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Committee approves CSX engineering agreements for bridge and sidewalk work and adds greenway conservation easement
Summary
The committee approved a preliminary engineering agreement with CSX for an Eastland Avenue bridge replacement (housekeeping amendment), approved a preliminary agreement for sidewalk improvements adjacent to CSX rail at Alabama Avenue (the "secret sidewalk" project), and approved two greenway conservation easements; all items passed unanimously.
The Transportation & Infrastructure Committee on March 17 approved multiple non-consent items related to rail crossings, a sidewalk adjacent to CSX rail and greenway conservation easements.
A resolution approving a preliminary engineering agreement between CSX Transportation and the Metropolitan Government to facilitate replacement of a bridge on Eastland Avenue passed after a housekeeping amendment that replaced the contract exhibit. The committee approved the amendment and the amended resolution by recorded votes of 11-0.
“The amendment trades out the exhibit, contract with a new exhibit contract. They are substantially similar. I believe the signatures have changed,” Director Darby said when explaining the amendment.
The committee also approved a preliminary engineering agreement with CSX to develop sidewalk improvements adjacent to CSX rail at Alabama Avenue—identified in committee as part of the so‑called “secret sidewalk” connecting Sylvan Park and The Nations. NDOT council liaison Matt Purvis told the committee the project is “at currently 60% design working towards 90% design as well as coordinating right of way…with CSX as evidenced by this resolution.”
Purvis said lighting is being considered for the pathway and that the Civic Design Center is working on complementary design work; he estimated construction could begin in roughly three to five months. “And regarding lighting, that is part of the discussion now…we’re working with the Civic Design Center on that design,” Purvis said.
Finally, the committee approved, as amended, two greenway conservation easements between the Metropolitan Board of Parks and Recreation and Rogers Group Inc. for greenway improvements on Gwenwood Drive. Director Darby said the amendment added a second conservation easement that had been omitted when the bill was initially filed.
All three items passed by recorded votes of 11 in favor, 0 against, 0 not voting.
Ending: Committee members and staff said they expect continued coordination with CSX on right-of-way and design, and asked staff to return with construction schedules and lighting plans as those details are finalized.
