Street Barrier Can Go To Vote

A South Hill man can circulate a petition that could force removal of the traffic barrier at 29th and Pittsburg.

The Spokane City Council on Monday told Del Vander Meer to forge ahead with his petition to put the 29th Avenue traffic barrier to a public vote.

The city installed the barrier in 1993 to keep drivers from turning left at the intersection or crossing 29th on Pittsburg.

Pittsburg neighbors applaud the barrier which, they say, makes their street less dangerous. But nearby residents claim the barrier shoved traffic onto their streets, merely relocating the problem.

Vander Meer will need to gather nearly 3,000 signatures before the council will consider putting the initiative proposal on the ballot.