Commissioners on Aug. 4 paused a consent‑calendar item that would authorize mid‑block pedestrian crosswalk reconstruction on the 100 block of Cass Street to allow staff to return with cost comparisons for an expanded design that could include curb extensions (bump‑outs) and other pedestrian‑safety features.

Background: The underlying project is a maintenance/repair item funded through TIF 97 (downtown DDA funds) and aims to reconstruct a mid‑block crosswalk and associated sidewalk work. Commissioner Werner, speaking as a cyclist and pedestrian‑safety proponent, argued that the city should use the repair as an opportunity to install bump‑outs to improve pedestrian visibility and calm traffic, saying “if we're already as a community spending 100,000, maybe we spend 110,000 and actually do it well.”

Concerns and questions: Commissioners and staff identified several follow‑up issues before changing scope: the DDA’s budget authority over TIF 97 funds; the potential impact of curb extensions on Snow‑plow and snow‑clearing operations; schedule implications for construction this calendar year; and whether additional funding would come from the city’s streets fund versus DDA/TIF 97. Commissioner Mitch Treadwell asked staff to return with a cost estimate for bump‑outs, schedule implications and funding scenarios, including whether the work could remain on the current schedule or be deferred to a different budget year.

Public comment: Supporters including representatives of the Grand Traverse Safe Streets Alliance urged a “clearer, long‑term approach for pedestrian, cycle and disabled access” and recommended prioritizing durable, low‑maintenance materials over brick pavers. A public speaker noted deteriorating brick pavers downtown and recommended alternatives.

Next steps: Staff agreed to prepare cost estimates and feasibility information (including snow‑clearing impacts, DDA funding implications and schedule options) and return the item to the commission for action.