Center Line City Council Votes to Move Forward with Road Diet Plan for Van Dyke Avenue
Center Line City Council Approves Road Diet Plan for Van Dyke Avenue
In a unanimous vote, the Center Line City Council has approved a motion to move forward with a road diet concept on Van Dyke Avenue. This plan will reduce the lanes from seven to five between Engleman and Stephens roads in an effort to attract businesses and make the area more aesthetically pleasing.
Mayor Bob Binson expressed his support for the road diet, stating, “We have to do something to attract businesses and in order to do that, we have to make that area more aesthetically pleasing.” He also cited safety concerns, noting that few motorists adhere to the posted speed limit and a road diet would help calm and slow traffic, making the area safer for pedestrians.
The final plan will be presented to the City Council at a later date after input is received from local businesses and residents. City Manager Dennis Champine explained that officials have been working on the groundwork for this project for over two years with input from the Michigan Department of Transportation. The road diet plan was initiated by the Center Line Downtown Development Authority.
Champine explained that a traffic analysis revealed pedestrian accidents as a significant issue in the area, prompting considerations for the addition of crosswalks. He also addressed concerns about parking, stating that parallel parking would primarily be added in areas where businesses lack parking space.
During a public hearing, several residents expressed support for the road diet concept while voicing concerns about parallel parking on Van Dyke Avenue. Champine clarified that there are no plans to implement parallel parking along the entire stretch between Engleman and Stephens roads, but it would be added where needed.
Residents also suggested angle parking as a preferred alternative, but Champine explained that MDOT did not recommend this for Van Dyke Avenue. Mayor Binson emphasized the importance of pedestrian safety, particularly at dangerous intersections without crosswalks.
Opponents of the road diet plan argued that improvements could be made without changing the lane structure on Van Dyke Avenue. However, Champine emphasized that traffic studies support the implementation of a road diet, which he believes will create a conducive environment for economic development.
Overall, the road diet plan for Van Dyke Avenue aims to enhance safety, improve aesthetics, and attract businesses to the area. The City Council’s approval paves the way for further development of the plan, with input from stakeholders and residents shaping the final proposal.