Commissioners approve crosswalk and signage at county lake after safety concerns

Brown County commissioners approved a request from the Brown County Water Improvement District to install a crosswalk and signage at a hazardous crossing on the spillway road near the county lake.

Representatives of the Water Improvement District described repeated near‑misses and at least one injury at a hill where pedestrian traffic was funneled into vehicle lanes; the district had built a walkway that funnels walkers to a single crossing point. “We have had an injury there,” the district representative said.

Commissioners discussed jurisdictional responsibility — the road over the dam is a county road while portions of the dam approach were improved previously — and agreed the county could approve crosswalk infrastructure and signage even if the roadwork itself involved other agencies. Commissioners also noted electricity and lighting at the site that could support signage, cameras and lighting if needed.

A motion to approve the crosswalk and accompanying signage for the location depicted in the district’s materials was moved and seconded; the court voted in favor with no recorded opposition. County staff will work with the district on specifics of paint, thermoplastic or reflective materials and final placement; commissioners emphasized the need to balance cost and safety.

One commissioner suggested more signage at the top of the hill to give motorists advance notice; staff said they will coordinate required details and return with a final plan and cost estimate.