Commission discusses extending roundabout project to fill sidewalk gaps connecting neighborhoods and school

Commission staff briefed the Greenwood Redevelopment Commission on a proposal to extend scope beyond the active double-roundabout project to fill sidewalk gaps on Averett and improve connectivity between nearby neighborhoods, Freedom Park and Hill School.

Staff said they met with representatives of local cross-country teams and property owners, including a dentist identified as Dr. Taylor, who indicated willingness to donate a right-of-way on one edge of a field to close a gap. The proposed work would add easement descriptions and right-of-way acquisitions beyond the strict roundabout limits to provide continuous sidewalks north and south of the roundabout. "What this does is it goes a little bit beyond the project limits to add the easement descriptions and the right way required so we can fill in the sidewalk gaps," a staff member said.

Staff explained one pinch point on the northwest corner could be resolved with additional engineering and utility work, while the south side donation would help without requiring as much engineering. Commissioners and nearby residents discussed traffic patterns and alternative local routes during the construction period; no formal motion or vote to adopt the expanded scope or accept easements was recorded at the meeting.

Staff said the work would further the city's connectivity goals by linking neighborhoods to recreational and school facilities, but also noted that engineering, utilities and property-acceptance processes could add complexity.