New Stop Signs Spark Debate across Graham’s Community

The Graham City Council recently approved two new stop sign reconfigurations. On July 7, 2025, the first reconfiguration was approved for the Tennessee and Fourth Street intersection following the recommendation of the Graham Police Department. Similarly, following on August 16, 2025, a redesign was approved for the Third and Cherry intersection, including enhanced wheelchair accessibility.
The first reconfiguration for the Tennessee and Fourth intersection put into place triggered controversy on Facebook within 24 hours. Some residents think it is a needed safety feature. A parent via the Facebook post made on July 7, 2025, by the City of Graham commented, “This will be great for all of the school kiddos that have to cross that way when school is back in session. Always made me nervous seeing them cross right there during the busy times!” Other residents believe it is “unnecessary” or that the community should focus on other areas with heavier traffic. An anonymous resident I spoke with stated, “I think it slows down traffic; we’ll be stopping for nothing.”
Unlike the opinions of the Tennessee and Fourth intersection, many people agree with the redesign of the Third and Cherry intersection. Members of Graham believe this one is necessary and adds safety. A commenter from The Graham Leader’s Facebook post suggests adding speed bumps could improve the redesign further. The Graham City Council has not commented on the concerns or suggestions made by the community or stated any future changes.