There recently was an article in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel regarding a sidewalk policy for South Milwaukee. The article led the reader to believe that the city had in fact adopted a policy and that sidewalks would be required on every property. This article was misleading and caused great concern throughout the community. I received numerous e-mails, letters and phone calls asking why sidewalks were going to be made mandatory and more importantly why the public had not been involved prior to the adoption of the policy.
I feel it is important to respond. First the city has not adopted a sidewalk policy, but is in the process of reviewing a report from the city engineer and will be working over the next several months on creating a policy. The request for a sidewalk policy began roughly two years ago when the Common Council received a request from a group of property owners on the 1800 block of Monroe Ave to remove their existing sidewalks. Since we do not have a sidewalk policy this request was handled by the Common Council who approved the removal after much debate and concern about other property owners who might request the same. This situation led to the Common Council putting a moratorium on any future sidewalk removals until a sidewalk policy was established. The moratorium was implemented to remove politics from the decision making process as it pertains to sidewalks. At no time was it the intent of the Common Council or myself that the city would require every property to have sidewalks. The Engineering Department has made an initial report to the Public Works and Public property Committee but much work still needs to be done before any formal policy could be adopted and implemented. As indicated in the city newsletter, Keeping In Touch, the process will include public informational meetings. In closing, the Public Works and Public Property Committee along with the Engineering Department and myself will continue to keep citizens informed as this moves forward. I wish to thank all those who contacted me on this matter and welcome your comments on any city matter. I can be reached at 768-8049 or by e-mail at kieck@ci.south-milwaukee.wi.us.
Thank You for expressing your thoughts.
There should be sidewalks around the perimeter of the schools. I the trend is toward a more "rural" look or no sidewalks elsewhere, but where does it stop? There should be sidewalks at businesses and churches, libraries, city hall. Will there be a "sidewalk trail" like there is a bike trail so those that enjoy outdoor exercise wont be in the traffic? There are some parts of the city where there are sidewalks that stop abruptly mid block and then resume. This looks like poor planning.
I think that sidewalks should be on major streets and near schools. Not all property owners should have to put sidewalks in. It would just be another law or rule that they put on the books that is not enforced.
I always thought that sidewalks were necessary, until I moved into a neighborhood without them. I had small children at the time and was worried about cars. I have found out that pedestrian traffic in the road has not been dangerous if all parties are aware as they travel. I would say that mainstreets should have sidewalks, but sidestreets can do without.
Yes, it's not very safe walking at night and with toddlers in the street. I would love if my neighborhood had sidewalks (Forest Hill Estates).
My subdivision does not have sidewalks now and I prefer not to have them. Adding a sidewalk in my yard would require a lot of digging and re-landscaping with a steep slope which would be a problem to mow. I would also lose a tree.
Years ago the council agreed not to place sidewalks in subdivisions that don't want them. I would like to see that continued. In areas where there is a mix of sidewalks and no sidewalks, block by block polling might be more appropriate.
Yes, I like to take walks every morning and it's frustrating to be walking on a sidewalk and then have to go out onto the road, especially when it's not light out yet. I can't believe that there are blocks on the southeast side of SM where some people have sidewalks and some don't. One house has sidewalk and both it's neighbors don't. There should at least be an ordinance where everyone on the same block should all decide if they're going to have one or not.
I feel that all property owners should have sidewalks and it should be monitory for all homeowners and landlords to have sidewalks no questions asked. I was out there this October and I seen alot of places with no sidewalks and should be properly maintain so people won't trip over the edge area of the sidewalk that is not evenly across. Also it is not safe for kids to walk on the streets at all.
I'm only 13, but hey, I have opinions too. I think that before tearing apart a street to build a sidewalk that you should have a vote on that street (two votes per house and NO recounts!!) That way it's fair and the people will get what they want.
I'm only 13 but I have a big mouth and feel the need to express my opinions on this topic. I think you should ask the residents of a neighborhood what they think about having a sidewalk that runs all the way down the block. Then let the majority to decide. Thanx 4 listening to my loud-mouthed opinions.
I think that there is no need for extra sidewalks. The streets are large enough that people can walk along the edge with no danger. Kids today are smart enough to stay out of the way of passing cars. So unless people are actually aiming for the kids they won't get hit. And if people are aiming for kids they can hit them easily enough on the sidewalk anyway. Please, don't underestimate today's youth or use the city's money on unnecessary things. Why not put more money into finishing Drexel or try to get more businesses in the area instead? Think logically people. The city's natural beauty will be destroyed by putting big blocks of cement in our yards. People with large yards and people who do lots of yard work do not want their yards torn apart! Thanks for reading, I hope my opinions will help the city make the best desion.
