News About Town: As Matthews comes to terms with the imminent elimination of the Idlewild/51 roundabout, questions remain both about the short lifespan of the roundabout and the future of the gateway sign planned for that location. NCDOT designed the roundabout for a 10-year design period, at which time they assumed the roundabout would work with a widened 51. Now that the engineering is underway, NCDOT anticipates the car capacity will exceed that of the roundabout. Since 2017, Matthews and Mint Hill have been working collaboratively toward a gateway sign for the roundabout. The sign (design and construction) was estimated at $67,000 (with landscaping the total combined cost for both towns totaled close to $100,000) and has been approved by NCDOT for installation. Now, with the impending widening, the sign would only stand for six to seven years. At the May 28 council meeting, the Board instructed town engineers to redesign the area with a less expensive sign in a way that is more focused on landscaping.

News Around Town: Get out your binoculars to see Jupiter's four largest moons. While relatively easy to see throughout June, tonight is the night to really get a glimpse. That is, if the clouds can clear for the night. If not, NASA has your back. Download the Eyes on the Solar System app for an up-close look at Jupiter that feels like you're on the Juno spacecraft.

One Fun Thing: This Saturday, get a head start on your National Pollinator Week (June 17 – 23, 2019) celebrations at the Matthews Farmers' Market. The Matthews chapter of Bee City USA will be at the market with their honey bee observation hive. Apiculturists will be there, totally ready to share their knowledge and spread the pollinator love. June 1, 8 am-noon, Matthews Farmers' Market, 188 N Trade St.

Last night The Odom Firm held an eminent domain workshop for those impacted by the NCDOT Highway 51 Widening from 4-lanes to 6. Around 50 residents attended to learn about their rights as property owners and the process of eminent domain.

David Murray presented the law firm's typical process and answered questions. Some residents were concerned about loons, a superstreet bulb-out designed to handle larger vehicle u-turns, impeding their driveways. Others were concerned whether NCDOT appraisers would take the nuances of school districts into property value consideration. Three of the residents interviewed were worried about their family homes, properties which have been in their families for decades.