Riverdale City Council held a discussion on active‑transportation design for 1500 West adjacent to the AFCU corporate campus. Staff and the applicant proposed a 10‑foot shared concrete path on the south side of the new 1500 West alignment to provide continuous pedestrian and bicycle access between the campus area and Riverdale Road.

Why it matters: The council heard that the city’s bicycle master plan previously showed a route through the vacated Cozydale alignment; because that alignment is no longer available staff and the applicant reviewed alternate alignments. Staff said constraints on the north side (including stormwater and existing curb geometry near Tesla and other parcels) make a continuous north‑side route difficult without additional property changes. The proposed 10‑foot shared path is intended to allow side‑by‑side bicycle and pedestrian use and to provide a consistent connection through the new roundabout and into existing sidewalks.

Safety and operations: Engineer Jake Tate said he prefers on‑road riding when feasible but supported the shared path as the practical option in this corridor, noting the path’s 10‑foot width will allow bicycles and pedestrians to share space. Tate said, “I would never ride on a sidewalk if I didn't have to,” explaining a preference for on‑street facilities for experienced cyclists but acknowledging constraints on 1500 West.

Councilors asked about speed, e‑bike classification, enforcement and design features such as striping to separate walking and cycling or speed limits for the shared path. Staff said the city can add striping or signage and may consider an ordinance or code update to clarify permitted devices and posted speeds on shared facilities. Staff also noted transit and micro‑transit plans are being discussed with UTA and that future decisions about a Riverdale Road crossing or additional bridges could provide stronger, signalized crossings for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Next steps: Staff recommended the 10‑foot shared path as the preferred alignment for now and said they will explore code updates, signage, striping and funding options (including active‑transportation grants) to address safety, e‑bike usage and connectivity. No formal motion or vote was taken; the item was discussion only.

Ending: Councilors supported pursuing a continuous path while asking staff to return with design details, potential speed or device regulations, and grant/funding options.