Yes, I believe all property owners should have sidewalks.
When there are no sidewalks, pedestrians, children on bikes are forced to walk into the streets creating hazards for themselves and for motorists.
You people say children are in danger of being hit...how many kids in the last year have been hit by cars on streets with no sidewalks? Also, most kids don't like using the sidewalk even if it's there. They prefer to walk on the street. Isn't their a law that says anyone over the age of 13 can't rides bikes on the sidewalk anyway?
NO
We've lived here since 1959 without sidewalks and have had no problems. We walk almost every day on and off sidewalks with no problems. Take a look at all the sidewalks that don't get shoveled. Why add more?
Sidewalks are definitely necessary in areas surrounding schools. I would feel comfortable allowing my child to walk home from school if, for example, the area west of Blakewood School had sidewalks. Right now, children and parents are required to walk in the street (i.e., Lakeview Avenue) in heavy school traffic. My child could easily walk home if she had a safer route to take. I do not feel comfortable allowing her to walk in traffic, therefore I pick her up every day which adds to the traffic problem surrounding the school.
The city should have a consistent pattern for the placement and availability of sidewalks. The funding for the sidewalk maintenance should come from the general city fund. Sidewalks should be located on at least one side of the street in all neighborhoods. The idea of a sidewalk in front of a single residence on a block is ridiculous. South Milwaukee should promote the idea of sidewalks for walking and bicycling. Residents also should be aware of what actually is their property, and what part the city controls. Does my yard run from the curb, or does the city have an easement that runs @20-25 feet from the middle of the street onto my yard? This area is mine to maintain, but all citizens have a right to use this space to walk on, ride their bicycles or walk their pets.
A plan for sidewalks should be incorporated into the Future Vision South Milwaukee, and be implemented within a four year plan.
NO, The city does not supply school busing for the community. So the issue near or around the school is ridiculous. I notice my taxes went up this past year. I wonder where that money is going.
Yes, all property owners in South Milwaukee should have sidewalks! I'm in agreement with alderman Mike Johnson as to sidewalks on 5th avenue where kids have to walk in the street to walk home from school, that is an accident waiting to happen. ONE LIFE IS WORTH MORE THEN THE EXPENSE THAT IT WOULD TAKE TO PUT IN SIDEWALKS!
MIKE HERNANDEZ
I think that all property owners should have sidewalks. I feel this is necessary for the safety and convenience for all current and future residents. It is imperative that all elderly, handicapped and children be afforded the opportunity and access to a paved sidewalk. Currently, many residents in unpaved area's are either being forced and/or choosing to walk in the street thereby causing an unsafe condition for both the driver and pedestrian alike. I challenge you to do what is right and support this position. As this is the reality of what is happening in our unpaved area's around our fine town. If in doubt, try driving down 17th Avenue between 15th Avenue to Rawson on a summers evening and see how many walkers, joggers, people pushing baby strollers, elderly and children you encounter ALL ON THE STREET. Thank you in advance for your thoughtful consideration.
Sincerely, Lloyd Bigger
Yes, everyone should have sidewalks. I think there is an ordinance that states property owners who do not have sidewalks must shovel a path 4' wide on there property. Ask my father, the Police Dept tried to ticket him because his sidewalk wasn't shoveled.
No, all property owners should not have sidewalks. The property taxes for 2000 already went up and are said to be going up 8% again for 2001. We moved here because there were no sidewalks and that's the way we want to keep it.
No. I like the rural look with no sidewalks. Besides, there is too much to shovel the way it is. Also, bikes don't belong on sidewalks!
I do not think that all property owners should have to have sidewalks. Main streets OK.
I do not believe that sidewalks are necessary throughout the City. In fact, the plan to NOT have sidewalks in our subdivision was a major selling point. I have never felt the need, either as an adult or child, to require sidewalks. Interestingly enough, most "kids" use the streets where there are sidewalks. Is this a feel good option? It is an extraordinary expense, that will add labor, cost, taxes (unless the city exempts them for breaking any agreements), and they ruin the aesthetics. I can understand sidewalks in high traffic areas, but even some of those could be limited to one side of the street. I am confident that the children of our city could be educated to understand this. When it comes to subdivisions, I believe that it should be the decision of the residents. Unilateral decisions may sound like a good practice, but since this has not been a problem, perhaps the efforts should be focused on areas where this has been a problem. Heaven knows that we have high enough taxes already.
