During the recent Municipal Services Committee meeting in Appleton, significant discussions centered around the condition and future of local streets, particularly focusing on a specific street in need of reconstruction. The committee highlighted that the existing pavement, originally laid in 1967 and last replaced in 1998, is now in poor condition and requires urgent attention.
The street in question features a 60-foot right-of-way with a 32-foot wide pavement. Given its low traffic volume and parking demand, the committee proposed a plan to narrow the street to 26 feet. This change would involve removing parking from one side of the street, aligning with the city's complete streets design guide aimed at improving safety and accessibility.
Additionally, the meeting addressed the state of existing utilities. The water main was last updated in 2009, while the sanitary sewer dates back to the 1880s, indicating a pressing need for replacement as part of the reconstruction efforts.
The discussions reflect a broader commitment by the city to enhance infrastructure while considering the needs of the community. As the committee moves forward with these plans, residents can expect improvements that not only address current deficiencies but also promote a safer and more efficient transportation environment.