WORKSHOP ITEM Robert Therres, Public Service Manager
Title
ORDINANCE REVISION OF SIDEWALK REQUIREMENTS
Background
The City’s Code of Ordinances, Chapter 74-82(a)(11) requires sidewalks to be constructed along both sides of arterial and collector streets. The City reviews each proposed subdivision and street reconstruction project to determine the pedestrian needs of the area. In the past, municipal state aid streets and County roads have typically had a sidewalk or trail constructed on one side. Prior to 2000, sidewalks and trails were not installed in residential areas unless identified in the comprehensive plan. Since 2000, the City has reviewed each subdivision for neighborhood connectivity to existing or planned sidewalk and trail systems. In several subdivisions, a concrete sidewalk has been constructed on one side of a residential collector street and a bituminous trail on the other side.
Staff recommends revising the subdivision ordinance to reflect the practices that have been applied to subdivisions:
CHAPTER 74
SUBDIVISIONS
ARTICLE III. SUBDIVISION DESIGN STANDARDS
Section 74-82(a)(11) Sidewalks. Sidewalks shall be constructed along both sides of arterial and collector streets. Sidewalks and Trails. Sidewalk or trail shall be required on one side of collector streets. Sidewalks and/or trails may be required along both sides of collector streets depending upon pedestrian needs and connectivity to existing or planned sidewalk and trail systems. Sidewalks and trails shall be constructed in accordance with design standards filed in the office of the city engineer. Variation to these sidewalk and trail requirements may be approved upon the discretion of the City Council.
Recommendation
Does Council support this proposed ordinance change in sidewalk and trail requirements?