Residents push back on proposed 3-way stop at County Road 100 East and 600 South; commissioners table final action

Several residents urged the Gibson County Board of Commissioners to reconsider a recommendation that would convert the County Road 100 East and 600 South intersection to a three-way stop.

Joe Knapp, who farms along the road, said enforcement presence made a difference and that while a stop sign could slow local residents, it might have little effect on Toyota-related shift traffic that uses a different turning point. "So I feel like a stop sign there won't help with the Toyota traffic," Knapp said, adding that the change "seems like that's placing the burden on the local people with no real benefit of slowing down the Toyota traffic."

Dana Gansman asked whether deputies' reports on violations were public and expressed skepticism that a new stop sign or electronic signage would solve the problem if existing stop controls are routinely ignored. Katie Gueso and other commenters raised school-bus and child-safety concerns and suggested exploring signage options, enforcement emphasis and donated signs that the county could install.

Commissioners acknowledged the comments and agreed to pursue further discussion with the highway superintendent before taking final action; a motion to table the item pending further review passed by voice vote.

Why it matters: the intersection lies on school-bus routes and in a neighborhood where residents expressed concern that changes could create inconvenience or not address the primary traffic flow. Commissioners emphasized safety but did not finalize any change at the meeting.

Next steps: staff and commissioners plan to meet with the highway superintendent for additional study and to review enforcement and signage alternatives; the item will return for consideration at a future meeting.