Traffic accident forces closure of two Cornelia streets

CORNELIA - A traffic accident Friday morning has forced the closure of two roadways in the city of Cornelia.

The accident occurred at the intersection of Level Grove Road and Wayside Street, resulting in major damage to a power pole at the intersection. The broken pole contains the control panel for the city's traffic light at that location.

As a result of the accident, Level Grove Road is closed from Baldwin Road (Certus Bank/Ingles) to Faye Street (Hillside Baptist Church).

Wayside Street is closed from Galloway Street to Knox Drive (near Fieldale).

Closures are expected to be in place throughout the day Friday as Georgia Power Co. crews replace the broken power pole.

Cornelia City Manager Donald Anderson said even after the power pole is replaced Friday, the impact of the wreck will linger for at least a week.

"Our traffic light signal control box was damaged, and we'll have to order parts for it," Anderson said.

Anderson said the intersection of Level Grove Road and Wayside Street will become a four-way stop for at least a week. He encourages motorists to avoid the area if possible.

Level Grove Road links downtown Cornelia with the 441 Bypass.