High Point University should control additional streets
High Point City Council should approve three "street abandonments" requested by High Point University.
Here's the wording on today's agenda:
"Resolution - Street Abandonment 08-14 - High Point University A request by High Point University for the abandonment of a portion of an improved 50 foot wide right-of-way known as Fifth Street between Montlieu Avenue and Woodrow Avenue, an improved 55 foot wide right-of-way known as O. A. Kirkman Way, and an improved 40 foot wide right-of-way known as West College Drive between O. A. Kirkman Way and the southern boundary of E. Farriss Avenue."
Basically, this amounts to privatization. HPU will assume ownership and maintenance responsibility for the streets. They won't be closed to the public, the university pledges. But speed limits will be lowered, speed humps will be installed and pedestrian crossing zones will be established.
The main artery among the three streets is West College. It once formed the western boundary of the campus, but with the university's westward expansion it now runs through the center. There are classroom buildings and dorms on both sides, which means students are walking across the street all day and evening -- and lots of them between classes. It's safer to let the university control traffic.
It's important to guarantee the public's right to use these streets, but it's also reasonable to ask motorists to proceed slowly and carefully.
Addendum: I called over to Elon to find out the status of the several streets that cross through that attractive campus. All the major streets are public, although Elon has added speed bumps, pedestrian crosswalks and other safety improvements at its expensive and with the approval of the town of Elon. So, HPU probably could work out a similar arrangement with the city of High Point if the council turns down the street abandonment proposal. Still, I don't really see a downside for privatization of streets or segments of streets that are completely surrounded by campus.
Update, Oct. 7: High Point City Council approved the request by a 6-2 vote.
Comments (12)
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I wish HPU would take over the entire city of High Point. HPU is absolutely beautiful and I drive by it every day. They have done more for the city in the last two years than the city has ever done for itself. It's not so scary any more to drive down Montlieu Ave. Nedo should be allowed to do whatever he wants. High Point could benefit from his brains and ambition. Wake up High Point and watch. You could learn a lot from Nedo.
Posted on October 6, 2008 1:45 PM
The growth is phenomenal, and it's first-rate growth. Maybe some neighbors feel like they're being pushed back a bit, but new development always has that affect on some. What's the alternative, just pass up on opportunities?
More students, more faculty, more staff. The economic impact of the university is growing at an amazing rate. HPU is even using local contractors for much or most of the new construction and renovations.
What else is bringing MORE money into the city's economy these days?
Posted on October 6, 2008 4:17 PM
go ask bernita sims.
Posted on October 6, 2008 5:11 PM
I respect Bernita Sims. She's smart, and her heart is in the right place.
But, come on, what is happening in Ward 1 that's better than the growth at HPU?
Posted on October 6, 2008 5:19 PM
"All the major streets are public, although Elon has added speed bumps, pedestrian crosswalks and other safety improvements"
Yeah, but the other day I almost ran over a couple of girls that were crossing because I was watching a couple of other girls walking down the sidewalk. So it wasn't my fault.
Posted on October 6, 2008 6:34 PM
Keep your eyes on the girls in front of you.
Although I'll repeat a line I've used before.
I reached the age some time ago that, when I see a cute 20something girl, my thinking is: I bet her mother's good-looking!
Posted on October 7, 2008 9:00 AM
There's nothing wrong with moms, that's for sure. I spend more time in grocery stores than I do at home, because...you know what? I think I'll quit while I'm behind here. ;/
Posted on October 7, 2008 4:45 PM
I remember we were talking about pedestrian safety on college campuses.
Posted on October 7, 2008 4:49 PM
Well, gentleman, I suppose I should thank you.
I came to this sight looking for information about HHigh Point, as my daughter has applied there. We visited the campus, and I was concerned about its sketchy looking perimeter. You have confirmed my doubts. Elon, here we come!
Posted on October 19, 2008 6:20 PM
My daughter is in her third year at HP and I wouldn't have her go anywhere else. It is very safe. She loves the school, is getting a great education and has made some outstanding friends.
Posted on October 27, 2008 12:37 PM
That's good to hear. Where are you from? I'm pitching HPU to my niece in Michigan. She's interested, but her dad would prefer she go to one of their state universities. He might win.
Posted on October 27, 2008 12:42 PM
Bernita Simms is concerned about High Point University's neighbors? Is she serious? Has she even driven through her ward in the past two years and seen all the for sale signs in front of the houses in Ward 1? The neighbors are leaving for lack of decent jobs.
HPU is the only game in Ward 1 employing good full time jobs and the expansion should be embraced. The only "neighbors" complaining are the greedy ones looking for strike pay dirt by selling their property to the university.
Posted on November 7, 2008 9:13 AM