Fredericktown aldermen discuss West Main crosswalk safety and possible parking-space ordinance

The Fredericktown Board of Aldermen discussed pedestrian-safety concerns and the need for an ordinance to clarify a parking space on West Main during the Nov. 25, 2024 meeting.

During the administrator's report, the Administrator told the board the municipal code will need an ordinance to address a parking space on West Main and described plans for a sidewalk project that will put a new crosswalk by the bank. The Administrator said the work should funnel pedestrian traffic toward the new crosswalk but noted a nearby ditch and pipe will require either a raised crossing or a retaining wall to make the route safe and accessible.

The Chair said existing flashing lights are installed at a stop sign nearby but that lighting at the crosswalk remains a concern. The Chair said the town has applied for or previously received notice of a possible grant that could help, and also noted the town could address the ditch and crossing if additional funds are provided.

No ordinance number, formal motion to introduce an ordinance, or vote on an ordinance was recorded in the transcript. The matter was discussed as part of the administrator's report; board members did not adopt any ordinance during this meeting.

The discussion emphasized safety and funding: board members asked how to make the West Main crossing safer for pedestrians, considered structural fixes for the ditch and pipe, and discussed seeking grant funding or local funds to pay for improvements. The board asked staff to continue work on the sidewalk and crosswalk plans and to return with ordinance language and cost estimates for future action.