Council advances $500,000 south-end Greenway enhancement project after mixed reaction from neighbors

The Committee of the Whole advanced a proposal to accept grant funding and proceed with enhancements to a section of the Greenway near River’s Edge, a project staff described as roughly $500,000 that would extend trail access and improve a fishing area currently described as unsightly and poorly maintained. Staff said the project had support from Garrison Diversion and the Outdoor Heritage Fund, and that the city had received more than $200,000 in outside grants for the work; the city’s share could come from stormwater-designated revenue cash or previously recommended project funds. Staff noted mixed public comment during previous outreach and described the intent as encouraging more appropriate use of the site and reducing illegal or unsafe activities by improving access and visibility. Several council members expressed reservations. One council member opposed spending additional money on that end of the Greenway while other major Greenway investments are ongoing; another questioned whether a parking lot or phased approach would make sense and suggested a police presence could be an alternative to a capital expense. Other members supported the cleanup and access improvements and noted the grants already received. Council moved to approve advancing the project; staff said phased amenities or parking could be added later if desired and that final plans and renderings would be brought back for further review.