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Sparta council adopts crosswalk ordinance and approves S. Union parking restrictions
Summary
After a public hearing, the Village of Sparta adopted Ord. 24-05 to allow R1-6 pedestrian crossing signs at unsignalized crosswalks and approved Traffic Control Orders 24-01 and 24-02 restricting parking in the Silver Creek/S. Union area. Both measures passed unanimously.
The Village of Sparta on July 8 adopted Ordinance 24-05, allowing R1-6 pedestrian crossing signs at unsignalized crosswalks on Division and North Union Streets, and approved traffic control orders that include a no-parking zone in the Silver Creek/South Union area.
During a public hearing, staff explained that “Current state law requires that motorists yield to pedestrians only at signalized crosswalks,” and said the signs are intended to increase downtown pedestrian visibility and reinforce motorists’ expectation to yield. Officials noted the Kent County Road Commission requires a local ordinance before the Village may erect the signs. The ordinance will remain in effect year-round, but the signs will not be installed during winter.
On separate motions, the council approved Traffic Control Orders 24-01 and 24-02, which together regulate on-street parking in the Silver Creek/S. Union corridor. Council Member Robert Carlstrom raised the parking change during new business; Council Member Courtney Mais seconded the traffic motion. Both the ordinance and the traffic control orders passed unanimously.
The council did not record any public opposition during the hearing. Implementation steps include ordering signage consistent with the county requirement and coordinating installation timing with public works to avoid winter placement.
