This blog is maintained for the sole purpose of allowing the people of Peru and those interested in the cities of the Illinois Valley to express their views.
“It doesn’t take a majority to win, just a tireless minority that will keep starting brush fires in the mind and hearts of their fellow men.” Samuel Adams
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
La Salle News Tribune Letters to the Editor Message to Peru
This was removed at the request of the LaSalle New Tribune as it is an infringement upon their ownership of the article.
50 comments:
Anonymous
said...
Obviously this intersection is more of a problem than the mayor is willing to admit. What will it take to get this intersection changed back to a 4 way, the way it should be. Everybody should write the open forum or the mayor directly.
This is the intersection that will not die. Just an ineffective government policy having a negative effect on our local economy. Unfortunately, if 1,090 signatures didn't change anything I question what writing the open forum or the mayor directly would do.
I agree with you Justin but with the election around the corner who knows. Maybe the mayor will attempt to listen to the people and at least be willing to discuss the pluses and minuses regarding this intersection.
I would be amazed if the mayor chose to revisit this intersection. I base that on his comment that it was done and we would not discuss it further and then just about had one of the business owners ejected from the meeting by the police chief.
I remember that Lois and that man was a gentleman compared to several who spouted out at the pickle ball meeting and the mayor just sat there and did nothing and said nothing. And, those at the pickle ball meeting even verbally attacked one of the mayor's aldermen. I found both of those situations disturbing.
Sad, sad days in Peru. Why is it that the mayor will not listen to the people? Who is he taking advice from? Or is it true what everyone has been saying that he has the "my way or the highway attitude". Whatever his approach is, it is a sad day in the City of Peru!
Apparently Alderman Perez, the owners of Dairy Queen, Penzoil Oil Change, and Mi Margarita's and I are not the only people upset with the Venture Drive intersection changes. It is saddening to hear that people are avoiding those businesses along Venture Drive because of the weirdness of that intersection. Even though we already knew this, hearing it from actual shoppers is disheartening. If you agree, call your aldermen and/or the mayor and voice your opinion. Peru cannot afford to lose any more good businesses, businesses that have supported Peru for many years. We need to change that intersection back to a 4 way. I appreciate people writing to the Open Forum and to this blog and telling us what they think.
Sherry, I told the mayor about a month ago about an incident that I had turning left into the mall from 38th St. The car heading east did not stop at the stop sign and forced me to stop to avoid being hit. The other problem is that with traffic coming straight at you it is hard to judge if they are going to stop or their speed. And at times the traffic in back of the car that did not stop also does not stop. So I did voice my opinion Sherry. Whether he took my situation seriously, I do not know. Jill Bernal
WE ARE HEARING FRIM PEOPLE WHO LIVE OUTSIDE OF PERU WHO DRIVE TO PERU TO SHOP IN REGARDS THE INTERSECTION. IF NOT FOR THEM PERU WOULDN'T HAVE THE TAX REVENUE. PERU COULDN'T SURVIVE ON JUST PERU RESIDENTS SHOPPING AND EATING! IS THE CITY THAT STUPID??! And yes, I LIKE CAPITAL LETTERS, THAT'S FOR THE PERSON WHO DOGS THE PERSON WHO BLOGS IN CAPS. AND NOW, I'LL GO CHEW ON A BONE.
This intersection is not the only one along 251 that is causing and has caused problems. Today I encountered much the same problem heading south on 251. At the intersection with 38th street 3 cars turned in front of me (I was trying to turn left onto 38th) after the light turned red. They were caught in the intersection just as those were that caused the Venture Drive intersection to be altered. Also cars were backed up along 38th street east of 251 and also on 251 over the 80 ramp. The problem seems to be the controlling of the lights on 251. They allow too many cars to back up before they turn green. During the holiday season they should be studied and readjusted.
To: Lois From: Rodney Perez Majority of the council voted not to change the intersection back to how it was. Mayor Harl made it clear the decision has been made to keep the intersection as is. Although I don't agree with their decision, and out of respect for the mayor, and the majorities choice to leave the intersection as is... I, along with Alderman Mayszak have sat back over the past few months hoping the change would workout for not only commuters, but most importantly our business partners north of 38th St. I have been in contact with those business owners, and will continue communicating with them through the holidays. Dairy Queen owner has stated... Sales have been down thousands of dollars, month after month since the intersection was implemented; since our last conversation on November, 27th. October was the biggest loss in over ten years, with sales down several thousand dollars in one month. We may have no choice but to revisit this come first of the year.
