Split Corridor Landscaping Costs are Considerable
According to a July 23 news release, the Ada County Highway District is putting finishing touches on the $3 million Split Corridor project in Meridian. The purpose of this project was to change Meridian and Main Streets, between Franklin and I-84, into a one-way couplet. According to ACHD, “The project has been the number one priority of the City of Meridian and improves traffic capacity and safety.”
The news release also points out that the project incorporates $400 thousand worth of landscaping. When I inquired about the source of these funds, I was informed that they come from Meridian’s Urban Renewal District. Will it cost more to water, mow and maintain this high-priced landscaping, as well?
Four hundred thousand dollars for landscaping one road project – that’s a lot of money. Why do I consider this expenditure to be a problem? Urban renewal agencies are subsidized by all county property taxpayers. I would like to see less of these dollars used for landscaping and more of them either back in taxpayers’ pockets or at least used for something more compelling than landscaping, such as emergency services.
This is just one more example of how we could – and should - cut the size and scope of government in order to reduce the cost to taxpayers.
posted by Sharon Ullman @ 12:18 PM
3 Comments:
Good luck on URD's as they don't have to answer to the voters. I wish Idaho would create mandatory sunset clauses in the statutes for URD's.
I agree that Urban Renewal Districts are subsidized by all county residents and wield a lot of power without a lot of oversight and may not be the appropriate funding mechanism for road landscaping in a particular area. However, I think with some thought and creative financing, landscaping can be a good investment in making things more livable. Even something as simple as the little landscaped island at Orchard and Chinden makes a huge difference in an otherwise bleak view. And... at least if we spend money on landscaping, taxpayers can see something tangible for the expenditure... unlike another "vision study."
Eric ~ I am not opposed to landscaping. I am opposed to a $400 thousand price tag for landscaping a relatively small area.
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