Panama City officials take steps to improve Star Avenue

BAY COUNTY, Fla. ( WMBB ) – Local and state officials are taking steps to improve a busy and dangerous section of roadway along Highway 231.

The plans would involve rerouting Star Avenue to meet with Titus Road, incorporating a 4-stop with traffic signals and a roundabout south of that new intersection.

It would also mean traffic would no longer be able to enter Highway 231 at Star the spot where Star Avenue and John Pits Road intersect.

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Panama City Commissioners signed off on the plan Tuesday, saying it will significantly improve safety.

"That's another really bad spot for wrecks. People trying to pull out, people trying to turn in. It's really bad. For the safety of everyone, and for the betterment of the intersections, and being able to get in and get out at a more expediate pace. This is a great project," Panama City Commissioner Brian Grainer said.

Both Panama City and Bay County will pay a portion of the project, with the state covering the rest of the cost. They're hoping to begin work on the project by the middle of next year.

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