Advisory committee endorses multimodal goals for Phase 3 downtown plan, approves investigating pilot and design measures

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee unanimously approved a set of multimodal-design recommendations for Phase 3 of Sandpoint’s downtown revitalization plan at its May 8 meeting. The recommendations emphasize safety and connectivity and are intended to guide the design team and city staff as Phase 3 moves from concept to project development.

Adopted goals include ensuring intersections safely accommodate bicycle and pedestrian movements in all directions; piloting temporary accommodations (paint, signage, temporary barriers) before committing permanent resources; considering dedicated bicycle and pedestrian lanes where feasible; tightening curb radii to reduce vehicle turning speeds (the committee amended the recommended radius from 8 feet to 12 feet to match city practice); and improving trail and pathway connectivity to existing routes such as the Long Bridge, City Beach, and the Sand Creek Trail.

Staff response: Brandon (city staff) said the committee’s recommendations will be passed to the capital improvements team and can be used to inform design decisions and staff reports as Phase 3 proceeds. The committee’s endorsement came as the design process is underway, increasing the likelihood that committee-identified priorities can be evaluated in the formal design process.

Motion and adoption: Jennifer Heller moved to adopt the recommendations (with the radius change), the motion was seconded, and the committee approved the set unanimously.

Ending: Committee members characterized the document as a set of investigatory goals — the recommendations advise design study and pilots rather than prescribing specific final elements.