Peachtree City proposes projects to reduce injury and fatal crashes through community engagement

During the Peachtree City Council Work Session on May 8, 2025, officials discussed a comprehensive plan aimed at improving road safety and reducing crashes in the community. This initiative, funded by a grant from the Federal Highway Administration, focuses on identifying and addressing the causes of injury and fatal crashes within the city and surrounding areas.

The council highlighted the importance of a "safe systems process," which emphasizes both infrastructure improvements and community engagement to enhance safety. The plan includes a list of targeted projects designed to mitigate risks on the roadways, alongside educational programs to raise awareness about safe driving practices.

Public engagement played a crucial role in shaping this initiative. The city conducted several meetings and utilized an interactive mapping tool, allowing residents to pinpoint areas of concern. Approximately 51 comments were collected from Peachtree City residents, contributing to a broader total of several hundred comments from across Fayette County.

A safety analysis revealed concerning statistics over the past five years, with around 17,000 crashes reported in the county. While pedestrian and cyclist incidents were relatively low, with only about 100 crashes involving these vulnerable users, the data indicated a significant number of golf cart-related incidents. Specifically, there were 54 golf cart-to-golf cart crashes and 38 involving golf carts and vehicles, resulting in one fatality and ten serious injuries.

The council noted that rear-end collisions were common, but more severe accidents often stemmed from drivers running off the road, particularly among younger drivers who may be distracted. This data underscores the need for targeted interventions to improve safety for all road users, including golf cart operators, who are a vital part of the community's transportation landscape.

As the city moves forward with this safety initiative, officials aim to create a safer environment for all residents, addressing both immediate concerns and fostering long-term improvements in road safety.