The Morgantown City Council convened on June 25th to discuss significant updates on the city's infrastructure projects, particularly focusing on the sidewalk improvement program. The meeting, held in an informal setting, allowed council members to receive information and ask questions without taking official action.

Colin Frosh from Kimberley Horn Consultants presented three key projects currently underway: a pavement assessment, a pedestrian plan, and pedestrian rapid response designs. The pavement assessment aims to create a 5 to 10-year action plan for road maintenance across Morgantown, including state-owned roads. This comprehensive evaluation utilizes advanced data collection methods to analyze the condition of all streets, ensuring that the city can prioritize repairs effectively.

The pedestrian plan is designed to enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility, aligning with federal requirements for potential grant funding. Frosh highlighted the importance of community input, noting that the project has involved collaboration with various stakeholders, including representatives from West Virginia University and local transit authorities. The plan will assess existing conditions and prioritize improvements based on equity, safety, and connectivity.

Additionally, the council discussed rapid response designs for nine locations identified for immediate pedestrian safety enhancements, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). These designs are currently under review, with the goal of beginning construction later this year.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to improving infrastructure and ensuring that pedestrian needs are met, with a focus on creating a safer and more accessible environment for all residents. The council anticipates further developments as these projects progress, aiming to finalize plans and secure necessary funding in the coming months.