News Summary
Folly Beach has adopted a Safety Action Plan to address escalating traffic safety issues on the island, following an alarming average of 85 crashes annually. Developed with engineering firm Kimley-Horn, the plan proposes 13 specific road improvements, particularly focusing on Arctic Avenue, to enhance safety for both pedestrians and cyclists. The City Council aims to secure funding through federal grants to implement these upgrades, driven by community feedback and advocacy efforts.
Folly Beach has implemented a comprehensive Safety Action Plan aimed at addressing the island’s growing traffic safety issues. Adopted by the City Council on June 10, the plan was developed by the engineering firm Kimley-Horn and serves as a crucial guide for road safety upgrades across the area, as well as a tool for applying for both state and federal funding for road improvements. This initiative comes in response to alarming traffic data showing an average of 85 crashes per year on the island.
Between 2017 and 2023, Kimley-Horn analyzed crash data that documented nearly 600 accidents on Folly Beach. The findings indicated that a substantial number of these incidents were due to distracted driving, resulting in 13 serious injuries. Notably, there were 22 reported accidents involving cyclists and pedestrians. Tragically, the city has also experienced fatalities, with two deaths reported at the intersection of Sol Legare and Alder Circle Road, and three fatalities on East Ashley Avenue, including a widely publicized case involving a bride.
In recent community assessments, residents shared their unease regarding walking and biking on the island, citing concerns over inadequate sidewalks and speeding vehicles as primary issues affecting their safety. This feedback has been instrumental in shaping the Safety Action Plan, which details 13 specific improvement projects designed to enhance road safety for all users.
Key Features of the Safety Action Plan
The Safety Action Plan places significant emphasis on upgrading road conditions through various measures. Priority projects include reducing lanes to calm traffic, improving visibility and safety at crosswalks, and constructing a roundabout to enhance traffic flow. A major focus will be on Arctic Avenue, which has been identified as a high-impact area for crashes, particularly between Center Street and East 3rd Street.
Proposed changes for Arctic Avenue are substantial, aiming to transform its current layout by reducing the road from two lanes to one. The plan advocates for the addition of a 12-foot wide shared-use path, raised crosswalks with signals, and designated parking for golf carts and bicycles. These changes are anticipated to significantly improve safety for both pedestrians and cyclists.
Funding and Implementation
Implementing these improvements necessitates funding, and the city is preparing to apply for the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All grant. Many other municipalities in South Carolina have successfully secured millions of dollars through these grants for roadway safety enhancements, providing a hopeful precedent for Folly Beach.
Following the adoption of the Safety Action Plan, Folly Beach officials plan to submit their grant application promptly. Public engagement played a critical role in shaping the plan, with around 250 attendees participating in discussions to voice their safety concerns and suggestions for the community.
Transportation advocacy groups, including Charleston Moves, are expressing support for the Safety Action Plan, which intends to create safer conditions for vulnerable road users. City officials are optimistic that the formal adoption of this plan will bolster their chances of qualifying for federal funding, aimed at addressing ongoing traffic safety challenges on Folly Beach.
Background Context
The decision to adopt the Safety Action Plan stems from a pressing need to enhance road safety measures on Folly Beach. With a decline in resident comfort regarding walking and biking, and a significant number of traffic incidents reported over recent years, city leadership recognizes the importance of proactive safety initiatives. The commitment to improving local infrastructure illustrates a strategic approach to mitigating risks and fostering a safer environment for both residents and visitors alike.
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Additional Resources
- Count on 2 News
- Wikipedia: Folly Beach
- Post and Courier
- Google Search: Folly Beach safety action plan
- ABC News 4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Folly Beach
- Count on 2 News – Transportation Safety Action Plan
- Google News: Folly Beach traffic safety
- Live 5 News
