Council approved an ordinance on July 21 to build a five‑foot concrete sidewalk along the south side of Columbia Gorge Parkway and the west side of Pride Mountain Drive inside the Vineyard subdivision, near Cedar Ridge Elementary School.

Shane Creech, public works director, described the project as a limited, fill‑in sidewalk and crosswalk with associated curb ramps. The project cost was estimated at just over $90,000 and staff said construction is anticipated to begin in fall 2025. Creech noted the subdivision predates a policy that requires developers to construct common‑lot sidewalks before the city accepts other infrastructure, which is why the gap persists.

Members of the public and council praised the project but asked staff to make the city’s sidewalk‑prioritization process clearer. Mackenzie Ortiz of 1619 Wilson Avenue told council she supported the project and suggested the city publish an accessible flowchart—similar to the traffic‑calming process—that shows how sidewalk requests move from citizen inquiry to construction. Councilmembers agreed a clear public flowchart would improve understanding.

After public comment and council discussion, the council voted in favor of the ordinance (roll call: all present voted yes) and staff will proceed with design and procurement actions required to begin construction in the fall.