Thank you! And wishing everyone a Very Merry Christmas:-)
There is a very simple resolution to this issue. Contact the Peru PD and ask them for the number of accidents and corresponding intersection for the last 5 years. When you see the list, you might want to ask the Mayor and his puppets why those intersections are not bypassed and shut down like the one north of the mall. If the decision was made for life safety issues, then they might as well shut down the weekly accident intersection over the 80 overpass. Might want to shut down shooting park road too. While they are at it, they should shut down every parking lot at the north end of town. Lots of fender benders up there. Just saying.
Sherry and Rodney, thanks for acknowledging that the problems still exist at this intersection, and recognizing the concerns that shoppers are still encountering. It seems that the issues are not only affecting the local traffic, but also discouraging the very important shoppers that come from out of town. We are also happy to see that you are in contact with the businesses affected by this intersection. Please continue your efforts because no business should suffer the consequences of a poor decision. The amount of signage that is now at that intersection is a clear indication that something is WRONG! And once again thank you for being a voice for the people. The 2 28th St. neighbors....You guessed it Jill and Linda. ps have a Merry Christmas!
I made that suggestion to the PPC and it was not received with much eagerness because of the paper work it would involve. Perhaps if an individual citizen did a FOIA of the information they might be received more kindly than one who asks too many questions.
With people still complaining about this intersection after all this time it just shows the bullheadedness of mayor harl (caps left off - he doesn't deserve them). If he decided to put things back as original now after all this time to me would just be a political move for re-election. Let someone new fix it right, it will just show how smart they are and how dumb Harl is.
Just came through the Venture Drive intersection. Believe it or not traffic was backed on 38th street from 251 to Peoria street. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes. We corrected one problem, it seems, and in the procession created many more.
5:15 PM I believe they will be on flashing red until tomorrow when they will be repaired by Peru electric dept. Also believe State has been notified but don't know if they would come out tonight. Be careful!
Please remember it is not only approved by Mayor Harl but all the other aldermen with the exception of Ald. Perez and Mayszak who voted against this. I can still hear Ald. Ankiewicz saying with some emphasis and maybe a little anger that he will vote for the change because it is all about safety and he will always vote for safety. This is on one of the videos we have posted in the past.
I beleive the point was to transfer the backup to the eastbound traffic. Thus, keeping the blockage off of 251. Since eastbound traffic can only turn right or go straight, over time the traffic flow will "learn" about Wenzel Road and some of the blockage will be relieved. Not the best soluion, but good considering the budget and the goal. Remember the goal is to relieve the backups on 251 and the budget was small. Ideal Solution? Install stop lights at Venture Drive and 38th Street. Tie these in to the control system for the stop lights at 251 and Ventrue Drive. Tear up both intersections and install / update the sensors so the traffic lights will react to current demand. Cost? EXPENSIVE.
Since it is most likely different drivers at all times, there is no leaning curve. Also I think that it is mostly out of town drivers as locals have already learned to stay away from that area.
Lois - I'm talking about the system learning - not individual drivers - and there is a learning curve. Over time, individuals within the system will optimize themselves to meet their individaul goals. Sort of like UPS not allowing their drivers to turn left. A related example of this is the increase in traffic turning right when exiting HyVee. Without the new stop signs on Peoria Street, the system "knew" that it was often futile to attempt to turn right out of HyVee (which is the best choice) only to negate the benefits of turning right by waiting to turn left at the uncontrolled Peoria Street intersection. Now, a larger portion of the traffic is taking the Peoria street route and avoiding 251. However, this has now increase the difficulties at "the triangel." Long story short - when traffic density is high, Stop Signs should NOT be used. The City needs to spend some of the infrastructure tax on intelligent control systems. But, the Mayor likes big machines that move dirt - so that will never happen.
Everyone is missing the actual problem. There are way to many cars in this area because there is no public transportation. One big problme in LaSalle and Peru is that EVERYONE drives EVERYWHERE. Even people that should not drive (due to issues dealing with aging) continue to drive because that is the ONLY way they can get the things they need. It is time something is done to bring back public transportation to the LaSale Peru area. With all the baby boomers getting older, it is a perfect time to do this. Public transportation could be funded through a per car tax - maybe $400 per year)or an additional sales tax. Since retired people would benefit the most, we could charge a retirement income tax - say 10% or 20% on all social security checks and pension checks. There could also be a special property tax for retired people that live at home. All that money would be used to create a bus system and pay for all the people to run it.
