Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Sidewalks Subdivision Variance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission approves sidewalk variance for Lyons Edition minor subdivision on Lyon Street
Summary
The planning commission approved a variance allowing sidewalks to be deferred along Lyon Street for a three-lot minor subdivision at 835 Lyon Street after staff and the city engineer recommended maintaining existing conditions and securing future right-of-way.
The Lawrence and Douglas County Joint Metropolitan Planning Commission on Feb. 26 approved a variance request that allows the existing lack of sidewalks to remain on Lyon Street in conjunction with a minor subdivision called Lyons Edition at 835 Lyon Street.
Planner Sally Mullins told commissioners the subdivision rules in Section 20-8-11 normally require sidewalks on both sides of streets. Because the 800 block of Lyon Street currently has no sidewalks on either side and the nearest sidewalks are roughly 1,000 feet away, the applicant requested a variance to maintain existing conditions. Mullins said the applicant will dedicate additional right of way to accommodate future improvements and that the city engineer reviewed the request and supported maintaining the existing conditions.
Paul Warner, the applicant’s representative, said dedicating right of way now will make future sidewalk installation easier when adjacent properties redevelop. Planning staff concluded the variance met the approval criteria of section 28-13(g) of the subdivision regulations and recommended approval.
Commissioners discussed long-term sidewalk planning and how sidewalk gaps are prioritized for funding through nonmotorized projects or grants such as CDBG and Safe Routes to School. Several commissioners said they prefer on-street sidewalk connections where practical, but agreed the small, isolated gap on Lyon Street did not make sense to force at this time.
The planning commission unanimously approved the variance. The minor subdivision will proceed subject to the conditions of approval documented in the staff memo, including the right-of-way dedication to accommodate future sidewalks.
