Piedmont to focus on infrastructure

Democrat Isabel Piedmont, candidate for City Council District 5, pledges to prioritize infrastructure issues if elected this fall. “One of the most basic functions of local government is to make sure we have the bike paths, sidewalks, and roads we need to get around our community,” she said. “In addition, basic utilities and stormwater drainage must be maintained in excellent condition to serve Bloomington residents.” She praises the city’s record on infrastructure issues, especially the recent additions of bicycle share lanes downtown and the mayor’s plan for a second water line from Lake Monroe.

Mayor Kruzan’s state of the city speech on June 12th emphasized infrastructure issues, and Piedmont says these issues are foremost in the minds of residents she has spoken with during her campaign. “As I go door to door in District 5, the most frequent voter concerns I hear are about the state of our roads, bicycle paths, sidewalks, and stormwater drainage.” She cited in particular the lack of a sidewalk on the west side of Henderson St. near Templeton School and the need for a sidepath along Rohrer Road. She referred to the Safe Routes to School program as one way to fund needed improvements near Templeton and Jackson Creek Middle School.

“Residents who live close to school, shopping, and work should be able to walk and bike there safely. We also must ensure that our sidewalks and side paths are accessible to those with disabilities. Bloomington has made progress in this regard, but there is still work to be done.” Piedmont says she looks forward to working with the City Council and the mayor’s office to address residents’ infrastructure concerns.