LIMA, OHIO -
The Spring Street road project in Lima is nearly complete. All that must be done to convert the one-way into a two-way is adding the lane markers. Downtown business owner, Tim Callahan, was initially excited about the conversion.
"I thought that was a great idea, but I think it's just ridiculous to eliminate parking in downtown Lima," said Callahan.
Callahan is talking about a plan to widen the lanes of traffic so that the street can be used by both vehicles and bicycles.
"It's called a share-o. Basically the bicycle shares the outer portion of the traveled lane with the vehicle," said Kirk Niemeyer, city engineer.
Callahan says removing street parking to allow the wider lanes will hurt business at his bar.
"People tend to go where they can park," said Callahan.
Callahan says, under the current proposal, north side parking will remain, but anything on the south side will be eliminated.
"They're eliminating over half of my parking. If you look up and down this street that's 30 some spaces that will just go away for a bike path that will barely be used," said Callahan.
Callahan learned of the proposal after receiving a letter from Niemeyer seeking comments from property owners.
Niemeyer says a final decision has not been made.
"Get the input and make a decision from there and re-look at our design," said Niemeyer. "If we can fit it in, we will do our best. If we can't then we'll just have to pass."
Those concerned have until August 3rd to voice their concerns. The issue will be furthered discussed during an August 6th meeting of the traffic commission.
