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CRA discusses $9 million First Street concept; board backs study for one-way redesign
Summary
Staff described First Street as a capital-intensive project with an early, preliminary budget estimate (about $9 million); board members favored pursuing a traffic study and exploring a one-way option to create more pedestrian space and parklets.
CRA staff told board members March 12 that a full First Street overhaul is a large capital project and that the earliest feasible start would likely be fiscal year 2027 unless the council reprioritizes other capital spending.
Taylor said the CRA had placed a conceptual First Street project in the capital improvement plan for FY 2026–2030 but that the project is not funded to begin before FY 2027 without cuts to other capital items. Taylor described a preliminary, middle-of-the-road estimate of about $9,000,000 for First Street work but said the number could be lower for a minimal project or substantially higher for a more extensive reconstruction.
Board members expressed broad support for obtaining traffic data before committing to a particular design. Taylor said the Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) has been asked to conduct a traffic study at no cost; staff said the study would evaluate one-way versus two-way options, traffic calming and crosswalk layout. Several board members said a one-way design could free space for parklets, raised planter beds, seating and bicycle lanes.
Staff also recommended avoiding pavers in favor of decorative concrete because pavers are harder to maintain and replace to match existing surfaces. Taylor said pedestrian safety and clear delineation between sidewalks and the roadway were top priorities.
Board members asked staff to pursue the TPO traffic study and to return with results and recommended design options that would preserve access for businesses while improving safety and pedestrian amenities. No formal vote was taken; the board signaled support for pursuing a traffic study and for the idea of a one-way option pending study results.
