Residents raise traffic and alley access concerns for proposed 301 S. Market development

During the public‑comment period, Joe Fry, who identified himself as a Marion resident at 107 E. Marion St., urged council members to reexamine one‑way street designations and alley access related to a proposed development at 301 S. Market (applicant referenced as Jeff Mayer). Fry said traffic increases on East Marion have been notable since East College became one‑way and recommended reversing the one‑way designation or otherwise limiting cut‑through traffic to protect the neighborhood.

Fry raised a second concern about the project’s proposed use of a narrow alley between East Marion and Florence to provide access and parking for patrons and residents, saying frequent alley use would increase congestion and affect adjacent properties. "I was thinking about limiting the traffic," he said, proposing options including vacating a portion of the alley or blocking through traffic if warranted.

Mayor Absher told Fry the zoning action had been tabled at the property owner’s request after updated building cost estimates, and the council said staff would notify neighbors if and when a new proposal returned for consideration. No formal council action on zoning or alley vacation occurred at the meeting; the item was tabled pending the developer’s decision.