The Midway City Council convened on December 10, 2024, to discuss critical infrastructure developments, particularly focusing on a proposed right-of-way for wildfire evacuation routes. The meeting centered around a 20-foot wide corridor intended for emergency use, which would remain pervious to soil and minimally impact existing agricultural practices.

The proposal, presented by a representative of the Lundin family, aims to establish a designated route that would facilitate evacuation during wildfire emergencies. The corridor is designed to include appropriate signage to guide evacuees and emergency vehicles effectively. The Lundins expressed a desire to finalize the exact location of this corridor, which may intersect with existing tree lines and irrigation systems on their property.

A significant point of discussion was the city's commitment to use diligent efforts, including the potential use of condemnation, to secure access across the Lundin property for both southern and northern connections to the proposed route. If the southern route is established, the existing default route would be abandoned.

Council members emphasized the importance of establishing trail access along the proposed route, noting that while trail access could be negotiated, it would not be developed until both northern and southern connections are secured. The council acknowledged that even if only one side of the route is accessible, a trail could still be constructed, allowing for an out-and-back experience for users.

The discussions highlighted the need for clarity regarding the trail's development, particularly concerning whether it would be fenced and how it would integrate with existing infrastructure. The council and the Lundins reached a consensus that the trail would be established along the Probst Ditch, contingent upon securing necessary access routes.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the collaborative efforts between the city and the Lundin family to enhance emergency preparedness through the establishment of a wildfire evacuation route. The council plans to continue discussions to finalize the details of the proposal, ensuring that both community safety and agricultural practices are respected.