OFFICIAL STATEMENT
OFFICE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
FAYETTE COUNTY, GEORGIA
On August 13, 2010 there was a fatal traffic accident at the intersection of Huiet Road and State Route 54. This accident occurred within the intersection improvement zone of a larger construction project. Intersection improvements will include turn lanes, signage, pavement striping, and installation of a traffic signal.
Various construction sequences are necessary to complete the intersection improvements, including: temporary lane closures, lane shifts and the coordination of grading, drainage and pavement work on a busy state highway. The type of traffic control devices varies with each sequence of construction activity.
Fayette County believes the traffic control devices in place prior to and on the day of the accident met project safety requirements and nationally accepted standards. Completion of various construction activities have allowed temporary striping to be put in place and traffic barrels to be removed from the intersection. With the improvements made to date, County staff and the Project Engineer believe the capacity and safety characteristics of the improved intersection are comparable to, or better than, the conditions in place prior to the start of the construction activities.
As demonstrated by the public protest on August 20, there has been considerable public comment regarding the continued operation of this intersection until the traffic signal is installed and fully functional. The Board of Commissioners has instructed County staff to evaluate all options for interim traffic management including the feasibility of partially or completely closing the intersection until the traffic signals are in operation.
Since Highway 54 is a State Roadway, any decisions made regarding a temporary change of operation at the intersection must be coordinated and have the approval of the Georgia Department of Transportation. Although evaluation is proceeding as rapidly as possible, it may take several days to fully assess the options, obtain state approvals and implement any approved changes. Until a decision is made, the intersection will remain open in its current configuration.
Issued: August 20, 2010
Contact: Phil Mallon, P.E., Public Works Director
Office: (770) 320-6010
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