At Duluth’s Dec. council meeting, City Engineer Margie Pozin presented the results of a month-long virtual public meeting used to collect citizen feedback on ways to improve traffic flow at Ga. 120/Abbotts Bridge Road and Pine Needle Drive. The outreach efforts solicited feedback from the residents most affected by the choice between a 90-degree intersection or cul-de-sac. The results were very close. According to Pozin, depending on several factors, a slightly higher number of the closest neighbors favored the cul-de-sac option.

The project goals include reducing speeding, cut through traffic, unsafe conditions for bikes/pedestrians and improving intersection safety. Residents also claimed concern for accidents and property damage, although these claims are not supported by documentation from the police department.

The Duluth City Council felt safety should take priority over convenience with support for the cul-de-sac option. Since this is a joint SPLOST project with the county, next steps Include reporting these conclusions to Gwinnett for authorization to proceed.

More options may be available including traffic calming measures, maintaining pedestrian access, lowering speed limits, etc. to address any additional concerns.