20 per cent on their social security checks? Are you proposing they stop eating?
Even the best mass transit takes a small fraction of US drivers, and our current traffic Volume here is marginal at best. We have some congestion at poorly designed and un controlled intersections, but Mass Transit will do nothing to eliminate that.
Anon 11:07 You need help and the more professional the better! Please realize that this help should be obtained immediately as it is way overdue. Reach out this minute and until your needs are answered lock yourself in a padded room and do not re-enter society for any reason. Have you recently entered this mental anguish, possibly at the start of the holiday season, or are you existing mentally as such all the time?
it will if you increase the gasoline tax to make is less economical to drive a car. Europe has had great success doing that. They raise the gas tax to the point that normal people can't afford to drive - that way almost everybody uses the transit system. Remember, the people can't be counted on to make a good decision on their own. They need the unseen hand of government to make decisions for them.
If you've been up to the controversial intersection lately it is unbelievable. I have never seen so many cars backed up as there are now with this new set-up. I can just imagine what it would have been like if WalMart were still in that location. It is a mess beyond belief. In the process of eliminating one problem they have created many new ones. If at all possible - AVOID THAT INTERSECTION!!!
11:07 AM !!! YOU HAVE TO BE ON DRUG'S OR BE THE BIGGEST JACKASS THAT EVER WALKED THE FACE OF THIS EARTH!!! NO! I AM NOT APOLOGISING FOR CAPITAL LETTERS I AM MAD!!! MAD I TELL YOU!! WHAT ABOUT FIXED INCOME PEOPLE? I CAN TELL NOW IT IS ALL ABOUT YOU AND FORGET ABOUT EVERYONE ELSE. SHAME SHAME SHAME -- WHAT A JERK!!!!! ARE YOU RUNNING FOR MAYOR?
This is a GOOD PROBLEM to have right now. It shows the knowhow, thinking, and management skills of our current Mayor Harl. Remember when it comes to ELECTION TIME. Be sure to tell all those who don't have access to this info. Also be sure the elderly or those with bad eyesight can tell the difference on the election ballot between HART AND HARL. One letter makes a difference.
6:24 You are right on, this could not have happened at a better time. It not only shows his thinking and management skills, but it also shows us his it is my way attitude. That intersection, the signs for the roads this summer, the loan for the roads, the pickleball, everything he promised to get elected and did not do. As the list gets longer and the election grows closer I am so glad there are choices for the voters. Keep blogging fellow bloggers. The mayor and council members don't think anybody reads or pays attention to this, well I say they better. It worked for Harl four years ago and will work against him in April.
News Trib has posted on FB A caller from La Salle says Peru police are out directing traffic at Venture Drive and 38th Street. She says she waited, quote, 15 minutes, while headed east out of Dollar Tree toward 251 and Menards. Guess everybody's making a U-turn through Hobby Lobby etc. lot?
Does anyone remember these problems last year at Christmas at this intersection? Did the police need to direct traffic? If the answer to these questions is no, looks like the council and mayor made a mistake. A big mistake.
I'm curious as to if any city official has been assigned to monitor this intersection and address the problems that have been encountered during this busy season. While the intersection itself has caused and continues to cause confusion there are other problems in other locations that have popped up as a direct result of the changes made. Entrances to businesses (i.e. Big Lots etc.) are being blocked by backed up traffic. There is a definite increase in cars existing and entering the former Wal Mart parking lot. Those who are trying to turn left onto Venture Drive south from 38th street have to be very, very careful. Cars in front of them may or may not stop and those coming toward them from the west sometimes forget you have the right-of-way. There are many little flaws that in my opinion need to be re-addressed and hopefully our council has been on top of this and also in contact with the businesses in that location for their input.
I will proudly leave my name, Sandy, as I was the one who wrote the follow up letter to the NewsTribune forum after that couple initially wrote theirs. It was brought to my attention today about this blog and I have respectfully read everyone's heated views and arguments.
You want to know something? Why are most of you being vindictive when we ALLLL have the same convictions that this intersection needs to go back to a 4 way intersection?
In fact, a couple days after I wrote my letter to the NT I was, once again, at that intersection and saw 2 different close call accidents!! How many times has THAT happened that we no nothing of? More than we can think. But I must say, it makes me not want to drive there all the more after seeing that! Many of us are still complaining a year later about this issue. What does THAT tell you. It's not working!!
