The Community Development Authority meeting held on July 22, 2025, in West Allis, Wisconsin, addressed significant concerns regarding local infrastructure projects, particularly the delays in road construction and the impact on community traffic.
The meeting began with discussions surrounding the timeline for the Shummers Way project. Originally scheduled to commence this year and conclude before the Holly Road project, the timeline has now been pushed back by four years, with construction not expected to start until 2029. This delay was met with strong disapproval from community members, who expressed frustration over the lack of communication and planning from the Department of Transportation (DOT).
Participants voiced concerns that the DOT's approach does not consider the holistic needs of the community. The sentiment was that decisions made by the DOT are adversely affecting local residents, creating traffic issues and compounding existing problems. Attendees highlighted the need for better coordination and communication from the DOT to ensure that community interests are prioritized in infrastructure planning.
The discussion also touched on the broader implications of these delays, with community members questioning the rationale behind the DOT's decisions and expressing skepticism about the agency's commitment to addressing local needs. The meeting concluded with a call for more proactive engagement from the DOT to alleviate the traffic challenges that residents are facing.
Overall, the meeting underscored the community's frustration with infrastructure delays and the need for improved communication and planning from state agencies to better serve the residents of West Allis.