The new Oak Street sidewalk from 3rd to 9th Street will be built on the west side of the street as originally designed. Two weeks ago, local businessman Rick Andrews complained to the council that constructing the sidewalk on the west side would pose a safety hazard for large trucks visiting his two businesses in that area. But last night, city clerk Rudy Witsman said he had spoken to Mt. Carmel Public Utility officials about relocating several poles on the east side of the street….
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In addition, if any of the soil on the former Snap On Tools property is contaminated, the city would also be responsible for paying for the clean up. Commissioner Eric Ikemire said because of the unknown costs to the city, he supported keeping the sidewalk on the west side. The vote to do so was unanimous.
A view of the east side of Oak Street and the power poles that the city council decided would be too costly to relocate.