City, students work to install Main Street light quicker
by: Tyler Lamb
City of Whitewater landlord David Kachel has offered to pay for safety improvements on Main Street as the city waits for Gov. Jim Doyle to sign off on the installation of traffic lights on Whiton and Main Streets.
The installation of traffic lights is part of efforts made by the Whitewater Common Council in late 2008 to improve Main Street safety after UW-Whitewater graduate Mike Chaloupka, 23, was struck by a car Aug. 26, 2008 while crossing the Whiton and Main Streets intersection.
Chauloupka died about two weeks later from injuries sustained in the accident.
Earlier this month Kachel made an offer to the council to pay for the entire cost and installation of a permanent variable electronic speed sign, to be placed on Main Street. The cost of the sign is estimated at $5,000 to $7,000.
"I wanted to give one and the city was also giving one … safety for students was part of it," Kachel said. "[city of Whitewater Police Chief James Coan] said if we could move them, in other words if we could take them down and put them somewhere else, he would do it because what he says is after it is out there for a month you would never look at it again."
During the Nov. 11 common council meeting, Coan said motorists would become too familiar with the electronic speed signs, lessening their impact after a few months.
"If you have something out there permanently drivers tend to become complacent," Coan said. "It doesn't have the same impact as if you put something out there periodically."
The need for safety improvements on Main Street was solidified last month when Fort Atkinson resident Laura Rogers, 28, was struck by a car Oct. 14 while crossing at the Main and Cottage streets intersection. Rogers was transported to Fort Atkinson Hospital for contusions to her face and knee.
City and university members are now collaboratively attempting to spur earlier installation of traffic lights on Main Street. The lights are currently scheduled for installation in early 2010 Peace, Education, and Activism through Creative Engagement co-president Patrick Broderick said PEACE has been attempting to put pressure on the governor's office with assistance from the Whitewater Common Council.
"Council member Max Taylor helped us out by getting us the number of the project and common council President Patrick Singer gave us details about the project at a PEACE meeting," Broderick said. "In addition, the Public Works Director Dean Fischer is going to be soliciting student opinions about more accessible design. I was impressed with how our concerns have been received."
Whitewater Common Council voted in late 2008, as a result of Chaloupka's death, to install traffic lights at the Main and Whiton Streets intersection in spring 2010. The trombone-arm pedestrian yield signs were installed at the two Main Street intersections in May 2008.
"If all this requires is the governor picking up a pen and signing a piece of paper we should be able to get this done much sooner," District 2 councilman Max Taylor said. "So several groups, myself included, will be making several calls to the governor over the next few weeks trying to get him to expedite that process."
The Department of Transportation sent the city an agreement in early 2009 for the installation of traffic lights on Main and Whiton streets, covering 90 percent of the costs including engineering, equipment and installation. The remaining 10 percent of the project will be funded by the city.
The project to install traffic lights met the requirements to be funded as a safety improvement project. Safety improvement projects are perceived high-risk rural roads.
Doyle is not projected to sign off on the project until May 2010. Fischer said if the project to install traffic lights on Main Street would have been strictly a city project, the lights could have been installed already, costing the city $125,000.
City Manager Kevin Brunner said the council also is looking at increasing the wattage of street lights on Main Street from 150 watts to 250 watts, to increase pedestrian safety. Increasing wattage will cost the city more than $10, 000, with additional operating costs amounting to $1,000 a year.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Issues In Whitewater
Council fails to improve Main Street Safety
Tyler Lamb
Issue date: 11/4/09 Section: News
Whitewater Common Council took to no additional action regarding Main Street safety Tuesday, despite concerns voiced from campus and community members.
"I think there is a real concern about crossing at Main Street, particularly between classes." Councilwomen-At-Large Marilyn Kienbaum said.
One resolution suggested to the council was to increase the wattage of streetlights from Prairie to Prince streets.
"That whole area just isn't right. It's dark in a lot of spots and there are a lot of times I came along at 10:30 p.m. and just about hit somebody because all of a sudden they are in the middle of the road," District 1 councilmen Jim Olsen said.
City manager Kevin Brunner said increased lighting from 150 watts to 250 watts would cost the city more than $10,000, with additional operating costs coming to $1,000 more per year for the additional wattage.
"In addition, I think a lot of council members and a citizen mentioned variable speed boards that flash what speed your traveling at," Brunner said. "Those costs are estimated, to install, $5 to 7,000 each. One property owner to the south, David Kachel, contacted me and he informed me he would be willing to pay the entire cost of the board."
