City officials plan new cart path along Highway 54 despite cemetery obstacles

The Peachtree City Council held a retreat meeting on February 10, 2025, focusing on several key infrastructure projects, particularly the development of a new cart path along Highway 54 and updates on the North Hill path project.

The meeting began with discussions surrounding the proposed cart path to Publix, which is part of the 2017 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) initiative. Originally budgeted at $88,000, the estimated cost has significantly increased to nearly $1 million due to complexities involving Highway 54 and adjacent cemetery land. Council members noted that alternative routes through Hyde Park and behind the cemetery were not feasible due to land acquisition challenges. The preferred option remains to construct the path along the front of the cemetery, contingent upon negotiations with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) regarding right-of-way usage and potential land acquisition.

Council members expressed concerns about stormwater management, particularly regarding the Presbyterian church located at the intersection of Carriage Lane and Highway 54. It was noted that the existing stormwater infrastructure is inadequate, and any new construction would necessitate further improvements. The council is also considering the implications of the cart path on nearby private properties and the need for additional land acquisition.

A discussion ensued about the possibility of requesting GDOT to lower the speed limit on the affected stretch of Highway 54 to enhance safety for cart path users. While council members acknowledged that such a request could be made, they recognized that GDOT might be hesitant to approve a lower limit for a short distance.

The meeting also covered the North Hill path project, which aims to relocate the existing cart path closer to North Parkway to address accessibility issues. The design phase is nearing completion, with plans to bid the project in the spring. This path will connect various subdivisions and improve access for residents.

In conclusion, the council's discussions highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance pedestrian and cart path infrastructure in Peachtree City. The next steps involve further negotiations with GDOT, finalizing designs, and preparing for upcoming bids on the projects. The council remains committed to ensuring that these developments meet community needs while addressing safety and accessibility concerns.