WFHB Bloomington Community Radio
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Business owners on Bloomington’s west side are concerned about the impact of a new road that will connect Vernal Pike to Gates Drive. In their meeting on Wednesday morning, Monroe County Commissioners heard appeals from several businessmen for more communication about the project.
Public Works Director Lisa Ridge told commissioners the county was awarded a little over seven million dollars for construction of the project in 2022. In presenting the design contract for their approval, she explained the project’s timeline includes public input.
Local business owners Garett and Yahn Heitink told commissioners they’re concerned the new road will restrict their plans to expand their business on Sunrise Greeting Court.
Scott Leiberman of Central Supply Company echoed his neighbor’s interest in being part of the design discussion.
Cyclist Greg Alexander brought forward a different concern. He said the new connector won’t be safe for cyclists unless they’re considered in the design process. He lobbied for wider lanes and a speed limit under 45 miles per hour on the new connector road. He also referenced the deaths that have occurred along neighboring Curry Pike in recent decades.
Public Works Director Lisa Ridge tried to reassure the concerned citizens they’ll have input through public hearings at a later date. She reiterated that public hearings are in fact required in order for the county to receive the state funding necessary to construct the project. But she insists the design contract is the first step to get the ball rolling.
The Monroe County Redevelopment Commission approved the design contract last week. Commission member Jim Shelton said the connector road is badly needed, and not just to alleviate current traffic conditions. Cook’s expansion into the former GE plant is expected to more Cook employees on west side roads.
Road construction on the Vernal Pike connector is not expected to begin before 2022.
