Urbandale plans new trails, sidewalk phases and an interstate pedestrian crossing; $400,000 federal grant for Hickman segment

City engineering staff walked council through the CIP's sidewalk and trail elements and described options for a pedestrian crossing over the interstate. John said the ADA pedestrian access transition plan obligates the city to an annual $100,000 ramp-up program to maintain federal funding eligibility and noted many ramps are upgraded whenever adjacent work occurs.

On trails, staff outlined a 10-foot trail planned between 86th Street and west of Patricia Drive and multiple connections tying Meredith, Hickman Road, Living History Farms, and North Park. John described consultant work on the interstate crossing: the consultant reviewed mid-mile crossing alternatives, an option under the interstate, and a pedestrian bridge near 86th. "The DOT said no way" to one mid-mile concept, John said, so staff focused on a solution that widens sidewalks, provides a tunnel under two interstate ramps and a pedestrian bridge over the interstate to connect trails on both sides.

Staff also reported $400,000 in federal funds to assist the Hickman corridor trail project. Council questions focused on exact alignments, whether DART stops remain, and how the bridge would tie to existing trailheads in Waukee. John said the crossing design anticipates a tie-in at 86th Street and that trail sequencing depends on development timing.

Ending: Staff will pursue design work and grant opportunities for the pedestrian crossing and the Hickman trail; council asked for maps and additional alignment details to be provided before construction programming.