State Route 6 Corridor Study Final Report - Cobb County Government

Addressing traffic operational woes was a major topic of discussion. Participants
indicated a need to reduce the number of traffic signals or at least to optimize signal
timing. Large trucks cause backups at traffic signals because of the time it takes for
them to stop and start. More storage space is needed at intersections and interchanges
such as Maxham Road and I‐285, so that turning traffic does not spill onto the through‐
lanes. Improved signage is needed throughout the corridor for wayfinding and
directions. Other strategies suggested for improving traffic operations included
changeable message signs and incident management (Highway Emergency Response
Operators, H.E.R.O. Program). Traffic at the Camp Creek Marketplace was identified as
a traffic hot spot; traffic during peak commute times spills over onto I‐285, and it is
difficult to travel past the entrances to the Marketplace for through‐traffic.
In that the corridor is used heavily by large trucks, means to control the truck traffic
were cited frequently. Large trucks often violate red lights to avoid stopping or because
the green time at the signals is too short. Participants questioned whether trucks could
be restricted during certain times of day to reduce conflicts between commuter traffic
and large trucks. Solutions for truck routing should be identified. In that the
Intermodal Terminal and industrial areas in and around the corridor create demand for
services, a need for more fuel stops for truck operators was citied. Although the wider
outside truck lane concept was generally supported, concern was expressed that this
strategy was insufficient to address the problem.
Participants identified the need to provide amenities and facilities for bicyclists and
pedestrians, including access to commercial centers. Requests for bicycle and
pedestrian facility improvements included:
• Bicycle facilities on Humphries Hill Road, Westside Road, and US 278;
• A trail to link the park and ride lot to the Silver Comet Trail;
• Safe pedestrian facilities on SR 6 from I‐20 to US 278, including the intersection at
US 278;
• Lighting along SR 6 within the Austell area and overall corridor lighting;
• Pedestrian bridge at Maxham Road;
• Pedestrian crossing upgrades at Washington Road and Herschel Road at other
major intersections;
• Landscaping for bicyclists and pedestrians to improve aesthetics;
• Placing sidewalks behind guard rails instead in front of them;
• Pedestrian and bicyclist‐friendly ordinances; and
• Multiuse trails.
Final Report 2‐10
January 2008