Posted on Friday, March 3, 2006 - 6:41 pm:

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Quote:

PUBLIC SAFETY

1. Residents from Hamilton, Stanley and Kingman Road addressed the Board – Alma Anderson of 577 Hamilton Road commented that the temporary barricades have resulted in a "dramatic change" to the neighborhood. She stated that before the temporary barricades were installed, a traffic count taken during one 24 hour time period had shown that 834 vehicles had used Stanley Road and 798 vehicles on Kingman Road. Those figures had now been greatly reduced making the neighborhood more "peaceful" and allowing children to play in the area. She commended the Village officials for acting so quickly in addressing the residents’ concerns. She stated that the overwhelming majority of the homeowners in the area greatly appreciate the pro-active approach the Board has taken with this problem. She then stated that a permanent solution now needs to be found. She advised that the residents had discussed installing gates, however, the residents did not want a "gated" community. She suggested utilizing large concrete planters as permanent barriers. Trustee Theroux wanted the residents in this area to be aware of the fact that when permanent barricades are installed, there will be a definite negative impact upon the response time for emergency vehicles. Ms. Anderson replied that the neighborhood understands that there will be a delay in response time, however, the residents do not feel that it will be that significant. It was agreed that the Board would need to adopt an ordinance to close the affected streets. Said ordinance would then need to be sent to both the County and the State for approval. Village President Calabrese recommended that the Village Engineer and Director of Public Works work with the residents to come up with a plan for the permanent closing of the streets. Village Administrator Gross reminded the Board that any permanent plan would require a capital expenditure. Mr. Gross additionally commented that he would like to wait until the Spring before installing any permanent barricades in order to first go through the winter months to see what unanticipated issues and/or obstacles might arise with snow plowing, maintenance of the streets, etc. It was noted that another topic for discussion was whether or not to erect a traffic light at Hamilton Road and Centre Street.

Ken Levin of 623 Hamilton Road commented that he was not in favor of permanent barricades to close down the streets. He suggested that more traffic signs be erected. It was noted that signs are of no assistance as most motorists simply ignore them.

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