Snake Hill Road is about to become less venomous.

The Cape Girardeau County Special Road District has already begun straightening a portion of the stretch of Cape Rock Drive known as Snake Hill Road. It's been the site of many accidents in the 70-some years since it was built.

When it rains, it's slippery. When it snows, it's downright treacherous. So we can't bicker too much with the decision to straighten the road, which is slated for completion by the middle of next year.

But we understand where the opposition is coming from. The twisty road is a landmark. Some residents enjoy walking up and down Snake Hill for exercise. The brave-hearted remember dragging snow sleds up it -- even if it was only once. As one resident summed it up: We're used to it being there.

But with the safety issues, it's also easy to understand why it's a good idea to defang this dangerous road. But that doesn't mean everyone has to like it.