Resident proposes accessible parking using existing sidewalk at Seneca Library; county staff to research permits and utilities

A Seneca resident urged the council to consider a lower-cost option for accessible parking and drop-off at the Seneca Library, and county staff agreed to pursue due diligence on feasibility.

"For the record, I'm Glenn Hart," the resident said. Hart described an approach that would use the existing sidewalk to allow handicapped drivers to park and roll up to the library entrance at the same elevation. "You've defeated that part because you're already up with that level," Hart said, arguing the plan would avoid constructing a new ramp.

Kyle Reed of Oconee County Roads and Bridges answered that the approach "could be built" but noted possible constraints: an existing drainage area that carries water from the library to South Second Street, utility concerns and a tree in the way. Reed said he did not have a construction estimate yet and that detailed work would require locating utilities and coordination with the City of Seneca and DOT as needed.

Miss Park, a council member, asked about regulations for required handicap spaces. County staff said there are regulations for required handicap parking based on building square footage and that they would ensure compliance before preparing a construction estimate. Staff also noted the library site is within a registered historic district in the City of Seneca.

Miss Brock, a county staff member, proposed completing due diligence before returning to council: researching encroachment permits, requesting an 811 utility locate, confirming sidewalk width and working with Blair, the library director, on aesthetics. Brock said those tasks could be done before the next council meeting.

The council did not take a formal vote on construction; instead, staff were authorized to conduct the preliminary research and return with a proposal or pictures for council consideration.

The discussion separated technical feasibility questions (drainage, utilities, sidewalk width and historic-district rules) from any final design or funding decisions. Staff said they would ensure required accessibility parking counts and city approvals would be addressed in the follow-up work.