Commission backs Walker Avenue streetscape plan with conditions, continues a few items

Historic Preservation staff presented a Walker Avenue streetscape project proposed by the Public Works Department that includes new sidewalks, ADA ramps, lighting, signage, relocation of some on‑street parking and installation of two rain gardens to improve stormwater control. Staff said the project would not impact historic buildings and recommended approval of most items with conditions related to any work that extends onto private property.

Michael Clark of Public Works described the intent to improve accessibility and stormwater management and said the department will coordinate revocable permits for patios or other uses within the right of way. The commission approved items 1–11 with the specific findings and conditions listed in the staff report and continued items 12–13 to give staff and Public Works time to resolve driveway and private‑property coordination issues; the continued items were tentatively scheduled for April 1. Commissioners discussed ensuring revocable easements and not creating permanent attachments in the public right of way.

Staff emphasized that if driveway replacements extend onto private property, coordination with Public Works and possible separate certificates of appropriateness may be necessary. Commissioners characterized the overall project as a substantial neighborhood improvement but asked staff to require consistency on driveway widths and to clarify any revocable permit conditions before returning.