As for the alley, yes, it was an adjacent property owner closing off a public right-of-way but, as I recall, they went before the city commission for permission (or to ask forgiveness… can’t remember exactly). Either way, I believe it was done at a time when the area had considerably less foot traffic than we have now and there was a perceived sketchiness factor with many of those ambling through. Thus, now that our context has changed significantly, and walking to school is far more prevalent than it was then, it may be time to revisit the issue and restore the connection. The benefit to the greater community probably outweighs individual concerns at this point, though I’m sure there’ll be much debate about it.

My understanding is there is an effort to get what was formerly an alley closer to College Avenue spanning from Olympic Place to Mead Road re-opened. It would be great for those of us who walk, bike, or scoot to school on College Avenue, providing an alternative to walking down the sidewalk with very little space between cars zooming by (while drivers are texting, talking on the cell, putting on makeup, etc). I think there are just a few property owners who are opposed to it. What I don’t understand is, if it was once an alley, thus public property, and it was closed off by property owners by fences…then why can’t the city reclaim the alley?

At any rate–yay! I’m so glad this passed. Good news. I hope this paves the way for re-opening the alley (pun intended).