Traffic concerns escalate as new development plans unfold

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed traffic concerns on One 20th Avenue, where current data indicates an average speed of 48 mph, raising alarms about safety as new developments are planned. The conversation highlighted the need for traffic calming measures before additional homes are constructed, as increased traffic could exacerbate existing speeding issues.

While acknowledging the speeding problem, officials noted that the responsibility for addressing it does not fall solely on the government, as it was not created by them. However, developers are expected to contribute proportionately to traffic improvements based on the additional trips generated by their projects. One developer has proposed various options for their entrance to mitigate traffic impacts.

The discussion also touched on the financial contributions related to a planned roundabout, with one developer committing $200,000, which exceeds their required share of 3.4% for a projected $4 million project. This contribution, along with land dedication for the village, was seen as a positive step towards addressing traffic concerns.

Additionally, the topic of a traffic signal at Aisle View was raised, with officials clarifying that it is primarily a demand signal for school traffic and not directly attributable to the developments on One 20th. The existing crossing facilities for students were also mentioned, indicating that while the signal could facilitate safer travel for children, it is not deemed necessary given current provisions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the complexities of managing traffic safety in the face of new developments, balancing developer contributions with community needs.