A new median in Keller is causing concern among residents. City officials are offering a temporary solution.
As part of an ongoing roadway reconstruction project that will connect the west and east sides of Old Town, the addition of a new median has residents concerned. Alonzo Linan, Keller’s public works director, told NBC DFW that the curb could catch unaware drivers off guard.
“So, you’re going from a 12-foot-wide lane and then you’re going to transition over the next 600 feet to an 11-foot-wide lane,” he said. “So the everyday driver, unless they hear this interview, they’re not going to notice the difference.”
Nearby business owners are complaining that the curb of the median is a hazard in the traffic lane. Jillian Beasley, the owner of Inspired Wings Fashion, says she almost hit the curb last week. “I think the outcome when it’s complete and finished is going to be amazing, but it’s been a little rough the past few months,” she told NBC DFW.
The project on Main Street or U.S. 377 started four months ago and the road remains under construction. A new pedestrian traffic signal will also be added. Linan said the work on U.S. 377 won’t be finished until February, and the entire project is expected to go on until July.
“When it’s done, it’s going to look great. We’re going to a nice median. We’re going to landscape the edges. We’ll have a new pedestrian crossing that’s signalized,” Linan told NBC DFW.
Until then, the city is offering a temporary solution. To prevent drivers from hitting the curb, traffic cones have been placed. On Thursday, crews were out reapplying pavement markings to help drivers, according to the report.
Mayor Armin Mizani said all of these smaller elements are part of his plans to make Keller one of the most family-friendly cities in the Lone Star State. “At the end of the day, ultimately for us, it’s just trying to make Old Town Keller a unique destination for residents and create some vibrancy by attracting new businesses,” he said.