Columbus Residents Voice Concerns Over Hibbard Street Project

(Columbus) Citizens packed Columbus City Hall this week to voice their concerns over plans to repair and expand Hibbard Street. One such resident is Mark Krause, who told the common council that he did his research before purchasing a home on Hibbard Street two years ago. He says he asked if the city had street improvement plans and was told there was nothing in the 5-year plan.

 

Krause like many of his neighbors expressed concerns over the short notice they received concerning the road reconstruction project. For others cost was a major concern as questions arose about the financial liability they could expect, including Hibbard Street resident Justin Meyer. Meyer says his family owns one of the larger lots on Hibbard Street and he is concerned about how his family will be able to afford the proposed improvements.

 

The council passed a resolution later in the same meeting declaring intent to levy special assessments as a first step in determining costs for the reconstruction of Hibbard Street. Early plans include widening the roadway, installing a curb and gutter system, and the inclusion of a sidewalk down one side of the street.  A public information meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday November 20th, at 6:30pm at the Columbus Senior Center.