The city of Windsor is finalizing plans for the re-construction of Cabana Road.
But the six-phase, $46-million dollar project is facing some opposition over proposed closures on side streets.
The first phase to change Cabana Road from two lanes to four lanes is between Provincial Road and Howard Avenue.
It would mean the closure of Kathleen and Harcourt Streets.
But Karen Street would remain open, and residents on the normally quiet street are concerned about the increase in traffic.
Resident Shirley Watson and neighbours have gathered 100 signatures on a petition. She also launched a social media campaign called “Keep Karen Safe” -- and signs have been posted on lawns in the neighborhood.
Watson – who moved to the corner of Karen and Cabana two years ago -- says she is concerned about safety and the increase in traffic and noise.
Another resident, Barry Ashby, says “it won't be a quiet neighbourhood anymore."
Wesley Hicks from the City’s Engineering Department says the main reason to keep Karen open is for EMS access.
Barry Horrobin of Windsor Police adds it is not a good plan to close all three streets.
Horrobin notes traffic volumes are already extremely low, and adds closing another street would impact police response times, and block reasonable access to the neighbourhood.
This application will go through the street-alley closing process, then very liikely, to the City’s planning committee in September.
Council will have the final say on the recommendation.
