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Council approves First Street widening feasibility step; staff to pursue 30% design if funded
Summary
After a feasibility study, council approved moving the First Street widening project toward design. Staff estimated construction at about $4.5 million and told council current CIP funds could cover a 30% design phase; council asked staff to return with funding options for later design stages.
The Beaumont City Council on Tuesday authorized moving forward from feasibility to design work for the First Street widening project between Beaumont Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue.
Brandon Reyes of MNS Engineers presented a feasibility study that recommends widening the corridor to four lanes with a raised median, continuous sidewalks, and improved bike facilities. The study found right‑of‑way impacts, utility relocations and environmental studies would be required and estimated construction costs at roughly $4.5 million, with contingencies.
City staff said existing Capital Improvement Program funds would cover a 30% design phase and the environmental review; the consultant estimated the CEQA process alone could add about a year to the timeline. Council approved the recommendation to proceed with the next design step, with a roll call recorded as: Councilmember Finn: Yes; Councilmember Martinez: Yes; Councilmember White: Yes; Mayor Pro Tem Voigt: Yes; Mayor Mary Lara: Yes.
During discussion council members asked about phasing, right‑of‑way acquisition and grant funding opportunities. Staff cautioned that, because the project adds vehicle lanes, some pedestrian/bicycle grant sources may not be available. Several council members urged staff to return with a funding plan before committing to later design phases beyond 30%.
Public works staff said the city can reach 30% design with funds currently allocated to the CIP and that staff would provide phasing and funding options for the council to consider before the larger design and construction phases.
