City taking steps toward safer sidewalks

Safer sidewalks in Ottawa are one step closer.

A forum Thursday was one of the final steps for city officials in developing goals for a plan and funding request for a Safe Routes to Schools program.

Tom Yahl, assistant city planner, said the city and school district are working together on the program, and those still wishing to voice their opinions about the program can do so until next week.

 “We’re hoping to finalize the plan and application next week,” he said, adding that people can call him at (785) 229-3620 and leave a message or stop by.

Becky Nevergold, director of Communities In Schools, said the public comment portion of the forum didn’t bring about any concerns that already hadn’t been discussed.

“It will be a great start in the most needy areas,” Nevergold said of the future improvements.

Areas under discussion for improvements include portions of Ash, Beech, 11th, 13th, 15th, Second, Logan, Keokuk, Mulberry and Willow streets and Davis Avenue.

Yahl said he didn’t know when officials would know whether Ottawa was selected to receive funding, but the program would move forward regardless, targeting areas where it’s difficult for children to walk to school.