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Urbana resident urges fixes for High Street driveway hazard; city says project follows approved plans
Summary
A resident told council High Street construction left her driveway dangerously steep for family members with mobility needs; city engineers said work follows temporary right-of-way plans, described project timing and offered residents the opportunity to review design drawings.
A Urbana resident raised safety concerns at the Oct. 15 council meeting, telling members that local construction on High Street had left her driveway with a steep grade that she called a hazard for family members with mobility limitations.
Lynn Mintchell of 904 S. High St. said her previously concrete driveway now slopes sharply toward the street and described it as unsafe in winter. She asked why her driveway was altered while others were not. City Engineer Tyler Bumbalough and Director of Administration Kerry Brugger responded that the work reflects the temporary right-of-way and design approved during the project acquisition process. Brugger said the project aims to move water away from properties and follows the approved plans; Bumbalough said underground work is complete except for final under drains, with curbs targeted for installation by the end of October and paving planned for mid-November, followed by sidewalk work.
Ms. Truelove and other council members pressed for clarity on property impacts and said staff would make drawings available by appointment for any resident who wants to review the plans. Brugger said Dunrobin and subconsultants had reviewed work with property owners approximately two years ago as part of the temporary right-of-way process.
Council members also raised related neighborhood concerns during Miscellaneous Business: Mr. Thackery noted growing problems with powered bicycles on sidewalks and public-safety risks; Director of Law Mark Feinstein said ordinances exist but enforcement requires officers to witness infractions. Police Chief Matt Lingrell recommended public outreach as an interim measure and announced a drug take-back event scheduled for Oct. 26 from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
The council did not take immediate corrective action on the driveway during the meeting but offered residents the ability to meet with staff and review project drawings to determine next steps.
