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Cheyenne council advances $5 million Reed Avenue appropriation amid split votes and debate over priorities
Summary
Council approved a $5 million appropriation for the Reed Avenue corridor (second reading) contingent on a final agreement with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad, after public support from downtown stakeholders and criticism from residents who demanded water-infrastructure priorities be addressed first.
Cheyenne — The City Council on April 13 approved on second reading a $5 million appropriation to the Reed Avenue corridor project, a long-running West Edge revitalization plan, with the ordinance conditioned on a final written agreement with the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad.
Sophia Mays, executive director of the Downtown Development Authority, and business owners in the West Edge urged council support, saying the project could catalyze private investment. "Inclusion of this property advances the DDA statutory purpose to prevent blight and support property values," Mays said in remarks supporting related DDA expansion.
Opponents warned the appropriation diverts scarce general-fund reserves from urgent public-health work. Charles Miller, a vocal critic, called for postponing discretionary spending until the city fully funds lead-pipe replacement, arguing the general fund should prioritize water infrastructure.
Supporters and council sponsors emphasized project history and voter backing: council members noted the Reed Avenue plan first went to voters in 2017 and said years of design and private investment have followed. Council members also stressed the ordinance explicitly prohibits expenditure of the committed funds until a final written agreement with BNSF is reached.
The Finance Committee recommended approval. During roll call on second reading the ordinance passed with two no votes; Mr. Moody and Dr. Rennie voted no. Council members who supported the measure cited public-safety and economic arguments, and the mayor and engineers noted ongoing railroad negotiations.
What happens next: the Reed Avenue appropriation is contingent on a final agreement with BNSF; project supporters said recent talks with the railroad are constructive and that no funds will be spent before a signed agreement.
