Carroll County Updates Street Management Manual for Improved Pedestrian Safety

The Taneytown Mayor and City Council held a workshop on September 3, 2025, focusing on revisions to the general specifications for street and stormwater management facilities construction. The meeting began with Jim leading the discussion on the manual, which serves as a supplement to the Carroll County streets manual. He emphasized the importance of aligning terminology for various road types, including collector roads, service drives, alleys, local roads, and commercial industrial roads.

Jim noted that the revisions aim to enhance clarity and consistency within the manual. This includes updating sample drawings to ensure they accurately reflect the text descriptions, particularly regarding dimensions and road markings. The discussion also highlighted the need for pedestrian safety measures, specifically regarding crosswalks. Jim proposed the inclusion of solar-powered Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) at heavily trafficked crosswalks, such as those near Roberts Mill Park and Keene, especially where pedestrian trails intersect with local or collector streets.

The council members considered whether to mandate these safety features in the manual for anticipated high foot traffic areas. They also discussed the existing conditions of Roberts Mill Road, questioning its classification as a local or collector road and its compliance with the city’s standards, particularly regarding pavement width.

The workshop concluded with a commitment to further analyze the proposed changes and their implications for future developments in Taneytown, ensuring that safety and clarity remain priorities in the city’s infrastructure planning.