I think that the city should make up its mind one way or the other. Either mandate sidewalks for all streets or allow them to be removed. Why do I need to have my walk shoveled "to the full width" if other people don't even need to have a sidewalk? Make a decision and enforce it. I will gladly stop shoveling and maintaining my walk.
No, the city does not need any sidewalks on streets other than major thoroughfares such as Chicago Road and College Avenue. My husband and I live on a corner lot, meaning that we currently have a lot of sidewalk to maintain. If the city decides not to order sidewalks in all locations, please send a worker with a jackhammer to remove ours as soon as possible. Thank you.
Of course all property owners should have sidewalks. We are living in an civilized urban community. We should make it easy and safe for people of all ages to walk throughout our city.
If the neighborhood is 15 years or older and do not have sidewalks they should not be put in. In new building and subdivisions it should be mandatory, and only if the homes are on main through streets, like So and No Chicago, 15th Ave, and the likes of these, Streets like Williams, east of 5th, Mackinac from 16th west, should be exempt, as traffic on these is light. Tom
I don't believe that all side streets require sidewalks. I do however agree that all the main streets listed below should have sidewalks :
Milwaukee, Marquette, Rawson, College, Drexel, Forest Hill, Lake Drive, 15th Ave, 9th Ave (S of Milwaukee), 5th Ave, Hwy 32 (both Chicago's and 10th Ave) and especially Pennsylvania/Nicholson
All property owners should NOT be required to have sidewalks. I believe that most home owners would be AGAINST this proposed ordinance. If necessary, this should be on a referendum.
We have lived in South Milwaukee most of our lives and grew up in subdivisions without sidewalks. We now live in a subdivision without sidewalks, and we have raised our children in this same subdivision. We taught the children from little on the proper way to walk on a road without sidewalks. I don't think all parents today teach their children the importance of walking on the left hand side of the street and to watch both ways when crossing. It is a general rule that is assumed that every child is taught, but are not. I do believe that sidewalks are necessary around school premises, and public areas such as churches, grocery stores, city buildings, etc. I believe that there are other issues that could be dealt with that would be a better use of our taxes, than putting sidewalks where no one wants them or if really needed.
My wife and I bought our house four years ago in South Milwaukee. One of the reasons we selected this home was because it had no sidewalks or alleys. Most of our neighbors have grown children, and we really just don't need the sidewalks.
Perhaps the city should have a sidewalk policy for new subdivisions as they are being built, but please don't mandate sidewalks for existing homes. At the very least, there should be a "grandfather clause" for existing homeowners.
Our property tax bill has increased at 4-5 times the rate of inflation for 2001. We neither need, nor can we afford, the added expense of sidewalks.
Don and Karen Stewart 900 18th Ave. South Milwaukee, WI 53172
no sidewalks please
Yes, sidewalks should be mandatory in all locations. It is dangerous for walkers, joggers, and bicyclists to be forced into the street, regardless of the amount of car traffic on the street. In many cases, people are walking down the street two or three abreast and do no get out of the way of automobiles, causing a hazard to both themselves and the drivers.
If, however, the city decides to allow homes to exist without sidewalks, I propose two alternatives for those property owners who do have them. 1) Make sidewalk maintenance (repair, shoveling, etc.) optional to the property owner or 2) give a tax break based on length of sidewalk to property owners who have them to compensate for additional work and cost in maintenance. In no case should the sidewalk law benefit some property owners while penalizing others.
No. I just bought my house in the summer. I am getting older and don't want the work of taking care of a sidewalk (snow shoveling). The reason I bought were I did was because there was no sidewalk. There is a sidewalk accross the street. As long as you have a sidewalk on one side of the street there should be no reason to have it on both side.
tomneuens@netscape.net
yes, but just within a 1/4 mile radius of all schools
No! we have lived in South Milwaukee for 34 years and in subdivions(3) without sidewalks. We never had a problem while raising our children in these locations. I do agree that sidewalks should be around public places like schools, churches, and stores.
No, unless the city will plow them. If people leave in the winter, this another problem and expense to clear the walks.
