By Joe Bachman

3rd Ave. North from Jackson St. to W. Grand will no longer be classified as a minor collector, a low to moderate capacity road.

The decision was made by the Planning Commission Monday night for reclassifying the roads, done in part for the reconstruction of the parking lot adjacent to 3rd Ave. North and Jackson St. 3rd Ave. North is currently defined as an arterial road, which is considered a high capacity road.

“The reason to reclassify this road is so that it can be in agreement with what it actually is,” said Alderperson Todd Ferkey. “This is also to accommodate the rebuilding of the parking lot.”

According to the city, “Each classification has a set of characteristics which describe the class of roadway. The Standard Arterial classification consists of an 80 foot right-of- way, 9 inch concrete pavement, controlled access, 7,000 to 17,000 vehicles per day, etc. The current roadway more closely mimics the characteristics which describe a Minor Collector. Minor Collectors have a 66 foot right-of-way with vehicle traffic less than 3,000 vehicles per day, 3.5 inch asphalt pavement, etc.”

The motion to reclassify 3rd Ave. North was passed unanimously.