181 posts on this thread, and it looks like those few posters with poor vision or who have had an unnecessarily close call with a gate are all in favor of spending millions to "improve the visibility of gates"---that would be the gates that 99% of us know are there. According to the stats, just short of 1/2 of those gate "crashes" are mechanical failures, so discount them. I find the argument that people don't know that they are there to be lame. So, we now have those with poor vision---who shouldn't be driving. Those with poor driving skills---who shouldn't be driving. And those who are impatient and try to piggyback through--who should fined repetitively.

Basically, the gate-crashing problem is just a microcosm of the general problem of driving in TV---especially in RB's. I also suggest that spending that $$$ to improve visibility will only minimally impact the number of gate crashes since if you can't see or control your vehicle, you'll hit them anyway.

OOPs, I forgot the drunks----who should have the book thrown at them before they hit something that's living.

Good summary.

[Laker14]

OK, here's my assessment (then I'll duck:1rotfl:):

181 posts on this thread, and it looks like those few posters with poor vision or who have had an unnecessarily close call with a gate are all in favor of spending millions to "improve the visibility of gates"---that would be the gates that 99% of us know are there. According to the stats, just short of 1/2 of those gate "crashes" are mechanical failures, so discount them. I find the argument that people don't know that they are there to be lame. So, we now have those with poor vision---who shouldn't be driving. Those with poor driving skills---who shouldn't be driving. And those who are impatient and try to piggyback through--who should fined repetitively.

Basically, the gate-crashing problem is just a microcosm of the general problem of driving in TV---especially in RB's. I also suggest that spending that $$$ to improve visibility will only minimally impact the number of gate crashes since if you can't see or control your vehicle, you'll hit them anyway.

OOPs, I forgot the drunks----who should have the book thrown at them before they hit something that's living.

They certainly could be more visible. There is a reason that the road crews and first responders wear optic green instead of red and white.
However, changing all of the gates would cost money, and there are, no doubt, more dangerous issues to be addressed than this one. Really, what are we talking here? A relatively affluent population bumping into a gate at 2 mph? A pittance of property damage at worst? Not a situation likely to engender a lot of political concern.

Since the gates are located on public roads, even something as simple as putting some optic green reflective tape on the arms would take them out of compliance with Federal standards, which would entail a lengthy process of getting permission from an agency buried in a labyrinth of bureaucratic layers.

Another thing I find intriguing about the whole gate arrangement is the question of who is ultimately responsible, financially, for the maintenance and repair and continued operation of the gates. Their existence serves the residents of TV, yet they are on public roads.
Does the public, which would include county residents who are not residents of TV, get any value from their existence? Why should they be on the hook for something that slows down automobile traffic, for the benefit of those of us in TV who drive golf carts? Which makes me wonder if that is the reason that the enforcement and repair of damage to these devices seems to fall on TV.

[golfing eagles]

Another thing I find intriguing about the whole gate arrangement is the question of who is ultimately responsible, financially, for the maintenance and repair and continued operation of the gates. Their existence serves the residents of TV, yet they are on public roads.
Does the public, which would include county residents who are not residents of TV, get any value from their existence? Why should they be on the hook for something that slows down automobile traffic, for the benefit of those of us in TV who drive golf carts? Which makes me wonder if that is the reason that the enforcement and repair of damage to these devices seems to fall on TV.

Now THAT is a GREAT question. The gates are essentially a traffic control device to allow golf carts to cross on the MMP. If there was no MMP, the gates would be unnecessary, so one would think TV is responsible to maintain them. And since the road is public, I wonder what kind of deal was needed to erect a gate and gatehouse on a public road???? Does TV pay "rent" to the county for having gates on their property???? If not, maybe I'll erect a gate on Florida's Turnpike to allow that lady to cross in her golf cart :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:. I suppose if I was a working resident of Sumter County that used Morse north of 466 to get to work, I could have a legitimate complaint of being held up by a gate on county property that I pay taxes to support.

[Bill14564]

Another thing I find intriguing about the whole gate arrangement is the question of who is ultimately responsible, financially, for the maintenance and repair and continued operation of the gates. Their existence serves the residents of TV, yet they are on public roads.
Does the public, which would include county residents who are not residents of TV, get any value from their existence? Why should they be on the hook for something that slows down automobile traffic, for the benefit of those of us in TV who drive golf carts? Which makes me wonder if that is the reason that the enforcement and repair of damage to these devices seems to fall on TV.

