During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the North Avenue Raised Grant Project, particularly around public engagement and project timelines. Commissioner Thornton emphasized the urgent need for community input before moving forward, expressing skepticism about the feasibility of a vote in November due to insufficient public feedback. He noted that many residents feel uninformed about the project, especially regarding the proposed roundabout, which has met with resistance in the community.
Thornton highlighted that the consultants were only brought on board in April 2024, despite the grant being awarded in September 2022. He questioned the delays in project initiation and stressed that the community should not be rushed into decisions that could affect their daily lives. He urged for a more inclusive approach, advocating for the public meeting scheduled for October 22 to serve as a platform for residents to voice their concerns.
Commissioner Taylor echoed Thornton's sentiments, advocating for public feedback on safety measures proposed for the bridge, while also expressing concerns about the potential negative impact of eliminating a traffic lane for a roundabout. The commissioners acknowledged the tight deadlines associated with the RAISE grant, which has a current completion deadline of 2026, but expressed hope for an extension due to widespread delays in similar projects across the country.
The discussion underscored the importance of balancing timely project delivery with thorough community engagement, as several commissioners voiced their commitment to ensuring that residents' needs and opinions are prioritized in the planning process. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of further public discussions to ensure that the project aligns with community expectations and safety requirements.