03-26-12 Public Works and Property Vacation

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PUBLIC WORKS AND PROPERTY VACATION COMMITTEE MARCH 26, 201 >2 Committee Members Present: David Varner, Oliver Davis, Gavin Ferlic, Valerie Schey Citizen Member: Vacant Other Council Present: Tim Scott, Henry Davis, Dr. Fred Ferlic, Karen White, Derek Dieter Others Present: Kevin Allen, Kathleen Cekanski - Farrand, Bill Schalliol, Mike Currier, Catherine Hostetler, Mark Lyons, Mr. Watson, Mike DeVita, Christa Nayder, Mr. Farhan, Wanda Schock, Aaron Perri, Pat Crowley Agenda: Bill No. 03 -12 — Vacation Portion of United Drive (Prairie Avenue) This bill intends to complete the re- orientation of streets in the Coveleski /United Beverage area first begun to allow for the expansion of United and then to enhance traffic flow around the ballpark. Chairperson Varner with full committee in attendance recognized Mike Currier a representative from Wightman Petrie to make the presentation. His company was commissioned by the City to do the engineering design work for the project. With a large schematic site plan, Mr. Currier briefly described the changes in the area. Bill Schalliol from the South Bend Economic Development Department supplemented the presentation claiming both the nearby Cove and the Housing Authority were okay with the changes as proposed. No one spoke for or against the proposal. During the Council portion Council President Derek Dieter raised the consequences of abandoning easy access to the east by closing the Taylor St. viaduct. Forcing South Bend emergency services to use the Scott St. viaduct followed by a turn east down a narrow right -of -way was potentially dangerous and time consuming. He was assured by Schalliol that the Housing Authority would keep the right -of -way clear of vehicles and children playing. Dieter was skeptical; but nonetheless was willing to proceed if a memorandum of understanding stating such from the Housing Authority was provided. Schalliol again said steps to keep the right -of -way clear would be implemented. Based on an accompanying memorandum of understanding, Councilmember Gavin Ferlic motioned for the bill to go favorably to Council. Councilmember Schey seconded the motion with all in agreement.