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Clarksville Grapples with Traffic Safety Concerns, Residents Seek Solutions
Clarksville residents are voicing growing concerns about traffic safety, especially regarding drivers failing too stop at intersections. The Clarksville Police Department (CPD) acknowledges these complaints, with spokesman Scott Beaubien reporting that from January 8th to July 8th, officers issued 96 citations and 114 warnings specifically for violations of City Code 9-453, which addresses failure to stop. Beaubien emphasized that this figure doesn’t encompass other potential traffic infractions or warnings issued under different city ordinances, such as those related to due care.
In the Hermitage Estates neighborhood, a specific intersection at jordan Road and Andrew Drive has been a focal point of resident complaints. despite these concerns, CPD records indicate only a single reported accident at this location in the past two years, occurring in 2022.
Exploring Long-Term Fixes: Speed Humps and Enforcement
In response to the community’s feedback, the City of Clarksville has committed to evaluating the Jordan Road and Andrew Drive intersection and has requested increased enforcement from the CPD. However, the implementation of permanent traffic calming measures, such as speed humps, presents a more complex challenge.
City of Clarksville spokesperson Casey Williams explained that the city’s code outlines a specific process for approving speed humps,and many roadways are not eligible. “Jordan Road is likely a tier above our standard local road, because it traverses multiple residential areas,” Williams stated. “This would make speed humps unachievable.” A primary reason for this restriction is the potential for speed humps to obstruct emergency vehicles like ambulances and fire trucks.
Williams further elaborated that if Jordan Road where classified differently, the CPD would conduct surveillance. If problematic driving behaviors were confirmed, a formal request for speed humps would need to be submitted, supported by a petition signed by 80% of the affected residents.
Police Presence and Mitigation Strategies
While acknowledging that calls for service are prioritized, Beaubien encouraged residents to continue reporting recurring traffic issues. He noted that the presence of officers in specific areas can substantially influence driver behavior. “The officer’s presence tends to make people behave and act appropriately,” Beaubien said.
clarksville operates under a centralized 911 system, meaning all calls are routed through this dispatch. Residents experiencing issues with speeding or stop sign violations in particular areas are advised to call 911 and request to speak with a supervisor to lodge their complaint.
Beaubien confirmed that when the CPD receives reports of traffic problems at specific locations, officers might potentially be deployed to monitor those intersections during busy periods. “The goal is to deter risky driving behaviors through a combination of visibility enforcement, and public education and awareness,” Beaubien stated. “More officers on the road can help in deterring bad behavior.”
A current challenge for the department is a number of unfilled positions. The CPD is actively hiring, and interested individuals can find information on the CPD hiring website.
