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Residents object as council introduces revocation of portion of Reese Street
Summary
An ordinance to revoke part of Reese Street was introduced April 14; Rev. Montgomery and neighbors said they received no notice and feared the closure would impede access to New Faith Missionary Baptist Church and emergency response. Council members said the proposed revocation applies only to a short segment and does not close the entire street.
Council members introduced an ordinance April 14 to revoke a 53‑foot‑by‑215‑foot portion of Reese Street between Booth and Rogers Streets. The item was introduced by Mr. Muhammad and seconded by Mr. McFarland for future consideration.
Rev. Montgomery of 77 Langston Street stepped to the podium during the introduction to say neighborhood residents and churches had not received notice and to warn that the closure would affect traffic flow to New Faith Missionary Baptist Church and could complicate emergency vehicle access. "They left Canary Street off and his street but using vague language to camouflage what they are trying to do," Rev. Montgomery said, asking the council to consider community impact.
Chairman Rodney McFarland said the council visited the site and clarified that the revocation would apply only to a small portion—approximately 200 feet on the Booth end—ending before Rogers Street, not a full street closure. City Attorney Mr. Creekbaum added the revocation would stop near the property line so intersections on both sides would remain clear.
Why this matters: street revocations can alter local traffic patterns, affect church and neighborhood access, and raise concerns about public notice and community input.
Next steps: the ordinance was introduced and will return for further consideration; council members and staff were asked to ensure clearer maps and community notice before a final vote.
