Upper Esentepe | Below Alevkayası | Two-Way Single-Lane Sections

Several upper Esentepe access roads were originally designed for low residential traffic. As hillside development expanded, these roads remained structurally narrow while vehicle frequency increased.

The exposure here is spatial, not speed-based.

Certain stretches function effectively as single-lane corridors despite being technically two-way. Stone retaining walls on one side and natural slope on the other limit lateral escape space. There is no shoulder.

Timing matters. Between 17:30 and 19:30, opposing flows peak as residents return uphill while others descend toward the coastal road. Headlights activate early in winter, reducing depth perception along bends.

A repeated local pattern occurs at blind curve sections where one vehicle ascends while another descends at moderate speed. Both drivers anticipate slight widening beyond the bend. In reality, the road maintains its width.

Neither vehicle is reckless. Each expects minor adjustment space that does not exist. Side mirror contact or slight body scrape becomes possible within seconds of visual confirmation.

In upper Esentepe, the risk is not aggressive driving.
It is the illusion of shared space on a road that was never widened.