Problem intersection in Dunwoody gets scrutiny

Dunwoody is now focusing on how to improve one of the most problematic intersections in the city: Tilly Mill Road at North Peachtree Road.

Some of the safety statistics at the intersection should worry residents who frequently drive through it.

The accident rate on Tilly Mill Road is above the state average, according to traffic studies conducted by the city. About 65 percent of the total number of crashes at the intersection were rear-end accidents, which means that there is congestion and an insufficient length for vehicles to queue up before entering the intersection, according to traffic studies.

In addition, around 42 percent of the accidents at Peeler and North Peachtree roads were likely caused from vehicles entering the intersection from Peeler Road, which has no traffic signal.

The city’s comprehensive look at traffic problems in 2011 showed that the intersection is very congested, especially during rush hours.

City officials, at a regular board meeting last week, discussed problems at the intersection at length. The city public works staff is working on the preliminary design and could complete a design by 2012. Construction could begin next year, according to a city report.

While several options were studied for the intersection, the work is scheduled to include a traffic signal on Peeler Road before entering the intersection. Turn lanes would be added to lighten congestion near the intersection. Sidewalks and bike lanes would also be built, according to a city report.

Preliminary construction costs to improve the intersection are expected to cost $1.2 million.

The project goals are to make the intersection more safe, relieve traffic congestion, and open up the intersection for pedestrians and cyclists. City officials also want to beautify the intersection.