Residents press Morris council on Main Street crosswalk and 7th Street safety; council to consult MnDOT and park board

A resident told the Morris City Council on April 28 that a truck failed to stop while she was halfway across the crosswalk near the ELC exercise facility on Main Street, describing a recent near-miss and renewed concern about pedestrian safety on the state highway.

Mary Elizabeth said the crosswalk paint is nearly gone and recounted that "he didn't stop," and that the truck driver later apologized, saying his view had been blocked. She urged the council to pursue engineering or warning measures — such as a push‑button flasher, an indicator, or other traffic-calming devices — and said she had raised a request for a signal 25 years earlier. City members noted the crossing is on a state highway and suggested staff reach out to MnDOT's traffic safety engineer to explore options.

Separately, council members and staff discussed the 7th Street project and seasonal safety concerns where narrowed lanes and double parking for ball tournaments can restrict visibility. Councilmember Collison and others suggested one-sided parking during busy times, temporary signage, flashing warning lights, or reduced speed limits; staff and consultants (Widseth) said the city can implement local restrictions and would consult MnDOT and the park board and report recommendations back to council.

The council did not adopt a formal resolution at the meeting but agreed to follow up. City staff volunteered to contact MnDOT's traffic safety engineer and to coordinate with public works and the park board on temporary or formal solutions.

What’s next: staff to contact MnDOT, consult Russ (public works) and the park board, and return with recommendations at a future meeting.