Traffic Chaos Looms as New School Year Approaches

During a recent government meeting, officials addressed significant traffic concerns in Murray County, particularly around the newly opened Battle Creek High School. The discussions highlighted two main areas of concern: Kedron Road and Claiborne Road, both of which are experiencing increased congestion due to school-related traffic.

Officials noted that Kedron Road lacks a left turn lane onto Malon Moore, causing backups not only from school traffic but also from daily commuters. The high volume of vehicles during school pick-up times has led to traffic spilling onto Battle Creek Way, creating hazardous conditions as cars attempt to navigate around blocked lanes.

In response to these challenges, city officials are collaborating with the school board to explore potential solutions. Suggestions include restriping roads and possibly adding turn lanes to improve traffic flow. The city has requested a concept plan from the Cordino group to assess options for Kedron and Malon Moore, as well as for the intersection at Battle Creek Way.

Claiborne Road is also facing issues, particularly with parents arriving early to pick up their children, which has resulted in traffic congestion that blocks access for other vehicles. Complaints from residents in the Harvest Point area indicate that it can take over 20 minutes to navigate through the traffic during peak times.

Officials are committed to finding solutions and plan to present a detailed proposal, including cost estimates for the necessary improvements, at the upcoming Transportation and Community Development Committee meeting in September. The collaboration between city officials and the school board aims to alleviate the traffic woes that have arisen with the school's opening and to prepare for future increases in student enrollment.