This afternoon I struck out across the Square to go to the library. Already I hear readers groaning as they know what is coming next. So, first allow me to establish some parameters to this letter.
I understand progress can be painful. I support our local businesses and community leaders who are trying to invest in Monroe's future. That being said, this letter is meant to be constructive and to provoke some positive changes.
As I walked north along the Square, I realized the construction completely blocked 16th Avenue and 10th Street. There was no clearly marked path through or around the construction. A fellow pedestrian found herself in the same predicament. We asked for help and were told to "run fast." We stumbled over ruts as we darted around moving vehicles.
After leaving the library, I tried avoiding the intersection by walking the alley behind the 10th Street buildings. When I approached Amcore, I saw caution tape strung along the sidewalk of 17th Avenue. With a sigh, I walked through the Amcore building and exited through the front door. Again, no clear pathway or obvious sign announced if I should be there or not. I asked and received a glare and a shrug.
It is obvious to everyone we have a problem. So, here is my challenge to whomever may be able to make this situation better. Help us (the public) to know what is happening. Use a combination of The Monroe Times, local radio stations, cable access channels, and printed announcements to update the public weekly on construction spots and activities. Be specific and provide instructions.
Put signs up. Lots of signs. Make signs large and easy to read. Remember we still have visitors from out of town that are more lost than we are!
Put down boardwalks! I cannot stress this enough. Monroe has a significant elderly population. If I, as an agile young woman, struggled to cross, someone disabled or elderly would not be able to cross at all. Any portion of walkway that is not level needs to be covered by sheets of plywood. Mark safe and smooth walkways with flags, arrows, velvet rope if need be. I jest about the velvet rope ... although it would look nice. It is understandable that construction workers become irked when pedestrians get in the way, but the only solution is to show us where to go.
I realize this is a stressful time, but I still hope these ideas are considered. My initial response today was to simply give up and stay away from the Square. How many have already done that?
I understand progress can be painful. I support our local businesses and community leaders who are trying to invest in Monroe's future. That being said, this letter is meant to be constructive and to provoke some positive changes.
As I walked north along the Square, I realized the construction completely blocked 16th Avenue and 10th Street. There was no clearly marked path through or around the construction. A fellow pedestrian found herself in the same predicament. We asked for help and were told to "run fast." We stumbled over ruts as we darted around moving vehicles.
After leaving the library, I tried avoiding the intersection by walking the alley behind the 10th Street buildings. When I approached Amcore, I saw caution tape strung along the sidewalk of 17th Avenue. With a sigh, I walked through the Amcore building and exited through the front door. Again, no clear pathway or obvious sign announced if I should be there or not. I asked and received a glare and a shrug.
It is obvious to everyone we have a problem. So, here is my challenge to whomever may be able to make this situation better. Help us (the public) to know what is happening. Use a combination of The Monroe Times, local radio stations, cable access channels, and printed announcements to update the public weekly on construction spots and activities. Be specific and provide instructions.
Put signs up. Lots of signs. Make signs large and easy to read. Remember we still have visitors from out of town that are more lost than we are!
Put down boardwalks! I cannot stress this enough. Monroe has a significant elderly population. If I, as an agile young woman, struggled to cross, someone disabled or elderly would not be able to cross at all. Any portion of walkway that is not level needs to be covered by sheets of plywood. Mark safe and smooth walkways with flags, arrows, velvet rope if need be. I jest about the velvet rope ... although it would look nice. It is understandable that construction workers become irked when pedestrians get in the way, but the only solution is to show us where to go.
I realize this is a stressful time, but I still hope these ideas are considered. My initial response today was to simply give up and stay away from the Square. How many have already done that?
