City Discusses Replacing Fence Along Summit Avenue

The Common Council discussed spending $145,000 to replace a chain-link fence along a stretch of Summit Avenue that was put in after a pedestrian was killed crossing the street there.

Mayor Jordan Glatt explained that this fence, which runs from Broad Street to Union Place, was always meant to be a temporary solution to help direct pedestrians to the crosswalks in place.

"We made a committment when we put up that chain-link fence that we're way behind on," Glatt said.

Glatt said the chain-link design doesn't fit in with the downtown and if any homeowner had a fence like this up, the city wouldn't stand for it.

But few other members of council were in agreement that now is the time to replace the fence.

"We cannot afford to spend $145,000 on a cosmetic change of a fence," said Ward I Councilwoman Ellen Dickson.

Fellow Ward I Councilwoman Nuris Portuondo agreed that while this fence is unsightly, with the budget woes facing the city this year council cannot justify the expenditure when it may be making decisions soon whether to cut staff and services.

"This is the wrong time to honor this committment," she said.

Council President Dave Bomgaars suggested the item be referred back to he Buildings and Ground Committee until they feel it is time to bring it back to council.