Bike Path In Lakewood Discussed

In addition to filling the vacancies on the Lakewood Village Board, Tuesday night's meeting also handled other important matters.

The Board learned of plans by Prince of Peace Lutheran Church to locate a mission center in the Lakewood Commons, Red Tail Drive and Ackman Road. The concerns of possible parking congestion in the center were explained by the minister that most of their uses were on Sunday and evenings. However, should more heavily used times arise; it is felt that there would be sufficient parking area to accommodate this.

The center's management was also present at the meeting and explained to the Board they were excited with the plans of the church and it is felt that parking would not be much of a problem.

Proposed Bike Path
The Board and residents conducted considerable discussion regarding bike path plans since two alternates were presented. One is a separated path on the west side of Huntley Road. The second alternate is a shared road path. Some reported financial assistance is available for such a project.

Alternative one is an eight-foot path with less tree impact and drainage and fits in the existing right of way and is less expensive.

The disadvantage of this route is it goes through residents' yard areas and utilities are impacted as well. However, it was noted that no really large trees would be impacted.

Alternative two has less impact to residents and more safety separating vehicle and bike traffic. It would require reconfiguring drainage and is more expensive as tree impact is greater with up to 80 trees affected compared to 25 in the Alternative 1.

There are those who would like to see a bike path while others are fearful of liability and inconveniences connected with it. Concerns expressed related to safety hazards when backing out of their driveway and possible loss of mature landscaping.

One aspect that bothered a number of the residences was the fact that that if a path is built in the right of way and owned by the village but not used for travel; the maintenance would be the responsibility of the residents. However, if it is used for a bike path it would be the responsibility of the Village. A number of residents expressed displeasure with the thought of added expenses put on the Village or the residents.

There could be funding available for a path, but that is not definite until the plan is determined and application is made.