Sparta board authorizes up to $5,000 for lighted stop signs and crosswalk work near Sewell Drive

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen authorized up to $5,000 to address safety concerns at the Sewell Drive and Turntable Road intersection, citing multiple complaints and nearby new development including a daycare and potential townhomes.

During discussion the presiding officer described the intersection as "a tough" place to pull out of and mentioned recent close calls. Staff provided cost estimates: solar-powered lighted stop signs run roughly $1,000 to $1,500 apiece based on past purchases, with a total estimate of about $5,000–$6,000 including paint and lights; installing a full traffic signal would require running power and could cost on the order of $75,000–$100,000.

The board moved and seconded a motion to authorize the purchase and installation of three lighted stop signs and related markings, capped at $5,000 to allow timely installation before school starts. The motion passed on a roll-call vote with affirmative votes from those present.

Board members also discussed adding a crosswalk and pedestrian signage near a commercial area (Monitor 84) and noted that work on a state road would require coordination and permission from the state.