Roane County Commission discusses rural road hazards and emergency service improvements

During the Roane County Commission meeting on March 17, 2025, significant discussions emerged regarding public safety concerns and interlocal cooperation aimed at improving emergency response times.

One of the primary issues raised was the hazardous condition of rural roads, particularly in Dinky Valley. A resident expressed frustration over gravel driveways causing rocks to wash onto the roads, creating dangerous driving conditions. The absence of guardrails on Dickey Valley Road was highlighted as a critical safety issue, especially given the proximity of gas and water lines that prevent their installation. The resident questioned the county's approach to property owner liability in such cases, emphasizing the need for a clear policy on how to address these hazards without unfairly penalizing homeowners.

In response to safety concerns, the commission discussed the implications of recent weather events on road conditions and the notification process for hazardous situations. It was clarified that while 911 calls alert emergency services, they do not directly notify Roane County government, which could delay response times to road hazards.

Another key topic was the proposed interlocal cooperation agreement with the City of Oak Ridge, aimed at enhancing ambulance service coverage. This agreement is expected to improve response times for emergency calls, particularly in areas where Roane County's new ambulance station is closer than those in neighboring Anderson County. The commission noted that this collaboration could also generate additional revenue while ensuring that residents receive timely medical assistance.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the need for a capital improvement plan, indicating ongoing efforts to address infrastructure and safety challenges in the county. However, a motion related to this plan failed to pass due to insufficient votes, highlighting the complexities of decision-making within the commission.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting underscored the importance of addressing public safety issues in rural areas and the need for effective collaboration between local governments to enhance emergency services. As Roane County navigates these challenges, the outcomes of these discussions will likely have lasting implications for community safety and infrastructure development.