The City of Perry is on the path to providing residents with
alternative means of getting around the city besides using the roads.
People who own vehicles such as golf carts could soon drive
along the side of the street that is marked for alternative transportation.
“I think it would be great to have in our city,” said
Councilman Joe Posey.
During Monday’s meeting, council members discussed the
alternate routes.
The discussion, according to a memo from City Manager Lee
Gilmour, dates back to Sept. 2008. When it was noted that low speed vehicles
would not be allowed on the state routes or city streets that have a speed
limit of 35mph or more.
The memo also stated that in 2004 council members adopted
the alternate transportation plan, but they have not taken any actions on the
plan.
The alternate routes would essentially be sidewalks with a
brick texture no wider than 10 feet. The sidewalks on Corder Road in Warner
Robins are an example of the brick texture that would be used. The routes would
also include ADA ramps.
Gilmour said the routes allow “citizens more transportation
options to reduce or eliminate the need for an automobile, which I think is imperative.”
The cost of the routes would be included in any new
construction project costs and would be paid for out of the appropriate funds –
SPLOST, capital project and hotel/motel tax – depending on the project,
explained Gilmour.
“I think it is positive,” stated Mayor Jimmy Faircloth. “We
should move forward.”
“And it’s safer,” added Councilwoman Phyllis Bynum-Grace.
Council members agreed to proceed with the plan, as the city
will soon start improvements to the sidewalks as part of the SPLOST projects.
Gilmour said after the meeting, they would have to vote on a policy at a later
date.
HHJ News
