Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Community Concern Transportation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents press Urbana council over High Street construction signage and dumped trash
Summary
Multiple residents told council that ODOT signage for the High Street project is being placed in front yards and that dumped garbage near the Simon Kenton Trail is recurring; staff said ODOT right‑of‑way rules may require certain placements and will consult the city engineer.
Several Urbana residents used the public‑comment period on Nov. 19 to press the council for answers about construction signage on South High Street and recurrent dumping near the Simon Kenton Trail.
Robin Miller told council she had been notified by ODOT that "there will be 136 signs on High Street going into people's yards," and said she was surprised and upset that signs would be installed in front yards rather than on tree lines. Cynthia Blaker said her property received four signs and described fourteen signs in a two‑block stretch that she said diminished the street’s character. Brian Baltimore, a homeowner on S. High Street, said that after construction is complete the corridor "will seem like a caricature of its former self."
Doug Crabill, community development manager, and Director of Administration Kerry Brugger said the city must abide by ODOT right‑of‑way requirements to accept ODOT funding and that staff would consult City Engineer Tyler Bumbalough for specifics on required sign placement. Brugger said the city communicated to homeowners that signage would appear but could not confirm the precise number during the meeting.
Separately, resident Joe George reported repeated dumping where Washington Avenue dead‑ends at the Simon Kenton Trail and asked whether the material might be food attracting deer. Director of Law Mark Feinstein said dumping is illegal but said enforcement requires evidence tying the act to a person.
Council did not take formal action on signage or dumping during the meeting; staff committed to following up with ODOT and the city engineer and to report back to council.
