The Regional Transportation Commission is planning yet another road construction project.
They're in the middle of a long-term study, looking at what improvements need to be made along a stretch of road starting on Mill Street in downtown and heading east.
Different areas of that four-mile stretch each have their own problems that need to be addressed. The biggest concern right now, is the intersection of Kietzke Lane and Mill.
"Lots of crashes there," says Tom Greco, Senior Transportation Engineer with the RTC. "If nobody ran a red light, it wouldn't be an issue."
But, that isn't the only area that needs some work. The boundaries for this project extend from Lake Street at Mill Street to Terminal Way to Plumb Lane.
"We're looking at what's on the road now, what needs are going to be in the future, and what the concerns are of the citizens," says Greco.
Some streets need wider sidewalks and bike lanes, while others need more stop lights. The RTC says the public recognizes these improvements are warranted.
"Perhaps some crosswalks," says Jean-Paul Torres with the RTC. "Particularly, between Kietzke and US-395."
Business owners on Mill Street have taken notice of some of these problems. Katherine Bell owns the Crazy Pickle Sandwich Shop and says intersections in the area are dangerous for drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists.
"I see it all the time. A lot of congestion and where it needs improvements in those things," says Bell.
Bell wants to see wider streets and sidewalks near her business, which she hopes will bring in more customers.
"Easier access for pedestrians," she says. "There's not even really like a sidewalk, so I think that stops of lot of foot traffic."
Because this project is four miles long, it will take quite a bit of time to complete. But, the RTC says the problems will get solved.
"We need to meet everyone's needs," says Greco.
Written by Adam Rasmussen
