Escalon staff preview Main Street sidewalk project funded by SJCOG grant

City staff presented details of a planned Main Street sidewalk and intersection improvement project, saying the work would use a grant from the San Joaquin Council of Governments and would install sidewalk on the park side of Main Street and improve intersections and crosswalks.

The presentation said parking on Main Street will not be affected and the city has the right‑of‑way needed for a sidewalk project along the park frontage. Staff identified a construction window between January and March (a low‑event period for the park and farmers market) and said staff will include a requirement in the bid documents that the contractor hit that window to avoid event disruptions.

Maps shared with council showed sidewalks extending to and around the library and connecting along Main Street toward St. John. Staff said some work will include bulb‑outs, planters and brick treatments similar to recently completed intersections. The project is at the pre‑bid presentation stage; staff said they plan to go out to bid soon and there will be an opportunity for public comment before any final contract award.

Council members asked about coordination with the farmers market and timing; staff replied the January–March window was selected after reviewing the park calendar. One council member asked whether the project would return to council for future approvals; staff said the current item was informational and that public comment could be received now but no final action was being requested at this meeting.

Staff indicated the project was funded through the SJCOG grant and is part of the city’s ongoing capital improvement program to rehabilitate sidewalks, pavement and crossings.