The council and Whitewater police weren't in favor of the electronic speed signs.
"I'm not convinced with the electronic speed signs," District 4 councilmen Lynn Binnie said. "I appreciate the generous offer … my concerns include one we get the stop light in there that's going to naturally resolve and slow the traffic."
City of Whitewater Police Chief James Coan said motorists would become too familiar with electronic signs, lessening their impact after a few months.
"If you have something out there permanently drivers tend to become complacent, it doesn't have the same impact as if you put something out there periodically," Coan said. "We think things have improved greatly."
Brunner said the city is attempting to expedite the process of installing traffic lights on Main Street.
"We were able to get state funding but we also have to go through sorts of hoops that we normally wouldn't have to because this state project."
The project is still scheduled to be completed installed early 2010 due to the bidding and development processes. Brunner said if the city would have done this on their own it done much quicker but the city would have had to pay more than $125, 000.
"If it would have been strictly a city project … we could have had them installed already but at $125,000 savings to the city we are talking about a one year period," Public Works Director Dean Fischer said.
Main Street concerns originated when UW-Whitewater graduate Mike Chaloupka and Fort Atkinson resident Laura Rogers, 28, were struck while crossing at Whiton and Mainstreets.
Whitewater Common Council voted in late 2008, as a result of Chaloupka's death, to install traffic lights at the Main and Whiton streets intersection in spring 2010.
The trombone-arm pedestrian yield signs were installed at the two Main Street intersections in May 2008.
The Department of Transportation sent the city an agreement for the project covering 90 percent of the costs including engineering, equipment and installation costs. The remaining 10 percent of the project will be funded by the city. City Manager Kevin Brunner said the intersection safety revamp will cost $12,000 to $15,000. The project carries an estimated total cost of $138, 400.
Tyler Lamb
Issue date: 11/4/09 Section: News
Whitewater Common Council took to no additional action regarding Main Street safety Tuesday, despite concerns voiced from campus and community members.
"I think there is a real concern about crossing at Main Street, particularly between classes." Councilwomen-At-Large Marilyn Kienbaum said.
One resolution suggested to the council was to increase the wattage of streetlights from Prairie to Prince streets.
"That whole area just isn't right. It's dark in a lot of spots and there are a lot of times I came along at 10:30 p.m. and just about hit somebody because all of a sudden they are in the middle of the road," District 1 councilmen Jim Olsen said.
City manager Kevin Brunner said increased lighting from 150 watts to 250 watts would cost the city more than $10,000, with additional operating costs coming to $1,000 more per year for the additional wattage.
"In addition, I think a lot of council members and a citizen mentioned variable speed boards that flash what speed your traveling at," Brunner said. "Those costs are estimated, to install, $5 to 7,000 each. One property owner to the south, David Kachel, contacted me and he informed me he would be willing to pay the entire cost of the board."
The council and Whitewater police weren't in favor of the electronic speed signs.
"I'm not convinced with the electronic speed signs," District 4 councilmen Lynn Binnie said. "I appreciate the generous offer … my concerns include one we get the stop light in there that's going to naturally resolve and slow the traffic."
City of Whitewater Police Chief James Coan said motorists would become too familiar with electronic signs, lessening their impact after a few months.
"If you have something out there permanently drivers tend to become complacent, it doesn't have the same impact as if you put something out there periodically," Coan said. "We think things have improved greatly."
Brunner said the city is attempting to expedite the process of installing traffic lights on Main Street.
"We were able to get state funding but we also have to go through sorts of hoops that we normally wouldn't have to because this state project."
The project is still scheduled to be completed installed early 2010 due to the bidding and development processes. Brunner said if the city would have done this on their own it done much quicker but the city would have had to pay more than $125, 000.
"If it would have been strictly a city project … we could have had them installed already but at $125,000 savings to the city we are talking about a one year period," Public Works Director Dean Fischer said.
Main Street concerns originated when UW-Whitewater graduate Mike Chaloupka and Fort Atkinson resident Laura Rogers, 28, were struck while crossing at Whiton and Mainstreets.
Whitewater Common Council voted in late 2008, as a result of Chaloupka's death, to install traffic lights at the Main and Whiton streets intersection in spring 2010.
The trombone-arm pedestrian yield signs were installed at the two Main Street intersections in May 2008.
