Council approves closure of alley section after resident safety complaints

The Kansas City Council Committee of the Whole voted Sept. 2 to authorize the closure of a portion of public right of way — an alley between West Gal and West Titus Streets and First and Second Avenue South — after staff described repeated public‑safety complaints and assault reports in the alley.

Public Works Director Chad Barron presented the resolution, saying neighbors and occupants of an adjacent apartment building reported open drug use and an assault in the alley. Barron said state law requires council action to close a section of alley. Proposed controls include a gate to prevent through vehicle access while allowing keyed pedestrian access for residents and key access for city personnel, emergency responders and Republic Services to maintain garbage service.

Council members asked whether buildings adjacent to the alley would retain access; staff said residents would have keyed pedestrian access and city crews would retain gated access for services. The committee approved Resolution No. 2096 by voice vote; staff noted this action closes the alley but does not permanently vacate the property as happened in other neighborhoods where property owners later assumed ownership.

Why it matters: staff and residents reported ongoing safety concerns in the alley including drug activity and an assault; the closure is intended to limit through access while preserving resident egress and service access.