Committee forwards pedestrian/cyclist priority survey to Transportation Commission and requests council review

The committee called the January meeting to order and reviewed the results of a pedestrian/cyclist priority survey conducted among BAC and PAC participants. A staff presenter summarized the top-ranked projects and funding constraints before the committee moved to formalize next steps.

Committee members heard that 4th Street infill sidewalks ranked highest among respondents for this targeted audience and that other priorities included a separated multi-use path connecting NAU to Lone Tree, the Eldon Base Trail and opportunistic improvements to Route 66 West where ADOT resurfacing could enable wider multi-use sidewalks. Staff noted right-of-way limitations and prior false starts on 4th Street but said Sunnyside neighborhood planning could help align funding and design work.

After discussion, committee member Sean moved “to have city staff share the survey results and important comments at the Transportation Commission and request that the Transportation Commission pass the results to council ahead of their budget retreat in April,” and Ben seconded. The motion was put to an oral vote and passed.

Committee members directed staff to present consolidated results to the Transportation Commission and to highlight community comments and funding flexibility options so the council can consider priorities during its budget retreat. The Transportation Commission meeting is scheduled Feb. 4; staff said they would present there and, if approved by the Commission, the materials would be forwarded to council staff for the April retreat.

The committee’s action was procedural: it asked staff to transmit survey findings and comments rather than to commit capital funds. Further prioritization and funding decisions will occur through the Transportation Commission and council budget process.