Calera citizens overwhelmingly gave the green light to a half-cent sales tax to fund installation and maintenance of a stop light on Highway 69/75.

The tax will fund not only a stop light but will also help maintain streets, alleys and bridges in town.

It passed by 72.24 percent. Out of 246 ballots cast, 177 citizens voted for it and 68 were opposed, according to figures released by the Bryan County Election Board.

“The people have spoken,” said Council Member J.D. Rose. “It was put to the people and the people made their decision. I think that's the way to do it.”

Vicki Barkley began calling for a tax this past spring following the deaths of two senior citizens on the highway. Barkley was appointed to the council in August.

There have been numerous accidents on the highway and many citizens have expressed concern that the cross overs are dangerous. Several years ago, the council considered a proposal from the Oklahoma Department of Transportation to put up a stop light.

The council ultimately gave that proposal the red light because of the costs and many business owners did not want any cross overs closed, a requirement of ODOT.

Now that the tax has passed, city officials are expected to meet with ODOT about another traffic study. Rose said the study could take up to a year.

The council is expected to discuss the tax at its next meeting.