(KNZA)--Representatives of the Kansas Department Transportation met with the Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening to discuss a recent KDOT study which recommend that the traffic signals at 1st and Oregon be removed and the intersection be controlled by stop signs.

Commissioners have voiced their opposition to such a change, citing safety concerns as the intersection leads to the high school.  

The Commission was told the city could keep the traffic signals, but no upgrades would be allowed by the state.

Mayor Steffen Shamburg says he feels traffic signals are the safety way to go, but indicated he would be open to being convinced otherwise.

The KDOT officials suggested a special independent traffic study be conducted that would look at the entire First Street corridor.

The study would include periods of time using flashing red lights, a four-way stop and a two-way stop at the intersection.

There would be no cost to the city for the study, which would likely begin in the fall.