(Spirit Lake)– There are no easy or inexpensive solutions to make it easier for Polaris employees and Center Lake residents to get onto Highway 71. That was the message Spirit Lake’s Street Committee had Tuesday for the city council.
Committee members recently reviewed results of a study by the Iowa Department of Transportation into the possibility of putting in stoplights at the intersection. The study shows traffic volumes in that area don’t warrant signals. The city could still put them in if it wants, at its expense. Officials say that wouldn’t be a cheap proposition. In addition to stop lights, additional turn lanes would also have to be built. Another option would be to have Polaris workers enter and leave via a drive that intersects with Highway Nine on the northwest side of the plant. Polaris officials say that won’t work as it’s a secure area for shipping only. City officials say a third option, to extend Enterprise Avenue north through Center Lake Village, would also have a high price tag and would displace some residents. Another option, city officials say, would be to gradually purchase those properties as they become available.
It was the concensus of the council Tuesday to consider the various options further at an upcoming long-range planning session.
