Savannah Secures Funding for Road Safety Improvements
Savannah, Georgia, is gearing up for some exciting changes as the city has received a significant grant under the Biden-Harris Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program. The generous funding amounts to $9,999,520 and is earmarked for essential upgrades to the 37th Street Safety Improvements & Supplemental Planning project.
This particular stretch of road is crucial, offering vital access to downtown Savannah and several major businesses. It’s a busy area, and the planned improvements promise to make a noticeable difference for residents, tourists, and commuters alike. The project will target 15 intersections, focusing on updating signals, adjusting timing, and introducing dedicated left turns with protected phasing. Moreover, there will be enhancements like better sidewalks, crosswalks, and extended bicycle lanes.
Keeping Everyone Safe
Alderman Nick Palumbo expressed optimism about the project’s potential to save lives. He provided some sobering statistics, saying that on average, about 20 individuals lose their lives every year on Savannah streets. He emphasized, “Too many people lose their life every day on Savannah streets due to car crashes and vehicular homicides. Those can be prevented.” It’s clear that the community is ready for a change.
Residents Relief, Traffic Troubles
Local residents are also enthusiastic about the upcoming changes. Take, for instance, Alexander Viles, who works at the corner of Bull and 37th Street. His daily commute from Pooler to Savannah has been nothing short of a headache, primarily due to the heavy traffic that often clogs this area, especially as vehicles funnel off of Interstate 16. Viles shared, “The majority of the time traffic is backed up. There’s hardly ever any parking, or it’s just people who don’t know how to drive, especially in this area.”
Viles is genuinely excited about the improvements, particularly for bikers and pedestrians. With safety upgrades in the pipeline, it appears that both drivers and those on foot will have a much smoother experience navigating this busy part of Savannah.
Statewide Grant Boost
This initiative isn’t just limited to Savannah. The State of Georgia has been awarded a total of $37,571,690 for various road updates and repairs, signaling a robust commitment to enhancing the safety and functionality of roads across the state. It’s a promising sign that infrastructure development is a priority, and communities can expect better roads and safer travel conditions in the near future.
Looking Forward
As Savannah gears up for these improvements, residents are encouraged to stay informed about the progress. The planned upgrades will not only promote safety but should also facilitate smoother traffic flow in the vibrant areas of this historical city. Anyone traveling through Savannah in the coming months can expect to see a variety of visible changes, reflecting a community united in the pursuit of safer roadways.
In conclusion, this grant funding is more than just numbers; it represents the dedication of the community and government to protect lives on the roads. With the road improvements set to roll out, it’s clear that Savannah is on the way to a brighter and safer future.