The Department of Transportation sent the city an agreement for the project covering 90 percent of the costs including engineering, equipment and installation costs. The remaining 10 percent of the project will be funded by the city. City Manager Kevin Brunner said the intersection safety revamp will cost $12,000 to $15,000. The project carries an estimated total cost of $138, 400.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Article about Accidents In Whitewater
Recent accident a painful reminder
Crosswalk safety can only improve through concerted effort by all
Royal Purple staff
Issue date: 10/21/09 Section: Opinion
Media Credit: Seth Anderson
A Whitewater Common Council nightmare has been realized: another pedestrian was struck by a car while crossing at Cottage and Main Street, one of the intersections between Prairie Street and Prince Street uncontrolled by a traffic signal.
Fortunately for 28-year-old Laura Rogers of Fort Atkinson, the injuries she sustained following the collision and subsequent 10-foot journey through the air on Oct. 14 did not take her life; the contusions on her knee and face will heal.
Mike Chaloupka, who was hit while crossing the intersection at Whiton and Main Street in his wheelchair on Aug. 26, 2008, did not survive.
Chaloupka's death sounded the alarm bell that caught the attention of city and campus officials.
It became clear the "trombone arms," which are essentially flashing pedestrian crossing signs on a boom at these intersections, were not enough.
They were probably right. Even when activated, the flashing lights on the trombone arms are merely an advisery that pedestrians might be present-the lighted signs by themselves don't compel drivers to stop.
Meeting after meeting, month after month, an indecisive, sometimes combative Common Council argued over solutions ranging from a giant walking bridge to a proposed jaywalking ordinance before finally settling on the installation of a $125,000 traffic light at the intersection of Whiton Street and Main Street.
This was an obvious step in the right direction. A traffic light leaves no doubt to who has the right of way.
It also slows traffic flow down. This is good, considering excessive speed is the number one reason why pedestrian-vehicle accidents occur according to Whitewater Police Department Chief James Coan.
Unfortunately, all this wrangling to keep students safe diverts attention from another element that really needs to change: driving habits.
It's simple. There are two people in this type of accident, the driver and the pedestrian. Both are trying to get somewhere using the same space.
However, the driver is the one in control of a potentially lethal weapon. Furthermore, to walk in a public place is a very basic human right, whereas operating a car is a privilege and responsibility.
In light of this, there are very few instances where a driver isn't at fault for striking a pedestrian.
Even in a downtown Whitewater full of drunken bar-goers, the burdgen rests heavily on drivers to observe what's going on along the side of the road and slow down in the presence of pedestrians.
To be sure, the installation of a traffic light will make it much safer for students to cross, so driving habits aren't the only thing that needed changing. It also doesn't mean those on foot shouldn't look both ways before crossing the street-ultimately it's everyone's responsibility to keep the community safe.
It also means there are other actions officials can take to improve the situation while we wait for the traffic light.
This includes, if necessary, increased police presence. In the immediate wake of Chaloupka's death, city and campus police made themselves visible as a reminder to pay attention and assist in safe crossings. This should continue.
It should also include a crackdown on speed limit compliance, a.k.a. more speeding tickets. While many like to complain about speed traps, the fact of the matter is speeding is illegal for a reason. This is especially true in a city full of pedestrians, where there is absolutely no reason to be driving fast.
So take it easy, pay attention and walkers-look up from your iPod every once and awhile. By playing by the rules and using common sense everyone can do their part to make Whitewater a safer place.
Crosswalk safety can only improve through concerted effort by all
Royal Purple staff
Issue date: 10/21/09 Section: Opinion
Media Credit: Seth Anderson
A Whitewater Common Council nightmare has been realized: another pedestrian was struck by a car while crossing at Cottage and Main Street, one of the intersections between Prairie Street and Prince Street uncontrolled by a traffic signal.
Fortunately for 28-year-old Laura Rogers of Fort Atkinson, the injuries she sustained following the collision and subsequent 10-foot journey through the air on Oct. 14 did not take her life; the contusions on her knee and face will heal.
Mike Chaloupka, who was hit while crossing the intersection at Whiton and Main Street in his wheelchair on Aug. 26, 2008, did not survive.
Chaloupka's death sounded the alarm bell that caught the attention of city and campus officials.
It became clear the "trombone arms," which are essentially flashing pedestrian crossing signs on a boom at these intersections, were not enough.
They were probably right. Even when activated, the flashing lights on the trombone arms are merely an advisery that pedestrians might be present-the lighted signs by themselves don't compel drivers to stop.
Meeting after meeting, month after month, an indecisive, sometimes combative Common Council argued over solutions ranging from a giant walking bridge to a proposed jaywalking ordinance before finally settling on the installation of a $125,000 traffic light at the intersection of Whiton Street and Main Street.
