Board approves closure of Turner Street while reserving emergency access

The Mooresville Town Board on March 16 approved a resolution to abandon and close Turner Street after staff and public‑safety departments recommended the closure with conditions.

Kevin Blatton, Public Services Director, told the board the closure request came from adjacent property owners and a developer; required notifications and property postings have been completed and easements for water, sewer, storm drainage, sidewalks and emergency access would be reserved. He said police, fire, planning, utilities and public services reviewed the request and recommended approval, with fire asking that the road remain open until three existing homes are demolished and removed.

Engineering consultant Gerald Grant, representing the property owners, clarified the developer does not plan to remove the pavement and would accept a retained public easement that allows emergency access and services. “Our plans do not include physically removing the pavement,” Grant said, and asked that the easement language preserve emergency‑vehicle access.

Commissioner Haven made the motion to approve the resolution to close Turner Street, with Commissioner Owens seconding. The board approved the motion by voice vote. The resolution retains easements for first‑responder access and utility needs and requires the scheduled demolition before final closure.

Staff will ensure the easement language explicitly preserves emergency access and will coordinate the demolition and recording of any dedications before changing the road’s status.