Old Country Roads Are Neighborhoods, Too.

Many county roads are zoned residential

An Editorial By Tim Enloe

Having lived on Bethany Road for the majority of my life, I have experienced more hometown change than most new comers would believe. As a boy, it was not uncommon for me, my two brothers and sister to ride our bikes down to a friend's house or over to the Emporium at Crabapple Corners for a Coke and some candy. The possibility of passing a rider on horseback was about as likely of that of an automobile. Since those days of innocence, the once Mayberryesque manner of this area as succumbed to rapid growth. Swim and tennis "communities" have sprung out of our landscape taking the place of quiet long established farms. These new developments have brought a huge increase in the amount of traffic on our old country roads. When considering all factors, such activity is a given. People have destinations to get to and the asphalt gets them there.

In touring these new neighborhoods, everything seems to have its place. The clubhouse, etc is over here, the land reserved for green space is over there, and side walks are full of kids playing and parents enjoying life. Even the 15 to 30mph speed limit signs are typically obeyed with "children playing" postings speckled throughout. Seeing as much as a cigarette butt, food wrapper, or and drink can thrown on a beautifully cut lawn is unthinkable. To witness that sense of community is a wonderful thing and should be embraced. However, that feeling of comradery shouldn't stop at the entrance. It should transcend to all sections of the city on a daily basis.

I have been very lucky to know many neighbors in the Bethany Road area. We too have a since of pride for our neighborhood and our city. Unfortunately, these residents can't take a leisurely walk or allow children within 20 feet of these roads. It has simply become too dangerous. Speeds in excess of 70mph in our 35mph zone have been clocked by North Fulton Police over the course of the past year and are common place. Even a high end car dealership off of highway 9 enjoys abusing Bethany road as a test drive track for their automobiles. I can't help but wonder how those driving these speeds would feel if others were that wreckless in front of their home. Also, trash is common place on these country roads. Many residents have the weekly chore of picking up commuters refuse who chose to make a trash can out of other people's property.

In closing, I would like to propose some simple solutions for the residents of our wonderful town. Drive the posted speed limit and let our officers focus their attention on more pressing situations. If you see a fellow commuter tossing trash out their window or going above the speed limit, write down there tag and report them. You might even volunteer and adopt a mile of our city's roadway. In the long run, every citizen will benefit. The cleaner and safer the area, the more impressive and valuable the property. Treat all areas as your neighborhood, even old country roads.