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Board recommends CIP update for Vista Lane/Kicking Bird connector after 6-4 vote
Summary
Advisory board recommended updating the 2000 CIP to provide a $420,000 city match for a trail/trail-connector project (project max $1.2M). The project will link existing trail segments, may require a creek crossing structure, and is intended to complete a missing middle section of an approved trail network.
The Edmond Capital Improvements Advisory Board voted 6-4 to recommend updating the 2000 CIP to provide the city's match for a trail-connector project that would link Vista Lane and Kicking Bird and complete a missing segment between two already-approved trail sections.
Staff said the grant-backed project could have a maximum value of $1.2 million and that the city's portion would be $420,000. The connector is intended to join existing facilities north and south of 2nd Street and to improve multimodal connectivity consistent with EdmondShift, the city's multimodal plan. Staff noted some elements, including a creek crossing, still lack detailed design and will require future engineering.
Opponents on the board argued limited funds should be prioritized for road repairs and that public reaction to recent trail projects has been mixed. A mobility commission representative urged continuing the connection work, arguing that a continuous trail network reduces vehicle trips, supports quality of life and brings long-term transportation benefits.
Board members also cautioned against applying for grants and then declining them if the city cannot reasonably fund the match; staff said Edmond has built positive grant relationships with agencies such as ODOT and ACOG and that careful evaluation occurs before acceptance.
The motion to recommend the CIP budget update passed 6-4. Staff said the project is now moving forward toward final grant documentation and design.
