Macon-Bibb’s Pedestrian Fatality Review Board discusses education versus infrastructure

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Macon-Bibb’s Pedestrial Fatality Review Board knows its goal, but how board members can start to reduce the number of people killed by cars right now is where they start to disagree.

There have been two more fatalities since the last time the board met in August. A hit and run accident at the intersection of Pio Nono Avenue and Caroll Street on August 23 killed Antionial White. A pickup truck hit a 5 year-old girl this month at the intersection of Millerfield and New Clinton Roads.

“That’s one of the things that we’re discussing right now. What we can do first that will have an impact,” explained Lt. Brad Wolfe, a member of the Pedestrian Fatality Review Board and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office.

Macon-Bibb Commissioner Elaine Lucas pushed for an education event around Halloween.

“I wanted to suggest that we sponsor a children’s safety fair,” said Commissioner Lucas.

Others feel education shouldn’t be the top priority.

“Some people, their focus is in different areas such as road design and things like that,” explained Lt. Wolfe.

Board member Michael Ryan said he believes enforcing the laws of the road is key. Captain Eric Walker, Chairman of the Pedestrian Fatality Review Board and member of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, explained deputies do their best to enforce the law. He also took the board to the site of the hit and run to show them what they look for during their investigation.

“Condition of the road, the weather conditions, the lighting conditions, condition of the driver and, or pedestrian or other drivers,” said Lt. Wolfe.

Deputies continue to watch the area even after the scene is cleared.

“We watch the area close to the scene if any pedestrians are there and how they behave. If they just dart across the road, if they look to see before they cross,” explained Lt. Wolfe.

Those who believe infrastructure is the problem suggest being proactive while the Georgia Department of Transportation builds new roads. They said giving suggestions about speed limits and how many lanes are on a road can help.

The ones who support education said teaching is the most effective way to make an impact right now. 

The board agrees better lighting would increase pedestrian visibility and safety. Macon-Bibb Commissioners are expected to vote on a lighting management services agreement with Philips Lighting during their meeting Tuesday night. County officials said this would bring consistency among what types of lights are installed throughout the county.