Council revisits traffic measures, overturns mural prohibition

-McKEES ROCKS-

By Jamie Wiggan

McKees Rocks council discussed a range of possible traffic alterations during a Feb. 8 meeting, while exploring ways to reduce reckless driving.

During his monthly report, Mayor David Flick noted an uptick in speeding instances around the borough, particularly on the part of commuters who may not live there.

“A lot of people cut through here going to and from work,” he said.

Flick identified Church Avenue as a particular problem spot, and said residents he had talked to there showed a preference for reinstating a one-way system put in place last year as a temporary measure.

Council members joining in on the discussion noted issues with various traffic lights and signage around the town and suggested more could be done to address the issue comprehensively.

“Last year we were in heavy discussions about [getting speed humps],” said Council President

Archie Brinza, who expressed an interest in picking up where they left off.

Solicitor Megan Turnbull suggested the borough consider multiple traffic-related changes as it goes through the process of amending the zoning ordinance as necessary for the expansion of Intermodal Way.

“This would be the time to have those discussions,” Turnbull said.

In other borough news:

• Council approved changes to an ordinance that previously prohibited murals in all parts of the borough. The new ordinance now permits murals in certain zoning districts and was instigated last summer when resident MarySue Flick presented a design proposal for a mural underneath the railroad trestle at the Chartiers and Island avenues intersection.

• Council approved a $31,804 contract with Pride Masonry, Inc. to repair the pedestrian steps connecting Broadway and Woodward avenues, also known as 4th Street.