This was an obvious step in the right direction. A traffic light leaves no doubt to who has the right of way.
It also slows traffic flow down. This is good, considering excessive speed is the number one reason why pedestrian-vehicle accidents occur according to Whitewater Police Department Chief James Coan.
Unfortunately, all this wrangling to keep students safe diverts attention from another element that really needs to change: driving habits.
It's simple. There are two people in this type of accident, the driver and the pedestrian. Both are trying to get somewhere using the same space.
However, the driver is the one in control of a potentially lethal weapon. Furthermore, to walk in a public place is a very basic human right, whereas operating a car is a privilege and responsibility.
In light of this, there are very few instances where a driver isn't at fault for striking a pedestrian.
Even in a downtown Whitewater full of drunken bar-goers, the burdgen rests heavily on drivers to observe what's going on along the side of the road and slow down in the presence of pedestrians.
To be sure, the installation of a traffic light will make it much safer for students to cross, so driving habits aren't the only thing that needed changing. It also doesn't mean those on foot shouldn't look both ways before crossing the street-ultimately it's everyone's responsibility to keep the community safe.
It also means there are other actions officials can take to improve the situation while we wait for the traffic light.
This includes, if necessary, increased police presence. In the immediate wake of Chaloupka's death, city and campus police made themselves visible as a reminder to pay attention and assist in safe crossings. This should continue.
It should also include a crackdown on speed limit compliance, a.k.a. more speeding tickets. While many like to complain about speed traps, the fact of the matter is speeding is illegal for a reason. This is especially true in a city full of pedestrians, where there is absolutely no reason to be driving fast.
So take it easy, pay attention and walkers-look up from your iPod every once and awhile. By playing by the rules and using common sense everyone can do their part to make Whitewater a safer place.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Another Accident
Fort Atkinson resident injured while crossing Main Street
A Fort Atkinson woman sustained minor injuries Wednesday after being hit by a car at the Cottage and Main streets intersection.Laura Rogers, 28, was crossing Main Street at a pedestrian walkway about 9:45 p.m. when she was struck by car turning west from Cottage onto Main Street, according to a witness. She reportedly flew about 10 feet in the air. Rogers was transported to Fort Atkinson Hospital for contusions on her knee and face.Junior Katka Showers-Curtis said she was crossing the street with Rogers at the time of the accident. They had pushed the pedestrian light before crossing."It was terrifying," she said. "I had no idea what was happening. I looked at the car and thought it was going to stop and then I realized it didn't. I never expected that to happen."Showers-Curtis said an off-duty police officer was driving toward downtown from Main Street when the accident occurred and stopped to aid Rogers."He got us to the side of the road," she said. "He called the police. He called the ambulance. Everything happened really fast."Rogers is active on campus and is a member of PEACE.UW-Whitewater graduate Mike Chaloupka was struck by a car Aug. 26, 2008 while crossing at Whiton and Main streets, about a block from Cottage Street.Chaloupka, who was in a wheelchair, suffered from 12 broken bones and collapsed lungs. He died about a week later as a result of the injuries. Whitewater Common Council voted in late 2008, as a result of Chaloupka's death, to install traffic lights at the Main and Whiton streets intersection in spring 2010.
I am sure glad she will be ok.
A Fort Atkinson woman sustained minor injuries Wednesday after being hit by a car at the Cottage and Main streets intersection.Laura Rogers, 28, was crossing Main Street at a pedestrian walkway about 9:45 p.m. when she was struck by car turning west from Cottage onto Main Street, according to a witness. She reportedly flew about 10 feet in the air. Rogers was transported to Fort Atkinson Hospital for contusions on her knee and face.Junior Katka Showers-Curtis said she was crossing the street with Rogers at the time of the accident. They had pushed the pedestrian light before crossing."It was terrifying," she said. "I had no idea what was happening. I looked at the car and thought it was going to stop and then I realized it didn't. I never expected that to happen."Showers-Curtis said an off-duty police officer was driving toward downtown from Main Street when the accident occurred and stopped to aid Rogers."He got us to the side of the road," she said. "He called the police. He called the ambulance. Everything happened really fast."Rogers is active on campus and is a member of PEACE.UW-Whitewater graduate Mike Chaloupka was struck by a car Aug. 26, 2008 while crossing at Whiton and Main streets, about a block from Cottage Street.Chaloupka, who was in a wheelchair, suffered from 12 broken bones and collapsed lungs. He died about a week later as a result of the injuries. Whitewater Common Council voted in late 2008, as a result of Chaloupka's death, to install traffic lights at the Main and Whiton streets intersection in spring 2010.
