Your View: A Council Member Talks About Crawford Street
A Guest Editorial from Council Member Jeff Schilling
Today, our newsletter is pleased to run this editorial from Sixth Ward Council Member, Jeff Schilling. Mr. Schilling represents the Sixth Ward and serves on Council as Chairman of the Community and Economic Development Committee. Mr. Schilling wanted an opportunity to respond to a previous article this newsletter put forward about improvements at Herrlinger Park and Crawford Street. These improvements are part of a grant package that will be voted upon by the entire City Council on Monday, June 3rd.
By Jeff Schilling, 6th Ward, Troy City Council Member
As we continue to discuss the proposed improvements to Herrlinger Park and Crawford Street, I wanted to share my thoughts and invite feedback from the community. Recently, the Economic and Community Development Committee reviewed the project’s budget and found that out of the $1.7 million allocated, only $160,000 is earmarked for the park. This struck me as insufficient, given the park's needs.
After walking around Herrlinger Park, it was clear that more attention and care are required. I propose allocating a larger portion of the grant money to enhance the park. This should include not just new playground equipment, but a wider variety of amenities to better serve our children. Instead of fencing around the play area, which might not be the best solution, we could consider seating walls similar to those planned for downtown in the latest iteration of potential improvements to the Public Square. These walls would not only define play areas but also provide seating for parents and others.
The basketball court, which is not mentioned in the current proposal, needs resurfacing and possibly be expanded to a full-size court. This would allow for safer play and more usage. While there is excitement about the new pickleball courts, we need clarity on the number to be built and the associated parking requirements, such courts would require. The current parking lot will be paved, but additional parking may be necessary. Disc golf is another affordable addition, but it needs careful placement away from the fenced in water tower.
Regarding Crawford Street, I question the plan to build a ten-foot-wide pathway from Herrlinger Park to East Water Street. While Crawford Street needs improvements, including curbs and drainage, I’m concerned that a wide pathway may be underutilized and a waste of resources, including $400,000 of general fund revenues. The existing five-foot sidewalks already provide a pleasant walking experience and a shared road concept, called for in the highly regarded Downtown Riverfront Study, might be a better option for more experienced cyclists and electric scooter users, given the low traffic volume.
As we refine these plans, it’s crucial to ensure these plans continue to meet grant requirements. Adjustments should not affect the funding but could reduce the city's expenditure or free up funds for other parks, like adding a splash pad at Heywood Park or another city park.
Communication with Eastside residents is vital. I will keep seeking updates and pushing for improvements based on our committee’s discussions and community feedback. I am encouraged by the interest and input from council members and local residents at our last committee meeting in regard to this proposal.
Jeff Schilling
6th Ward, Troy City Council Member
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Excellent thoughts, comments and suggestions by Council Member Schilling. I’d like to hear the thoughts of the Ward 3 Council Member. I appreciate the fact that, Bill, you offer the opportunity for this type of dialogue. Is there a City of Troy sponsored “site” or something where Council members can express written opinions, thoughts, suggestions like this? If there isn’t, there should be.