City staff reports two 16‑charger EV stations permitted; commissioners press for sidewalks and crosswalks

During the planning commission meeting, staff reported plans and permits for electric vehicle charging infrastructure in town and discussed pedestrian infrastructure needs.

Staff said Rivian will install 16 electric vehicle chargers at the First Choice Inn (including a retention pond to meet stormwater standards) and Tesla will install 16 chargers in the overflow parking lot at West Winds; both projects have building permits and have been reviewed by the city and county engineers. Staff said the Rivian installation includes a retention system sized to a 50‑year standard and that Tesla’s installation will use concrete foundations and prebuilt components.

Commissioners raised pedestrian‑safety concerns along Main Street and asked whether new development and charging‑station projects would include sidewalks, crosswalks and other traffic‑calming measures. Staff noted that sidewalk upgrades and crosswalks can be required in certain construction permits, and that the city has discussed speed mitigation with UDOT and may pursue a push‑button pedestrian crossing near planned development areas. One commissioner said frequent use of a push‑button crosswalk could help slow traffic in front of schools and residential areas.

Staff also said they have had engineers review traffic and stormwater impacts for the charging stations and that permits are proceeding through normal channels. Commissioners encouraged continued follow‑up on sidewalk gaps and pedestrian crossings in coordination with developers and UDOT.