Macon-Bibb creates new board to cut down on pedestrian deaths

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Macon-Bibb is trying to reduce its pedestrian fatality numbers.  The county’s Board of Health declared pedestrian fatalities a public health issue four months ago.

Commissioner Elaine Lucas says the county has one of the highest statistics in the state.  Lucas explains most of the deaths are happening at busy intersections like Shurling Drive and Gray Highway.  The Commission is creating a Pedestrian Fatality Review Board to come up with ways to make sure people can safely cross the street.

“To develop an educational program and also maybe to develop some hints for law enforcement and others for how we stem the tide of this ever increasing problem,” says Lucas.

The board will include four members: A representative for the mayor, which could be the mayor himself; two civilian advocates; and a board of health member.  Names will be given to the mayor for consideration within the next week.  He will then present them to the full commission for approval.