The Milton City Council has mapped out a strategic direction for the potential replacement of two local bridges on Hickory Flat Road and Clarity Road, setting conditions for State assistance in the projects. According to a report from the City of Milton's official website, officials proposed terms for the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) funding ahead of a December 16 deadline when the City is expected to formally communicate its stance to the State.
While no votes were cast during the meeting, Sara Leaders, the City's Public Works Director, was guided to prioritize bridges that limited the size and weight of vehicles that could pass over them, hoping to see weight restrictions lifted. Straddling the Little River and Cherokee County, the Hickory Flat and Clarity Road bridges have been identified by the State for potential reinvestment, with costs estimated at $3.5 million and $1.6 million, respectively. Milton's contribution would remain minimal at $50,000 per structure.
During the council session, details emerged about the City's requests for the bridges. The Hickory Flat Road bridge would feature a steel truss side barrier, an asphalt taper at the bridge's end, and brown guardrail treatments, all designed for safety at a 35mph speed limit. "The Clarity Road request would be for a single-lane bridge," as specified in the report obtained by the City of Milton’s news release.
Councilmember Carol Cookerly, acting as Mayor Pro Tem in Mayor Peyton Jamison's absence, showcased a Christmas tree ornate with handmade ornaments by local schoolchildren. Subsequently, the Council moved to unanimous approval of various service-related agreements, including a partnership with Senior Services North Fulton for eldercare programs at Milton Senior Center located in the historic Thomas S. Byrd Sr. house, ensuring continuity of the community’s commitment to its aging residents.
In addition to the bridge discussions, the council extended a moratorium through February 3, 2025, affecting zoning and development applications in the Deerfield area, to execute a comprehensive Deerfield Implementation Plan, according to miltonga.gov. This measure was stated to buy time for the government to establish new regulations without the pressure of immediate development interests.
Starting January 1, 2025, Milton first responders diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder will receive specific benefits under a new State law initiative, thereby solidifying the City's commitment to the well-being of its public service personnel. The council will reconvene on December 16 to finalize its bridge replacement decisions and discuss other city matters in a regular meeting format.
