The Summerville City Council has unanimously approved a 60-day trial for a speed breaker on the east end of Penn Street, aiming to mitigate vehicle speeds in an area known for limited traffic access and its proximity to the former Summerville Elementary School.

The decision followed a recommendation from the Summerville Police Department, which conducted an evaluation and determined that a speed-reducing device would be the most effective solution for the location.

City Manager Jason Winters stated that the primary objective of the trial is to “test and monitor the effectiveness of the speed breaker” before the council makes a final decision on its permanence.

Residents of Penn Street have shown strong support for the measure. With only five homes on the street, four out of five homeowners actively signed a petition in favor of the speed breaker’s installation, highlighting community desire for improved safety.

While the vote for the trial was unanimous, Mayor Harry Harvey expressed some reservations about traffic calming devices in general, indicating a personal preference for increased police presence as an alternative. However, Mayor Harvey acknowledged the necessity of proper procedure and the evaluation period. He emphasized the importance for the city to “monitor the situation closely and choose traffic calming measures that are not overwhelming.”

Councilman Rickey Hughes motioned for the speed breaker’s installation, with Councilman Joe Money Jr. seconding the motion, leading to the council’s unanimous approval.

Following the completion of the 60-day trial period, the Summerville City Council will reconvene to reassess the speed breaker’s efficacy and determine whether it will become a permanent fixture on Penn Street.