Library representative asks council to approve an exit driveway to improve safety and accessibility

Stacy, a library representative, told the borough council she and the library board are seeking the council’s approval and input on a driveway-improvement project that would add a dedicated exit driveway and convert the book-drop to a drive-up unit.

She said the current driveway functions as both entrance and exit in a narrow 16-foot segment that causes frequent conflicts between entering and exiting cars, creating hazards for pedestrians and children. "If one car is pulling in and another car is pulling out, we have a lot of back and forth happening," Stacy said, arguing a one-way exit would improve safety and sight lines.

Project specifics include relocating one ADA-accessible parking space near an existing curb cut and handicap ramp, removing two to three trees adjacent to the new path, and installing a new, sideways-facing sign on the entrance island. Stacy said the library already purchased an adjustable dropbox that can be spun to become a drive-up box so patrons can deposit items from the driver's side window.

She emphasized the work is planned to be paid from the library’s capital reserve and—because the cost falls under the borough’s bid threshold—would not require a formal public bid. "We're not asking for your money," Stacy said, describing a plan she called minimally disruptive and intended to improve accessibility for patrons with mobility issues and parents with small children.

Council members asked whether the police department had been consulted and where bike racks and picnic tables would be relocated. Stacy said she had spoken with Keith Lynch (public works) and that the engineer confirmed required sight-line and distance standards; she did not have a written police memorandum at the meeting but said she would follow up. She said work might require closing the lot for tree removal and excavation on a few days and the library would seek short-term shared municipal parking for staff if needed.

Council discussion was supportive at the meeting and members encouraged tree replacement on another part of the lawn if trees are removed. No formal vote on the driveway was taken that night; the presentation concluded with council members inviting the presenter to return with final plans and any police or engineering memos for formal approval.