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The debate on whether there should be a secondary access road to the Marland Heights area of Weirton has been going on for probably as long as most people in the city can remember.
It continues today, especially after a recent vehicle crash had traffic stopped for several hours, leaving residents with no way to get to or from the hilltop neighborhoods.
While there still is no solution to creating additional roadways, city officials have put together a plan to at least make sure residents of Marland Heights have coverage in the event of a fire or medical emergency.
An unfinished path runs from the end of Brookline Drive to a point near Marland Heights Park. Over the years, it has been used for recreational purposes, and at one time was a way for youth living downtown to walk to the park. An area alongside the path had been designated as a type of nature preserve and cared for by one of our local civic groups for many years.
Now, it will be key to providing safety to a section of our community in the event they become isolated. City firefighters, who also are certified in emergency medical services, will drive up the path in a utility vehicle in order to man the fire station of Marland Heights. While not typically staffed on a regular basis, the station continues to be have vehicles and equipment on site in the event it is needed.
We know that is not a solution to the problem of roadway access to the area. That may still take some time, if one is found at all.
Make no mistake, it is a discussion which needs to continue.
Hopefully, though, this will provide some peace of mind for residents to know they will still be safe.