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City, schools move ahead on Safe Routes to School plan; ODOT funding could cover sidewalk projects
Summary
City staff and North Canton City Schools are preparing a Safe Routes to School plan ahead of a funding cycle that could pay 100% of eligible sidewalk infrastructure projects; councilors discussed right-of-way acquisition and outreach to residents.
City planning staff told the council that North Canton City Schools is preparing a Safe Routes to School plan to evaluate safer walking and biking routes to schools, a step that could enable the city to apply for Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) infrastructure funds that typically cover 100% of eligible project costs.
Jason (staff) explained that the plan focuses on the "3 E's" (enforcement, education and engineering) and that the engineering component looks at sidewalks, crosswalks and other infrastructure. He said the schools will conduct public engagement throughout the fall, with a plan deadline in February and a likely application window for ODOT infrastructure funds in March. "The nice thing about the Safe Routes to School program is ODOT provides funds at a 100%," he said.
The discussion centered on sidewalks near the new middle school along Seventh Street, an area several residents said lacks continuous sidewalks despite nearby destinations such as the stadium, soccer fields, pool, Dogwood Park and a new handicap-accessible play area. Public commenter Mary Bachman told council that many students live in the neighborhood and walking conditions are a concern.
City staff and councilors discussed right-of-way acquisition. Staff said a project application would need an estimate for right-of-way costs; voluntary acquisition is preferred but eminent domain is sometimes used and can be budgeted as an eligible cost if required. Councilor discussion included outreach to affected property owners; one councilor said he planned to speak directly with residents who had resisted past sidewalk work.
No formal motion or vote on a project or funding application was recorded at the meeting. City staff said they will continue to coordinate with the school district and the consultant the district has selected to write the plan.
Provenance: Planning staff comments about the Safe Routes to School plan and ODOT funding and the later right-of-way discussion appear in the department reports and subsequent exchange about eminent domain and funding eligibility.
