Greenfield stands firm on sidewalk issue

Greenfield - The Greenfield Common Council has reaffirmed its support of its policy that encourages the installation of sidewalks when major roads are reconstructed.

Richard Sokol, Greenfield director of neighborhood services, said he is hopeful that the city's renewed emphasis will put an end to roadwork delays tied to those hoping to sidestep the sidewalk policy.

"I've seen significant road projects delayed because sidewalks were opposed," Sokol said.

For example, the 51st Street project from Layton Avenue to Cold Spring Road was delayed three or four years, he said. A compromise in which walks were installed only on one side of the street finally enabled the project to go forward.

Sidewalks have their backers, too.

The Greenfield School District in particular has recently backed more sidewalks so that children can walk to school if they want to.

Plus, fights over sidewalks might be becoming a thing of the past, said Alderman Karl Kastner, Common Council president.

"The tone has changed in the last five years," he said.

Sidewalks are something vibrant communities have, Sokol said, noting they allow people to walk dogs, push baby strollers or just take a walk.

Portions of four major streets could be in line for sidewalks in the next couple of years because they will or could be redone.

One is 124th Street between Layton Avenue and Beloit Road. Another is 35th Street between Cold Spring and Loomis roads, Sokol said.

Also, the city has discussed a 1.5-mile road project on 43rd Street between Ramsey and Layton avenues. Part of the sidewalk considerations for 43rd is that Creekwood Park is located at 43rd and Edgerton Avenue in the middle of the 43rd Street project, and safe access to parks is a priority, Sokol said.

Finally, the city might get a grant to redo Morgan Avenue from 43rd Street and Forest Home Avenue that would require sidewalks. Glenwood Elementary School, 3550 S. 51st Street, is right along that stretch, too, Sokol said.