At last night’s Public Safety & Welfare meeting, the staff request for a speed limit change from 40 mph to 35 mph within the city of Kenosha’s jurisdiction at 18th Street and 39th Avenue was approved unanimously for a 90-day trial.  The issue will now go before the Common Council at its next meeting on September 17th.

Mike Lemens, director/city engineer, spoke on the issue.  This was being recommended to avoid the cost of additional pavement, approximately $60,000 worth, according to Lemens.  The two additional poles required cost $150 each.  Lemens stated that he did not think that the Highway Commission, nor the County Executive, nor the County Supervisor would object to the speed limit change.

The addition of two 35′ monotubes would be added to the intersection.  The survey map which was distributed at the meeting is pictured below:

18th Street – 39th Avenue Survey – 22-May-2012; City of Kenosha Department of Public Works – Engineering.

Lemens expected no opposition from the county.  “In fact,” he said, “the 35 mph speed limit will run from 30th to 39th Avenues.”

Alderperson Michael Orth asked Lemens what the timeframe was for the county meeting and whether or not Lemens would be there.  Lemens said that he planned to speak at the meeting on the issue.  “I can’t imagine why they wouldn’t approve it.”

Alderperson Anthony Kennedy asked Lemens if he needed anyone with him at the meeting, like the alderperson of the district, and Lemens said no, that that wasn’t necessary.