The gates are either an amenity paid for and maintained by amenity funds or they are infrastructure paid for and maintained by annual maintenance funds. I'm too lazy to look it up right now. Either way, no Sumter County budget dollars are used to maintain the gates.

[Topspinmo]

Now THAT is a GREAT question. The gates are essentially a traffic control device to allow golf carts to cross on the MMP. If there was no MMP, the gates would be unnecessary, so one would think TV is responsible to maintain them. And since the road is public, I wonder what kind of deal was needed to erect a gate and gatehouse on a public road???? Does TV pay "rent" to the county for having gates on their property???? If not, maybe I'll erect a gate on Florida's Turnpike to allow that lady to cross in her golf cart :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:. I suppose if I was a working resident of Sumter County that used Morse north of 466 to get to work, I could have a legitimate complaint of being held up by a gate on county property that I pay taxes to support.

Not public roads in Marion county, district pays for road work except on BV. Why my maintenance fees are always higher along with other stuff.

[Topspinmo]

You could put Mac truck grill on gates and they would still get knocked down. You could put aircraft landing lights on gates and they would still get knocked down. Even roundabout light poles aren’t safe.

[golfing eagles]

You could put Mac truck grill on gates and they would still get knocked down. You could put aircraft landing lights on gates and they would still get knocked down. Even roundabout light poles aren’t safe.

So very true. Sad, but true. Which is why my position remains: let the idiots that knock the gates down pay for them, don't penalize those that know how to drive.

[Laker14]

The gates are either an amenity paid for and maintained by amenity funds or they are infrastructure paid for and maintained by annual maintenance funds. I'm too lazy to look it up right now. Either way, no Sumter County budget dollars are used to maintain the gates.

That makes sense. It still seems like a bit of a strange arrangement, though, with privately owned and maintained gates on public roads.

Maybe that's not unusual. I dunno. Interesting.

Thanks for the information.

[fdpaq0580]

NOT EVEN CLOSE to the same thing, and you know it

My point is even the best drivers in the world can make a mistake. That goes for cars, golf, flying, diving, anything.

[fdpaq0580]

In your opinion 😀

And the opinion of many.

[golfing eagles]

My point is even the best drivers in the world can make a mistake. That goes for cars, golf, flying, diving, anything.

But we're not talking ONE mistake, at least not cumulatively. I wonder if they keep statistics on how many gate crashes are a one-off as opposed to multiple time offenders. Maybe, like felons, 3 strikes and they revoke your gate pass :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[fdpaq0580]

I've talked to the folks who work on the Mallory gates a few time over the last couple of years since we walk by them every morning and they claim that MANY (not all) of the non-working gates in TV are MECHANICAL issues not due to crashes but due to AGE. Lot's of the gate equipment is well over 15 years old. The crashed gates are obvious, but the last few at Mallory have been mechanical and they are often waiting for parts. Often (at Mallory can't speak for them all) gates are down on both sides and both directions at the same time so obviously that isn't a "crashing" problem.

Thank you for this important and relevant information. Indicates that not all "downed" gates are a result of driver error.

[fdpaq0580]

I see tailgaters all the time.......trying to sneak two vehicles through one.
I love the gates.

No sympathy for gate crashers.

Nor do I. But I do acknowledge that, for any number of reasons, even the best drivers with perfect vision may have an accident.

[fdpaq0580]

The only time I have had an issue seeing a gate was Bright Sun, but even with difficulty seeing the gate I know it’s there.

However, anytime you come off a round about to enter into a Village, “There is a Gate” When you exit ‘There is a Gate”

If the Sun blinds you one still knows there is a gate. If you don’t see the gate, most likely you have no idea you have left the round about.

Or you missed the exit?

[fdpaq0580]

OK, here's my assessment (then I'll duck:1rotfl:):

181 posts on this thread, and it looks like those few posters with poor vision or who have had an unnecessarily close call with a gate are all in favor of spending millions to "improve the visibility of gates"---that would be the gates that 99% of us know are there. According to the stats, just short of 1/2 of those gate "crashes" are mechanical failures, so discount them. I find the argument that people don't know that they are there to be lame. So, we now have those with poor vision---who shouldn't be driving. Those with poor driving skills---who shouldn't be driving. And those who are impatient and try to piggyback through--who should fined repetitively.

