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Committee backs pilot median redesigns to deter pedestrian panhandling at two intersections; staff to finalize designs
Summary
A transportation committee discussed a pilot to alter medians at two intersections to deter people from standing on medians collecting money and to improve pedestrian safety; recommendations include a raised planter at Matlock/Sublette and a rounded median edge at Randle Mill/Green Oaks, with staff to prepare construction documents and costings.
The Transportation and Municipal Infrastructure Committee reviewed a pilot to modify median designs at two Arlington intersections to reduce pedestrians standing in medians (including panhandling and informal fundraising) and to improve pedestrian safety.
Committee chair Council member Gonzales summarized design options presented by staff, which weighed cost, aesthetics, maintenance and deterrence. The committee’s preliminary preferences were a raised, planted bed (with cemented rock insets to prevent projectiles) for Matlock Road and Sublette Road and a rounded median edge treatment for Randol Mill Road and Green Oaks Boulevard. Committee members flagged concerns about long‑term maintenance, trash collection and the potential need for plant selection that minimizes upkeep.
Why it matters: The pilot is intended to reduce safety hazards for pedestrians standing on medians while preserving street aesthetics and avoiding heavy concrete barriers that can be visually intrusive.
Next steps: Staff will finalize location‑specific designs, prepare construction documents and return with estimated costs and a recommendation to the committee and then to council for approval before construction.
