At the Stanley City Council meeting on July 7, Mayor Mike Henke addressed ongoing discussions about the city’s bike path project, as well as concerns raised by residents over proposed parking restrictions along the route.
Henke acknowledged that future “No Parking” zones tied to the bike path have caused frustration among residents. In response, he presented an alternative proposal for the council’s consideration. The revised plan would restrict parking only from McKenzie Street to Dahl Street on 4th Avenue. From Dahl Street to Emery Street on 4th Avenue, and from 4th Avenue to 1st Avenue on Emery Street, shared parking would be permitted. This adjustment, Henke noted, could help address residents’ concerns while still preserving safety and access along the path. The remainder of the trail route would remain unchanged.
Henke recommended submitting the amended route and parking plan to the State for review and approval. “I don’t know what the response is going to be,” he said, “but we have to see.”
Alderperson Mark Fitzsimmons asked if there would be a cost to the amendment.
Henke explained that it has to be amended from what was approved and nothing has been submitted. “Either way we have a cost. It’s not really saving any money,” answered Henke.
“Is there any way we can drop the whole thing?” asked Alderperson Laurie Foster.
Henke emphasized the importance of moving forward with the bike path plan, noting that the committee overseeing the project had already secured grant funding. “I don’t want to see the money go away because then we’ll never get it again,” Henke told the council. He explained that the public’s main concern was that specific section with parking restrictions, and if those restrictions can be adjusted, it could help address residents’ concerns and find a compromise.
‘We’ll never know if we don’t try,” mentioned Alderperson Aaron Dickson.
Alderperson Jason Meyer noted that he’s heard from residents who feel the project is a misuse of funds and are dissatisfied with how the city is allocating money. “If you can do away with the parking restrictions, I think that’s a reasonable compromise,” he said.
Following the discussion, the council voted to submit the amended trail route to the State for review.