Basically, the gate-crashing problem is just a microcosm of the general problem of driving in TV---especially in RB's. I also suggest that spending that $$$ to improve visibility will only minimally impact the number of gate crashes since if you can't see or control your vehicle, you'll hit them anyway.

OOPs, I forgot the drunks----who should have the book thrown at them before they hit something that's living.

100% agree on the drunks!
100% disagree with "all in favor of spending millions".
Many solutions mentioned earlier, and many not yet contributed, needn't be nearly so costly. Any help is better than none.

[golfing eagles]

100% agree on the drunks!
100% disagree with "all in favor of spending millions".
Many solutions mentioned earlier, and many not yet contributed, needn't be nearly so costly. Any help is better than none.

The "help" is getting drivers who can't see off the roads. All the suggestions to enhance visibility only serve to enable those that shouldn't be driving in the first place, delays the inevitable, and probably wouldn't decrease gate hits by all that much. In fact, I think that videos of those that hit a gate more than once be sent off to the Florida DMV for possible licensure action. Perhaps all those clamoring for "enhanced gate visibility" for those with poor vision would feel differently if they hit their grandkid rather than a gate.

[Normal]

Gates aren’t just arbitrarily placed. They are only expected at entrances. The entrances are clearly marked. I’m not sure how one would not expect a gate pole somewhere in the vicinity of a gate? Watch out when you are near one. I haven’t hit a gate yet. Why, because they are at entrances so expect a gate.

Safe driving to all. Make sure to be the cautious driving on New Years so all are genuinely happy going into 2024!

[fdpaq0580]

But we're not talking ONE mistake, at least not cumulatively. I wonder if they keep statistics on how many gate crashes are a one-off as opposed to multiple time offenders. Maybe, like felons, 3 strikes and they revoke your gate pass :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

3 strikes. I like it! But, if they are knocking down the gates with having a pass, what's to stop them when their pass is revoked? Hmm! Where is Judge Dredd when you need him?

[golfing eagles]

3 strikes. I like it! But, if they are knocking down the gates with having a pass, what's to stop them when their pass is revoked? Hmm! Where is Judge Dredd when you need him?

Judge Dread---I love it. A career sentencing gate crashers, and when it's time to retire he banishes himself to the wilderness of the roundabouts to teach the law :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[twoplanekid]

////

[twoplanekid]

The easy way to open a gate in The Villages - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/shorts/R6WfX80P0qc)

This is the way everyone should open the gates in The Villages with both hand on the wheel, looking forward and not using the current Developer supplied hand-held gate card. Think about installing a small gate access card in the driver side mirror to focus your attention on not hitting the gates.

[Dusty_Star]

The easy way to open a gate in The Villages - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/shorts/R6WfX80P0qc)

This is the way everyone should open the gates in The Villages with both hand on the wheel, looking forward and not using the current Developer supplied hand-held gate card. Think about installing a small gate access card in the driver side mirror to focus your attention on not hitting the gates.

I like it. But your own earlier post #93 has the district government saying that the gate crashers are excessive speeding, & failure to break with some oversized vehicles thrown in.

Even nifty mirror mounted gate transmitters won't deter those determined to try to piggyback through the gate.

They also say that VISIBILITY is not the problem. Trying to get through by tailgating the car in front is the problem. :duck:

[Laker14]

The "help" is getting drivers who can't see off the roads. All the suggestions to enhance visibility only serve to enable those that shouldn't be driving in the first place, delays the inevitable, and probably wouldn't decrease gate hits by all that much. In fact, I think that videos of those that hit a gate more than once be sent off to the Florida DMV for possible licensure action. Perhaps all those clamoring for "enhanced gate visibility" for those with poor vision would feel differently if they hit their grandkid rather than a gate.

Really?
Your position is that we shouldn't even try to make traffic control devices optimally visible because doing so would "enable" people with less than optimal vision to continue to drive?
Really?

[fdpaq0580]

Question for folks with cars that are equipped with accident avoidance tech. Does it work? Does it work on the gates?? Anyone have knowledge about this?

[twoplanekid]

I like it. But your own earlier post #93 has the district government saying that the gate crashers are excessive speeding, & failure to break with some oversized vehicles thrown in.

Even nifty mirror mounted gate transmitters won't deter those determined to try to piggyback through the gate.

