The Heart of New Ulm’s Coalition for Active Safe and Healthy Streets, in partnership with the City of New Ulm, is planning on conducting a summer-long demonstration project at the intersection of 1st North St. and Garden St. Here’s what you need to know:
What: Temporary curb extensions, or “bump outs,” will be set up at the intersection of 1st North Street and Garden Street.
When: May 1, 2023 thru mid-October
Why: The demonstration project will help residents in the neighborhood and throughout New Ulm experience how curb extensions help slow traffic and make it safer for all who use Harman Park and walk or bike in the area.
How the curb extensions help with safety:
- When the curb is extended out into the lane of traffic, it narrows the driving lanes to the minimum 11-ft. width allowed by Minnesota law.
- This allows someone who wants to cross the street to stand further out — beyond any cars that are parked along the side of the street.
- Oncoming drivers are able to see the person before they step out into the street to cross the street. The person also has a shorter distance to cross.
Background: The Coalition for Active, Safe and Healthy Streets has been concerned about this intersection due to expanded park use and events. Together with city engineers, they have been working to find a solution that will help to slow traffic on this busy street and make it safer for everyone to cross.
If the demonstration project is successful, the Coalition will work with the city to install permanent curb extensions. They would be installed the next time this location is scheduled for major street work, which will significantly reduce the cost.
Anyone who is interested in volunteering to help install the curb extensions on Monday, May 1 from 9 a.m. to noon should contact Brie Taralson at (507) 276-8724 or [email protected]