What's Happening in Westlake, OH…

Since the North Olmsted City Schools complex is now open, new traffic patterns near the facility are emerging, leading the city council to consider removing some of the area’s old traffic restrictions.

Paul Schumann, the council member for Ward 3, has introduced legislation that should offer some relief to area residents. Schumann notes that many of the streets around the school were designated “no parking” to stop students from leaving cars there and blocking emergency vehicles and buses. However, the new school has more than ample parking, so it makes sense to remove the parking restriction, and open the street to those who need parking.

The other ordinance under consideration would lift restrictions on drivers making a left turn from Revere Drive onto Butternut Ridge Road. Schumann said it seemed like half the high school left campus via Revere, with the result that traffic backed up and drivers were unable to make the left turn. This led to restricting the turns at certain times. With the new development, that is no longer the case. Schumann acknowledges that it will still be difficult to turn left from Revere, but restrictions are no longer necessary.

Schumann also noted that residents around the school have put up with noise and construction for a long time, so it is up to the council to make their lives easier. Officials dealing with matters like this can use flyer printing to keep residents informed.