City leaders recently adopted a policy that will allow for a process of review for memorial markers around the city’s roads.
The action for a memorial marker was requested by Tanya Martinez, who lost her husband, Jayson, in a traffic accident on Alexander Street.
The purpose of the memorial markers is to remember those lost in traffic accidents on Plant City roads and encourage motorists to drive safely and acknowledge the right of way.
“It will allow for an expression of sympathy,” City Manager Mike Herr said. “And it will make sure the right of way is properly governed.”
The markers will be about 42 inches tall and 15 inches wide, according to a sketch done by the Florida Department of Transportation Highway Safety.
Those who wish to have a marker placed within the city can send requests to the city engineer’s office. Requests can be made by immediate family members exclusively, such as sisters, brothers, parents and spouses.
The city engineer also will determine the exact spot for the marker; the markers cannot be placed in street medians or in spots that may interfere with the flow of traffic. Excessive decorations are not allowed on the markers, but families can choose to include the name of their lost loved one on the marker.
“I expect this to be a very friendly process,” Herr said. “It provides citizens with the opportunity to pay respects to their loved ones.”
Each memorial marker costs about $70, and the money will be taken out of the sign fund. The cost includes the construction, installation and removal of each memorial marker. If approved by the city engineer, the memorial makers will remain in their designated places for two years before removal.
City leaders hope the placement of future markers will continue to increase public safety.
Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.