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1. What is a Roundabout?

A modern roundabout is a circular intersection where drivers travel counterclockwise around a center island. There are no traffic signals or stop signs in a modern roundabout. Drivers yield at entry to traffic in the roundabout and then enter the intersection and exit at their desired street.

2. How do I find out if my road is on the list of roads to be paved?

Any questions concerning paving of dirt roads or resurfacing of existing paved roads need to be directed to the Road Construction Department 706-447-7600.

3. Who should I contact if a traffic signal or school zone light is out or is not functioning properly?

Please contact the Traffic Engineering department at 706-868-4223.

4. What is the "85th Percentile Speed"?

The 85th percentile speed is defined as the speed at which eighty-five % of drivers are traveling at or below, while fifteen % of drivers are exceeding that speed.

5. What is the difference between a speed "hump" and a speed "bump"?

A speed "bump" is a shorter speed control device that is primarily used in parking lots, they are approximately 12-15 inches wide. A speed "hump" is used as a traffic control device on streets and roads. They are approximately 20 feet or wider.

6. Who do I call to request Speed Humps?

Traffic Engineering at 706-868-4223. Please click to view the Speed Hump Program Policy Manual (PDF).

7. I need traffic count information along a road I am planning to open a business, who do I contact?

You can call the Traffic Engineering Department at 706-868-4223 for this information or you may visit the Georgia Department of Transportation website.

8. Who do I need to call to request sidewalks?

To request sidewalks, please call the Columbia County Road Construction Department at 706-447-7600.

9. How do I get a "Children at Play" sign in my neighborhood?

Columbia County no longer installs "Children at Play" or "Watch for Children" signs. The Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) no longer recognizes "Children at Play" signs. There is no evidence to prove that this sign helps reduce pedestrian accidents or lower speeds and in some instances studies have shown that speeds have increased in areas where these signs are present. Currently, when a "Children at Play" or "Watch for Children" sign is present in a work area, it will be removed.

10. I want to stop speeding on my street, can a stop sign be installed?

According to the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), a stop sign shall not be used to control speed.

11. Who do I call if a traffic signal is not working properly?

You can report the problem to Traffic Engineering at 706-868-4223 or email us.

12. Will a lower speed limit reduce speeding on my street?

This is a common myth, research conducted throughout the country over several decades has shown that drivers are influenced by the type of street and the current traffic conditions and not the posted speed limit.

13. Can I get a speed limit sign on my street?

The placement of speed limit signs are based on several factors. One of the main factors is the functional classification of the roadway. If it is a local road (typical subdivision street), speed limit signs are normally placed only on the local roads that serve as entrances/exits to subdivisions. Usually, none of the interior subdivision streets have speed limit signs placed.

14. Where do I stop at an intersection when there is both a stop bar and a stop sign?

The stop bar is supposed to be placed at the critical point. It should be placed where one will be out of the flow of oncoming traffic and where the stopping vehicle can see oncoming traffic. According to code requirements, the stop sign can be anywhere from six feet to fifty feet from the edge of the intersecting street.