Arce presented several different options for the eight-foot wide bike lane, but the council was unanimously unhappy with all of them. One of the proposals would have eliminated 130 parking spaces along Main Street to accommodate the new lane, and others would have eliminated one travel lane in each direction.
Arce pointed out the drawbacks and benefits of each plan, saying that elimination of travel lanes would calm traffic and make Main Street safer, but could also lead to more congestion in the downtown area.
The proposed project would have cost the city approximately $90,000 for a traffic study, sandblasting, new striping and signage.
Mayor Jerry Brittsan led the opposition to the proposal, saying that he would be opposed to losing even one parking space. That sentiment was echoed by council member Colleen Ludwig.
“If we’re trying to encourage business I wouldn't want to lose any parking spaces,” Ludwig said.
City Treasurer Pete Mellinger was also vehemently against the creation of bicycle lanes, pleading with the council to forget the project.
“Please don’t spend all that money on a bike lane to plug up the community,” Mellinger said. “What kind of stupid thing is that? What are you thinking? Leave it as it is for goodness sake!”
I'm so glad that Brittsan and Ludwig have commone sense when it comes to issues as these. A bike lane would be beneficial in a bigger city but not in our peaceful town.
ReplyDeleteIt will be sad to see Ludwig and Brittsan go. I know they are older, but they have a wealth of knowledge and lots of common sense. I'm sad to see who will replace them. Let's hope they are smart and have common sense. Unfortunately, I have feeling one of them does not.
how about the city spends $90,000 on something more useful than building a bike lane
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