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AGENDA RECOMMENDATION |
1.
City Council Work Session
- Meeting Date:
- 02/24/2025
Agenda Item:
Review of proposed Riverfront Drive Lighting and Streetscape Project
Recommendation/Action(s):
Direction on moving forward with project.
Summary:
This proposed project is a follow-up to the recently completed reconstruction of Riverfront Drive constructed in 2024. The 2024 project included the complete replacement of the existing four-lane roadway with a new three-lane roadway, new municipal utilities, expanded sidewalks, new traffic control signals and new roadway lighting. No additional streetscaping or aesthetic improvements were included in this part of the project.
As construction neared completion in 2024, questions were asked about the streetscape by community members and Old Town businesses and the City received feedback regarding the style of lighting installed as part of the project. As a result, City engaged in meetings with members of the Old Town Association to develop a concept of what might be able to be implemented. Staff have also reviewed and developed a financial plan using the approved 2025 budget and other available resources.
In addition, as part of the City’s routine street light replacement program, a project was been budgeted for 2025 to replace roadway stye lighting on North Riverfront Drive. The total number of lights to be replaced is similar to the number of lights that exist on the Old Town area of Riverfront Drive.
The project to be discussed at the Work Session proposes to combine the two projects on Riverfront Drive. Where we would take the stainless steel lighting in Old Town and move it to North Riverfront Drive and then purchase new lighting for Old Town that matches lighting in our existing downtown. We have also developed a plan for adding a few benches and creating space for hanging baskets and banners on the light poles. We have also developed a concept for planters, bike racks, and trash/recycling receptacles for the area in the event a future special service district is created.
Staff is seeking feedback from the City Council on the proposed improvements and approach. If acceptable to the City Council, this proposed project will be scheduled at an upcoming City Council meeting for formal approval.
As construction neared completion in 2024, questions were asked about the streetscape by community members and Old Town businesses and the City received feedback regarding the style of lighting installed as part of the project. As a result, City engaged in meetings with members of the Old Town Association to develop a concept of what might be able to be implemented. Staff have also reviewed and developed a financial plan using the approved 2025 budget and other available resources.
In addition, as part of the City’s routine street light replacement program, a project was been budgeted for 2025 to replace roadway stye lighting on North Riverfront Drive. The total number of lights to be replaced is similar to the number of lights that exist on the Old Town area of Riverfront Drive.
The project to be discussed at the Work Session proposes to combine the two projects on Riverfront Drive. Where we would take the stainless steel lighting in Old Town and move it to North Riverfront Drive and then purchase new lighting for Old Town that matches lighting in our existing downtown. We have also developed a plan for adding a few benches and creating space for hanging baskets and banners on the light poles. We have also developed a concept for planters, bike racks, and trash/recycling receptacles for the area in the event a future special service district is created.
Staff is seeking feedback from the City Council on the proposed improvements and approach. If acceptable to the City Council, this proposed project will be scheduled at an upcoming City Council meeting for formal approval.