I am sure glad she will be ok.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Stepping Stone For Mike's Garden
We made these for Mike's Garden, everyone designed a petal of the flower, it was fun. Created by Mike's Sister, Brother, and Parents.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Fundraiser For Intervarsity
We finally have a fundraiser planned for next year. It will be October 28-30, 2010, we have decided to do it in a form of a craft fair, with raffles, silent auction items and much more. First Assembly Of God Church-North Campus donated the space to use. We are very excited to start the planning, if you want to help volunteer some time in helping to set up the space or donations, please let us know. More info will be posted as it becomes available. It will be called MJC Memorial Craft Fair.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
One Year Since Mike's Accident
To all of Mike's and Family, I can't believe a year has passed since the terrible accident that took Mike from us. We had wanted to do a fundrasier this year, it won't happen til the fall of 2010. We are in the process of securing a location, and still working on the details. With the money going to Intervarsity Christian Fellowship, which is the organization that Mike loved, and was working for at the time of his passing. Keep checking for more info as it becomes available. Thanks for everyone that helped us thorugh the last year, it's been the hardest year of our lives. We miss our son dearly, but life goes on. We will never forget him, we think about and talk about him daily. There is not a day of our life that we don't think about this tragedy, and our beloved son.
We have planted some bushes in our front yard, along with a angel bush we were given at Mike's funeral. We are adding a few more bushes in Mike's Garden. We are up to a total of 3 bushes now, we are still working on a sign. I hope to have it made soon. Keep an eye out for some new updates photos soon.
We have planted some bushes in our front yard, along with a angel bush we were given at Mike's funeral. We are adding a few more bushes in Mike's Garden. We are up to a total of 3 bushes now, we are still working on a sign. I hope to have it made soon. Keep an eye out for some new updates photos soon.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Lily Plant
This is another plant from Mike's Funeral, it is a very pretty plant especially when it is blooming. It has lots of lilies on it. Thanks to the The Oftedahl family.
Angel Bush
This is a bush we were given by one of Mike's best friends and his parents. It is now blooming, we planted it in our front yard. We are in the process of planting a few more bushes, for Mike's Garden. Thanks to the Strzyzewski Family, for this bush. Watch for more photo's as it is in full bloom, it is just starting to bloom.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Recipe Books-Fund Raiser for Intervaristy
The recipe books are now available, at my craft shows, go check out my show schedule on my website, www.creativetouchcrafts.net. They are also be available at http://www.creativetouchcrafts.net/cookbook1.html
They are also available at Cuddles 349 W. Broadway, Waukesha, WI, they will also be available at a few other locations soon, one location in Wisc Dells, and one in Port Washington, as soon as I get them in the Craft Malls there. I will post location as soon as I get them there.
They are also available at Cuddles 349 W. Broadway, Waukesha, WI, they will also be available at a few other locations soon, one location in Wisc Dells, and one in Port Washington, as soon as I get them in the Craft Malls there. I will post location as soon as I get them there.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Stop Light
We had a discussion with the Chancellor for UW Whitewater about a week ago about the stop light being installed, at the insection where the accident happened. Thanks for his support, on the stop light issue.
Main Street signal gets green light
Grant allows city to fund traffic light at intersection
The city of Whitewater received a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation for installation of traffic lights at the Main and Whiton street intersection.Pedestrian safety became a concern after former student Mike Chaloupka was hit by a car while crossing the street Aug. 28. Chaloupka, who was in a wheelchair, died two weeks later from injuries sustained from the accident."I was happy to learn that the city was able to secure grant funding to help with the installation of the light," Chancellor Richard Telfer said. "It will help make the intersection safer."The Department of Transportation will send the city an agreement for the project covering 90 percent of the costs including engineering, equipment and installation costs. The remaining 10 percent of the project will be funded by the city.City Manager Kevin Brunner said the intersection safety revamp will cost $12,000 to $15,000. The project carries an estimated total cost of $138, 400.Late last year, the Whitewater Common Council approved the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection and authorized the engineering contract with Strand Associates of Madison.Public Works Director Dean Fischer said he called the WisDot Southeast region office after the start of the project asking if the Highway Safety Improvement Program would help fund the installation of three signals."The Southeast region of DOT asked that I submit the application to them for review from the region's perspective to give the city an indication whether it would compete with other projects," Fischer said. Fischer said the city later received word the project would meet the requirements to be funded as a safety improvement project. Safety improvement projects revolve around what are perceived to be high-risk rural roads.Fischer said they must follow a selection process to find a suitable architectural and engineering service for publicly funded projects. WisDot advertises the project to the public and selects a bidder to perform the installation.
