Tybee Island Community Debates Safety Improvements for U.S. Highway 80

Tybee Island Residents Discuss Changes to U.S. Highway 80

Tybee Island is buzzing with conversations about the recent proposals for changes to U.S. Highway 80, with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) taking center stage at a workshop held for the city council and local residents. The topic? Making the highway safer and more efficient for all users.

GDOT’s Proposal Overview

In a bid to improve safety, GDOT has floated ideas that include downsizing certain sections of U.S. 80 from four lanes to two, while also eliminating the problematic merge at Lazaretto Creek. The recommendations promise major benefits, including a decrease in frequency and severity of traffic accidents, reduced delays, and faster emergency response times. Not only do they suggest adding a center turn lane, but also incorporating pedestrian hybrid beacons and rectangular flashing beacons at various intersections, plus a dedicated cycle track.

Community Reactions

The response from the community has been a mixed bag. During the open house held in March, many attendees were skeptical. “What are you doing? Taking away a lane doesn’t seem like a very GDOT thing to do,” they voiced. Though many were against the plans, GDOT officials maintained their focus on safety. Assistant State Traffic Engineer Samuel Harris reassured the crowd, explaining, “This is a safety project. It’s intended to be safe for all roadway users, including bikers, pedestrians, and vehicles.”

Current Concerns on the Island

Tybee Island’s current road layout already experiences congestion; the westbound lanes of U.S. 80 between Lazaretto Creek and Tybrisia Street often shrink from two lanes to one. This situation can lead to frustratingly long backups, particularly after holidays and local events.

Harris argued that the proposed redesign will actually enhance operations for over 90% of the year, minimizing impacts on those peak holiday travel days like the Fourth of July. According to their assessments, the elimination of the Lazaretto Creek merge could potentially reduce travel times by 80%, which is a significant improvement when the current conditions can lead to queues stretching 1,500 feet. However, it’s worth noting that a notable 71% of respondents from the March open house were not on board with reducing the lanes.

Concerns from City Council Members

City Councilman Tony Ploughe raised several concerns during a September council meeting, particularly the fear that traffic might spill over into local residential areas. He wasn’t alone; other residents echoed similar anxieties, prompting GDOT to mention a successful pilot project they conducted during busy summer months when they temporarily closed down two middle lanes for emergency vehicles. Despite those positive results, Ploughe pointed out that heavy traffic had persisted, and he feared that visitors might think twice about coming to the island amid the congestion.

Trial and Error for Future Solutions

One particular topic of concern was the proposed reverse-angle parking. Ploughe expressed skepticism, stating he hadn’t found a local community willing to implement it long-term. Savannah had previously attempted it in 2009 but chose to abandon the concept.

Looking Ahead

Harris appealed for community support for the project, emphasizing the safety benefits. “Your support for the project is very, very important,” he stated. He also assured residents that if the feedback led them to reconsider the plan, GDOT would adapt where necessary, emphasizing their commitment to public safety and community interests of Tybee Island.

Conclusion

As residents continue to voice their opinions and share their hopes and concerns, GDOT remains steadfast in their mission to create a better, safer U.S. Highway 80. The discussions will undoubtedly shape the future of transportation on Tybee Island, guiding both visitors and locals alike in the years to come.