Warren council addresses frustration over Dana Street closure, traffic light safety

Warren City Council met Wednesday evening to discuss two traffic-related issues that have left both city leaders and residents demanding answers.

The first topic was the closure of Dana Street, which has been shut down since 2017 for a proposed redevelopment project by businessman Christopher Alan. While Alan has said the project will serve as a hub for his company Auto Parkit and create jobs, council members say there’s been a lack of communication about progress — and that they’ve never received consistent updates.

Fifth Ward Councilwoman Tiffany Stanford voiced frustration on behalf of her constituents.

“The residents just feel disrespected and left out,” Stanford said. “They don’t know what’s going on.”

According to Economic Development Director Michael Keys, Alan has never refused to attend a meeting.

“If anybody wants to meet with him, I can set that up at any time,” Keys said. “He's never said no.”

Keys also pointed to delays at the federal level as the main reason construction hasn’t moved forward. He explained that federal grant funding requires environmental clearances, including updates to endangered species reports and right-of-way clarifications, which are still pending.

“We are ready to go,” Keys said. “But we can’t start until the federal government gives the green light.”

Stanford announced she would call for a 30-day extension at the next meeting. If no update is provided by then, she plans to call a vote to reopen Dana Street.

Council also discussed the intersection at Tod Avenue and Palmyra Road, where a flashing light has raised safety concerns following multiple crashes. Council members say residents have expressed frustration over accidents in the area — including one incident where a wheelchair ramp was struck — and want the signal restored to full operation.

“There’s been at least two accidents at Tod and Palmyra since our last meeting,” Stanford said. “I’d like to see that light turned back on.”

While some are advocating for a citywide traffic signal study — similar to one conducted with federal COVID-era funding — not all council members are on board.

“Just don’t want to throw money after money after money doing all these different studies,” said Seventh Ward Councilman Ronald White, Sr. “Most of these accidents are human error.”

No official votes were taken at the meeting, but several members say decisions on both issues could come within the next month.