A Schuylkill Haven resident spoke at a borough council meeting to say he is tired of tractor-trailers not following town truck routes, and borough administrators said they agreed that the issue is a problem.
The issue came up March 5 when Christopher Crespo spoke up during public comment at the council meeting.
Route 443 follows Dock Street to East Main Street to Parkway to West Columbia Street. But GPS systems tend to direct drivers to stay straight on West Main Street instead of turning left on Parkway.
Borough administrator Jessica Seiders says many truckers using navigation systems are following the directions given instead of using the notated town truck route. The result is large trucks being directed on smaller roads that aren’t equipped for such vehicles. These include West Main Street and Tennis Avenue. It is creating traffic issues and a safety hazard.
Seiders says the borough is looking into stronger signage, perhaps involving blinking lights, to better stand out and direct large vehicles in the proper direction.
In other public comment, Jessica Schwenk complained of insufficient parking along Avenue B. Seiders said the issue stems partially from residents owning more cars than they used to. She says the borough will look into potential solutions, if there are any.
A resident who did not give her full name asked for clarification regarding the town recreation center, noting that Diakon Senior Services uses the center for its own programs while the borough has its own activities. She said this is causing issues due to the limited space available.
Seiders said the borough is looking into ways to handle the heavy use of the building. Programs for seniors would not be affected and would still be available no matter what happens.
Seiders said the borough was awarded another $250,000 as part of a transportation grant that will help address curb, sidewalk and disabled ramp needs along Parkway.
A consultant will soon be helping the borough with a comprehensive recreation and open space plan.
The Schuylkill Haven 275th Anniversary Committee is sponsoring an art contest for all students in Schuylkill Haven schools. The Bicenterquigenary Student Art Contest is inviting children to submit original artwork that will be converted to postcards. Four entries will be selected, with each winner being awarded $100. The postcards will be sold in local stores and at festivals. Learn more at www.schuylkillhaven.org.
Source: Berkshire mont