They also say that VISIBILITY is not the problem. Trying to get through by tailgating the car in front is the problem. :duck:

I do believe that distractions caused using hand-held gate cards can add to the problems. Village District staff doesn't seem to like my gate opening system recommendation but it works great for me.

[Slainte]

As a new resident who has been loose in the Villages for an accumulated three days, I admit I’ve done everything wrong mentioned here & then some, while driving in the Villages. For new twits such as me, who have never driven amid golf carts and never in continually gated areas & had no idea how to use the card (waving it at the person at the stand) I would suggest that the Villages provide a sign such as Student Driver so TV people are aware we’re liable to make dumb mistakes. That, and a class on driving within the Villages explaining the gates, golf cart parking, roundabouts, etc including a paper map. Of TV with gates notated would be grand. I apologize to those I endangered/annoyed…

[Laker14]

As a new resident who has been loose in the Villages for an accumulated three days, I admit I’ve done everything wrong mentioned here & then some, while driving in the Villages. For new twits such as me, who have never driven amid golf carts and never in continually gated areas & had no idea how to use the card (waving it at the person at the stand) I would suggest that the Villages provide a sign such as Student Driver so TV people are aware we’re liable to make dumb mistakes. That, and a class on driving within the Villages explaining the gates, golf cart parking, roundabouts, etc including a paper map. Of TV with gates notated would be grand. I apologize to those I endangered/annoyed…


Welcome to The Villages, where traffic control devices are designed with the idea that you should just memorize what you are supposed to do, (after all, "we all know they are there"), and with less than optimal visibility in order to cull the weak-visioned from our ranks.

You are going to love it here!

[Dusty_Star]

As a new resident who has been loose in the Villages for an accumulated three days, I admit I’ve done everything wrong mentioned here & then some, while driving in the Villages. For new twits such as me, who have never driven amid golf carts and never in continually gated areas & had no idea how to use the card (waving it at the person at the stand) I would suggest that the Villages provide a sign such as Student Driver so TV people are aware we’re liable to make dumb mistakes. That, and a class on driving within the Villages explaining the gates, golf cart parking, roundabouts, etc including a paper map. Of TV with gates notated would be grand. I apologize to those I endangered/annoyed…

Welcome! I presume you have figured out the access card to the gates, & if not there is a red button that will open the gate to enter, for exiting just go slowly or stop until the gate opens of it's own volition. Golf cart parking is a good one, if parking a golf cart in a car parking space, do not park in the middle, park to one side so that another golf cart can share the space. If this is not clear, look for it at the squares & you will see many examples. This also applies at food stores & other public parking lots. For roundabouts here is an excellent explainer printed by Sumter County. If you would like a paper copy of it, they are available at the Villages Public Library at Pinellas Plaza lobby (which also happens to be the Sumter County Safety Center - where you can pay taxes, register a car, etc). For maps, there are several on-line maps, ie: Google Maps, TheVillages.com/map. I know you said paper. I have heard that paper maps are available for purchase at Banner Mercantile, but I have only heard this, I can't say if it is true. Worth checking out if you need paper.

Please ask any further questions. We will be happy to help.

[Dusty_Star]

I do believe that distractions caused using hand-held gate cards can add to the problems. Village District staff doesn't seem to like my gate opening system recommendation but it works great for me.

I agree with you. Less fumbling at the gate has to be good. No rolling down windows, reaching for a card, etc.

[fdpaq0580]

I agree with you. Less fumbling at the gate has to be good. No rolling down windows, reaching for a card, etc.

Or, eliminate the need for cards. Keep the gates. Just have them on a 1 or 2 second delay so vehicles have to stop and be photographed. Then gates can open automatically. Wadayathink?

[Bogie Shooter]

Or, eliminate the need for cards. Keep the gates. Just have them on a 1 or 2 second delay so vehicles have to stop and be photographed. Then gates can open automatically. Wadayathink?

What is the purpose of the photo?

[fdpaq0580]

What is the purpose of the photo?

Hint: it ain't to see how pretty you are.

Every vehicle coming in now is (supposedly) photographed. Aids to law enforcement, etc.

