The Bloomington Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the following sponsors:
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Infrastructure
In 2007 the Chamber released its first Infrastructure Task Force Report, a comprehensive study of our area infrastructure and recommendations aimed to enhance quality of life in our community through improvements to sewer and water systems, storm water and drainage, transportation, telecommunications, business development sites, attractions and finance. Compiled by the hard work and dedication of over 35 public and private professionals from throughout the community, the report is an excellent tool for the community
and will assist local government leaders in making decisions concerning critical upgrades to, maintenance of, and further development of Bloomington's, Ellettsville's and Monroe County’s infrastructure systems.
Following the release of the report, several Infrastructure sub-groups continue to meet on an as needed basis, and new groups have formed to further study and make recommendations according to the report’s key findings.
Read the Chamber’s 2007 Infrastructure Task Force Report
Read the report’s Executive Summary
Recommendations:
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Develop a sewer extension service policy. On the one hand, new sewer service requires fees to pay for additional transmission lines and treatment; on the other hand, developments that choose to use septic systems for sewage treatment could potentially place a burden on storm water quality. The county needs predictable sewer extension policies to help guide development within the county in a way that satisfies the objectives of the county’s comprehensive plan.
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Proceed with improvements to the 45/46 bypass. Improvements to the 45/46 bypass are of extraordinary importance to the community as well as to Indiana University. Both parties should work closely together to ensure that the state makes the improvements as soon as possible.
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Improve East/West traffic flow. East/West traffic is becoming increasingly difficult as the community grows. Community leaders should give high priority to creating east-west thoroughfares. The west side, especially the Second and Third Street corridors, is developing quickly. Infrastructure investments are not keeping up and emphasis must be placed on these investments.
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Set a comprehensive plan for State Road 37 Frontage Roads. Substantial development along State Road 37 has greatly added to traffic burdens on overpasses. Ongoing development east of State Road 37 is also dependent upon frontage roads. Comprehensive planning for frontage roads should begin immediately and be included in all future development plans.
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Require Utilities to develop capital plans with information available to the public. The City of Bloomington Utilities should develop an ongoing capital program for replacement, upgrade and additions to the storage and distribution network of our water utility using the 2003 Black and Veatch Long Range Capital Plan as a starting point. Both of these plans should be readily available for public review.