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Committee backs sidewalks for Bayshore Drive and Bay Street reconstruction
Summary
The Oshkosh Transportation Committee recommended installing sidewalks on the south side of Bayshore Drive (Bridal to Mill) and completing the Bay Street sidewalk to the river as part of 2025 reconstruction, citing city complete‑streets policy and state statute; the committee approved the recommendation by roll call vote.
The Oshkosh Transportation Committee recommended installing sidewalks on the south side of Bayshore Drive from Bridal to Mill and completing the Bay Street sidewalk to the Fox River as part of the city’s 2025 street reconstruction work.
City staff told the committee the recommendation is consistent with a state statute permitting councils to require sidewalks and with the city’s strategic plan to incorporate "complete streets principles when and where feasible," which staff described as designing streets to "enable safe use and support mobility for all users." Staff said installing sidewalks is a "core principle" of that approach and urged a recommendation to the Common Council.
Committee members raised practical questions about building proximity, right‑of‑way space and parking. Staff said building faces generally do not encroach into the public right of way and that there is room to install sidewalks adjacent to buildings; where building overhangs or encroachments exist, staff said they are working with property owners on enforcement agreements. On parking, staff said the project will create a defined curb and gutter so informal pull‑up parking will not remain, but that parallel on‑street parking will be available where the street allows it after construction.
Staff also clarified ownership and maintenance: most of the Broad Street corridor and the Bay Street approach to the river are public right‑of‑way owned by the City of Oshkosh; parcels east of a certain point are private and would require property‑owner maintenance. Staff noted a long‑term lease allowing a boathouse operated with the Winnebago County Sheriff to remain in the right‑of‑way.
A committee member moved to approve the staff recommendation and the motion was seconded. Roll call votes recorded 'Aye' from Staple, Armstrong, Merrick, Hartman, Esslinger and Martin. The committee’s recommendation will be transmitted to the Common Council for consideration in January.
The committee did not set construction funding or a final construction schedule; staff said those details will accompany the item when it goes to the council.