[Normal]

As a new resident who has been loose in the Villages for an accumulated three days, I admit I’ve done everything wrong mentioned here & then some, while driving in the Villages. For new twits such as me, who have never driven amid golf carts and never in continually gated areas & had no idea how to use the card (waving it at the person at the stand) I would suggest that the Villages provide a sign such as Student Driver so TV people are aware we’re liable to make dumb mistakes. That, and a class on driving within the Villages explaining the gates, golf cart parking, roundabouts, etc including a paper map. Of TV with gates notated would be grand. I apologize to those I endangered/annoyed…

Welcome!

We were all there once. Just as long as everybody survives. Enjoy the best place on Earth.

[golfing eagles]

Really?
Your position is that we shouldn't even try to make traffic control devices optimally visible because doing so would "enable" people with less than optimal vision to continue to drive?
Really?

Yes , REALLY!!!!

I take it you disagree:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[golfing eagles]

Welcome to The Villages, where traffic control devices are designed with the idea that you should just memorize what you are supposed to do, (after all, "we all know they are there"), and with less than optimal visibility in order to cull the weak-visioned from our ranks.

You are going to love it here!

Now you've caught on!

[golfing eagles]

I agree with you. Less fumbling at the gate has to be good. No rolling down windows, reaching for a card, etc.

So now the current excuse for plowing into a gate that's 10 feet in front of you that you know is there is "distraction from rolling down a window and waving a card" UNBELIEVABLE!

[Laker14]

Yes , REALLY!!!!

I take it you disagree:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

NO, you have me convinced.

in fact, in order to speed the process up, we should make the bars camo.

[Bill14564]

NO, you have me convinced.

in fact, in order to speed the process up, we should make the bars camo.

When there is ANY credible reason to believe that gate visibility is a contributing factor then it might be worth looking into painting them pink with purple polka dots. However, there is no evidence today that visibility is a factor. Yes, there is a lot of, "I think it must be..." but that is speculation, not fact.

[Normal]

When there is ANY credible reason to believe that gate visibility is a contributing factor then it might be worth looking into painting them pink with purple polka dots. However, there is no evidence today that visibility is a factor. Yes, there is a lot of, "I think it must be..." but that is speculation, not fact.

Agreed. It’s likely most a beat the gate game and impatient drivers. There is the occasional oversized load in construction areas though.

[Dusty_Star]

So now the current excuse for plowing into a gate that's 10 feet in front of you that you know is there is "distraction from rolling down a window and waving a card" UNBELIEVABLE!

If you follow the thread, it was a tangent. Two Plane said the card added distractions which could contribute to problems, with which I agreed, after having made clear that even the nifty transmitter in the mirror would not stop the real problem, which is not visibility, or the access card, but people running the gate, trying to get through on the prior car's dime.

[golfing eagles]

If you follow the thread, it was a tangent. Two Plane said the card added distractions which could contribute to problems, with which I agreed, after having made clear that even the nifty transmitter in the mirror would not stop the real problem, which is not visibility, or the access card, but people running the gate, trying to get through on the prior car's dime.

Sure, but if someone is rolling down their window or fumbling for their gate card, then they absolutely, positively KNOW the gate is there, and they are probably 10 feet away from it at a dead stop. We could put fireworks displays and loudspeakers with barking dogs and train whistles on the arm, and these clowns would probably STILL hit it.

[Laker14]

When there is ANY credible reason to believe that gate visibility is a contributing factor then it might be worth looking into painting them pink with purple polka dots. However, there is no evidence today that visibility is a factor. Yes, there is a lot of, "I think it must be..." but that is speculation, not fact.

Obviously, gate visibility is considered important, hence, the law (state and federal) that mandates they be marked with reflective tape. We don't really need "evidence" beyond common sense. If you can't see it, or you don't see it, you are more likely to hit it.

Now, to put this whole thing into context: I never said it was the ONLY factor, nor do I believe it is the main factor contributing to most gate crashes. I was agreeing with someone who said something like "some of the gates are hard to see", and it's a plain fact, that in certain lighting situations, and with certain gates that are beat up and not that reflective anymore, they are difficult to see. They could be made more visible.

I also disagreed with the idea that making them more visible would "enable" drivers with vision problems to continue to drive, and hence, making them more visible is a bad idea.

I did not say it would be worth the effort and the money to change all of the gates to make them more visible and more reflective. I merely agree with the statement that some are hard to see at certain times. In my opinion, it probably would be a good move to periodically examine the gate arms, starting with the oldest ones, and put some fresh tape on them.

