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Richmond officials hear downtown sidewalk plan after cost estimate jumps to $2.5 million
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Summary
City staff told commissioners a proposed Morton Street sidewalk project now carries an updated estimate of about $2.5 million, up from roughly $1.1–$1.2 million, largely due to ADA slope corrections, milling and overlay, pavers, conduit and contingency; commissioners discussed phasing and possible grant funding and asked staff to return with funding options.
City staff presented an update to the commission on a proposed downtown sidewalk improvement project covering Morton Street and adjacent blocks, reporting an updated cost estimate of approximately $2.5 million — more than double earlier estimates near $1.1 to $1.2 million.
Staff said the increase is largely attributable to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance work, including milling and overlay of portions of Morton Street to correct slopes for accessible ramps and sidewalk connections. The estimate also includes pavers, conduit for future decorative lighting, landscaping and a contingency.
Commissioners asked detailed questions about the scope of work, roadway milling, sidewalk elevations, paver material choices, construction impacts to businesses, and whether the project could be phased to reduce immediate cost and disruption. Staff said construction would likely be staged block-by-block and performed on one side of the street at a time to maintain business access.
Commissioners expressed differing views on whether the full scope is justified now: some members urged narrowing the scope to lower near-term costs, while others emphasized the project has been deferred and could grow costlier if delayed. The commission discussed pursuing grants or foundation funding for shovel-ready elements; staff said they would explore funding opportunities and return with recommendations at a future meeting. No formal action was taken on the project at the Feb. 9 special session.