"Once the engineer is selected, the DOT negotiates the contract with the engineer," Fischer said. "Once the engineer is contracted, they design the traffic signals and prepare the plans and specifications." After Chaloupka's death, Telfer became part of a traffic study focus group approved by the Whitewater Common Council in October to look at possible intersection improvements.The group also included former Whitewater Student Government member Dane Checolinski and University Police Chief Matt Kiederlen.The council sought ideas to enhance safety at the intersection in addition to electric pedestrian signs the city installed to prevent further accidents.Ideas best received by the council included making the intersection a multiway stop to regulate traffic, traffic signals and converting the two-way street into a one way."The council decided the stop-and-go light would be the best alternative," Brunner said. "Then we started to engineer this and got wind of some possible funding so Dean pursued the funding."Brunner said despite having to go through a competitive bidding process, the city will continue to work with Stand Associates due to their extensive work on the intersection so far.Common Council President Patrick Singer said the traffic lights were the city's best choice. "Obviously it helps us fund some other things that we were looking at doing that we put off to fund the intersection," Singer said. "So it's the best of both worlds; we get the safety, and we get that [light] installed in a timely manner."District 2 Councilman Max Taylor said he agreed the grant will help save money on city renovations."The fact we were awarded this grant is absolutely fantastic for our budgetary situation," Taylor said. "It's going to take the burden off our capital improvements plan so we can spend that money on other projects."Brunner said the light likely won't be installed until late 2009 or early 2010 due to the bidding and development processes.
Main Street signal gets green light
Grant allows city to fund traffic light at intersection
The city of Whitewater received a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation for installation of traffic lights at the Main and Whiton street intersection.Pedestrian safety became a concern after former student Mike Chaloupka was hit by a car while crossing the street Aug. 28. Chaloupka, who was in a wheelchair, died two weeks later from injuries sustained from the accident."I was happy to learn that the city was able to secure grant funding to help with the installation of the light," Chancellor Richard Telfer said. "It will help make the intersection safer."The Department of Transportation will send the city an agreement for the project covering 90 percent of the costs including engineering, equipment and installation costs. The remaining 10 percent of the project will be funded by the city.City Manager Kevin Brunner said the intersection safety revamp will cost $12,000 to $15,000. The project carries an estimated total cost of $138, 400.Late last year, the Whitewater Common Council approved the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection and authorized the engineering contract with Strand Associates of Madison.Public Works Director Dean Fischer said he called the WisDot Southeast region office after the start of the project asking if the Highway Safety Improvement Program would help fund the installation of three signals."The Southeast region of DOT asked that I submit the application to them for review from the region's perspective to give the city an indication whether it would compete with other projects," Fischer said. Fischer said the city later received word the project would meet the requirements to be funded as a safety improvement project. Safety improvement projects revolve around what are perceived to be high-risk rural roads.Fischer said they must follow a selection process to find a suitable architectural and engineering service for publicly funded projects. WisDot advertises the project to the public and selects a bidder to perform the installation.
"Once the engineer is selected, the DOT negotiates the contract with the engineer," Fischer said. "Once the engineer is contracted, they design the traffic signals and prepare the plans and specifications." After Chaloupka's death, Telfer became part of a traffic study focus group approved by the Whitewater Common Council in October to look at possible intersection improvements.The group also included former Whitewater Student Government member Dane Checolinski and University Police Chief Matt Kiederlen.The council sought ideas to enhance safety at the intersection in addition to electric pedestrian signs the city installed to prevent further accidents.Ideas best received by the council included making the intersection a multiway stop to regulate traffic, traffic signals and converting the two-way street into a one way."The council decided the stop-and-go light would be the best alternative," Brunner said. "Then we started to engineer this and got wind of some possible funding so Dean pursued the funding."Brunner said despite having to go through a competitive bidding process, the city will continue to work with Stand Associates due to their extensive work on the intersection so far.Common Council President Patrick Singer said the traffic lights were the city's best choice. "Obviously it helps us fund some other things that we were looking at doing that we put off to fund the intersection," Singer said. "So it's the best of both worlds; we get the safety, and we get that [light] installed in a timely manner."District 2 Councilman Max Taylor said he agreed the grant will help save money on city renovations."The fact we were awarded this grant is absolutely fantastic for our budgetary situation," Taylor said. "It's going to take the burden off our capital improvements plan so we can spend that money on other projects."Brunner said the light likely won't be installed until late 2009 or early 2010 due to the bidding and development processes.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Blair School Book Donation
We got a letter from the Grade School Mike went to. It was a very thoughtful thing they did. Here is the letter we got.