I do not believe the short one-time observation survey that the city hired a 3rd party to do for (what?) one hour and came up with the results that it is currently a much safer intersection with the way it is now.
Couple that with the fact that there are now millions of dollars in revenue being lost to the local businesses on Ventura Drive. If I were any one of those Entrepreneurs I'd pull the plug and move my business right out of Peru and be done with it before I lost anymore revenue. Although it costs a lot of money to relocate a business and I would think if i waited any longer I wouldn't be able to afford to do so. Take a hit now and get out of Dodge because Dodge isn't looking out for my best interests. The people have spoken and it's falling on deaf ears.
What's the rule of thumb? They say for every complaint that is voiced there are how many more times that amount that have NOT taken the time to complain? I don't remember the ratio, but it's high. And who said there were OVER 1,000 SIGNATURES???? WOW!!! That speaks volumes, folks.
So majority ruled to keep it this way minus the only 2 Aldermen who voted against keeping it as is. I thought politicians are there to serve and represent the people! It's now time to pull a Donald Trump on those who are ignoring our pleas. Unfortunately I am one of those who live outside of Peru and can only vote with my wallet and not patronize the local businesses. So I am only hurting the wrong ones in all this!
One more thing in regards to taxing Senior Citizens to pay for public transportation. $5 $10 etc. is a lot of money to folks living on a fixed income. That's insulting to not understand that and to say, "What do they need the money for anyway?" Just because you tax them 10% - 20% doesn't mean all the Senior Citizens are going to jump on the band wagon and say forgot about driving my car and hop on a bus!! Besides, that will not solve this dilemma.
I DO thank everyone for taking the time in voicing their views. It's an interesting blog. It is my hope that some day this will once again be a 4-way intersection and we won't lose any one of those businesses on Ventura Drive!! Surely, if I were on the Peru Board I certainly wouldn't be able to sleep at night if any one of those businesses closed up shop and never reopened. Peru politicians are gambling with a LOT of people's lives AND their lively-hood.
You, Anonymous, are so right. That's one of many reasons this intersection is so frustrating to shoppers. And one of several things Entrepreneurs look at (easy access) when choosing a location to open your own business.
Do you think we will see any new businesses try and locate anywhere near that horrible, dangerous, and challenging intersection? I think not.
And if you're turning left (south) onto Venture drive from 38th street east be very careful of those at the stop sign on 38th street west. They often don't realize that you have the right-of-way. I've encountered several people who have had near collisions because of this problem (myself included).
Lois, You like to print open forum letters, right? Then you should print the little letter about the Mall intersection from last nights News Trib. It's only fair, right Lois?
I would like to report that this individual (8:04 AM) read in the News Trib open forum a few days ago that a lady wrote in from Tonica and said she had no trouble negotiating the Venture Drive and 38 th Street intersection and didn't know what all the fuss was about. Is that satisfactory or do you want me to research her name? I believe it was only one or 2 sentences and gave no information about why she liked it and why it was easy to drive through so there was nothing new. I'm not conducting a survey on the intersection.
I'm guessing Katherine Dauber is related to somebody who works for Chamlins. THE PROBLEM IS THAT THOSE BUSINESSES ARE LOSING MONEY BECAUSE OF THE CHANGE! It might not be a problem for her, but I bet if she owned one of those businesses, she would have a HUGE problem with it. Walk a mile in somebody else's shoes......
The next printed letter from the open forum in the newspaper was by Katherine Dauber. And it read, "Regarding peru's 'intersection', what is all the fuss about? I can't see a problem. I have no problem at all. Enough already!"
My response to that letter? Me neither. I too haven't a problem and navigate through it without a problem. But it appears there are MANY who do have a problem! Not to mention the many close call accidents on account of the changes.
AND just like you had written Anon, look at the serious revenue losses that's going on there!!! So if Katherine is tired of hearing it, I say: turn a blind eye since its not affecting you and since you haven't a heart to the local businesses.
50 comments:
Obviously this intersection is more of a problem than the mayor is willing to admit. What will it take to get this intersection changed back to a 4 way, the way it should be. Everybody should write the open forum or the mayor directly.
This is the intersection that will not die. Just an ineffective government policy having a negative effect on our local economy. Unfortunately, if 1,090 signatures didn't change anything I question what writing the open forum or the mayor directly would do.