No. Some of the properties don't need sidewalks. I lived on 11th & park for 30 years and we never needed sidewalks. It should be decided by the neighborhood residents. Don't force anymore government on us than We need.
No, I don't feel it's necessary to have sidewalks on all streets. I think those that are main walking routes for schools or business should for the safety of students and others using the businesses, but for streets that are not main walking routes, I don't think we would gain all that much. We have enough concrete spaces in our lives these days....we can try to keep some of the places somewhat natural. I know the biggest arguement would be the cost factor, which I agree with, but I don't think it's my major concern. I like the small town atmosphere we have here....taking away more grass would take some of that feeling away for me. Thanks.
When we first looked to buy a house in South Milwaukee it was because of it's small town feel. And having no sidewalks gives it that touch. People do alot of walking now, but motorise are careful and do slow down at lease where I live and it is a block away from the park. If I'm not mistaken there are side walks by most of the schools and the main streets were there are businesses. Having a side walk is extra maitanced for the homeowner. And is it more on your homeowner insurance. And in fact it is added expense out of everyone pocket to have them installed and at this time that is something we don't have. thank you.
Our money, time and energy would better be spent on education. Our neighbor very recently had permission to remove his sidewalk (the only one on the block). Do you mean that he will have to put it back in now? What a waste of money!
I don't think sidewalks are necessary for all properties. I do live across the street from a school and on a main street and I do not have a sidewalk. I definitely feel that all the main streets and streets near schools should have sidewalks. I want a sidewalk on my street! There are many children who live in my neighborhood and walk to school and I believe not having a sidewalk is a major safety issue.
Yes, I think near schools and on the main streets side walks should be REQUIRED. On both sides of the street. Lets think of all the children who have to walk. Lets keep our kids safe before some one really gets hurt or killed.
It is nice that the mayor added his comments! Where are all the alderman and what do they think??
NO!! High traffic areas, main streets, business districts, and near schools, YES!
There is no need to go on some wild sidewalk building spree. As far as I'm aware, there haven't been any children run down by motorists because they were walking in the street. However, I do think that a block should be uniform. There are blocks that have 1 property with a sidewalk surrounded by properties without. Also, those residents who have no sidewalks shouldn't be surprised when pedestrians walk across their lawns. The city has bigger issues to deal with than putting sidewalks across properties where there is no need.
Safety should be our first concern. We have many disabled in motorized wheelchairs who, if on a city street rather than a sidewalk, cannot be seen by motorists. Whether its children walking to school or a friends house, or citizens out for a stroll, all would benefit from sidewalks.
It is not necessary to have sidewalks on all streets. I think that sidewalks should be on the blocks were it is a main road like Hwy 32 or Rawson Ave. Side Streets such as 4th Avenue or some in the newer subdivisions would not necessaryly have to have them. If there is a block that has both, sidewalk on one property and none on the neighbor, then it should be one way or the other. It makes for difficult walking in that instance.
I agree with the last person. If the city want's sidewalks then the city should pay for them. all this time I've been taking care of the city's easment Now that they want to add improvements to it its mine and I have to pay for it! Tell you what give me back the easment and I'll put in sidewalks but they are now mine and not the city's!
I think everyone should have sidewalks in the city of south Milwaukee
No sidewalk requirement. It would cost $$$$ to put them in the subdivisions they are not in.
It's obvious reading your comments, that those who have them want everyone to also, and those who don't---well you guessed it!! I feel everyone's lives are worth having them, and I hate to see, someone have to get hurt to prove that!! Have you ever been around Blakewood School before or after school starts?? The kids all walk in the streets, due to the snow, tree's & burm's, or whatever the reason,---it's pretty scarey!!! Those of you who feel their safe, YOUR WRONG!! Their so busy playing, running, or in their own thoughts that they ARE NOT noticing the traffic!!! And their so used to car's driving so close to them...they don't even flinch!!! Maybe another thought for the city: give tax breaks to those having them. After all, the burden of maintaining these, is something that if given a choice--no one would have them!!! And what about the one's who have said--only on the busy streets....talk about discrimination!!! Another point, won't the insurance policies of those who don't have them be cheaper than the ones who have them?? They really don't have to worry as much, someone slipping and sueing them. What about if we all slip and fall in the streets??? Do we then file a suit against the city....maybe then our taxes would go up more than the cost of some sidewalks!!!
