New store won't get road fixed

Thank God for Albertson's grocery store. We are finally going to get a major new shopping center on the west side and clean up an ungodly eyesore at the same time. My question is: Will the powers that be improve Lozier Lane with widening, sidewalks, new turn lanes and cross walks all the way from at least McAndrews Road to somewhere past the Thunderbird Market area?

-- Mel K., Medford

Lozier Lane doesn't connect with McAndrews, but perhaps you're referring to North Ross Lane, which with a slight skew connects to Lozier Lane at Jacksonville Highway. North Ross extends north of the highway, Lozier to the south; the new Albertson's store is planned at the corner of North Ross and the highway.

All of Lozier Lane is within the county and no improvements are planned at this time.

North Ross is actually the state's responsibility, and some improvements are planned as part of the Albertson's project and the proposed Highway 238 extension north of there.

Albertson's will add an exclusive right-turn lane for motorists heading west on Jacksonville Highway from North Ross Lane. That work is scheduled to start within two months.

The Highway 238 project will result in realignment of the intersection to make the corners square, and sidewalks will be added for the first 600 feet north from Jacksonville Highway. This work is not projected to start for about four years.

By the way, the store, which will be Albertson's largest in this area, is scheduled to open in late spring or early summer of 1999. It will be at a site once occupied by Mayfair Market.

Are youth bicycle riders who use Medford's Bear Creek Park BMX track subject to state bicycle helmet laws? You ran a photograph last fall showing a 13-year-old boy using the park without a helmet.

-- Edgar H., Medford

That kid was breaking the law, Edgar. State law requires bicycle riders under age 16 to wear a helmet on public roadways and on premises open to the public.

Medford police have cited some kids at the BMX track under this law, and will continue to do so, says Medford police Sgt. Gary Bates.

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