Before Arthur K. Bolton Parkway was built in the late 1970s and early 1980s, High Falls Road and Jackson Road were nonstop intersections and were the scene of many accidents, some with fatalities. As these intersections became more congested, the county commissioners recognized the need to enhance public safety at these intersections, so along with recommendations from the Sheriff’s Department, four-way stop signs were put in place. Taking into account the amount of cars on the road today, the lives that have been saved or the injuries that have been prevented over the past 20 years are immeasurable.
I challenge any public official who doesn’t think four-way stop signs enhance public safety by slowing down traffic at congested intersections to visit the Futral Road and Wilson Road or Wilson Road and Hudson Road four-way intersections between 7:30 a.m. and 8 a.m. when parents are bringing their children to Futral Road Elementary School or when children themselves are driving to Spalding High School.
Sure, a stop light would be an idea. However, Spalding County simply cannot afford them and the amount of time that’s required to construct is just too great. For example, look at the amount of time it took to have a stop light installed at Old Macon Highway and Futral Road — years. A four-way stop would be a quick solution for these congested intersections and save lives in the process.
With the opening of Rehoboth Middle School in August of this year, with the increase in traffic on County Line Road or on Old Macon Highway coming into Orchard Hill, it’s common sense to install a four-way stop at the intersection of Old Macon Highway and County Line Road, with hopes of a stop light in the future. This four-way stop will slow down traffic, reduce the congestion, decrease the amount of accidents and save lives, if anyone cares.
Another challenge. Anyone who’s questioning the validity of the four-way stop at this intersection, please visit this intersection and observe, or better yet, try to cross Old Macon Highway during the hours of 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m and/or 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. To get the full effect, bring your kids, grandkids or even your neighbor’s kids with you. I guarantee you will not question it after you cross. Now imagine how that young mother or father feels trying to cross it daily bringing their kids to school.
Sure, those that care or don’t want to slow down will be inconvenienced. So what, they are few, we are many. Demand that our leaders be proactive and use common sense at this and many other dangerous intersections in our county and in our city. It might save your life or the life of a family member or neighbor.
Please give some credit to the majority of the county commissioners and our Sheriff’s Department for trying to do the right thing for the citizens of Spalding County by enhancing our safety.
BOBBY PEURIFOY
Griffin resident
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