Council updates detour after 36 hours: traffic flowing, signage and tight turns remain concerns

Town staff briefed the council on the first 36 hours of a downtown detour implemented for a major street project and described early adjustments to signage and traffic management.

Staff said traffic is generally moving and that officers have been on site to help direct traffic; congestion occurred during evening rush hour when multiple oversized trucks moved slowly through the detour. Staff added signage where motorists were cutting across residential streets and reported improved flow after adjustments.

Council members and business owners reported mixed anecdotes: some drivers have found available parking on Twelfth, and others were unclear about temporary parking signs near local businesses. Staff said they had reached out to business owners about additional localized signage and that the chamber and staff are coordinating outreach, including variable message signs that remind motorists that local businesses remain open.

Safety and infrastructure concerns: staff and councilors noted tight turning radii and confined space near the construction zone by City Market and the gas station, and suggested removing or modifying temporary “tactical urbanism” bike‑lane features in the tightest stretches until the detour ends. Councilors also discussed a potential permanent four‑way stop at Hendrick and Main as a traffic‑calming possibility raised by the detour experience.

Ending: staff will continue to monitor traffic patterns, add signage where needed, coordinate with businesses on parking information, and provide progress updates to the public. No changes to the construction schedule or contractor incentives were announced at the meeting.