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Residents press council on ADA access, audible crosswalks and automatic doors
Summary
During public comment, residents and an Equity & Inclusion commissioner urged the city to improve accessibility: install audible pedestrian signals, provide automatic restroom doors in city facilities, and prioritize a four‑way crossing at Kirk Road and Route 64. Staff acknowledged concerns and said projects and funding are under review.
Three residents used the public‑comment period to press the city on accessibility and pedestrian safety in Saint Charles.
Trudy Nickel, an Equity and Inclusion commissioner and longtime resident, told council members she prefers the phrase "physical challenges" to "disabled" and urged the city to adopt technology and infrastructure that improves participation, including hearing assistive loops and audible traffic signals.
"There is not 1 audible stoplight in the city of Saint Charles," Nickel said, and she called for broader installation of audible signals, noting the intersection of East Main and Kirk Road as a particular safety concern for pedestrians who cannot drive. She also urged automatic door installations in public restrooms and other city facilities so people who use wheelchairs, walkers or prosthetics can use the building facilities.
Resident Sam Parker thanked staff for identifying crosswalk candidates and urged prioritizing a multi‑way, audible crossing at Kirk Road and Route 64 rather than lower‑priority crossings elsewhere.
Resident Steve Loeffler raised questions about water quality and electric rates and asked for follow‑up from the Public Works and electric directors on specific property issues; staff offered to connect him with the appropriate directors after the meeting.
Staff response and next steps
Council members and staff acknowledged the concerns. Staff said audible signals are planned for portions of First Street this year and that the Kirk Road crossing is under design study and discussion with possible cost‑sharing partners; no formal funding decision was made at the meeting. The E&I commissioner and residents asked staff to return with specific implementation plans and cost estimates that could be considered in the budget or capital program.
Ending: Council members asked staff to follow up with the speakers and to include accessibility and crosswalk cost/options in future budget and capital planning discussions.
