APPLETON, Wis–Plans for putting College Avenue in Appleton on a “road diet” move along. The city is considering reducing the lanes of traffic on the Ave from four to two, with a center turn lane and bike lanes, between Memorial Drive and Drew Street.
Community Development Director Kara Homan believes that while it may reduce the amount of traffic passing through that area, there will be additional benefits.
Appleton Police endorse the “road diet” idea. Captain Gary Lewis admits some drivers looking to just drive through will use other east-west streets instead.
Downtown business owners do have some concerns. Appleton Downtown Incorporated Director Jennifer Stephany says a main concern is about navigating that stretch anytime something is going on in the area.
Appleton officials plan to meet with downtown business owners on Monday to discuss the lane reconfiguration plan.
