Commission recommends approval of multiple Midtown right-of-way vacations, requires sidewalk easements

The commission voted to recommend approval to the planning commission for multiple small right-of-way vacations in Midtown, with a condition that the owner provide public easements for existing sidewalks so pedestrian access remains guaranteed.

Staff described the request as a set of narrow strips and pieces of platted right of way across several blocks that were no longer functioning as through streets and are currently used for pedestrian gathering spaces, private parking and building overhangs. The request covers sections around Park Place, Northwest Tenth Street, Hudson and Ninth Street and includes portions adjacent to recently completed and proposed redevelopment projects.

Zach (last name provided as a representative of Johnson and Associates) explained that some of the areas had been partially closed previously and that the application takes a 'belt-and-suspenders' approach to avoid future title issues. He said the sidewalks would be put fully within public easements where they currently exist and that the developer expects to address widths and other details during later certificate-of-approval reviews tied to specific projects.

Planning staff said they are comfortable recommending the vacations if the applicant provides easements for existing sidewalks and noted that the district-court vacation process will invite any utilities or other parties needing an easement to the table.

The commission's motion to provide a recommendation of approval to the planning commission included the condition that the owner and developer provide the city easements for any existing public sidewalks to allow continued public use. The motion passed.

Votes at a glance: Right-of-way vacation request CED-01140 (West Park Place and multiple nearby strips) was recommended for approval to the planning commission with the sidewalk-easement condition.