Council approves design for Ravenna Street sidewalk after residents call safety concerns urgent

Hudson City Council on May 20, 2025, approved city staff moving forward with design of a sidewalk along Ravenna Street from South Hayden Parkway to Stow Road as part of the consent agenda. The consent item passed 7–0.

Why it matters: Multiple residents at public comment described Ravenna Street as hazardous for walkers, runners and cyclists and urged the council not to delay a project that has been in planning and funding discussions for years.

Public comments at the meeting emphasized safety and connectivity. Twelve‑year‑old Asher Jones (2233 Vanna Street) told council, “It’s much safer to be biking on sidewalks than on the road,” adding that sidewalks would make it easier to visit friends and travel downtown by bike. Resident Joe Fenical (2567 Ravenna Street) described multiple close calls and said, “I’m amazed there has not been a fatality at this point.” Andrea Hall (2545 Ravenna Street) urged council to consider equity, writing that residents in the original township area pay taxes yet still lack basic services such as sidewalks and urged that Ravenna Street be included in the city’s connectivity plan.

The consent agenda item specifically authorizes staff to proceed with design for the Ravenna Street sidewalk from South Hayden Parkway to Stow Road (agenda item 25‑0069). The consent agenda was adopted by unanimous roll call following suspension of rules.

Next steps: With council approval of design work, staff indicated they will proceed to engineering and cost estimates. Residents and councilors said they expect staff to keep the public informed and to advance construction as funding and scheduling allow.

Speakers quoted at public comment urged quick action, and several council members said they have received resident correspondence supporting the sidewalk. Councilor Sutton said he received multiple letters and would attach them to the meeting record.