Dear editor,

Last week I was invited to a meeting with individuals from the Georgia Department of Transportation (DOT) for them to present their plan for a roundabout at the intersection of GA Hwy. 37 and Industrial Drive/Cool Springs Road.

The group from DOT had analyzed traffic flows and impact on speed and wait times with a stop light, four way stop, and a roundabout. Their plan design includes room for mobile homes, large tractor trailers and automobiles.

Their plan includes their securing funds of over two million dollars from the Federal government to pay for this roundabout.

The money is available from the federal government for this construction. This money cannot be used for any other purpose in Colquitt County.  If not used for this, it will be returned to Washington, where it will not be used to reduce the deficit. It will be spent somewhere else.

The individuals stated that the DOT was no longer allowing stop signs on state highways, and they no longer allowed four-way stops, except as a stop gap until a roundabout could be built or a traffic light installed. They did not say the four-way at our intersection would be removed, but it was obvious that the day would come.

They pointed out that truckers must shift through all their gears to stop instead of a partial downshift with a roundabout. This would reduce pollution, fuel usage, and wear and tear on brakes and tires.

DOT studies were discussed regarding a reduction in wait times at a roundabout versus a stop light or a four way stop. This may not be a large issue today, but they are planning for the future. It has been proven that a roundabout moves traffic faster than alternatives while improving safety. The traffic “calming effect” of a roundabout contributes to safety.

Some local individuals feel that Colquitt County residents could not understand a roundabout. I disagree. The success we have realized from the two current roundabouts is clear.

I thank and applaud the individuals from DOT who designed, found funding, and are ready to implement this roundabout

I welcome two million federal dollars being spent for construction in Colquitt County.

Peter F. Dillard,

  Moultrie city manager