While I believe sidewalks are necessary, I agree that there are some places that they are not. To answer some of the comments, I have been a pedestrian in South Milwaukee and there are some extremely dangerous roads out there, and all of you that do not want sidewalks have no problem honking at the mother of 3 walking down Nicholson, and screaming obcenities at her! But I had no choice, I lived in Alpine Meadows and had no car, so I had no alternative, along with countless children who live in this community, where there is no busing and some children walk a mile or more to and from school, down major streets with no sidewalk, such as 5th avenue south of Marion. Which side shall we put the walk on, the east or the west? Which children will be forced to cross this road without a guard? And in all the time I have lived here, I have never once seen anyone, child or not, walk in the road when they didn't have to. There are definitly places where sidewalks should be required, without grandfathering out ANY property. And alot of those places are not 1/4 mile from a school, or have grocery stores or churches on them.
all should have sidewalks.
I BELEIVE THE EXISTING SIDEWALKS AS WELL AS ANY NEW ONES SHOULD BE TAKEN CARE OF: EXAMPLE SALTING AADN SHOVELING DURING WINTER MONTHS, USING DOGGY SSSSSCOOPERS WHEN WALKING YOUR DOG AND LOOKING OUT FOR NEIGHBORS THAT MIGHT SLIP AND FALL BECAUSE THEY WEREN'T MAINTAINED.
YES, I BELIEVE ALL HOMES IN SOUTH MILWAUKEE SHOULD HAVE SIDEWALKS. IF YOU HAVE EVER DRIVEN AROUND THE SUBDIVISIONS ON THE SOUTHWEST SIDE OF TOWN BEFORE OR AFTER SCHOOL YOU WOULD SEE WHAT DANGER THE CHILDREN ARE IN. THEY ARE NOT THINKING ABOUT THE TRAFFIC. WHAT ACTION WILL BE TAKEN AFTER SOME ONE IS KILLED OR HURT IN THE STREET. AFTER ALL THIS IS A CITY AND NOT SOME BARNYARD COMMUNITY WITH A BUNCH OF LIVESTOCK RUNNING IN THE STREETS, THESE ARE OUR CHILDREN AND WE NEED TO KEEP EVERYONE OUT OF THE STREET AND ON THE SIDEWALK. I THINK THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND NOT AN ISSUE OF WHO PAYS FOR IT.
If I ever move again, I would definitely look for a property that does not have sidewalks. I don't like the idea that "ALL" residential property must have sidewalks. I certainly think many different criteria should be considered, before deciding where to add sidewalks. And what about the financial burden the project may pose for the property owners involved. I think there are many neighborhoods around this city that are just perfect without having sidewalks!
Of course we should not require sidewalks at on all streets. The Southtowne area is one that is purposely designed without them and there is not sufficient reason to make a major change at huge expense.
Yes. Everyone should be required to have a sidewalk. Why should I be forced to walk in the street in some neighborhoods, especially in winter?
Sidewalks make areas much more accessable to myself and my children. There are certain areas in the city that we are unable to take walks to because there are no sidewalks and the streets are busy. For example, we don't have access to the southward park walkway. There are no sidewalks leading directly to it and I don't feel safe walking my children and puppy along the busy streets to get to it. So, unfortunately we don't go that way at all. I do feel sidewalks should be in all yards, but I don't feel it should be the home owners' sole responsibility to pay for it.
I disagree that all properties should be "required" to have sidewalks. In my opinion, anytime the phrase "ALL PROPERTY OWNERS MUST" gets inforced we have a serious problem on our hands. If you want to walk, bike or jog, utilize our beautiful park and trails.
I don't have a sidewalk now and everyone gets by just fine! If someone desides to come and put a sidewalk in thats fine too, but I'd expect someone to come shovel!! If your scard to walk in the streets when it's dark, were bright clothing so your easily seen (something I've noticed, most don't)! And in regards to the safey of our kids; Have you ever played ghost in the graveyard, on a sidewalk?
you should be required to have sidewalks in any city because it links each of us as a community. Not having sidewalks (SEE SUBDIVISIONS) cuts you off to the area creating an eliteism that kills communities.
On main streets like 5th. Ave. and columbia Ave. Both those streets would greatly benefit.
Focus on the school budget deficit problems first. If there aren't decent schools to go to, we won't need the sidewalks because people will take thier children to more expensive, private schools.