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Council advances street-abandonment request despite safety concerns for Hendrick Hospital access
Summary
On first reading the council moved forward a proposal to abandon portions of two streets for a hospital expansion; council members and the fire chief expressed safety and access concerns about permanently closing Hickory Street.
The Abilene City Council on first reading moved forward a request to abandon two streets—North 20 First Street and a segment of Hickory Street—related to a proposed expansion adjacent to Hendrick Health System, but several council members and public safety officials raised concerns about the Hickory closure and its effect on emergency access.
Council members said they support the expansion’s need for additional parking but questioned closing Hickory Street, which several members described as a thoroughfare used to reach Hendrick’s emergency room. “I would go up Hickory, I'd go home from work, have dinner with the family, and then go up there and visit my grandparents,” Councilman Beard said, describing the street’s role as a connector to the hospital. Councilman Shane said he “hate[s] to cause a safety issue at our hospital.”
Candy Flores, Abilene Fire Chief, said she drove the area and shares the council’s concerns: closing Hickory “does present some issues, especially for public safety access,” she said, noting the area is used for ladder-truck operations and that proposed emergency-vehicle access points are narrow. Flores suggested traffic calming measures—such as stop signs or speed-control features—as alternatives to a full closure.
Council members discussed procedural options: because this was the first reading, council could advance the item and expect proponents to rework the proposal before final consideration. City legal staff and planning staff suggested developers often refine proposals between first and second reading; Councilman McAllister said moving the item forward would allow further work and public input prior to final action.
A public hearing produced no public testimony. Councilman Beard moved to advance the request to second reading; Councilman Price seconded. The mayor announced “all yeses, motion carries.” Council members said they expect additional information and alternatives by second reading, and several said they might support only abandoning North 20 First Street if Hickory closure is not adequately justified.
Votes: Motion to advance to second reading (Councilman Beard), second (Councilman Price). Outcome: advanced to second reading. Notes: public safety concerns raised; Fire Chief requested alternatives to closure.
