By: Natalie M. Zeigler
City Manager
One of the benefits of living in a smaller city is that it is typically easier to get where you’re going. At the City, we’re always working to make Hartsville a more pedestrian friendly place. We want all residents and visitors to be able to reach destinations around Hartsville safely.
With this goal in mind, there are some upcoming projects that—once completed—will help to make traveling inside the city limits easier.
This summer, with permission and specifications from the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), Hartsville will pay for the removal of the brick pavement surrounding three Fifth Street intersections: Carolina Avenue, College Avenue and Home Avenue. Once the bricks are removed the intersections will be paved with asphalt and clearer crosswalk lanes will be painted.
Currently, these bricks present serious safety hazards to drivers and pedestrians. While the brick was a charming and attractive feature when they were first laid, the number of loose, cracked and missing, bricks have lead to several complaints and safety concerns. We want to try to fix what is broken, and renew Hartsville with features that will last longer with less maintenance.
The removal of the bricks should begin alongside SCDOT construction of the roundabout that will join Home Avenue, Carolina Avenue and Fourteenth Street. This roundabout will reduce the risk of automobile collisions in that area. Through the use of grant funding, the City is also making plans to pave sidewalks for a portion of Marlboro Avenue leading to Carolina Elementary School, making it safer for children and parents in the neighborhood. In addition, there are plans to install a portion of sidewalks along Fourth Street, a high-volume pedestrian traffic area. The City is aware of other walkways in need of repair, and we intend to revamp these spots as funding comes available. Generally, there are more grants offered for constructing new sidewalks than restoring existing footpaths.
Of course there will be some traffic delays and road closures while the State and City make these enhancements. We want these improvements to be done well, as quickly and efficiently as possible. I encourage citizens to follow the City of Hartsville online through social media. Stay informed on our website (www.hartsvillesc.gov). Download the City of Hartsville App to your smart phone or mobile device. The City will be sure to send updates about traffic delays and details on the status of the projects.
These initiatives will help provide greater accessibility and easier commutes for citizens and guests of varying income levels and capabilities. At the City we continue to seek ways to ensure Hartsville has more convenience, while still holding on to the sense of closeness and community that gives us character.
Natalie Zeigler is the City Manager of Hartsville. For more information, call City Hall at 843-383-3015 or email info2@hartsvillesc.gov.