"In Alder Words..."

Barbara Vedder

Some exciting news for numerous residents of the Tenney-Lapham area: NTMP is coming to Sherman Avenue! The Neighborhood Traffic Management Plan (NTMP) ranked the number one project chosen by Traffic Engineering staff and approved by the Pedestrian Bicycle Motor Vehicle Commission. What this means is that during the year 2000, Sherman Avenue between Tenney Park and Marston Avenue will be studied by city staff, the neighborhood and myself in determining what types of traffic-calming measures could be developed to make Sherman Avenue a safer, more neighborhood and park friendly travel zone for all, pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists alike. North Baldwin Street between East Johnson Street and East Washington Avenue, slated for reconstruction in 2000, will also be scrutinized because of its reconstruction. If you want to become involved, contact Kathy Rideout, TLNA Traffic Chair, or myself (check first pages of newsletter for contact numbers).

The Avenue restaurant/bar is about to have a new facelift. The outside of their building will undergo improvements without losing its present character. The main discussion points brought up at a meeting of a couple Curtis Court residents, Lois Oddo (Housing Chair) and myself with the owners of the establishment involved the dumpster location and lighting. Changes are being made to improve the quality of life of affected neighbors. Soon there may be changes made to improve the entire parking lot situation and I'm also looking into whether more greenspace can be developed along more of Curtis Court.

In brief:

There will be a public hearing regarding lead pipe replacement at.....pm in the City Council Chambers, Room 201 on January 4, 2000. City staff and several alders, including myself, are supporting the shared investment by the entire Madison community, costing $10 extra/water billing for the duration of ten years. We would otherwise be using chemical treatment costing all residents the same amount but on a permanent basis. The chemical treatment would also adverely affect the quality of our lakes (see last newsletter). You may consider to contact the Council as a whole at council@ci.madison.wi.us or attend the public hearing.

The shoreline along the westside of the Yahara River in Tenney Park between Sherman Avenue and East Johnson will undergo improvements to prevent further erosion and make it more aesthetically pleasing.

The East Isthmus Neighborhood Planning Council is in its formative stage. This group collaborates issues of similar interest or concern amongst several neighborhoods in the East Isthmus area. If you're interested in becoming involved, contact Randy Glysch at... or myself.

Three issues to watch carefully in the media in the immediate future: East Washington Avenue reconstruction plan coming before several city committees, preparation and input on the development of Overture Foundation's Art District, and a harsher truancy ordinance impacting all students under 18 and their parents. Feel free to contact me.

-Alder Barbara Vedder