By Dave Fidlin
Correspondent
After a lengthy series of reviews and discussion, Whitewater officials have backed an ordinance that will take the needs of pedestrians and bicyclists into consideration as future street improvements are eyed within the city.
While a few wordsmithing changes are expected, the Common Council on Jan. 20 adopted its so-called complete streets ordinance that is aimed at serving as a guide toward future decisions concerning street designs.
During their second, and final, reading of the ordinance proposal, Whitewater officials fielded comments from a number of residents, many of whom spoke in favor of adopting the ordinance.
While the rights of bicyclists has been a focal point of the discussion, resident Kristine Zaballos said walkability is another driving force. Zaballos, a 12-year resident in the community, said she recently pledged to walk to her job within the city — even on frigid days in the depths of winter.
“It’s a pleasure to do it, and I feel fortunate to be able to do it,” said Zaballos, who also serves on the city’s Plan and Architectural Review Commission. “This ordinance is flexible and provides a framework. We have some great things to build on in this community, and I think we can do better.”
Resident and University of Wisconsin-Whitewater professor James Harwick also spoke in support of the ordinance.
As an avid biker, Harwick said, “I think it’s really an issue of health and safety. When we muddle things, we can wind up with severe consequences.”
But not all speakers are in favor of the ordinance.
Kenneth Kienbaum, who took to the microphone during the council’s first reading of the document in mid-December, continued to express concerns about making extra street accommodations at the most recent meeting.
“This is a lot of money, and a lot of people — including seniors — don’t have it,” Kienbaum said. “They’re on fixed incomes.”
The council voted, 6-1, in favor of adopting the complete streets ordinance.
“To me, it’s a no-brainer,” council member Sarah Bregant said. “I represent a lot of (university) students who bike and walk throughout the city. This is also about sustainability and looking out for the environment.”
Council member Stephanie Abbott, the dissenter, said she favored accommodations toward bicyclists and pedestrians.
“But I don’t agree with the mechanism and the way we’re trying to accomplish this,” Abbott added. “I don’t think this ordinance is necessary.”
