Time may be running out for Munster town officials to provide a wish list of conditions associated with construction of a new South Shore train station on Ridge Road.
Still, the matter was tabled at a town council meeting March 6.
A resolution that presents the best interests of the town and residents near the station may or may not be acted upon by the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD), but Munster officials believe their 34 percent contribution from its annual economic development funds toward the West Lake Corridor Project should get the ear of those now planning the station stops along the proposed railroad extension.
There appears to be no consensus on where to place the station, which is currently planned for the southeast corner of Ridge Road and Manor Avenue. Julie O’Connor, who originated the citizens-backed resolution, pleaded with the council to seek a station on the north side of Ridge Road with a single point of entry and exit.
“You can’t support a station that backs up to people’s homes,” said O’Connor, who wants NICTD to acquire 18 homes around the station and parking lot to provide an adequate buffer for the neighborhood.
A resolution, to be considered for adoption at the council’s March 20 meeting, asks NICTD to minimize acquisition of homes to the fullest extent possible. Beyond that, council members concurred that it needs more specifics in terms of fencing, landscaping, soundproofing barriers, traffic and alterations to the Monon bike path. The resolution also seeks a platform type of station rather than an actual brick-and-mortar building.
Council President Joe Simonetto questioned if there was adequate space for a train station on the north side of Ridge and how it would affect traffic. That prompted the idea of conducting a traffic study.,.
“I want smart engineering on this so there’s a minimum impact on the community,” Councilman Dave Nellans said. “I don’t think that’s been done.”
But there may not be enough time.
“They’re not waiting for us at NICTD to tell them what we want,” Councilwoman Lee Ann Mellon said.
Jim Masters is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
Town hall meeting Sunday
Residents will discuss the West Lake South Shore expansion project with U.S. Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-Merrillville, at a town hall meeting from 2-3 p.m. Sunday, March 12, at the Wicker Park Clubhouse, 8554 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland.
