Council hears concerns about the safety of 50/257……
– As he has done before, James D. Clarke came to the Washington City Council to ask support for his efforts to make the SR 257-US 50 intersection a safer place. Clarke said two accidents this past weekend brought him to Monday’s meeting. Supporters for a safer US 50-SR 257 intersection have been trying to raise awareness of the dangerous intersection for several years. In seeking help from the City, County, and State, Clarke says the speed issue, and people being distracted and not paying attention are problems that need addressed. Clarke called for parents, family members, and friends to talk about the dangers of distracted driving, and to be especially aware of the dangerous intersection. Although the intersection is outside the City of Washington’s jurisdiction, Mayor Wellman and the Council praised Clarke’s efforts. Councilman Blake Chambers thanked Clarke for his concern and noted that education about the issue was the big first step.
– Before Monday’s regular meeting the Washington City Council held a public hearing, and then passed an ordinance for an additional appropriation. Washington Mayor Joe Wellman explains the action:
The additional funds will come from the Motor Vehicle and Highway Fund. The council also approved resolutions amending the City’s Comprehensive Plan. One resolution dealt in changes to the transportation plan for the I-69/US 50 interchange area, while the other made changes in the general transportation plan for the rest of the city, including the 15th Street Bridge project. The Council also adopted a new ordinance requested by INDOT, to set a policy on asset management.
– Following the Council meeting the Board of Public Works and Safety approved temporary Street closings for a couple of public events. The Mayor, Joe Wellman tells us more…
The Bicentennial Parade will be using West Main from 2nd to 5th and area side streets as a staging area for the Bicentennial Parade the morning of July 9. The White Steamer’s request was to close Main Street from 2nd to Meridian on August 27.