The teachers and staff of Blair Elementary School have purchased three books and placed them in out library in loving memory of your sweet son, Michael. He made a special impact upon so many of our lives, and he will forever be remembered as a kind, very special young man.
Three books have been placed in our library and are being shared by the present students of Blair. Each book have an inscription the reads: In loving memory of Michael Chaloupka, 197 Blair School Graduate.
Please know that Michael remains in our hearts through precious memories. Thank you both for sharing this treasured young man with the world.
Thanks to all the Staff at Blair School.
The teachers and staff of Blair Elementary School have purchased three books and placed them in out library in loving memory of your sweet son, Michael. He made a special impact upon so many of our lives, and he will forever be remembered as a kind, very special young man.
Three books have been placed in our library and are being shared by the present students of Blair. Each book have an inscription the reads: In loving memory of Michael Chaloupka, 197 Blair School Graduate.
Please know that Michael remains in our hearts through precious memories. Thank you both for sharing this treasured young man with the world.
Thanks to all the Staff at Blair School.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Mike's Birthday
Today is Mike's Birthday and he would have been 24 years old today. It is very comforting all the Birthday wishes Mike got on his birthday on facebook. Thanks to everyone that helped make this day, a little easier. We miss Mike dearly, and we also got a letter from the person that caused the accident that took Mike from us way to soon . She was asking us for forgiveness, and that is what Mike would want. We just hope that she drives much more careful, and learned a lesson from all of this. That is what Mike would want, forgivenes. God Bless everyone that has helped us through this, and Happy Easter.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Mass For Mike
At St. Catholic Church, on Wednesday April 8th, at 8:15 a.m.-9:00 p.m. St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Fort Atkinson.
In honor of Mike's birthday, April 10th (Good Friday), one of Mike's friends is having a mass said for him. It is at a Catholic Church, but you don't have to be Catholic just to attend the mass. It's a way to celebrate Mike, his life, and the God he loved and worshiped so much!
In honor of Mike's birthday, April 10th (Good Friday), one of Mike's friends is having a mass said for him. It is at a Catholic Church, but you don't have to be Catholic just to attend the mass. It's a way to celebrate Mike, his life, and the God he loved and worshiped so much!
Friday, March 20, 2009
Award In Honor Of Mike
Michael Chaloupka Leadership Award
In memory & honor of Michael Chaloupka leadership and contributions, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (UWW), along with the Chaloupka family, is offering the Michael Chaloupka Leadership Award. The award will be presented at the Disability Awareness & Coalition Banquet. UWW Students may self-nominate or be nominated by a faculty, staff or community member. All nominations should be written in letter form and include the following:
Evidence of leadership performed
Evidence of increasing responsibility over time
Evidence of participation in multiple aspects of campus life
Evidence of off-campus activities
Recommendation letter to include examples of student’s ethics and integrity, positive role modeling or having a positive influence on others
In memory & honor of Michael Chaloupka leadership and contributions, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (UWW), along with the Chaloupka family, is offering the Michael Chaloupka Leadership Award. The award will be presented at the Disability Awareness & Coalition Banquet. UWW Students may self-nominate or be nominated by a faculty, staff or community member. All nominations should be written in letter form and include the following:
Evidence of leadership performed
Evidence of increasing responsibility over time
Evidence of participation in multiple aspects of campus life
Evidence of off-campus activities
Recommendation letter to include examples of student’s ethics and integrity, positive role modeling or having a positive influence on others
Friday, March 6, 2009
Friday, February 20, 2009
Photo Quilts-Using Mike's Shirts
This is a project that has keep me busy the last couple of weeks. I am sure you remember Mike wearing some of these shirts. It has been a very fun project to do, and all the memories that go along with these. Here is a couple photos of the quilts/wallhanging, and more comming soon. The cool part is that the photos can be changed at any time, one of the quilts needs the photos added of Mike. My daughter will finish hers soon, but she is busy finishing the cookbook.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
In Memory Of Mike-Christmas Decor
A donation has been made in memory of Mike for Christmas decorations at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Fort Atkinson. The 8:15 a.m. Mass on Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Fort Atkinson will be said in memory of Mike. Thanks to one of Mike's friend for the donation, Heather.
