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NEW CANAAN, Conn. Where or even whether sidewalks will be installed on the southern end of Main Street is still a question.
After more than two hours of presentations, questions and residents comments, the Town Council voted unanimously Wednesday night to request that the Public Works Department seek defined bids for how much it would cost to install sidewalks and curbs on either side of Main Street between Oak Street and Farm Road.
The decision came after councilors said they wanted a better idea of the costs. Assistant Public Works Director Tiger Mann provided possible prices at a meeting last week based on a report from Bridgeport-based Cabezas & DeAngelis. Public Works numbers showed installation on the east side of the road to be the less expensive option.
We owe it to the voters to get the numbers for both sides, said Councilwoman Penny Young
At the meeting, sidewalk proponents Diane Hobbs and Mary Flaherty-Lovy said they hoped the town would place the sidewalks on the west side of the road. Although its thought to be the more expensive option, it would be the safest option for pedestrians and complete a loop of sidewalks near three town schools. If its built on the west side, people wouldnt have to cross Main Street at all, Hobbs said.
Karen Mackle, who led a group that opposed a $4 million town road improvement project because of the sidewalks, said sidewalks and walls could restrict her from reaching areas of her property.
Resident Fred Chang made another pitch to have the town scrap the sidewalks, saying it could spend its money on more worthwhile projects. If people want to walk, he said, they can drive to Waveny Park or Irwin Park and walk there.
Do you think the town should proceed with sidewalks on the east side of Main Street? Leave a comment below or visit our Facebook page.
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