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Council committee approves sidewalk and mid-block crossing on Columbiana Road to connect The Edge
Summary
The committee approved a $15,128 contract with Gossett Construction to build a sidewalk on the west side of Columbiana Road, add a mid-block rapid flashing beacon crossing and tie into existing paths to improve pedestrian access to The Edge.
The Homewood committee approved a contract to build a sidewalk on the west side of Columbiana Road and install a mid-block crossing to connect the neighborhood and the Edge mixed-use site.
Kale Smith, city engineer, and JJ Bischoff presented plans showing the sidewalk tying into existing paths installed for The Edge and adding a mid-block crossing with rapid flashing beacons and a crosswalk. The contract with Gossett Construction is $15,128 for the sidewalk work; the cost of the rapid flashing beacon will be borne separately (the presenter said the crossing equipment cost would be handled from a separate account and Randy will do the crosswalk work).
Council members discussed how the sidewalk will route behind an existing protective railing near the drainage canal and connect to the Edge's existing sidewalk and to sidewalks near neighboring townhomes. Councilors noted the area currently poses a visibility problem for pedestrians crossing the street near guardrails and that families and athletes attending community events had requested safer access.
JJ Bischoff added context about near-term development: the Homewood Community Church (Exceptional Foundation) plans to build a new facility on adjacent acreage, which he said could bring 400'600 people on some Sundays; he said the church is examining parking approaches that would avoid new large lots and could include a bridge across the canal to reuse an existing parking area.
Motion and vote: The committee moved to approve the contract with Gossett Construction and related crosswalk work; the motion carried unanimously in committee (4-0) and will go forward to full council for contract authorization.
Why it matters: Committee members said the sidewalk and mid-block crossing will fill a gap in pedestrian connectivity on Columbiana Road and make it safer for residents, parents with strollers and event attendees to reach The Edge and nearby homes. Staff will return to council with the contract and any additional budget for the rapid flashing beacons.
