Case Date:

5/15/2025

Dear City of Bloomington Representative, I am writing to formally request the consideration of an ordinance prohibiting the use of engine brakes (commonly known as “Jake Brakes”) on E 3rd Street West of SR 446 into Bloomington. This stretch of road, being a key route with both residential and commercial presence, frequently experiences disruptive noise pollution from heavy trucks utilizing engine brakes. As a resident in the area at Summerhouse, I can personally attest to the significant impact this has on daily life and overall well-being. The frequent noise not only disrupts daytime activities but also affects my ability to sleep soundly at night, compromising rest and health. Supporting Evidence: 1. Noise Pollution and Health: Studies have consistently shown that chronic exposure to high-decibel noise—like that produced by engine brakes—can contribute to sleep disturbances, increased stress levels, and even cardiovascular risks. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), noise above 55 dB is considered harmful, and engine brakes often exceed 80–100 dB. 2. Ordinance Effectiveness: Many municipalities across the U.S. have adopted engine brake ordinances in residential areas to reduce noise pollution and improve quality of life. 3. Local Impact: Given the residential density and commercial activity along E 3rd Street, enforcing a restriction would bring it in line with common noise abatement practices, ensuring a quieter, more livable environment for its residents. I believe that introducing this ordinance would not only improve the quality of life for residents but also align with community standards of noise control and public health considerations. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this matter further and provide any additional information that may be helpful. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Paul Laudeman

Case Date:

6/5/2013

The view of oncoming traffic is obscured at this intersect by the residences. I have not been in or witnessed a collision, but I believe that safety is a concern. I believe that any misfortune might be mitigated with the posting of stop signs or the placement of convex traffic mirrors. The surrounding residences are property of Indiana University. I am a lessee of one of these properties- 824 1/2 East Cottage Grove Avenue.

Case Date:

6/7/2013

Stop sign needs to be replaced

Case Date:

8/20/2013

Is it possible to put a "no U-turn" sign with the left turn signal on northbound Walnut at the bypass intersection? Now that the eastbound bypass lanes have a green right turn arrow, I've seen several (and been involved in one) near misses of people in the left turn lane doing U-turns and nearly hitting those turning southbound onto Walnut with their green arrow. Thanks for your consideration.

Case Date:

6/28/2012

Could you please look at putting a 4-way stop in at the intersection of Pete Ellis and Longview. Because of the increased traffic due to the closing of the 10th and by-pass intersection, it makes it nearly impossible to get across Pete Ellis whilst traveling on Longview.

Case Date:

11/19/1998

WOULD LIKE STREET LIGHTS FROM 13TH STREET TO 17TH STREET ON NORTH JACKSON. (REQUESTED IN LETTER TO THE HT EDITOR, 11/17/98)

Case Date:

12/15/1999

Ms. Brashaber is concerned about lack of street lighting on N. Pete Ellis Dr between Amy Ln and Braeside Dr. She stated that there have been accidents in the past and asked that a street light be installed in this location.

Case Date:

8/2/2017

Sign needed, northbound - "Right lane ends, merge left"

Case Date:

11/26/2017

"Head start" for pedestrians. Use the NYC trick, give walkers a 7 second head start before turning the light green. This intersection, the one on the bypass and 10th, and the Kirkwood Walnut crosswalk are just 3 places drivers ignore pedestrians as they only look at cars so they can make right turns. Please. They're going to run us over. Look at Saturdays NYtimes.

Case Date:

6/19/2018

Has the city considered installing a protected bike lane on 3rd street? Particularly between Jordan Ave and Indiana Ave. I just drove by and there were TWO Semi-tractor trailers parked in the lane and a sedan parked in the lane. It really reflects poorly on the city that you put in useless white paint and nothing to actually protect people from vehicles. I never bother to use the bike lanes for this reason, you never know when you'll have to keep re-entering vehicle traffic.