Campbell County Commissioners Take Action: Urgent Traffic Study Requested
By Charlotte Underwood
JACKSBORO, TN (WLAF)- In a recent development, the Campbell County Commissioners have taken a proactive step to address the pressing issue of traffic congestion and safety concerns in the county. At their Monday meeting, they passed a resolution, urging the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), along with Senator Ken Yager and State Representative Dennis Powers, to conduct an in-depth traffic study and implement safety enhancements.
The urgency behind this resolution was highlighted by County Commission Chairman Johnny Bruce. He emphasized the potential consequences of inaction, stating that if no measures are taken, the current traffic congestion could lead to major accidents, hindering emergency response. Bruce's concern was particularly focused on the stretch of road from Caryville to LaFollette, where traffic backups are a common occurrence.
Additionally, Commissioners Beverly Hall and Dewayne Kitts raised another critical safety issue: Highway 63 turnoffs. They noted that drivers frequently use the shoulder as if it were a turning lane, creating hazardous situations. This practice has been identified as a significant contributor to the overall safety concerns on the highway.
The resolution specifically requested a comprehensive road study on Highway 63 from Caryville to LaFollette, aiming to identify and rectify the safety issues along this route. Furthermore, the Commissioners called for safety improvements on Carl General Stiner Highway, addressing the immediate concerns raised by the Commissioners.
Commissioner Rusty Orick suggested a practical approach to delivering the resolution to state officials. He proposed that the county commission could personally hand-deliver the resolution during their upcoming trip to Nashville in February. This direct approach is intended to expedite the process and ensure that the county's concerns are promptly addressed by the relevant authorities.
The resolution's approval marks a significant step towards addressing the long-standing traffic and safety challenges in Campbell County. As the Commissioners take this bold action, the community eagerly awaits the outcomes of the traffic study and the subsequent safety enhancements, hoping for a safer and more efficient transportation network.
