One-way streets, no parking designated near middle school

Streets near Jacksboro Middle School will see a traffic pattern change after the city council voted to change the direction of traffic to one way on 4th and 6th streets and enforce no parking on those streets between Belknap and Live Oak. The council made the decision Monday, July 28, and residents and first responders said they approved of the move.

In July, the city proposed changes to make north 6th Street one way traveling north and to make north 4th Street one way traveling south between Belknap and Live Oak Street. The city also considered enforcing a no parking zone during morning student drop-off and afternoon pick-up at the middle school before deciding to make the streets no parking altogether.

Letters were sent to residents affected by the change, asking for input; six were returned. The city received one response against the changes and one response in favor of one-way streets but against enforcing a timed no parking zone and instead enforcing 24 hours of no parking. The remaining responses were in favor of the changes.

Jacksboro ISD also submitted a letter supporting one-way streets and no parking, saying it could drastically reduce the potential for traffic accidents involving students, parents or school buses.

The city altered traffic patterns in an attempt to decongest traffic on the narrow streets running alongside Jacksboro Middle School. Residents said it was almost impossible for two-way traffic to pass during drop-off and pick-up, especially when vehicles were also parked along the curb.

And with increased evening activity throughout the neighborhood near the middle school, parked cars along the curb could become a hazard.

Emergency services also said making the streets one way was necessary, and said parking should be prohibited at all times to improve access.

Jacksboro Police Chief Jerry Penny said his police vehicle could barely pass through when cars were parked along the side of the road. He added that it would be nearly impossible for a fire truck to make it down the street.

“Full time no parking is a great proposal,” city council member Shawnea’ Smith said. “Making it 24 hours (no parking) makes it easier to enforce.”

The city said enforcement would not begin right away and residents would be officially notified of the changes. Residents could also expect to see other changes, including designated left turn lanes. 

“It will take us a little bit to order some signs and get them up,” City Manager Mike Smith said.