Flashing Stoplights Fuel Safety Worries in Downtown Decorah

Our newsroom runs on more than coffee and craft beer — it runs on you. Support Decorah News' local reporting today. DECORAH — Concerns about downtown traffic safety surfaced during Monday's City Council meeting, with multiple members pointing to issues tied to newly implemented flashing stoplights on Water Street and calling for further discussion. Several council members said they have received complaints from residents and business owners who believe the lights are creating confusion for drivers and putting pedestrians at risk. Council member Emily Neal said her concerns stem not only from constituent feedback but also from her own observations while walking and driving downtown. She described seeing "numerous traffic violations" and situations in which drivers appeared unable to clearly see pedestrians. "I see people not being able to see walkers," Neal said, adding that visibility issues and driver behavior have made the area feel unsafe. Other council members echoed similar concerns. Council member Brent Parker said business owners had contacted him with similar complaints about how the lights are functioning. Council member Cody Whittle recounted encountering an older pedestrian who expressed fear about crossing the street under the current system. "I personally encountered an older lady running across the street and expressing concern for her safety," Whittle said. "I don't think she even knew I was on the council. It was just something she said to whoever was walking by." He added that he has heard from "plenty of people" with similar worries. The discussion revealed differing perspectives among city leaders. City Manager Travis Goedken said he spent time walking through the downtown area and speaking directly with business owners, suggesting feedback may not be uniform across the community. "I spent all afternoon walking up and down Water Street, stopping into various businesses," Goedken said, encouraging council members to do the same. "It might be a different story than what is being communicated currently." Despite the differing views, council members agreed the issue warrants further review. Multiple members voiced support for placing the flashing lights on a future meeting agenda to allow for a more focused discussion. The lights were not formally debated or voted on during the meeting because they were not listed as an agenda item. City officials indicated that the matter, along with concerns about pesticide use in parks, is expected to be taken up at a future council meeting. Stay connected and informed! Join the free newsletter for curated news, trending topics, and insider perspectives you won't find anywhere else.