A Michigan Municipal League study calls for a sustainable a transportation plan near the area where Kalamazoo Valley Community College's new health living campus will be located.
The study was developed with input from city officials, the college as well as business and residential groups. Program Coordinator of Information and Policy Research for the Michigan Municipal League Richard Murphy says proximity to Western Michigan University's medical school, Bronson Park, the Farmer's Market and Upjohn Park make up an area that contributes to the health of residents in the area.
Kalamazoo was one of eight cities chosen for a "place making study." In Kalamazoo's case, the focus is on the area near downtown where KVCC's new campus is scheduled to open next fall. Murphy says the study also examined the impact on the surrounding neighborhood.
The study focuses in part on transportation, including Portage Road. Murphy says the street needs to move people through the area. But also provide access to places that people may want to visit. Murphy says that doesn't mean eliminating all congestion. He says if an area is going to be a destination some congestion will be part of that.
Murphy says other decisions on transportation include making it easier for people to walk and ride bicycles in the area. He says includes sidewalks and crosswalks to make walking easier in the area.
