Milton residents will soon have the chance to weigh in on potential traffic solutions along Birmingham Highway, particularly near local schools where congestion is a daily challenge. The City of Milton will host an open house on September 18 to gather public input on a preliminary concept layout for roadway improvements.
In an effort to combat the snarl of cars that routinely plagues State Route 372 near Milton High School, Northwestern Middle School, and Crabapple Crossing Elementary School, the city has initiated a call to action. Citizens who've experienced this chaos, particularly during the rush of early mornings and mid-afternoons, understand the need for change. According to a recent news release, the existing congestion frustrates drivers and imperils the young pedestrians and bikers scrambling through the fray. Rain makes traffic worse, slowing down emergency responders when they’re needed most.
Recognizing these concerns, the City has been proactive — earlier this year, drones buzzed overhead, capturing data on the hustle and bustle of this suburban corridor. This high-tech reconnaissance, combined with an ongoing scrutiny of the traffic tribulations, has shaped a "concept layout" now available for public scrutiny. While this concept is still malleable, shaped by your feedback, the endeavor moves in tandem with Fulton County Schools and, crucially, requires a nod from the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) before it can transition from vision to reality.
The City of Milton has underlined the importance of this open house as a junction point for community involvement. "The September 18 open house is happening before the concept is finalized – a necessary step before design proceeds and any construction contract can be approved and work can begin," the City of Milton stated. The open house at Community Place, adjacent to City Hall, is an informal drop-in session, allowing for a close-up view of the plans, robust dialogue with the project team and a chance to put forth your two cents within a two-hour window.
For those unable to attend in person, feedback can still be shared online through the submission form at www.miltonga.gov/BirminghamHighway. Questions and concerns may also be directed to Rob Dell-Ross of Milton’s Public Works Department at [email protected].
