An ordinance to advertise for bids and construct the East 215th Street trail improvements was sent to a second reading on July 21, 2025 after council members and nearby residents raised concerns about a proposed extension that would connect an existing trail from Milan Avenue to Golar Avenue through the backs of several homes.

The administration told council the project includes resurfacing the existing trail between Nauman and Milan, adding a short extension to Golar Avenue, landscaping, stormwater retention and other improvements. The project previously received $50,000 in community development block grant funds intended to improve a heavily used pedestrian route near Pinnacle Academy, officials said.

Several council members and at least one resident said extending the trail into an area where neighbors have maintained a green buffer for decades would alter private yards and invite foot traffic close to homes. Councilman Wotilla asked whether the extension was necessary given nearby route options; Councilman Daibeck and others asked to hear directly from affected neighbors before final approval. One council member said they had received “several calls from the surrounding residents who are absolutely horrified.”

To balance grant timing and community outreach, the administration suggested including the extension as a bid alternate so the primary resurfacing scope (Nauman to Milan) could proceed while the council considers whether to add the stretch to Golar. Council voted 11–0 to send the ordinance to second reading so staff can conduct further outreach and consider a bid alternate.

Why it matters: The trail provides a school‑route and neighborhood connection used by students and residents. The discussion underscored tensions between improving active-transport infrastructure and respecting long‑standing neighborhood use of public land adjacent to private yards.

Next steps: Planning staff will continue outreach to directly affected homeowners, provide additional detail to councilmembers and, if desired, include the Golar extension as a bid alternate to preserve the project’s grant eligibility and timetable.