By Dave Mehr

November 30, 2006 | PROVIDENCE -- For several years now, Providence citizens like Councilwoman Stacie Gomm have been advocates for a new county-wide library system in Cache Valley.

"I grew up with a county-wide library," Gomm said at a City Council meeting in Providence Tuesday. "Books went from one library to another very easily. You can go to any branch anywhere."

At Tuesday's meeting, Gomm discussed with other council members the possibility of River Heights, Providence, and Logan coming together in the future as part of a county-wide library system. These three cities have expressed the most interest in the new system, but are still working to get more support from city councils, local libraries and directors.

"In order to have a county-wide system, we're going to have to have a county-wide tax," Gomm said.

Another citizen of Providence, Sharell Eames, expressed her support for the new system. "I think it's terrible to not have a county-wide library," she said.

In other business, the results of a recent traffic study in Providence were presented, and representatives from Horrocks Engineers discussed safety and traffic issues for Canyon Road and 400 East.

Ron Mortimer, a principal with Horrocks Engineers, gave the presentation and submitted a few ideas of what the city can do to help with traffic and growth in the future.

"Some roadways are just collector roads," Mortimer said. "The traffic will just be there."

Mortimer said that striping has been an effective tool in some cities to slow traffic. "When people see a narrow lane, they slow down," he said.

"We don't have any intention of widening our roads, at least I don't," Mayor Randy Simmons said.

Resident Linda Goetze said she lives on 100 East where the road is narrow and a sidewalk is not available for pedestrians.

"I walk that road nearly every day with my dog," Goetze said. "I have nearly been hit twice walking my dog."

Before Horrocks Engineers made their presentation, Goetze commented on the traffic problem in Providence. "Regardless of what the traffic engineers tell you tonight, it's not safe to add more cars," she said.

Mortimer, who addressed the issue in his presentation, said 100 East as well as many other roads in Providence are acceptable and safe for drivers and pedestrians.

Randy Eck, who works with the city's public works, water, and sewer departments, said the sidewalk from 100 North to 200 North cost $23,000.

"What bothers me is how many people do not use the sidewalk. They still use the street," Councilman Deon Johnson said.

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