Tullahoma offers an attractive setting for small-town living with Tennessee rolling hills, beautiful lakes that reflect surrounding landscapes, along with the smells of nature. There are walking trails that lead to hidden waterfalls that can be heard deep in the distance by a rumbling sound, and felt by a cool, misty air.  There is much charm to this beautiful town, unique attractions and community spirit.

  I grew up in Tullahoma, and am a proud graduate of Tullahoma High School, Class of 1977.  I visit Tullahoma quite frequently as my mother is still a resident of Tullahoma.  I have fond memories from my childhood of playing outdoors with my brothers and sisters in our yard, drinking from water hoses, and going on all day bicycle adventures!  Neighbors took care of each other, and families were close nit with the community sharing strong bonds.

  Today, I enjoy the variety and convenience the small town offers of shopping and restaurants.  The tree lined streets create a welcoming atmosphere that is friendly and warm.  The town has grown at such an incredible rate over the years, and I am sure the residents enjoy all the conveniences that come with that growth as well.  All of this said, brings me to the point I would like to share with you and local readers of your community.

  I can’t help but take note of the many large potholes in your shopping center and restaurant areas.  They present a significant challenge to the beauty of your town. There’s are a few areas where it is unavoidable to miss a pothole (that is very large), to enter or to exit the place of business.  This particular place is Taco Bell, which seems busy every time I have been there.  There are also areas in your nice, new shopping plaza where Publix, Old Navy, and other shopping venues are. I experienced a very rough area leaving the Kroger shopping center beside Applebee’s. This can be a potential damage to a vehicle and even a safety hazard for drivers and pedestrians. These potholes can place financial burdens on the residents due to repairs on their vehicles.

  I feel certain there can be steps taken to address the pothole problem, such as, prioritizing repair efforts, taking preventative measures, and seeking community input. Talk to your community, leaders!  Let them know you are aware there is a problem, but you have a plan for that problem, and you are committed to that plan to improve the situation.  Ask your residents to report dangerous potholes so you are aware of a situation that could cause harm, so you then can take the corrective action to repair that situation.  Provide a number or an email for the residents to reach out you so they have confidence you are aware, and that actions will be taken.

  Take care of your beautiful, quaint and lively town!  It offers so much to not only your residents, but to visitors too.  I believe you will take the action needed to improve this pothole situation, because I believe you love you community and your town, Tullahoma. I still love Tullahoma too! 

Carol Maxwell

Scottsboro, Alabama