RIVER FALLS – After lengthy discussion, the River Falls City Council approved the addition of a “No Right on Red” sign at the intersection of Division and Main streets during the Aug. 8 meeting.

The recently adopted bike and pedestrian plan in River Falls listed the intersection as one of the areas that felt unsafe to cross. A proposed plan would serve as a test for the future, addressing safety concerns by adding striping and bollards for vehicles turning from westbound Division to northbound Main in order to slow them down.

After the first reading at the July 25 meeting, it was time for the council to make a decision regarding an amendment to the traffic control map that adds a “No Right Turn on Red” sign for traffic going from eastbound Division to southbound Main.

River Falls resident Eric Amundsen approved of many parts of the plan, but questioned why there will be the addition of a “No Right Turn on Red” sign from eastbound Division Street to southbound Main Street.

“It can be a hassle at times because of the space that’s there,” Amundsen said. “If someone is in front of you, there’s no right hand turn lane, so it is going to be quite restrictive.”

Amundsen said as an e-bike rider, he feels safe at the intersection.

City Administrator Scot Simpson said while the sign may increase traffic back-up at the intersection, that is part of the intention of the plan.

“It is intended to inconvenience vehicle traffic to the benefit of non-vehicle traffic,” Simpson said. “That’s what these treatments are for.”

City Engineer Todd Nickleski said the sign was a recommendation from the same consultant who made the bicycle and pedestrian plan. Nickleski said the turn is sharp, causing drivers to brush up against the curb frequently when turning right. The sign is in place in order to prevent cyclists from being forcibly pushed back when attempting to cross the intersection.

Nickleski also said this is a demonstration project, and it can be undone if necessary.

Alderperson Jeff Bjork said the traffic back-up could cause the intersection to become more dangerous for cyclists and pedestrians.

“If you had had a right turn on a red light where it’s allowable, the bikes still have to wait, the cars could turn and get out of the way of the bikes,” Bjork said. “I think it’s actually more hazardous having a no right turn on the red light there.”

Alderperson Diane Odeen disagreed with Bjork, reflecting on prior experiences of the intersection feeling dangerous.

“Speaking as a bicyclist, I guess I would disagree,” Odeen said. “Anything we can do to make it feel safer for pedestrians or cyclists, particularly at that intersection, is something we should try.”

The council is expected to analyze the results in December and will receive another report around May.

Homeless advocates share thoughts

Krista Cleary spoke during public comment about a policy that prohibits camping on city property passed over the summer that has been a hot topic during public comment in recent weeks.

“I read the language in the ordinance, and it struck me that really isn’t about camping, which is something people do for recreation or leisure,” Cleary said. “Let’s be real, it’s a homeless harassment ordinance.”

Cleary cited a single mom living in her car, who stated a single fine could make the difference between “making it or not.”

Dana Linscott returned for the third consecutive meeting to discuss the ordinance. Linscott spoke about one of Mayor Don Toland’s comments from the previous meeting, in which Toland said he no longer listens to Linscott.

Linscott said the rest of the City Council is acting similarly to Toland, as he believes they have failed to act on or investigate his claims.

Other business

• The council approved an intergovernmental agreement between 879th Avenue and River Falls. Concerns of the proposed Oak Hill development had been expressed at previous meetings, and this agreement serves as a compromise between the sides. Involved in the agreement are a paved trail on the north side of 879th Avenue that is to be maintained by the city, the installation of stop signs and more.
• Revoked the license agreement for property located at 235 Highway 35 N. The property is expected to be a part of the Sterling Ponds Corporate Park that has plans to begin construction in the fall.
• Approved the 2024-28 Capital Improvement Plan. The plan includes $80 million in total funding with 10 total major projects making up $52.7 million. The four projects that stand out above the rest in terms of expected costs are Kinni Corridor implementation, a fire station, Mann Valley Corporate Park and a biosolids facility.
• Approved a resolution providing for the sale of a $5 million water system revenue bond anticipation note.