LACIE SILVA
Editor
Robin Roy, a resident of South Pittsburg Mountain at the end of Raulstontown Road, expressed serious concerns about speeding and reckless driving in her area during a recent town board meeting. Roy explained that while road improvements have been made in the surrounding areas, they have led to an increase in irresponsible drivers, with some speeding at over 50 miles per hour. This has created a significant safety hazard, particularly for their pets and small grandchildren.
Roy passionately voiced her worries, stating, “It’s getting ridiculous that people just fly down that road. We’re concerned for our grandchildren’s safety. We don’t feel like we can even walk on the road safely anymore or go from our house to our garage on our lawn tractor.” She described the unpredictable nature of the reckless drivers and requested the board consider reducing the speed limit or installing speed bumps to slow them down.
During the discussion, it was clarified that the road in question is a dirt road. Chief Wayne Jordan noted that the presumed speed limit on dirt roads is 30 miles per hour. In response, Mayor Samantha Rector suggested placing “slow children at play” signs, while Chief Jordan recommended posting a 15 mile per hour speed limit sign.
Roy also inquired whether she could build up the gravel to slow down drivers. Mayor Rector, though not an attorney, advised that doing so could make Roy responsible for any injuries resulting from such actions.
Although no vote was taken, Mayor Rector assured Roy that the town would look into adding new speed limit signs to address the issue.