The saving grace here is that the gates aren't there to protect motorists from a life threatening situation, such as a railroad train crossing, nor are the cars going very fast when confronted with a gate they may not have seen, so the issue is confined to small damages that are easily repaired.

I have seen a handful of videos of gate crashes, and from the few I've seen the main cause seems to be approaching a gate arm that is in the "up" position, and assuming it will stay up, not slowing down or stopping, and getting caught by the descending arm.
Why anyone would try to sneak through as the 2nd vehicle is beyond me.
I have approached the gate arm that is up for no apparent reason, with no previous vehicle in sight. I hate that. Sometimes they stay up, sometimes they come down.
I approach those gates very slowly.

I also disagreed with the idea that it's ok if they are hard to see because "we all know they are there". As demonstrated by one of our new members, we have drivers unfamiliar with the set up here.

[golfing eagles]

Obviously, gate visibility is considered important, hence, the law (state and federal) that mandates they be marked with reflective tape. We don't really need "evidence" beyond common sense. If you can't see it, or you don't see it, you are more likely to hit it.

Now, to put this whole thing into context: I never said it was the ONLY factor, nor do I believe it is the main factor contributing to most gate crashes. I was agreeing with someone who said something like "some of the gates are hard to see", and it's a plain fact, that in certain lighting situations, and with certain gates that are beat up and not that reflective anymore, they are difficult to see. They could be made more visible.

I also disagreed with the idea that making them more visible would "enable" drivers with vision problems to continue to drive, and hence, making them more visible is a bad idea.

I did not say it would be worth the effort and the money to change all of the gates to make them more visible and more reflective. I merely agree with the statement that some are hard to see at certain times. In my opinion, it probably would be a good move to periodically examine the gate arms, starting with the oldest ones, and put some fresh tape on them.

The saving grace here is that the gates aren't there to protect motorists from a life threatening situation, such as a railroad train crossing, nor are the cars going very fast when confronted with a gate they may not have seen, so the issue is confined to small damages that are easily repaired.

I have seen a handful of videos of gate crashes, and from the few I've seen the main cause seems to be approaching a gate arm that is in the "up" position, and assuming it will stay up, not slowing down or stopping, and getting caught by the descending arm.
Why anyone would try to sneak through as the 2nd vehicle is beyond me.
I have approached the gate arm that is up for no apparent reason, with no previous vehicle in sight. I hate that. Sometimes they stay up, sometimes they come down.
I approach those gates very slowly.

I also disagreed with the idea that it's ok if they are hard to see because "we all know they are there". As demonstrated by one of our new members, we have drivers unfamiliar with the set up here.

Now most of that post makes a lot of sense!

Hard to argue with the minimum cost of new reflective tape, but I still maintain that we would be enabling drivers who need to turn their license in. Perhaps the gates could act as a "road test" to see who still passes the exam:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

And like you posted, the gate arm is hardly a life and death situation, UNLESS: One crashes through the gate into a golf cart or cyclist. Also, if one doesn't see the gate arm at Village entrance or exit at 5 mph, will they see that RR crossing arm at 45+ mph????? Or your grandkid who ran out into a street? Or the line of stopped cars in the left lane of I-75 as they are probably going 50 mph, having entered that left lane as soon as they got on and refused to move over in accordance with the law, creating a hazard for everyone else.

The only other disagreement with that post is that "they know they are there". Ok, I'll modify that to 99+% of drivers know that they are there. This is not rocket science, it is not even advanced driving skills, it is basic operation of a motor vehicle. Unless the gate is protected by a Klingon cloaking device, everyone should be able to see it. (Yes, I know should and do are totally different things, especially among drivers in TV:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:)

[JGibson]

Speed bumps and cameras with the ability to photograph a moving car.
Easy peasy.

[golfing eagles]

Speed bumps and cameras with the ability to photograph a moving car.
Easy peasy.

Not if you are crossing in a cart or on a bicycle. Which of the following require a full stop (you may choose more than one)

1) a gate arm where you stop to wave a card
2) a brick wall
3) a speed bump that some go over at 3 mph, others will take at 15.

and then, in the theme of this thread, which is more visible---

1) a red and white reflective gate arm at eye level or
2) a speed bump

When crossing on a MMP, I really don't want to rely on a speed hump to slow drivers down

[Laker14]

Not if you are crossing in a cart or on a bicycle. Which of the following require a full stop (you may choose more than one)

1) a gate arm where you stop to wave a card
2) a brick wall
3) a speed bump that some go over at 3 mph, others will take at 15.

and then, in the theme of this thread, which is more visible---

1) a red and white reflective gate arm at eye level or
2) a speed bump

When crossing on a MMP, I really don't want to rely on a speed hump to slow drivers down

Totally agree.

