After three weeks of discussion, the Urbana City Council will decide whether to eliminate parking on Kinch Street to make room for bike paths connected to the city’s Bike Master Plan. In order for the project to be included in the summer construction supported by the Safe Routes to School Grant, a final decision needs to be reached during Monday’s meeting.

Brandon Bowersox-Johnson, Ward 4, said the decision is not an easy one. However, he said he believes the safety of the corridor outweighs the parking inconvenience.  

“I know it will be a hardship for neighbors to park across the street, but it will be a huge safety benefit for the cars that will be encouraged not to speed down that street and for all the kids and grown-ups who bike to school or work,” he said. 

Many residents have attended the meeting in the weeks passed to express concerns of safety, including speeding cars and lack of street lighting.

Bowersox-Johnson said the council will work to address those issues in future ordinances. He said the traffic commission will look into implementing a stop sign at Michigan Avenue and Kinch Street in coming months. However, it may take a few years to raise enough funds from the Community Development Block Grant to fund street lighting.

Corinne can be reached at [email protected].