FDOT to study Stewart-Magnolia intersection

MILTON — Citizens are now adding their voice to consideration of whether a traffic light should be added at the intersection of North Stewart Street and Magnolia Street.

City resident Donna Craig submitted an email on March 11 to the Florida Department of Transportation expressing her concern over a blind spot near King Middle School.

"I have witnessed several accidents at that intersection," Craig said in her email. "One of which was a young lady who was knocked off her motorcycle … luckily she wasn't injured save a few bumps and bruises but it could have been much worse.

"We need this light," she said.

Phillip Gainer, district secretary for the FDOT, said in an email to Mayor Heather Lindsay on Feb. 18 that the department had been made aware of the city resolution asking for improved safety at the intersection. Gainer said his agency would be conduct a study that would take 60 to 90 days to complete.

According to Milton Resolution No. 1452-18, the intersection of Stewart Street and Magnolia Street is frequently used by parents and bus drivers traveling to and from school (which is .4 mile north of the intersection) and has been the location of numerous accidents resulting in injury and death. The resolution also said the city "desires to protect the public's safety." 

In his email, Gainer thanked the council for its support in providing efficient and safe transportation systems for Milton. 

"Safety is of upmost importance with the department," Gainer said. "Be assured we will continue to place high priority on the safety of the traveling public."  

Gainer said he would release results to the city as soon as the study was completed.

This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: FDOT to study Stewart-Magnolia intersection