At a meeting held with the two architectural firms, one which is
designing the new fire station and the other, which is developing
the master park plan, it became evident that both projects could
be better coordinated, and gain the best use of land economically,
if another property could be acquired on Columbia Road.
The City negotiated with the owner, came to an agreement, and purchased
the property. The result will be a better designed fire station
and the park, which will be designed to provide new recreational
opportunities, can proceed with confidence. The additional benefit
of improved access to undeveloped lands zoned for business development
was also realized.
Plans to improve traffic flow through the City also progressed.
An easement was obtained so that a future turn lane will be constructed
on Columbia Road at Cook Road. The decision of a long time resident
to put their home up for sale presented another opportunity to correct
a traffic congestion problem. The City purchased the property at
Bagley Road and Usher Road. We will use some of the lot to create
a relocated Usher Road to create a safer intersection with less
traffic delays.
The plans and progress for the construction of an underpass/overpass
at Columbia Road and the railroad tracks near Sprague Road are moving
forward. We are researching design alternatives for the best cost
and least disruption to the neighborhood.
The initiation for Quiet Zones looks to be redirected through the
State of Ohio. The Federal Rail Commission Rules are not gaining
support in Congress. The City is leading efforts with other suburbs
in the area to work with CSX, Norfolk Southern, and State Officials.
We expect we can make progress on this issue after the election
of new Ohio House Representatives. Erin Sullivan, who has served
this District well, is retiring from her seat. I would like to thank
her for her assistance to us for the last four years and wish her
and her family well.
Once a new General Assembly convenes, we will continue to aggressively
pursue Quiet Zones in Ohio by amending the State Train Whistle Laws.