Howard Avenue Safety Project slated to begin soon

Construction on Howard Avenue is set to begin on Aug. 16, bringing much-needed safety improvements to the two-lane road. Despite being signed at 25 miles per hour, a 2018 speed study revealed that 50% of drivers exceed the speed limit, with 15% traveling at 35mph or more. In response, community members, neighbors and parents have advocated for a safer environment for students and others who walk and bike along Howard Avenue.

This project is particularly crucial for students at Howard Elementary School and Kelly Middle School, both located on Howard Avenue, in order to ensure a safer and more comfortable route for their daily commutes.

Howard Ave will be under construction from mid-August through the end of September. The September construction will impact students and families traveling to and from school, so please visit the Safe Routes to School Projects webpage to see the recommended detour and plan your routes accordingly.

Project Highlights

• Protected walking and bicycling space: A curb protected space will be built on the south side of Howard Avenue, extending from where the current sidewalk ends between Grove Street and Lake Drive to River Road.
• New sidewalk segment: A short stretch of sidewalk will be added along the south side of Howard Avenue near the intersection with River Road.
• Enhanced waiting space: Increased space for pedestrians and cyclists to wait will be added at the southwest corner of River Road and Howard Avenue.
• Installation of speed cushions: Speed cushions will be installed from N Park Avenue to River Road. Speed cushions, similar to speed bumps, are a type of traffic calming device that slows down people driving but still allows emergency vehicles to safely and efficiently use the street.