Planning Board Supports Grant Funding for New Signal

Despite resistance from some residents, the planning group approved the request for grant funding for a new light at 10th and H Streets at the September public meeting last week at the library.

Ramona resident and planning group candidate Jim Cooper addressed the planning group at the meeting, telling the panel that the intersection is "confusing" to him and seemingly unnecessary.

Cooper said that he would like studies for the the public to read about the danger of the intersection and why it needs a signal.

"I shouldn't have to come to you in person [to request this information]," Cooper said.

Planning board member Carl Hickman, who works for the county, was able to shed some light on the topic for Cooper.

"This intersection ranks high on the county's priority list," Hickman said. "All locations are competing for funding."

Hickman said that in the past five years, the intersection at 10th and H Streets has seen 33 collisions, making it one of the intersections in the county that is high on the list for funding.

Group chair Jim Piva said even the fire department has put in a request for a light.

"They think it's a risk as well," he said.

Dennis Sprong motioned to approve a letter sent back in June to support an HSIP grant funding request for signalization at the intersection. Chad Anderson seconded the motion.

The item was passed 10-1, with Kevin Wallace opposing. Board members Chris Anderson, Paul Stykel, Bob Hailey, Matt Deskovick and Angus Tobiason were absent.