I agree with you Justin but with the election around the corner who knows. Maybe the mayor will attempt to listen to the people and at least be willing to discuss the pluses and minuses regarding this intersection.
9:43 PM
I would be amazed if the mayor chose to revisit this intersection. I base that on his comment that it was done and we would not discuss it further and then just about had one of the business owners ejected from the meeting by the police chief.
I remember that Lois and that man was a gentleman compared to several who spouted out at the pickle ball meeting and the mayor just sat there and did nothing and said nothing.
And, those at the pickle ball meeting even verbally attacked one of the mayor's aldermen. I found both of those situations disturbing.
Sad, sad days in Peru. Why is it that the mayor will not listen to the people? Who is he taking advice from? Or is it true what everyone has been saying that he has the "my way or the highway attitude". Whatever his approach is, it is a sad day in the City of Peru!
Apparently Alderman Perez, the owners of Dairy Queen, Penzoil Oil Change, and Mi Margarita's and I are not the only people upset with the Venture Drive intersection changes. It is saddening to hear that people are avoiding those businesses along Venture Drive because of the weirdness of that intersection. Even though we already knew this, hearing it from actual shoppers is disheartening. If you agree, call your aldermen and/or the mayor and voice your opinion. Peru cannot afford to lose any more good businesses, businesses that have supported Peru for many years. We need to change that intersection back to a 4 way. I appreciate people writing to the Open Forum and to this blog and telling us what they think.
Sherry, I told the mayor about a month ago about an incident that I had turning left into the mall from 38th St. The car heading east did not stop at the stop sign and forced me to stop to avoid being hit. The other problem is that with traffic coming straight at you it is hard to judge if they are going to stop or their speed. And at times the traffic in back of the car that did not stop also does not stop. So I did voice my opinion Sherry. Whether he took my situation seriously, I do not know. Jill Bernal
12:36 PM
I have received your post and will only publish it if you rewrite and sign your name.
WE ARE HEARING FRIM PEOPLE WHO LIVE OUTSIDE OF PERU WHO DRIVE TO PERU TO SHOP IN REGARDS THE INTERSECTION. IF NOT FOR THEM PERU WOULDN'T HAVE THE TAX REVENUE. PERU COULDN'T SURVIVE ON JUST PERU RESIDENTS SHOPPING AND EATING! IS THE CITY THAT STUPID??! And yes, I LIKE CAPITAL LETTERS, THAT'S FOR THE PERSON WHO DOGS THE PERSON WHO BLOGS IN CAPS. AND NOW, I'LL GO CHEW ON A BONE.
1:20 WOOF WOOF
This intersection is not the only one along 251 that is causing and has caused problems. Today I encountered much the same problem heading south on 251. At the intersection with 38th street 3 cars turned in front of me (I was trying to turn left onto 38th) after the light turned red. They were caught in the intersection just as those were that caused the Venture Drive intersection to be altered. Also cars were backed up along 38th street east of 251 and also on 251 over the 80 ramp. The problem seems to be the controlling of the lights on 251. They allow too many cars to back up before they turn green. During the holiday season they should be studied and readjusted.
To: Lois
From: Rodney Perez
Majority of the council voted not to change the intersection back to how it was. Mayor Harl made it clear the decision has been made to keep the intersection as is. Although I don't agree with their decision, and out of respect for the mayor, and the majorities choice to leave the intersection as is... I, along with Alderman Mayszak have sat back over the past few months hoping the change would workout for not only commuters, but most importantly our business partners north of 38th St.
I have been in contact with those business owners, and will continue communicating with them through the holidays.
Dairy Queen owner has stated... Sales have been down thousands of dollars, month after month since the intersection was implemented; since our last conversation on November, 27th. October was the biggest loss in over ten years, with sales down several thousand dollars in one month.
We may have no choice but to revisit this come first of the year.
Thank you! And wishing everyone a Very Merry Christmas:-)
Rodney Perez
There is a very simple resolution to this issue. Contact the Peru PD and ask them for the number of accidents and corresponding intersection for the last 5 years. When you see the list, you might want to ask the Mayor and his puppets why those intersections are not bypassed and shut down like the one north of the mall. If the decision was made for life safety issues, then they might as well shut down the weekly accident intersection over the 80 overpass. Might want to shut down shooting park road too. While they are at it, they should shut down every parking lot at the north end of town. Lots of fender benders up there. Just saying.
