Committee holds review of walking-trail tunnel under Harrison Avenue pending Public Works report

Butte City Public Works Committee Chair Eric Mankins called the committee to order on April 8, 2026, and commissioners pulled communication 2024-544 for a status update and committee review of the walking-trail tunnel under Harrison Avenue, south of Dickey’s Barbecue.

District 2 Commissioner Michelle Shea, who presented the communication, asked for a report from the Public Works director and noted that drier-than-normal conditions this year could affect flooding at the site. "Thank you... for pulling this out of suspense and getting it back on the agenda," Shea said, asking for an update from the director.

The committee heard that the Public Works director was not present. Commissioners raised maintenance and safety concerns at the tunnel, including intermittent flooding, traffic issues and recurring litter. Commissioner Josh O'Neal said residents often ask when the area will be cleaned and emphasized the difficulty of keeping the corridor free of trash without ongoing attention.

Commissioner Trudy Healey praised volunteers and neighborhood efforts to pick up litter, saying continued discussion and community involvement have improved conditions. After that discussion, the committee moved to hold communication 2024-544 until the next meeting pending a report from the Public Works director; Commissioner Healey seconded the motion. The chair announced the matter would be held for follow-up; no roll-call tally was recorded in the transcript.

The committee’s action delays any staff recommendation or work schedule until the director provides the requested update, at which time the committee may decide on repairs, maintenance or signage. The committee then moved to the next item on the agenda and adjourned later in the meeting.