Rapid City committee votes on three sidewalk/ADA variance requests

The Rapid City Public Works Committee on July 14, 2025, heard three separate variance requests from Advanced Design Engineering and Surveying on behalf of private developers to waive sidewalk or corner-ramp requirements in different parts of the city and passed motions on each item.

The committee’s decisions affect requests for a sidewalk waiver along a future Link Lane (PW071525-12), a waiver of corner-ramp installation at the Portrush–Melbourne intersection (PW071525-13), and a sidewalk waiver along Muirfield Drive (PW071525-14). Committee members debated safety, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance and who would ultimately bear the cost if the city later had to make improvements.

Staff presented each item and recommended denial for at least the Link Lane request. On PW071525-12 — a variance application by Advanced Design Engineering and Surveying on behalf of 3133 Holdings LLC to waive the requirement to install sidewalk along a future Link Lane under Rapid City Municipal Code section 12.08.0.06 — staff noted the street is a cul-de-sac but that the city expects a future project to complete sidewalks in the area. City staff member Vicky said, “Sidewalks are meant to provide a safe place for people to walk, for children to play. If we don't start getting them now, when do we get them?” The committee recorded a motion…