Commission discusses Uclid right‑of‑way pocket park concept; flags stormwater, neighbor and budget constraints

Staff presented a concept plan to turn a 60‑foot city right‑of‑way at the end of Uclid Avenue into a small neighborhood pocket park. The presenter said the city owns the entire right‑of‑way and that the parcel extends “a couple hundred feet” to the pavement, describing existing conditions (chain‑link fencing, makeshift neighbor stairs into riprap) and opportunities including a non‑motorized launch or simple steps for kayaks and paddleboards.

Commissioners repeatedly urged a modest approach to avoid large construction costs: staff proposed budgeting $30,000 for landscape architecture to produce a bid‑ready design while deferring major construction to a later phase. Neighbors and commissioners raised water‑quality and safety concerns because a stormwater outfall is located on the property; staff recommended siting swimming access and any stairs away from that outfall and adding native vegetation to buffer the shoreline. One neighbor, Tim, showed staff corner pins and described how neighbors currently maintain the shoreline.

Commissioners discussed fencing options that strike a balance between visual openness and keeping users off private yards, and noted permitting with the Idaho Department of Lands will factor into cost. Several commissioners favored starting small — benches, native plantings and improved access — and using pre‑existing features to limit cost. The commission did not take a construction vote but endorsed moving ahead with design and seeking a landscape architect from the city’s professional services roster.