(Media release from Floyd County, GA):
Road improvements are underway in some parts of Floyd County that officials hope will curb the rate of injuries and crashes on our local roads. The safety strategy is thanks in part to a grant from the state Department of Transportation.
Contractors have already been seen on Calhoun Road and on the portion of Blacks Bluff Road that connects Foster Mill Road (Ga 100) with the southwest bypass (Ga Loop 1). These crews are installing center and edge line rumble strips using equipment that mills existing pavement.
“After milling is complete, the contractor will add a painted center and edge line that will be enhanced with thermo-plastic striping, which has a longer life and increased reflectivity,” said Michael Skeen, director of Floyd County Public Works.
In other locations contractors will only be installing thermo-striping, including: Ward Mountain Road, Woods Road, Old Dalton Road and Padlock Mountain Road.
“Rumble strips are an enhanced safety measure that reduces the risk of drivers drifting into potential head on collisions or roadway departures,” Skeen said.
Calhoun Road and Blacks Bluff Road were singled out for rumble strips based on their road width and the 55 mph speed limit.
According to the federal Department of Transportation, research has shown that installing rumble strips can reduce severe crashes. Studies show a 45 percent reduction in center line crash frequency on rural roads, and a 36 percent reduction with shoulder rumble strips on rural two lane roads.
Floyd County received a $180,000 grant from the Georgia Department of Transportation to help pay for the work. Local dollars will be used for a 30 percent required match.
Public Works has successfully implemented numerous safety projects in Floyd County using grant funds that exceed $1 million, to include guard rail improvements on Chulio Road and Old Rockmart as well as installation of 10 solar powered, radar warning signs that warn drivers of excessive speeds.
