Waterfront outlines raised‑sidewalk plan for Harbor Way to reduce pedestrian/vehicle conflicts

Facilities Manager Brian Adair presented a concept plan Aug. 21 to improve pedestrian safety on a congested section of Harbor Way by installing a raised nine‑foot sidewalk, redoing asphalt, and adding parallel parking to help guide pedestrian flow and reduce conflicts with delivery trucks and bicycles.

Adair said the proposed design includes a raised curb for the sidewalk, concrete paving for visual continuity, lighting, benches and street furniture near the fish market, and new drainage considerations because the area is susceptible to wave run‑up and storm flooding. The project would require civil engineering design (Flowers and Associates engaged for design), environmental and building permits, utility coordination and construction bidding. Adair provided a notional schedule: final design in August 2025, permitting through February 2026, bidding in March 2026 and a potential construction start in April 2026, though he acknowledged the timing could shift and staff would aim to avoid peak summer construction windows if possible. He estimated approximately eight parking spaces could be lost under the concept.

Commissioners expressed support while raising concerns about parking loss, construction timing (impact to summer vendors), maintaining access for deliveries and boat trailers, and enforcement of compact‑car spaces. Adair said staff would pursue ADA transitions, keep one lane open for deliveries during construction where feasible, and explore signage and wayfinding alternatives for pedestrians.

What’s next: staff will complete civil design, coordinate permits and return to the commission with more detailed cost and construction scheduling.