Commission approves geometrics for Flam Road resurfacing; staff to return with striping/parking alternatives

The Transportation Commission approved overall curb geometry and infrastructure elements for the Flam Road (Flam/Flauam) resurfacing project while directing staff to return with alternative pavement‑marking plans that consider removing on‑street parking in places to improve bicycle facilities.

Project staff described a resurfacing scope that includes full pavement removal and replacement of deteriorated water main, sanitary sewer and storm sewer, curb and sidewalk spot repairs, and a proposal to retain an existing 44‑foot face‑to‑face roadway width to avoid relocating trees and overhead utilities. Staff proposed pedestrian safety upgrades near La Follette High School and others: new or extended refuge islands at multiple intersections (Groveland, Alder, Maher, Camden), continental crosswalks, rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFB) at Camden and Alder, and an updated RRFB at Groveland. Staff said they are coordinating with the school and MMSD on a possible easement and bus pull‑out to keep buses out of bike lanes and to widen the terrace where feasible.

Public comment: One member of the public objected to the proposed bike lanes being non‑buffered and asked that the design align with the city’s Complete Green Streets guidance. Commissioners and staff discussed that the current project is a resurfacing (not a full reconstruction), that overhead utilities and a 44‑foot curb‑to‑curb width constrain changes, and that relocation of MG&E poles would take years and is not feasible in the resurfacing schedule. Commissioners requested staff examine alternatives: removing parking on one side of the corridor in targeted segments to allow buffered or parking‑protected bike lanes where possible, and returning with marking alternatives for commission review. Staff cautioned that significant changes (including additional public input and a new PIM or parking study) could delay construction into 2026; they said the project would otherwise start late July 2025 and might be completed in phases timed around school schedules.

Given the timing and utility constraints, the commission made a motion to approve the overall curb and geometry as presented but required staff to return with stripe/marking and parking‑removal options (including analysis of removing parking on one side) for commission review before final striping. Robbie Weber moved the motion; Chris McHale seconded. The chair called for unanimous consent and the motion carried unanimously.