Kim Jackson, a Clarkesville resident, addressed the Clarkesville City Council during their Monday afternoon work session, expressing concerns about speeding issues on Rocky Branch Road. Jackson appealed to the council for the installation of a second speed table, particularly located between Washington Street and Gabrels Road.
Rocky Branch Road is commonly used as a shortcut from downtown Clarkesville to State Route 17 (Toccoa Highway).
Safety concerns
Jackson highlighted the safety concerns arising from speeding, especially with pedestrians walking on the road and the allowance of golf carts on the thoroughfare. To emphasize the community’s backing, Jackson presented a letter signed by five affected residents, supporting the installation of an additional speed table. While two residents did not sign the letter, they reportedly agreed with the need for council action, and two others did not respond.
Transfer truck disturbances
Jackson underscored the issue of transfer trucks violating road restrictions, creating disturbances with noise as they traverse the speed table. She detailed that the problem intensified during specific hours, notably from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with truck-related disturbances occurring overnight from midnight to 2:00 a.m.
Chief Brad Barrett of the Clarkesville Police Department assured the council of increased police visibility in the area. However, he acknowledged the limitations cities face in speed enforcement compared to the Georgia State Patrol (GSP). Barrett has sought assistance from the GSP to address the situation.
Council proposal
In response to the concerns raised, Council Member Franklin Brown proposed experimenting with a speed breaker on the road to assess its impact.
Concluding the discussion, City Manager Keith Dickerson assured Jackson, “I think your comments have been heard, and I think there will be some more discussion.” The issue is expected to be further deliberated by the council in subsequent sessions.
