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Jonesborough board approves plan to coordinate downtown signals, fund detector fixes
Summary
Council approved a two‑part traffic‑signal plan: roughly $25,000 to correct detector/loop issues and a coordinated radio network tying most downtown signals (estimated local build cost ~ $41,000) to improve peak‑hour traffic flow and reduce stops.
Jonesborough aldermen approved a plan to improve and coordinate traffic signals downtown, endorsing a two‑part approach that officials said will reduce delays during peak travel times.
Mayor Wolf summarized recommendations from the town’s traffic study: first, correct deficiencies such as loop detectors at several intersections (an estimated $25,000), and second, link the town’s traffic signals with a dedicated radio network to coordinate timing. The mayor said the immediate price to tie signals in the main body of town was estimated at about $41,000, while earlier vendor estimates had been higher.
Council members asked about turning lanes at the Wendy’s/Tiger Way intersection and were told that a Tennessee Department of Transportation project will install a permanent signal and improve turning geometry at that location. Alderman Dixon asked about cybersecurity for radio transmitters; staff said Sharper IT will implement firewall and authentication measures when the system is installed.
Alderman Counterman moved to approve the signal improvements as presented; Alderman Jenkins seconded. A roll call vote recorded ayes and the motion passed.
Town staff said the radio system would be a town‑owned asset (no monthly fees) and acknowledged tradeoffs: if the radio network fails the town would need contingency plans, but owning the system avoids long‑term subscription costs. Staff also noted fiber is usually preferred for absolute redundancy but the town’s signal spacing makes a radio network cost‑effective.
The board instructed staff to proceed with the vendor work and cybersecurity planning; staff will return with final contracts and implementation timeline.
