Council approves three neighborhood street projects, removes sidewalks from Prospect Knowles plan

The Edina City Council approved three neighborhood roadway reconstruction projects on Dec. 16: West 72nd Street (improvement SS 538), Prospect Knowles A–D (BA 458) and Parkland Court (BA 467). Engineering staff summarized public comments and recommended street-width and sidewalk options.

West 72nd was approved with the staff-recommended plan (24-foot travel lane and an 8-foot sidewalk on the south side in the staff proposal), and Parkland Court proceeded with the staff-recommended assessment. Prospect Knowles generated the most public feedback about sidewalks and street width; staff presented options that included sidewalks on several streets and a narrower 24-foot street on certain segments.

After neighborhood testimony and field observations, some councilmembers favored targeted sidewalk connections rather than a blanket addition. Member Jackson said connecting to Lewis Park via Shannon and Kemridge was of higher priority than extending sidewalks on Lanham and Fleetwood. Council ultimately voted to remove all sidewalks from the Prospect Knowles project and proceed with standard street widths and bulkhead-style curb and drainage, a motion moved by Member Agnew and seconded by Member Jackson that carried.

Director Milner said staff will protect mature trees where feasible and handle minor adjustments around topography and plowing operations. Assessment estimates discussed included district-level per-REU figures for the Prospect Knowles project but council noted contingencies would absorb minor sidewalk-cost changes.

Council also approved Parkland Court and West 72nd reconstructions; staff noted outreach and planned next steps for construction scheduling and resident notifications.