Although traffic is moving more smoothly than anyone expected since the closure of the Hokendauqua–North Catasauqua Bridge, motorists are wondering why they are unable to turn right on red onto Lehigh Street from Front Street.

Since the bridge is closed to traffic, no vehicles are proceeding onto Lehigh Street. This makes it unnecessary for vehicles to wait until the traffic light turns green, which local officials agree is a waste of time and gasoline.

The issue was raised at last Monday's Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners meeting.

The Commissioners acknowledged receiving inquiries from township residents who would prefer the sign banning no right turn on red removed during the construction cycle, which will extend into fall of 2014.

Whitehall Township Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr. agreed with comments from board members that the ban on right turnd on red at the intersection should be lifted during construction of the bridge because there is no west-bound traffic onto Lehigh Street.

However, the township cannot lift the ban, according to Hozza.

Because Lehigh Street is a state road, PennDOT is the only agency with the authority to decide whether the sign should be removed or kept in place, the mayor said.

Over the last several years, the intersection has undergone several changes. These include the long awaited traffic signal, the posting of a "no right turn on red" sign at Front and Lehigh and having a lane for vehicle traffic on Front Street turning left onto Lehigh Street and the bridge. The latter last year was then reversed.

Through it all, township officials said, the intersection at Front and Lehigh streets has been safe for motorists and pedestrians. Accidents have not been an issue. Despite fears, gridlock at the Coplay-Northampton Bridge thus far has not materialized.

Issues also have not occurred at other local bridges that have been closed for construction.