September WHO meeting began preview of November election

Two candidates on the ballot for the November 2, 2021 City Council and School Board election introduced themselves to the Woodland Heights Org. at the September monthly meeting on 9/21/2021.  Coming up at the October meeting, be on the lookout for more candidates to introduce themselves and share their campaign platform.  

Find resources regarding voter registration and the upcoming election online here.  

The main item of business accomplished during the meeting was the (overwhelming) vote of support in favor of the High Street traffic calming concept plan.  Neighbors spoke favorably on how they believed the concept plan’s features would work to slow traffic and make High Street a safer, friendlier street.  

DMPD's Officer Mike Moody (NBSD Officer)
reports to the Woodland Heights neighbors 9/21/21

Officer Mike Moody (NBSD) shared stats on neighborhood incidents and updated on noise and concerns around Ingersoll.  Also of note was an update on Center Street near Callanan Middle School.  City zoning and the Narcotics division of the DMPD are collaborating and it’s a work in progress to address the ongoing issues there.  Officer Moody advised to continue to call the non-emergency # to report suspicious issues (515)-283-4811 and if you have video of suspicious license plates or characters, do reach out to share that as well.  

During discussion, several issues were raised including Mental Health Crisis Services and Addiction Treatment Services provided by Broadlawns Medical Center.  

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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights. Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses. WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines

September meeting to be held outdoors

Update for the September 21, 2021 WHO meeting:  Forecast is for the most pleasant weather.  The September 21, 2021 meeting will occur as planned outdoors near the shelter at Chamberlain Park at 7pm.  

High Street Traffic Calming Concept Plan Released

Jeff Wiggins, of the City of DM, met with the High Street Traffic Calming Interest Group Wed. Sept. 15, 2021 to review the proposed High Street Traffic Calming Concept Plan (as part of the city's regular traffic calming program).  

Between 2019 and 2020, the city collected traffic study data, which can be viewed online here.  

On May 15, 2021 the High Street Traffic Calming Interest Group met virtually to share observations and concerns about High Street traffic that the Concept Planning would take into account.  

Read the Concept Plan online here.  The concept is designed to calm traffic on High Street in the blocks between 28th Street and 24th Street (study area).  The five elements of the plan include: (1.) posting 25 mph speed limit signs on High Street @ 28th & MLK; (2.) placing a speed hump on High Street approx. 450 feet east of 28th Street (approx. the crest of the hill); (3.) placing a speed hump approx. 275 feet east of the first speed hump; (4.) placing a choker on High Street approx. 300 feet west of 24th Street (approx. the bottom of the hill (adjacent to vacant lot)); and (5.) alternating from North to South, then back to North on which side of the street parking is allowed.  

Next steps include:  (1.) Discussion of the concept plan and vote of approval at the WHO September monthly meeting on Tue. Sept. 21, 2021; (2.) City to send cards for feedback to High Street property owners (notification); (3.) Review by the city's Transportation Safety Committee; and (4.) Project to be programmed into the next construction cycle (hopefully Summer 2022).  

Phil recorded video of the virtual meeting Sept. 15.  Please contact Phil to view that video.  

  

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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights. Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses. WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines