Roadway Wreckage

Dear Mayor and other city officials,

I write to you today as a citizen who is concerned about the safety of our counties road ways. Specifically, one intersection in the retail area of Hiram, Georgia. The intersection of Hwy 278 and the turning area running to the left of Buffalo Wild Wings that leads to Best Buy has frequently been the host of wrecks that have occurred on a nearly weekly basis. My job is in Hiram and I often hear the screeching of tires and sometimes the crash of metal. I have seen the wreckage from time to time when I am coming in or leaving my work as it is close and I often wonder if the next time I decide to use this intersection if it will be me in a crumpled car.

As a matter of course I have navigated around this intersection, opting for safer routes, such as Depot Drive. This doesn't make me go out of my way, though it does annoy me a great deal that I have to take such a measure to feel safe in my own vehicle instead of taking a quicker route using the intersection. Others I have talked to have expressed similar sentiments.

One of the solutions I would propose is to adjust the traffic lights to further regulate the flow of traffic in a manner, while just as efficient, may be safer to drivers. I know there are skilled professionals who are maintaining the traffic light system, but surely something can be done that can use the systems already in place.

Another solution I would suggest is to widen the road running perpendicular to 278 so that it includes dedicated turn lanes. An intersection further down employs this strategy and the frequency of wrecks that I have witnessed have been drastically less.

I know these strategies may run into barriers such as private property rights, city and county policies, and businesses being a certain closeness. I would hope that these barriers can be negotiated with the legitimate parties and a solution that meets local needs can be employed for the benefit of all.

Thank you so much for your time and attention.

Chelsea P.