A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the Washington Avenue streetscape project, which proposes changing the avenue to a one-way street. This shift is integral to facilitating a new bike lane, a feature emphasized as vital for connecting business districts and supporting the city’s infrastructure plans. However, the proposal has not been without controversy. One unidentified council member articulated skepticism, pointing out that Washington Avenue’s character has shifted from a business hub to a more residential area. They questioned the relevance of the current master plan, particularly in light of the feedback from constituents, many of whom are seniors opposed to the change. This council member voiced concerns about the financial implications.

Another official expressed initial resistance but acknowledged a change of heart after engaging with local business representatives, many of whom supported the one-way conversion. This individual emphasized the importance of adaptability and noted that any negative effects could be addressed through future modifications.

Public comments were predominantly against the one-way proposal, with residents voicing concerns about inadequate communication from the council. A resident named Nick highlighted a lack of updates to locals about evolving plans, citing flooding issues near Tomatoes Restaurant. He argued that converting the street to one-way could exacerbate traffic problems during such events, leading to potentially hazardous situations. Nick also criticized the planned beautification efforts.

He stated that over 200 signatures opposing the project were collected swiftly. Lorenzo criticized the council’s outreach efforts, noting that key figures, such as the Chief of Police, were not informed of the one-way plan until much later in the process. He called for an impact study to assess the potential effects on residents along Washington Avenue.

The discourse highlighted a call for greater transparency and communication from the council, with Jeff, another resident, questioning the absence of a shared traffic study and seeking clarity on safety measures in light of increased local seating capacity along Amherst Avenue.

As the debate unfolded, Mayor Michael Collins acknowledged community resistance to the one-way conversion, suggesting that while infrastructure improvements are welcomed, the necessity of the one-way change remains in question. He emphasized that public opinion should steer decision-making, indicating that the project’s design, while currently tied to the one-way concept, might be reconsidered.

Beyond the Washington Avenue discussions, the meeting addressed several other topics. An update on the dredging project was provided, with inquiries about the timeline and potential delays. This initiative allows private property owners to use the city’s permit for dredging, an aspect clarified amidst questions about the project’s scope.

Public safety also featured in the meeting, though briefly, with discussions on the number of stolen vehicles in the area. Additionally, feedback on newly installed port-a-potties was mentioned, with reports of a notable decrease in complaints.