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Council approves Ryan Road widening and McKinney sidewalk projects; staff authorized to acquire property interests
Summary
Council authorized right-of-way acquisitions for the Ryan Road widening and approved temporary easement and right-of-way acquisition for McKinney sidewalks, with eminent domain authority if needed; both measures passed unanimously and staff said outreach and notices have begun.
Denton City Council on Tuesday approved two capital projects that will require property acquisitions and easements and authorized staff to make offers or, if necessary, pursue eminent domain.
Ryan Road widening: Angel Delorey, senior real estate specialist, described the Ryan Road project, which will widen the corridor to a three-lane undivided arterial with drainage, sidewalks and lighting. The project, funded by the 2019 bond program, will begin construction in calendar 2028 with completion projected by 2030. Council voted 7-0 to authorize the city manager and city attorney to acquire required property interests and, if negotiations fail, to initiate eminent domain proceedings.
McKinney sidewalks (safety-driven improvements): Staff presented the McKinney Sidewalks Project as a response to a fatal pedestrian crash in the corridor. The project includes variable-width sidewalks, a pedestrian bridge and minor stormwater improvements; one remaining parcel is owned by Denton Housing Authority. Council approved staff—s request to acquire the temporary construction easement and right-of-way and authorized eminent domain if necessary, voting 7-0.
What council asked: Council members pressed staff on timing for notifying businesses and property owners, the handling of fences and compensations, coordination with TxDOT work at nearby intersections, and the project's relationship to future bond funding for full roadway widening. Staff said offer letters and project information letters have already been sent for Ryan Road and that public outreach will continue well in advance of construction.
Next steps: Staff will continue owner outreach, publish project signage and provide construction notices. If agreements cannot be reached, city attorneys were authorized to file condemnation proceedings in accordance with state law.
