Access for emergency and rescue vehicles still needed
By Karen Mahoney
Correspondent
With the walking trail nearly complete for Lincoln Woods Memorial Nature Walk, the village’s Department of Public Works Director, Mark Osmundson and members of the Plan Commission expressed concern Monday night, that there is lack of space to supply emergency vehicles and rescue equipment to the area if needed.
Located off Commerce Street, behind Backwoods Storage, most park access is prevented by a 10 foot easement on the south side of Backwoods Storage and a 4-1/2 foot easement on the east side.
“We have this gorgeous 18 acres of park, walking, hiking and nature trails that can be also used for cross country skiing and snowshoeing, but we have no direct route to get emergency vehicles and rescue equipment back there,” said Plan Commissioner Mike Aimone.
“We are also prohibited from bringing police in to patrol back there and we are concerned that it might become a hangout for kids.
“So, we are looking at what we own on Commerce Drive and how to get a straighter shot to get back there.”
The Plan Commission discussed a couple of options including a property off the west side of the Village-owned water retention area that would allow for a 15-20 car parking area.
Aimone suggested an area off the cul-de-sac on Commerce Drive, but Osmundson said the current owner is not receptive to reconfiguring fences to allow access to the woods.
To determine the best possible scenario, the Plan Commission and the Village Board plan to meet to tour the area at the next board meeting on July 23 at 5:15 p.m., weather permitting.
Pleased with the work on the nature walk, Osmundson is looking forward to its final completion, as well as better access to the area.
“We want to plant wildflowers and label them and some of the trees for the school kids to see when they walk out there,” he said.
Most of the park is finished, with the trail in and wood chips down, he added. Also, some large rocks were excavated and serve as natural sitting areas along the one-mile trail.
“It turned out very nice,” Osmundson said. “I think our residents will be very pleased with the result.”
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