Manitowoc · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Manitowoc public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Transit shift to smaller on-demand buses
The budget replaces large diesel buses with smaller 13-passenger vans, moving toward an on-demand transit system that costs about a quarter as much per vehicle.
N. 2nd Street Concrete Paving and Storm Sewer Repairs
The water utility is replacing lines on North 2nd Street, so the city is paying up to $50,000 to pave the rest of the road now instead of coming back later — a cost-saving move on a cul-de-sac that otherwise wouldn't rank for replacement.
Maritime Metro Fare Increases
Maritime Metro's updated 100-page Transit Development Plan is on file for committee review, with fare rate increases to be requested when it returns in October.
Four-way stop request at S. 21st Street and Flambeau Street
A citizen-requested four-way stop was denied after engineering data showed a two-way stop already in place and no accident justification. Residents were directed to the city's formal online request process.
Paratransit (Assist to Transport) Move In-House
The city is preparing to bring paratransit service in-house as of January 1, with four new job descriptions approved as a contingency. Actual hiring waits on Public Works Committee and Council approval.
New sidewalks on South 21st Street and Flambeau Street
A citizen request for sidewalks near a park drew objections from an affected homeowner over wetlands, drainage onto his property, special assessments, and lack of notice. With only two accidents in 16 years, the committee found no safety need and shelved the request, though neighbors could revive it.
No parking near Holy Family Memorial on Riverview Drive and Meadow Lane
Holy Family Memorial asked the city to ban parking near its loading dock so semi-trucks can back in safely after several close calls. Only six on-street spots are affected and the hospital lot has room to spare; a neighbor also asked for a no-parking sign in front of Core Treatment Services.
Parking and speeding at the S. 35th Street and Lindbergh Drive curve
A resident wanted parking banned at the sharp 45-degree curve, but neighbors pushed back hard, saying parked cars actually slow drivers down and removing them would invite speeding. The committee agreed, denying the ban and backing a cheap painted center line instead.
E. Albert Drive reconstruction design
A contract amendment with the DOT and JT Engineering keeps the E. Albert Drive reconstruction design on track.
10th Street Streetscape Project (Chicago to Washington)
The council awarded the 10th Street (Chicago–Washington) streetscape project to Vinton Construction for $119,767.
Stop sign removal at N. 14th and New York Avenue
At Jeff Vogel's request, the council voted unanimously to take down the stop sign at North 14th and New York Avenue.