Recently, Inman has been adding new roads and safety features to improve pedestrian travel downtown. The latest addition was speed signs installed Oct. 9. These signs project a car’s current speed to alert drivers if they are going too fast.
Striving for this change the most is Councilwoman Heather Moore. After a family incident, she believes strongly in the safety of the Inman community.
“Downtown Inman is a walkable city that is growing,” Moore said. “I feel it is necessary for the safety of pedestrians and to help drivers be more aware of their speed. Also, this will help prepare for the changes that will come with the Saluda Grade rail trail.”
Chapman and downtown Inman’s proximity means the majority of local drivers are students. Whether they are driving home or shopping, downtown Inman serves as a route for many young drivers. This large demographic affects the safety of pedestrians.
“Younger drivers tend to think a little differently than others who have been driving for a longer period of time,” driver’s ed teacher Kevin Carr said.
With around 4000 cars passing through Inman in a day, they average a speed of 29.1 mph.
“When I’m out directing traffic, I see them topping the hill right before they get to the school, and I don’t have a radar on them, but they are definitely speeding,” school resource officer Jeff Martin said.
Seeing this issue, Moore worked alongside many Inman officials to bring her vision to life.
“Our police chief, Keith Tucker, played a vital role in securing these radar signs,” Moore said. “Also, the city council assisted in making this much-needed addition to downtown.”
According to information provided by Tucker, after the addition of the speed warning sign and increased focus on the downtown area by police officers, 24 tickets were issued within 40 days.
The increase in enforcement has also caught the attention of local students who frequently drive through downtown Inman on their way to and from school.
“I like the traps because they keep everybody safe along the roads in downtown Inman,” junior Will McCraw said.
These signs help remind drivers to be cautious in the busy area.
“My hopes are it will make drivers aware of their speed and crosswalks,” Moore said. “This will decrease chances of wrecks and pedestrian injuries.”
