I make an average of 30+ trips a week utilizing all or a portion of Hwy12 and I like the setup. It is reducing the number of overly aggressive driving moves, it is actually improving the flow of traffic and you don't have to be constantly on guard or looking out for idiots who are using the turning lane as a fifth lane and making selfish (and dangerous) left hand turns across oncoming traffic. Plan your routes better, utilize the traffic lights for turns (both left and right) and you will find the traffic flows well. Haven't had to wait more than one light change to proceed through an intersection during either am or pm rush hours since implementation, where I used to get hung up at multiple intersections and have to wait up to 3 or 4 light changes during high volume traffic periods. As for Taco Bell, do as mentioned previously, utilize Gillespie, Yellow Jacket, Lynn Lane, Eckford, etc. It truly doesn't add much time, is safer and less stressful. Give it a chance.