PETITION TO OPPOSE THE PROPOSED TRAFFIC CIRCLE AT MARLOW ROAD, SAND HILL ROAD, AND GEORGIA HIGHWAY 17

To: Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), Effingham County Board of Commissioners, and All Relevant Decision Makers

We, the undersigned residents, property owners, and taxpayers of Effingham County, respectfully submit this petition in opposition to the proposed traffic circle (roundabout) planned for the intersection of Marlow Road, Sand Hill Road, and Georgia Highway 17.

While we support reasonable measures to improve roadway safety, we believe this proposed project is not the best solution for our community for the following reasons:

Private Property Impacts – The proposed traffic circle may require the acquisition of private property from local landowners, reducing property values and taking land from residents who have worked hard to build and maintain their homes and businesses.
Traffic Confusion and Safety Concerns – Many residents are concerned that a roundabout at this location could create confusion for drivers unfamiliar with navigating traffic circles, particularly truck drivers, elderly motorists, and visitors traveling through the area.
Availability of Practical Alternatives – We believe safer and less intrusive options should be considered first, including:

Reduced speed limits approaching the intersection;
Enhanced warning and directional signage;
Improved intersection lighting;
Additional traffic enforcement;
Turn lanes or other targeted intersection improvements.
Lack of Community Support – Numerous residents have voiced concerns regarding this project and feel their opinions have not been adequately considered during the planning process.
Preservation of Our Community – Residents value the rural character of this area and believe infrastructure projects should be implemented only when they clearly demonstrate a significant benefit that outweighs the costs and impacts to property owners.
Therefore, we respectfully request that GDOT and Effingham County officials halt further advancement of the proposed traffic circle and reevaluate alternative solutions that address safety concerns while minimizing impacts on residents and private property.

We ask that our elected officials and transportation planners listen to the voices of the citizens they serve and work collaboratively with the community to find a more practical and widely supported solution.

Respectfully submitted,

Mitchell Melvin
6/18/26

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effingham County Residents