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City engineer presents updates to public‑works standard drawings and ISPWC modifications
Summary
City engineer reviewed proposed updates to Lewiston's standard drawings and local modifications to the Idaho Standard for Public Works Construction, including a 5‑foot minimum sidewalk to meet updated ADA interpretation and a new section for packaged PRV stations; staff plans to bring an ordinance for first reading in a subsequent council meeting.
The city engineer presented proposed updates to Lewiston's standard drawings and local modifications to the Idaho Standard for Public Works Construction (ISPWC), explaining staff aims to codify practices used in the field to improve clarity and efficiency for both public projects and private development.
Among the changes highlighted was a consolidation of material specifications to simplify references for contractors. The engineer said federal guidance prompted a sidewalk‑width change: where the old drawing showed 4 feet 6 inches plus a curb allowance, the updated standard calls for a 5‑foot minimum sidewalk to comply with ADA measurements as interpreted under recent federal rules.
Staff also proposed a new ISPWC modification section (noted as section 4‑0‑5 in the packet) to formalize a packaged pressure‑reducing‑valve (PRV) station specification that the city has used successfully on prior projects, and a clearer set of requirements for developer project certification and on‑site inspection responsibilities so developer engineers provide on‑site inspections for public‑infrastructure work.
The engineer said the public‑comment period ran March 6–April 6 and produced four total comments; staff compiled responses in a public‑comment log included in the council packet. "We take public comment anytime," the engineer said, and staff will bring the same draft for first reading at the next council meeting unless councilors identify red flags.
Councilors asked about contractor outreach and how the city will track recurring implementation issues; staff described outreach emails, surveys and development‑review committee contact and said deviations from standards will require a formal written variance request.
Next steps: staff will accept additional public comment as needed and expects to present the ordinance for first reading at the upcoming council meeting, with the packet materials available on the city website.
