In an informational email, Brentwood Ward 1 Alderman Maureen Saunders said she has received complaints and concerns about Winter Wonderland traffic.
Saunders said residents of York and Whitehall subdivisions have difficulty exiting and returning to their subdivisions on these nights. She shared the concerns with St. Louis County
Representative (5th District) Patrick Dolan’s office, and the Ladue and Brentwood police departments.
It’s not just a hassle, Ladue Chief of Police Rich Wooten told Saunders that last year six individuals were sent to the hospital as a result of rear end traffic accidents associated with Winter Wonderland.
Wooten said the department forecasts days that Winter Wonderland traffic is highest, based on historical data. The heaviest traffic is expected on these dates:
- Sunday, December 8
- Friday, December 13
- Sunday, December 15
- Friday, December 20
- Sunday, December 22
- Monday, December 23
- Tuesday, December 26
- Friday, December 27
- Sunday, December 29
- Monday, December 30
Wooten also said more people like to view the lights when when snow is on the ground.
Saunders said Wooten advises Ladue residents to approach from north of 40 and McKnight when returning home. He recognizes the “traffic nightmare” and said there is no great way to stage the traffic.
Eric Frey, Dolan’s administrative assistant, said he would contact the St. Louis County park rangers and solicit their help.
Saunders said Dolan’s office assured her that next year she would be notified of the Winter Wonderland pre-meeting.