Butler St. boasts new look

SANDUSKY — This past week, crews wrapped up a major project to radically transform a noteworthy road in Sandusky. First closed in late October, cars can now traverse the entire section of Butler Street, a primary corridor linking commuters from Milan Road (U.S. 250) to Cedar Point. Gone is the confusing three-lane system. Previously, the middle lane switched — signaled by an overhead red "X" or green arrow — indicating if northbound or southbound traffic could access it. A red "X" meant "no," and a green arrow translated to "yes." Now the street features two dedicated divided lanes, one each for northbound and southbound traffic, and removed the overhead signal system. A study conducted by Erie County's regional planning commission concluded that Butler Street was no longer used as extensively as it was in previous years, and traffic data showed it wasn't even needed for seasonal traffic. This prompted officials to reduce the number of lanes from three to two. Those representing the city, however, argued to keep the road open all year long. Earlier this year, city commissioners approved a construction bid totaling about $890,000 for this work. Tasks entailed tearing up the entire road, replacing its base and paving its whole length. Commissioners spent federal dollars they previously received through the American Rescue Plan Act. These stimulus dollars helped local governments, including Sandusky, rebound from financial hardships brought on by COVID-19-related factors. In total, the city obtained $18 million. Placed on the back burner for years, if not decades, officials attributed funding as the main hurdle in getting their road redone. "This work has been neglected for far too long," city ex officio mayor Dick Brady said. Many major roads in Sandusky have experienced major construction work. This would include Perkins Avenue, Warren Street and East Monroe Street.