By Dave Fidlin
Correspondent
Details of the City of Whitewater’s East Gateway project in the downtown area moved forward recently with a nod of approval from the Common Council.
Aldermen voted unanimously in favor of a preliminary design for the reconstruction effort, which will replace infrastructure ranging in age from 35 to nearly 100 years.
Latisha Birkeland, neighborhood services director, and Mark Fischer, city engineering, came before the council at their meeting July 16 and discussed some of the latest details concerning the project. An hour-long discussion ensued.
Fischer said pavement was last laid in the area in the mid to late 1970s. However, underground infrastructure – including piping and other equipment – was laid in the 1920s and has never been replaced.
“Underground infrastructure is one of the biggest expenses,” Fischer said. “But it’s time to consider replacing it.”
The preliminary design approved by the council is subject to further revisions in the months ahead. According to documents, plans include reconfiguring traffic signals at Main and Whitewater streets, eliminating parking stalls on portions of the north side of Main Street and constructing a raised median from Main Street to Wisconsin Street.
Other details include construction of an 8-foot shared use sidewalk on the north side of the project corridor and implementing 2-foot-wide stamped, colored concrete crosswalks as a safety enhancement.
While most of the East Gateway project is aimed at improving existing infrastructure and amenities, city officials also have an eye on aesthetics. Case in point: two dedicated areas for public art are included in plans.
Another issue under consideration is the possible burial of existing overhead utilities, including electrical, telephone and cable wiring. Fischer projected it would cost $314,306.
In 2006, the council had been reviewing details of the East Gateway project, though discussion was eventually put on hold. At the time of the initial talks, aldermen voted against utility burial.
“It is suggested the current city council revisit that decision,” Fischer said.
Further discussion on the project is anticipated at future council meetings. A public information meeting on the full scope of work is also planned in the fall.