Mike Chaloupka Leadership Award
UW Whitewater is creating a Leadership Award to be given out once a year. Mike Chaloupka Leadership Award, for the organization Disability Advocacy and Awareness Coalition. This is the organization that Mike was the president for 2 years, his last 2 years of college. UW Whitewater wanted to acknowledge all of Mike’s hard work and involvement in Disability Advocacy and Awareness Coalition.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Traffic Light Where Mike Was Hit
Council votes to install traffic light at intersection of Whiton and Main Street
The Whitewater Common Council voted 4-3 Tuesday night to install a traffic light at the intersection of Whiton and Main Street, pending the decision of funding for the project.Chancellor Richard Telfer was pleased to see progress was made."The real issue is pedestrian safety, although money is still a significant issue," Telfer said. "Although the current flashing lights at eye level are a great help, they don't address the total issue."Councilman Roy Nosek led the opposition of the traffic light installation, saying the current lights are not making the problem go away, but are helping to diminish it."We need to reduce the amount of traffic on Main Street," Nosek said. "There needs to be restrictions on parking for people who live close to campus."Nosek proposed limiting parking restrictions of students who are close enough to walk to their classes. This in turn would reduce traffic of students trying to find parking spots in between classes, Nosek said.Both Councilmen James Allen and Lynn Binnie agreed with Nosek to vote against installing a traffic light.Allen motioned the city staff to continue to observe other alternatives for the intersection, saying pedestrian safety was improving after the installation of the flashing crossing lights at the intersection.Binnie wanted the city to agree to install brighter lighting at the dangerous intersections for pedestrian safety at night."My gut says eventually there will be a traffic light," Binnie said. "For now we should focus on better lighting and improvements for disabled accessibility."An appeal for safety enhancements was made after UW-Whitewater graduate Mike Chaloupka, 23, died last September from injuries sustained after he was hit by a car while crossing the intersection in his wheelchair.Allison Rygh, Whitewater student government president, agreed with Telfer on the Council's vote. Rygh said the installation of a traffic light was the best decision for pedestrian safety.The other two alternatives traffic engineer Luke Homan of Strand and Associates proposed was the installation of a pedestrian refuge island, and construction to turn Whiton Street into a cul-de-sac, preventing left-hand turns.If funding for the traffic light is approved, the installation will cost around $125,000.
The Whitewater Common Council voted 4-3 Tuesday night to install a traffic light at the intersection of Whiton and Main Street, pending the decision of funding for the project.Chancellor Richard Telfer was pleased to see progress was made."The real issue is pedestrian safety, although money is still a significant issue," Telfer said. "Although the current flashing lights at eye level are a great help, they don't address the total issue."Councilman Roy Nosek led the opposition of the traffic light installation, saying the current lights are not making the problem go away, but are helping to diminish it."We need to reduce the amount of traffic on Main Street," Nosek said. "There needs to be restrictions on parking for people who live close to campus."Nosek proposed limiting parking restrictions of students who are close enough to walk to their classes. This in turn would reduce traffic of students trying to find parking spots in between classes, Nosek said.Both Councilmen James Allen and Lynn Binnie agreed with Nosek to vote against installing a traffic light.Allen motioned the city staff to continue to observe other alternatives for the intersection, saying pedestrian safety was improving after the installation of the flashing crossing lights at the intersection.Binnie wanted the city to agree to install brighter lighting at the dangerous intersections for pedestrian safety at night."My gut says eventually there will be a traffic light," Binnie said. "For now we should focus on better lighting and improvements for disabled accessibility."An appeal for safety enhancements was made after UW-Whitewater graduate Mike Chaloupka, 23, died last September from injuries sustained after he was hit by a car while crossing the intersection in his wheelchair.Allison Rygh, Whitewater student government president, agreed with Telfer on the Council's vote. Rygh said the installation of a traffic light was the best decision for pedestrian safety.The other two alternatives traffic engineer Luke Homan of Strand and Associates proposed was the installation of a pedestrian refuge island, and construction to turn Whiton Street into a cul-de-sac, preventing left-hand turns.If funding for the traffic light is approved, the installation will cost around $125,000.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Recipe Book
Sorry we are no longer accepting recipes, the deadline was January 15th. Our hopes is that the recipe books will be available on or before Mikes Birthday, which is April 10th. They will be available online, and at a few retail stores in Waukesha, Cuddles Hallmark and Martha Merrell's Books & Cafe, and maybe a few other places.
Thanks to everyone for donating the recipes, it will be a great book.
Thanks to everyone for donating the recipes, it will be a great book.
Friday, January 2, 2009
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