Hilltopper

Perhaps most disturbing about the proposed widening of Michigan Street at the bridge over Division is the following three points: 1) Both the city and MDOT failed to notify the Neighbors of Belknap Hill, the Heritage Hill Neighborhood Association, or the Immanuel Church (which sits right beside the bridge) of the proposed widening project. Most learned about it in the GRP. This is no way to follow up a Master Plan process that was a model of public participation. 2) By most accounts, the city and MDOT plan to study HOW TO WIDEN Michigan Street. Not research ways to calm and improve the traffic flow, enhance pedestrian safety, and add to community character. They've already decided what they want to do (6 lanes, without public consultation) and are conducting a study to justify it. 3) The city also is organizing a SmartZone Authority to improve streetscape design along Michigan Street and, by extension, the Hill's ability to attract new business. (The SmartZone runs along MI from College to Division.) But the proposal to widen Michigan appears to be out in front of this more public process. And adding capacity to the MI/College interesection also appears to be part of the plan. Once built, these projects will basically set the tone for any effort to bring a sense of safety and comfort for walkers, bikers, transit riders, and others not in cars. Health Hill could be a model for urban revival and restoration. It could become a human-scale, walkable commerce center adjacent to two unique neighborhoods that provides convenient, affordable mobility and accessibility for all. Unfortunately, the traditional road-dominated development ethic continues to thrive in this important piece of our city's redevelopment. As the traffic snarls grow thicker, ultimately what's at stake is our quality of life, the health of our environment, and strength of the local economy for all of downtown.