During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the allocation of funds from AstraZeneca, which have been underutilized for over a year. A council member expressed frustration over the delay in using these funds, emphasizing the city's ongoing budgetary challenges and the pressing need for pedestrian safety improvements.

Tanisha, a city official, provided an update on the AstraZeneca funds, noting that while some aspects are legally sensitive, the city has been negotiating with AstraZeneca to repurpose the funds for critical intersection improvements. The last work session on this topic occurred in July, where it was revealed that the costs for a proposed pedestrian bridge exceeded the available funds, prompting a reevaluation of priorities.

The council has identified several intersections with significant pedestrian safety issues and is focusing on data-driven approaches to prioritize funding for improvements. Despite ongoing negotiations with AstraZeneca, progress has stalled, and further decisions are pending legal review.

The meeting underscored the council's commitment to enhancing pedestrian safety across the city, with plans to potentially utilize city funds for improvements on state and county roads if necessary. The discussions reflect a broader strategy to address safety concerns in a systematic and equitable manner.