Commission approves $3,500 Rizzo study for preliminary Rudolph Way trail designs

The Redevelopment Commission approved a $3,500 contract with Rizzo to develop two conceptual options for a Rudolph Way trail connection: a lower‑cost pavement‑marking alternative and a more expensive sidewalk construction alternative.

Staff explained the pavement marking option would be less expensive than building a full sidewalk, but commissioners and staff cautioned that pavement markings provide limited protection for pedestrians and that significant costs could come from flood mitigation or easement negotiation where the proposed trail would cross private property. "The 3,500 will get you 2 conceptual ideas," staff said, describing the deliverable as two schematic options to present to businesses and residents for feedback. After discussion about drainage, sewer and right‑of‑way constraints, commissioners voted to approve the proposal so the city can obtain conceptual pricing and advance outreach to potential funders or partners.

Commissioners emphasized the study is a preliminary step; any construction would require further engineering, flood studies and potential easements from private property owners before work could begin.