Putting Local Needs First: Halting the Costly Obsession with Regional Projects

For over two decades, a pet project pushed by regional influences has loomed over Lower Roswell Road, promising safety and operational improvements while neglecting the genuine needs and desires of the local community. Now, as plans to overhaul the road with wide bike sidewalks and median barriers move forward, it's time to reassess the priorities and put an end to this misguided endeavor.

At its core, this project isn't about enhancing transportation or addressing local concerns; it's about fulfilling the whims of regional planners and catering to the interests of a select few. The recent meeting organized by community members underscores a stark reality: not many in the affected area supports this project. Yet, it persists, propelled by inertia and funded by SPLOST, without any consideration for its feasibility or true impact on the community.

The origins of this project trace back to the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), where the idea of a regional network of bike trails was conceived. While many jurisdictions have disregarded this grand plan, some Cobb County officials have embraced it, perhaps due to current ties with ARC. However, it's crucial to recognize that the needs of the community should supersede the ambitions of regional planners, especially when the consequences involve property acquisition, business displacement, and potential safety hazards.

Despite claims of safety and operational improvements, the proposed changes fail to address the fundamental concerns of the local residents. The installation of median barriers and the elimination of left turns into businesses may exacerbate traffic congestion and introduce new hazards, such as drivers resorting to risky maneuvers in parking lots. Moreover, the inclusion of bike lanes poses an additional danger by mixing bicycle traffic with pedestrian traffic, increasing the likelihood of collisions and injuries.

As we scrutinize the current project on Lower Roswell Road, it's imperative to consider its broader implications, including the undisclosed plans for future phases. The secrecy surrounding the next phase on Johnson Ferry Road raises serious concerns about transparency and accountability in decision-making. If allowed to proceed unchecked, it could result in further disruptions to traffic, homes, businesses, and natural landscapes, all at the expense of taxpayers who remain uninformed about the full extent of these projects.

The exorbitant costs associated with these endeavors, coupled with the disproportionate benefits enjoyed by a minority of users, highlight the flawed priorities of our political leadership. Instead of squandering millions on recreational amenities favored by a select few, we should prioritize investments that address the pressing needs of the entire community, from infrastructure improvements to essential services.

It's time to end this cycle of wasteful spending and misplaced priorities. By declaring this project "infeasible" and redirecting resources towards initiatives that genuinely serve the local community, we can chart a more responsible and sustainable path forward. Let's put an end to the madness of prioritizing regional fantasies over local needs and ensure that taxpayer dollars are invested wisely for the benefit of all.