Commissioners Consider Red-light Photo Enforcement Program on Barnett Shoals

are considering a red-light photo enforcing program on Barnett Shoals at the intersection of Gaines School and Greencrest roads. 

Commissioners discussed the potential program during a brief agenda setting meeting Thursday. If successful, the program would place a camera at the intersection, which would take a photo of those drivers who run red lights.The drivers could later be ticketed for their actions.

Most commissioners spoke to unsafe traffic conditions in the area which they felt made the program necessary.

"This is probably the most run red light, certainly, that I know of in Athens," said Andy Herod, commissioner for district eight. "In fact, as I was coming to this meeting, two people ran the red light right in front of me."

Some commissioners also said the program was necessary because of nearby schools in the area.

"I am very supportive of this type of agenda item and I personally would have no issue seeing it on the consent agenda," said Ed Robinson, commissioner for district six. "There are also three schools right there. There's a lot of children walking in that area. It's a very dangerous intersection for our children. I want to make sure that area is ultimately safe."

Commissioners also discussed expansions to the Classic Center and rennovations to the Sandy Creek Nature Center. The items will be considered during the commission's next meeting.