City Council prioritizes safety with new sidewalk plan near wellness center

The Seward City Council convened on June 17, 2025, to address several pressing community issues, with a significant focus on safety concerns related to pedestrian traffic near the wellness center.

The meeting opened with discussions surrounding the safety of individuals walking, jogging, and biking on Wheeler Road, particularly in light of the nearby wellness center. Council members expressed alarm over the high speeds at which vehicles are traveling in this area, emphasizing the need for immediate action to enhance safety for pedestrians, especially students who walk to and from school.

A key point raised was the necessity of constructing a sidewalk to facilitate safer crossings for middle school students who are bussed to the wellness center but still need to navigate the road. The council acknowledged that decisions regarding the design and implementation of this crossing are contingent upon the installation of the sidewalk.

Financial considerations were also discussed, with council members exploring funding options for the sidewalk project. They noted the availability of funds from previous discussions about the city’s levy and potential savings from the wellness center budget. The consensus was that a combination of these financial resources would be utilized to support the sidewalk initiative.

The council reiterated the importance of this project, highlighting that it not only addresses safety concerns but also enhances connectivity for residents traveling to various locations, including Columbia and Carroll Cay. The decision to focus on the south side of Wheeler Road was made due to existing engineering plans and the need to avoid complications related to infrastructure, such as gas mains.

As the meeting progressed, the council continued to prioritize the safety of the community, with plans to finalize the sidewalk project to ensure safer passage for all residents. The discussions underscored the council's commitment to addressing safety and connectivity issues in Seward.