Forest Acres Takes Steps Toward Safer Streets and Storm Recovery
In the charming city of Forest Acres, South Carolina, local officials are banding together to improve road safety and enhance recovery efforts after recent storms. This year, the community has seen some exciting progress as leaders from different levels of government work hand in hand to tackle these essential issues.
Road Improvements in the Works
Earlier this year, Representative Heather Bauer, along with officials from the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) and city leaders, assessed the road situation in Forest Acres. Their conversation focused on making necessary road improvements that would enhance safety and accessibility within the city. Since their initial discussions, nearly seven new 4-way stop signs have been installed, along with other crucial adjustments.
As Bauer explained, collaboration is key: “The best way to enact change is to meet with all parties involved and at all levels of local and state government,” she remarked. With this spirit of teamwork, they have managed to put in stop signs, install sidewalks, and tackle those pesky potholes. All these changes are aimed at benefiting residents and making Forest Acres a safer place to navigate.
A Tour for Safety
Continuing with their commitment to progress, Bauer, SCDOT officials, and Mayor Thomas Andrews took to the streets again to assess further improvements. During this recent tour, they looked closely at sidewalks and crosswalks, particularly those near schools. Mayor Andrews pointed out the need for repairs on older crosswalks and emphasized the benefits of adding new crosswalks. “We have some crosswalks but a lot of them are old and need to be repainted or we need additional sidewalks,” Andrews noted.
Sidewalks are high on the priority list, especially in areas bustling with foot traffic, such as around Trenholm Park and leading to Satchelford Road. However, it’s important to recognize that these improvements come with costs. “We are a small city, we don’t have a ton of funds designated to just sidewalks, but we are exploring what it takes to get grants, and working with the DOT and the legislature to get those types of funds,” Andrews added. Finding the necessary financial support is crucial for making these improvements a reality.
Recovery from Storm Damage
In addition to road safety enhancements, city officials also took a moment to assess the damage caused by recent storms. Roads like Lakeshore Drive and Spring Lake Road were severely impacted by fallen trees, damaging homes and creating hazards for drivers. Following Hurricane Helene, city officials reported that over 30 trees had toppled onto homes, leaving residents concerned about safety and accessibility.
One Forest Acres homeowner, Lyssa Fisher, experienced firsthand the issues caused by fallen trees. “We have so many areas, on my way to the gym, that I need to avoid,” she said. Fisher believes that addressing the roads is a vital step forward, stating, “There is so much work that’s needed on the roads to me, that’s the first thing that comes to mind.”
Pushing for Progress
Bauer emphasized the importance of focusing on smaller road improvement projects that can create substantial benefits for the community. “Safety is critical,” she asserted, highlighting that these changes are essential for the well-being of Forest Acres residents. With continued collaboration among all involved parties, there is hope for a brighter, safer future in this welcoming South Carolina city.
As Forest Acres moves forward with these initiatives, the community is well on its way to a safer, more connected future where residents can navigate their city with confidence and ease.