Sherry and Rodney, thanks for acknowledging that the problems still exist at this intersection, and recognizing the concerns that shoppers are still encountering. It seems that the issues are not only affecting the local traffic, but also discouraging the very important shoppers that come from out of town. We are also happy to see that you are in contact with the businesses affected by this intersection. Please continue your efforts because no business should suffer the consequences of a poor decision. The amount of signage that is now at that intersection is a clear indication that something is WRONG! And once again thank you for being a voice for the people. The 2 28th St. neighbors....You guessed it Jill and Linda. ps have a Merry Christmas!
10:15 PM
I made that suggestion to the PPC and it was not received with much eagerness because of the paper work it would involve. Perhaps if an individual citizen did a FOIA of the information they might be received more kindly than one who asks too many questions.
Questions to ask all mayoral candidates:
What are your thoughts about the effectiveness of the Venture Drive intersection?
How would you have handled the pickle ball problem?
Would you spend taxpayer money to build signs patting yourself on the back for road work that the taxpayers paid for?
With people still complaining about this intersection after all this time it just shows the bullheadedness of mayor harl (caps left off - he doesn't deserve them). If he decided to put things back as original now after all this time to me would just be a political move for re-election. Let someone new fix it right, it will just show how smart they are and how dumb Harl is.
Just came through the Venture Drive intersection. Believe it or not traffic was backed on 38th street from 251 to Peoria street. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes. We corrected one problem, it seems, and in the procession created many more.
The stoplights at 251 and 38th are now all blinking red.
5:15 PM
I believe they will be on flashing red until tomorrow when they will be repaired by Peru electric dept. Also believe State has been notified but don't know if they would come out tonight. Be careful!
At 3:25 Linda states the traffic is backed up to Peoria St. and then suddenly the lights on 251 are not working. Who are they trying to fool.
Please remember it is not only approved by Mayor Harl but all the other aldermen with the exception of Ald. Perez and Mayszak who voted against this. I can still hear Ald. Ankiewicz saying with some emphasis and maybe a little anger that he will vote for the change because it is all about safety and he will always vote for safety. This is on one of the videos we have posted in the past.
I beleive the point was to transfer the backup to the eastbound traffic. Thus, keeping the blockage off of 251. Since eastbound traffic can only turn right or go straight, over time the traffic flow will "learn" about Wenzel Road and some of the blockage will be relieved. Not the best soluion, but good considering the budget and the goal. Remember the goal is to relieve the backups on 251 and the budget was small.
Ideal Solution? Install stop lights at Venture Drive and 38th Street. Tie these in to the control system for the stop lights at 251 and Ventrue Drive. Tear up both intersections and install / update the sensors so the traffic lights will react to current demand. Cost? EXPENSIVE.
8:16 AM
Since it is most likely different drivers at all times, there is no leaning curve. Also I think that it is mostly out of town drivers as locals have already learned to stay away from that area.
Lois - I'm talking about the system learning - not individual drivers - and there is a learning curve. Over time, individuals within the system will optimize themselves to meet their individaul goals. Sort of like UPS not allowing their drivers to turn left.
A related example of this is the increase in traffic turning right when exiting HyVee. Without the new stop signs on Peoria Street, the system "knew" that it was often futile to attempt to turn right out of HyVee (which is the best choice) only to negate the benefits of turning right by waiting to turn left at the uncontrolled Peoria Street intersection. Now, a larger portion of the traffic is taking the Peoria street route and avoiding 251.
However, this has now increase the difficulties at "the triangel."
Long story short - when traffic density is high, Stop Signs should NOT be used. The City needs to spend some of the infrastructure tax on intelligent control systems. But, the Mayor likes big machines that move dirt - so that will never happen.
Everyone is missing the actual problem. There are way to many cars in this area because there is no public transportation.
One big problme in LaSalle and Peru is that EVERYONE drives EVERYWHERE. Even people that should not drive (due to issues dealing with aging) continue to drive because that is the ONLY way they can get the things they need.
It is time something is done to bring back public transportation to the LaSale Peru area. With all the baby boomers getting older, it is a perfect time to do this. Public transportation could be funded through a per car tax - maybe $400 per year)or an additional sales tax. Since retired people would benefit the most, we could charge a retirement income tax - say 10% or 20% on all social security checks and pension checks. There could also be a special property tax for retired people that live at home. All that money would be used to create a bus system and pay for all the people to run it.
20 per cent on their social security checks? Are you proposing they stop eating?
