PUBLIC INPUT SUMMARY

To assist the County Engineer’s Office in better understanding the Catalpa Drive & Siebenthaler Avenue intersection, a public outreach effort was undertaken to share the intersection study with others prior to pursuing project grant funding opportunities.  The public outreach effort consisted of the following:

  1. A press release was issued on October 16, 2023, which was subsequently shared by WDTN.com and dayton247now.com.
  2. A WYSO radio interview with the County Engineer, Paul Gruner, was conducted on November 2, 2023. A recording and transcript of this interview is available here.
  3. Local neighborhood associations were contacted and provided web links to review the completed study. Neighborhood associations contacted included:
    • Hillview Neighborhood Association
    • Hook Estates Homeowners Association
    • Philadelphia Wood Neighborhood Association
    • Rock-N-Woods Neighborhood Association
    • Sandalwood Park Neighborhood Association

Public comments were requested by no later than November 17, 2023. Seventeen individual responses were received via email and phone calls.  A summary of the feedback received on the intersection alternatives was as follows:

  • Eight individuals supported the construction of a roundabout.
  • Six individuals supported the construction of a fully operational traffic signal.
  • Two individuals recommended not to do anything.
  • One individual offered input on traffic operations, but no specific alternative was recommended.

Common themes expressed in public comments included vehicles speeding, reckless driving, and trucks causing noise and creating safety concerns.  The County Engineer’s Office is currently evaluating potential federal grant opportunities, and how a project could be included in a future Capital Improvement Plan.  If a project moves forward, additional public involvement will occur.  Projects that receive federal funds must comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).  This process includes a significant direct mailing effort for the entire area requesting input.  More information on the NEPA process is available at https://highways.dot.gov/fed-aid-essentials/videos/environment/public-involvement.