Safety audit flags narrow sidewalks and obstructions on Josie Lane; Active Transportation Plan to council for adoption

The committee heard results from a roadway safety audit of high-incident corridors, with Josie Lane (from Dennis to Carrollton) among the corridors evaluated. Staff described observations including narrow sidewalk sections, fences close to the walking path, utility access obstructions, and sunken storm-inlet grates that create tripping hazards.

Alex summarized the audit site visit with consultants and city engineering staff, noting the east-side sidewalk near the post office was in better condition than the west side where "the fences are right by you" and narrow sidewalks make walking unsafe unless pedestrians are vigilant. Staff also said consultants studied signal timing and pedestrian crossing times as part of the corridor review.

Why it matters: the audit identifies specific infrastructure shortcomings that could inform near-term safety upgrades, application for grant funding or future capital projects identified in the Active Transportation Plan.

Status and next steps: Alex said the Active Transportation Plan and a related Complete Streets policy will be taken to City Council during an upcoming session for consideration; staff said the regional council of governments will compile final corridor reports once all high-incident corridors are reviewed, producing material the city can use to assess modifications and safety upgrades.