Fisher Street Railroad Crossing to Remain Open
By Melissa R. Collum
At the October 4, 2022 at the Prairie du Chien Common Council meeting, a public hearing was held to discuss the closing of the Fisher Street railroad crossing to all traffic, vehicular and pedestrian. Multiple community members spoke to both sides of the issue. Susan Cya-Slusser, Regional Site Director for the Villa Louis, commented via Zoom that no members of the Common Council or the city came to discuss the issue with businesses on the St. Feriole Island or those who deal with the day to day Island visitors.
Council member Gilberts commented that for drivers who are proceeding the wrong way on Water Street, Fisher Street is the only place to turn off from on coming traffic. Mayor Hemmer brought up the railroad parking on the island and blocking the view of the river. He also stated that he had spoken to the railroad about their parking on the Island, especially during events.
Riebe made the motion to deny the request for closing Fisher Street and an unanimous vote in support of the motion will keep the crossing open .