Even the best mass transit takes a small fraction of US drivers, and our current traffic Volume here is marginal at best. We have some congestion at poorly designed and un controlled intersections, but Mass Transit will do nothing to eliminate that.
At 1 o'clock today the traffic was now backed up on Peoria St. from 36th st. to 38th st. Now what?
Anon 11:07 You need help and the more professional the better! Please realize that this help should be obtained immediately as it is way overdue. Reach out this minute and until your needs are answered lock yourself in a padded room and do not re-enter society for any reason. Have you recently entered this mental anguish, possibly at the start of the holiday season, or are you existing mentally as such all the time?
it will if you increase the gasoline tax to make is less economical to drive a car. Europe has had great success doing that. They raise the gas tax to the point that normal people can't afford to drive - that way almost everybody uses the transit system. Remember, the people can't be counted on to make a good decision on their own. They need the unseen hand of government to make decisions for them.
If you've been up to the controversial intersection lately it is unbelievable. I have never seen so many cars backed up as there are now with this new set-up. I can just imagine what it would have been like if WalMart were still in that location. It is a mess beyond belief. In the process of eliminating one problem they have created many new ones. If at all possible - AVOID THAT INTERSECTION!!!
11:07 AM !!! YOU HAVE TO BE ON DRUG'S OR BE THE BIGGEST JACKASS THAT EVER WALKED THE FACE OF THIS EARTH!!! NO! I AM NOT APOLOGISING FOR CAPITAL LETTERS I AM MAD!!! MAD I TELL YOU!! WHAT ABOUT FIXED INCOME PEOPLE? I CAN TELL NOW IT IS ALL ABOUT YOU AND FORGET ABOUT EVERYONE ELSE. SHAME SHAME SHAME -- WHAT A JERK!!!!! ARE YOU RUNNING FOR MAYOR?
This is a GOOD PROBLEM to have right now. It shows the knowhow, thinking, and management skills of our current Mayor Harl. Remember when it comes to ELECTION TIME. Be sure to tell all those who don't have access to this info. Also be sure the elderly or those with bad eyesight can tell the difference on the election ballot between HART AND HARL. One letter makes a difference.
6:24 You are right on, this could not have happened at a better time. It not only shows his thinking and management skills, but it also shows us his it is my way attitude. That intersection, the signs for the roads this summer, the loan for the roads, the pickleball, everything he promised to get elected and did not do. As the list gets longer and the election grows closer I am so glad there are choices for the voters. Keep blogging fellow bloggers. The mayor and council members don't think anybody reads or pays attention to this, well I say they better. It worked for Harl four years ago and will work against him in April.
20% is not all that much for those people getting social security checks. What eles do they need to spend it on anyway?
News Trib has posted on FB
A caller from La Salle says Peru police are out directing traffic at Venture Drive and 38th Street. She says she waited, quote, 15 minutes, while headed east out of Dollar Tree toward 251 and Menards. Guess everybody's making a U-turn through Hobby Lobby etc. lot?
Does anyone remember these problems last year at Christmas at this intersection? Did the police need to direct traffic? If the answer to these questions is no, looks like the council and mayor made a mistake. A big mistake.
I'm curious as to if any city official has been assigned to monitor this intersection and address the problems that have been encountered during this busy season. While the intersection itself has caused and continues to cause confusion there are other problems in other locations that have popped up as a direct result of the changes made. Entrances to businesses (i.e. Big Lots etc.) are being blocked by backed up traffic. There is a definite increase in cars existing and entering the former Wal Mart parking lot. Those who are trying to turn left onto Venture Drive south from 38th street have to be very, very careful. Cars in front of them may or may not stop and those coming toward them from the west sometimes forget you have the right-of-way. There are many little flaws that in my opinion need to be re-addressed and hopefully our council has been on top of this and also in contact with the businesses in that location for their input.
I will proudly leave my name, Sandy, as I was the one who wrote the follow up letter to the NewsTribune forum after that couple initially wrote theirs. It was brought to my attention today about this blog and I have respectfully read everyone's heated views and arguments.
You want to know something? Why are most of you being vindictive when we ALLLL have the same convictions that this intersection needs to go back to a 4 way intersection?
In fact, a couple days after I wrote my letter to the NT I was, once again, at that intersection and saw 2 different close call accidents!! How many times has THAT happened that we no nothing of? More than we can think. But I must say, it makes me not want to drive there all the more after seeing that! Many of us are still complaining a year later about this issue. What does THAT tell you. It's not working!!
I do not believe the short one-time observation survey that the city hired a 3rd party to do for (what?) one hour and came up with the results that it is currently a much safer intersection with the way it is now.
Couple that with the fact that there are now millions of dollars in revenue being lost to the local businesses on Ventura Drive. If I were any one of those Entrepreneurs I'd pull the plug and move my business right out of Peru and be done with it before I lost anymore revenue. Although it costs a lot of money to relocate a business and I would think if i waited any longer I wouldn't be able to afford to do so. Take a hit now and get out of Dodge because Dodge isn't looking out for my best interests. The people have spoken and it's falling on deaf ears.
What's the rule of thumb? They say for every complaint that is voiced there are how many more times that amount that have NOT taken the time to complain? I don't remember the ratio, but it's high. And who said there were OVER 1,000 SIGNATURES???? WOW!!! That speaks volumes, folks.
So majority ruled to keep it this way minus the only 2 Aldermen who voted against keeping it as is. I thought politicians are there to serve and represent the people! It's now time to pull a Donald Trump on those who are ignoring our pleas. Unfortunately I am one of those who live outside of Peru and can only vote with my wallet and not patronize the local businesses. So I am only hurting the wrong ones in all this!
One more thing in regards to taxing Senior Citizens to pay for public transportation. $5 $10 etc. is a lot of money to folks living on a fixed income. That's insulting to not understand that and to say, "What do they need the money for anyway?" Just because you tax them 10% - 20% doesn't mean all the Senior Citizens are going to jump on the band wagon and say forgot about driving my car and hop on a bus!! Besides, that will not solve this dilemma.
I DO thank everyone for taking the time in voicing their views. It's an interesting blog. It is my hope that some day this will once again be a 4-way intersection and we won't lose any one of those businesses on Ventura Drive!! Surely, if I were on the Peru Board I certainly wouldn't be able to sleep at night if any one of those businesses closed up shop and never reopened. Peru politicians are gambling with a LOT of people's lives AND their lively-hood.
Blogger approval: If approved, please print my last blog as I had to make corrections to it. THANKS!
You can't even turn north on adventure if you come from the west, nor can you go north if you come from the mall (bank area).
You, Anonymous, are so right. That's one of many reasons this intersection is so frustrating to shoppers. And one of several things Entrepreneurs look at (easy access) when choosing a location to open your own business.
Do you think we will see any new businesses try and locate anywhere near that horrible, dangerous, and challenging intersection? I think not.
And if you're turning left (south) onto Venture drive from 38th street east be very careful of those at the stop sign on 38th street west. They often don't realize that you have the right-of-way. I've encountered several people who have had near collisions because of this problem (myself included).
Peru is a joke. Glad I only have to visit a few times a year. Wouldn't want to put up with all the political B.S.
Lois, You like to print open forum letters, right?
Then you should print the little letter about the Mall intersection from last nights News Trib.
It's only fair, right Lois?
I would like to report that this individual (8:04 AM) read in the News Trib open forum a few days ago that a lady wrote in from Tonica and said she had no trouble negotiating the Venture Drive and 38 th Street intersection and didn't know what all the fuss was about.
Is that satisfactory or do you want me to research her name?
I believe it was only one or 2 sentences and gave no information about why she liked it and why it was easy to drive through so there was nothing new. I'm not conducting a survey on the intersection.
I'm guessing Katherine Dauber is related to somebody who works for Chamlins. THE PROBLEM IS THAT THOSE BUSINESSES ARE LOSING MONEY BECAUSE OF THE CHANGE! It might not be a problem for her, but I bet if she owned one of those businesses, she would have a HUGE problem with it. Walk a mile in somebody else's shoes......
Hey Anon,
The next printed letter from the open forum in the newspaper was by Katherine Dauber. And it read, "Regarding peru's 'intersection', what is all the fuss about? I can't see a problem. I have no problem at all. Enough already!"
My response to that letter? Me neither. I too haven't a problem and navigate through it without a problem. But it appears there are MANY who do have a problem! Not to mention the many close call accidents on account of the changes.
AND just like you had written Anon, look at the serious revenue losses that's going on there!!! So if Katherine is tired of hearing it, I say: turn a blind eye since its not affecting you and since you haven't a heart to the local businesses.
To Sandy Lou Hoos - I'm a big fan.
I just loved you in "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas".
Your such a cute little thing!
Post a Comment