[golfing eagles]

Totally agree.

Nothing better than finding common ground:beer3::beer3::beer3:

[Papa_lecki]

When crossing on a MMP, I really don't want to rely on a speed hump to slow drivers down

Theres a road near my house that has a dozen speed humps.
In my SUV, I don’t need to slow down very much. Maybe from 25 to 20.
In my wife’s sedan, I do need to slow down to 5 or 10MPH.

If you don’t see the arm at eye level, you are NOT going to see a speed hump.

[twoplanekid]

It's interesting to note that District data that I have viewed doesn't tabulate gate hits by whether it's an in or out gate. 50% of the time we go through a gate (out) that opens automatically without needing to use a gate card. Which gate type (auto open or card reader gate ) is having the most gate hit issues and does this hold true for specific types of hits? I believe that we will always have gates as I will always suggest that going through card reader gates by using a device that auto opens the gate is better/easier than flashing a hand held gate card. We can go on and on with this discussion but without good/accurate/complete data it's more of a guessing game which is fun for some. :icon_wink:

P.S. Now, if auto open gates have the most troubling issues then maybe we should ....... :laugh: Be careful what we wish for

[Topspinmo]

Flatten the gate arms. Instead of tubular shape, make it at least 4" flat arm, larger area to be more visible.

Or use 4” rectangle drain pipe But, that probably cost more?

Or make gate out of pool noodles? Opps, that wouldn’t work minority wouldn’t stop at all, just like when gate down with stop sign. I also love how the put the stop sign back behind guard shack so driver that don’t stop can’t see if cart crossing from left.

[Laker14]

Nothing better than finding common ground:beer3::beer3::beer3:

pretty rare for the two of us. I'd have a beer but it's too early for me.

[Laker14]

I just made a quick run to Publix. I exited Bailey Trail eastbound, at Sea Breeze, onto Buena Vista southbound. Two cars behind me went through the gate exiting, without allowing the gate to even start to come down. One car right on my tail, the other car right on its tail.
I would give myself a bit more room. I want to see the gate at least start to come down, change it's mind, then go back up. Otherwise we're just looking for trouble.

[golfing eagles]

I just made a quick run to Publix. I exited Bailey Trail eastbound, at Sea Breeze, onto Buena Vista southbound. Two cars behind me went through the gate exiting, without allowing the gate to even start to come down. One car right on my tail, the other car right on its tail.
I would give myself a bit more room. I want to see the gate at least start to come down, change it's mind, then go back up. Otherwise we're just looking for trouble.

What I've witnessed after 10 years of observation, is that cars that piggyback through an exit get away with it, even 3 or 4 cars. But those that try it at an entrance get up close and personal with the gate arm more times than not. (THIS IS NOT an endorsement to try it when exiting, unless you are a professional driver on a closed course, do not try at home :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:)

[golfing eagles]

pretty rare for the two of us. I'd have a beer but it's too early for me.

I've learned that it's never too early in The Villages----some places start Happy Hour at 10 AM!

And I'd bet we agree on quite a lot, but just realize that when we disagree, I am ALWAYS right :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Bill14564]

I just made a quick run to Publix. I exited Bailey Trail eastbound, at Sea Breeze, onto Buena Vista southbound. Two cars behind me went through the gate exiting, without allowing the gate to even start to come down. One car right on my tail, the other car right on its tail.
I would give myself a bit more room. I want to see the gate at least start to come down, change it's mind, then go back up. Otherwise we're just looking for trouble.

Some exit gates seem to work this way and others don't. What's worse is some change their minds. The exit from Hillsborough to Buena Vista is usually accommodating - it will stay up as long as cars are exiting. The exit from Hillsborough to Morse used to be this way but sometime in the last year it became more demanding and will now often come down between cars even if they are close.

I don't need to see the gate change its mind, but I give it a respectable second or two to decide what it wants to do before I move under it.

