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Council approves development agreement for Avon Avenue extension, estimating $2–$3M city share
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Summary
Washington City Council approved a development agreement with Sans Souci Development to build a two‑lane Avon Avenue connector intended to reduce cut‑through traffic and improve emergency access; the project’s infrastructure cost is estimated at about $6.5 million, with the city asked to contribute roughly $2–$3 million.
Washington City Council on Nov. 10 approved a development agreement with Sans Souci Development to build an Avon Avenue extension intended to relieve traffic on 15th Street and create an additional public route to Oakdale Cemetery and nearby neighborhoods. City Manager Jonathan Russell told the council the full infrastructure cost is about $6.5 million and the developer requested a city cost share in the range of $2 million to $3 million; after construction the developer would deed the roadway to the city.
Russell said the proposed two‑lane road would run south of Smallwood and Kingswood to North Market Street, provide alternate access for walkers and funeral processions to Oakdale Cemetery, and offer emergency responders a quicker route to locations along North Market Street, including the Sports Complex and Somerset. The project also includes provisions aimed at minimizing cut‑through traffic in adjacent subdivisions and adding pedestrian and bicycle accommodations.
Mayor Pro tem Anthony Tyre asked whether the land proposed for the road was private. Russell replied that it is private now and would become city property once the development agreement is fulfilled and the infrastructure is accepted. The council approved the development agreement by motion of Councilmember Lou Hodges, seconded by Councilmember Richard Brooks; the motion passed with all members voting yes.
The agreement authorizes staff to finalize terms and allows the city manager to enter into the contract. Council materials note the city share is an estimated range rather than a fixed appropriation; council did not adopt a final funding ordinance at the Nov. 10 meeting. Next steps include finalizing the cost‑share terms and returning to council for any required budget appropriation or further approvals.