THE BRIGHT SIDE
Slow down.
From what speed to what speed? Safety should always be a top priority, and the city strives to improve along Highway 50 (Main Street), which has been discussed on several occasions regarding safety and speed. It is either congested with a line of cars trying to get into the city or clear with the occasional speeder or driver going too slow, if there is such a thing.
Alderperson Fesenmaier brought the issue to the table and has pushed for approval with every step of the process (she owns a house overlooking that stretch of road). The item has been reviewed by the public works committee and was brought to the council to review changes and for approval to forward the request to the DOT for approval. The speed on this corridor into the city is 40 mph currently, and reducing it to 25 mph seems a bit drastic to many locals. A speed study was conducted on March 3rd between Curtis Street and East Drive to determine if the speed could be lowered, and the results of the study recommend that the speed be reduced. However, the study did show that 85% of drivers drive approximately 37 mph along this roadway.
When the city is less visited and locals can maneuver the city with ease, the thought of slowing down to a snail’s pace is frustrating. The number one reason for the requested change was due to safety, mostly pedestrian traffic. Highway 50 does not have a sidewalk along its entirety and is used by pedestrians more than one would think. It can be extremely dangerous to travel on foot or with adaptive equipment such as a wheelchair if vehicles are speeding and not paying attention to pedestrians on the shoulder of the road. However, the reconstruction of Highway 50 will change everything, including the addition of sidewalks along the entire stretch of this highway. Alderperson Hoiland is not behind the speed change at all, but in the spirit of compromise, made a motion to change the speed to 30 mph. Alderperson Frame is also not behind the drastic change in speed and made a motion to change the speed to 35 mph. After all the amendments were voted on, 30 mph is what the city will submit to the DOT. The DOT will now have the final say.
Place of the Week
700 Sage is a new women’s boutique in downtown Lake Geneva, located at 728 Main Street. This shop is a wonder, offering classic looks with a modern take.