[golfing eagles]

Some exit gates seem to work this way and others don't. What's worse is some change their minds. The exit from Hillsborough to Buena Vista is usually accommodating - it will stay up as long as cars are exiting. The exit from Hillsborough to Morse used to be this way but sometime in the last year it became more demanding and will now often come down between cars even if they are close.

I don't need to see the gate change its mind, but I give it a respectable second or two to decide what it wants to do before I move under it.

Those are the female gates:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

And I always give it enough time before I get under it:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[fdpaq0580]

I use the St Charles south end gate almost every week. The golf cart crossing is very close to the gate. Cars piggy back in and out and carts are backed up waiting and hoping some kind soul will hold up the flow long enough to let a cart ot two get into position to make the next, potentially deadly "Frogger" leap across the lane(s) going the other way.
What to do? What to do?

[golfing eagles]

I use the St Charles south end gate almost every week. The golf cart crossing is very close to the gate. Cars piggy back in and out and carts are backed up waiting and hoping some kind soul will hold up the flow long enough to let a cart ot two get into position to make the next, potentially deadly "Frogger" leap across the lane(s) going the other way.
What to do? What to do?

That gate crossing is one of the worst. If I'm coming back home from Cane, I usually come down St. Charles rather than the shorter Bailey and cutting through Seabreeze just to avoid a full crossing there. I particularly love it when a car, seeing that there is a back up for entering the RB lets a few carts through, and the person behind him leans on his horn.

[fdpaq0580]

That gate crossing is one of the worst. If I'm coming back home from Cane, I usually come down St. Charles rather than the shorter Bailey and cutting through Seabreeze just to avoid a full crossing there. I particularly love it when a car, seeing that there is a back up for entering the RB lets a few carts through, and the person behind him leans on his horn.


LOL! I'm he guy listening to the horns behind me. Notice the smile on my face as I wave to the cart drivers. "It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood. A beautiful day for a neighbor, would you be mine?"

[golfing eagles]

LOL! I'm he guy listening to the horns behind me. Notice the smile on my face as I wave to the cart drivers. "It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood. A beautiful day for a neighbor, would you be mine?"

Yes, but at some gate crossings it's more like the Imus/Howard stern version circa 1977:

"Mr. Rambo's neighborhood", lyrics as follows:

Welcome to the neighborhood
An air raid on Main Street would really be good
Light up your life
With some international strife
Come and kill your neighbor:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Laker14]

I've learned that it's never too early in The Villages----some places start Happy Hour at 10 AM!

And I'd bet we agree on quite a lot, but just realize that when we disagree, I am ALWAYS right :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

only if you are my wife.

[rjgnj321]

$250.00 for the gate repairs on average

[golfing eagles]

only if you are my wife.

Thanks for the offer, but I'm taken :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Laker14]

Thanks for the offer, but I'm taken :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

lucky woman.

[golfing eagles]

lucky woman.

Yes, my wife is a very lucky woman :1rotfl::1rotfl:;1rotfl:

[fdpaq0580]

LOL! The last few exchanges really cracked me up. Thanks for the laugh before bedtime.

[JGibson]

Theres a road near my house that has a dozen speed humps.
In my SUV, I don’t need to slow down very much. Maybe from 25 to 20.
In my wife’s sedan, I do need to slow down to 5 or 10MPH.

If you don’t see the arm at eye level, you are NOT going to see a speed hump.

If you can't see a gate arm or a yellow speed bump with signage then maybe you shouldn't be driving.

Amazing that during inclement weather they take the gate arms down with no real uptick of issues.

TV is so stubborn and stuck in outdated technology.

[Topspinmo]

If you can't see a gate arm or a yellow speed bump with signage then maybe you shouldn't be driving.

Amazing that during inclement weather they take the gate arms down with no real uptick of issues.

TV is so stubborn and stuck in outdated technology.

Just issue of majority people not stopping and just busting right through like there no stop sign. Or doing (enter your state) the rolling right through. Just like most 4 way stops, roll through stop sign thinking they have right away. You’re not in line till you stop preferably at or behind the stop sign not half way out in intersection… ;)

[Bill14564]

If you can't see a gate arm or a yellow speed bump with signage then maybe you shouldn't be driving.

Amazing that during inclement weather they take the gate arms down with no real uptick of issues.

TV is so stubborn and stuck in outdated technology.

Might possibly be because there are far fewer golf carts driving around during hurricanes.