“The most critical aspect for the DOT to consider, is that Waycross is a direct evacuation route in the case of a major hurricane.”
Editor, The Times, Regarding consideration of an upcoming vote on a by-pass (whether completely or partially) of Waycross, I would like to offer a couple of observations. If the proposed by-pass was going by my front or back door, I can understand some of the dissenting comments being made.
However, I believe the Department of Transportation (DOT) needs to consider that all semi-trucks do not need to pass thru downtown Waycross, as they presently do.
More importantly, and I believe the most critical aspect for the DOT to consider, is that Waycross is a direct evacuation route in the case of a major hurricane on the East coast of Florida and South East Georgia.
I have experienced such a situation. Years ago, my wife and I were living in St. Marys, when a mandatory evacuation was declared for Camden County due to Hurricane Floyd. It normally takes about one hour and fifteen minutes to drive from St. Marys to Waycross. It took us over eight hours that day due to traffic backed up on U.S. 1 from Folkston and U.S. 82 from Brunswick.
Let me explain. We left St. Marys headed to Folkston. The State Patrol stopped us in Kingsland because U.S. 1 was backed up from Kingsland to Folkston and from Waycross past Folkston past the GA/FL line.
We went north on U.S. 17 to U.S. 82 at Brunswick. U.S. 82 was backed up from Brunswick to Waycross. Both U.S. 1 and U.S. 82 come together at the traffic lights in Waycross.
Since the traffic was stop-and-go all the way, we saw vehicles alongside the highway, hoods up because engines were overheating and also because some were out of gas (not expecting such long waits).
Consider also, there were no comfort stations (public restroom facilities primarily or water fountains) and many, like us, eere enroute with beloved pets, who likewise had needs. And what a grueling trip for families with young children!
I truly believe the DOT should definitely consider this as a top priority. Time is of the essence and lives are at stake.
Warren Beagle Waycross
