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Urban Renewal Agency weighs big projects, visitor center and small downtown upgrades
Summary
At its May 11 meeting the Urban Renewal Agency reviewed a standing list of projects — from a proposed visitor center at the Bankus Bankus Park Fountain to sidewalk repairs and wayfinding — and asked staff for legal timelines and funding projections before committing to spending.
The Urban Renewal Agency on May 11 reviewed a list of proposed projects for the renewal district, including a visitor-center concept for the Bankus Bankus Park Fountain, sidewalk repairs, wayfinding kiosks, facade improvements and longer-term ideas such as a performing arts or conference center.
Staff presented the carried-forward list and noted two new items: parking-lot lighting at Kidtown and pet-unleashed-area amenities at Checkatko Point and Stout Park. "We're kinda bursting at the seams," the staff presenter said when describing downtown office-space pressures and the visitor-center idea; staff suggested a volunteer-staffed visitor center as one option.
Board members debated whether to prioritize a single large project or spread remaining URA funds across multiple small improvements. One director cautioned that "spending a bunch of money...a small amount of money a bunch of times is gonna...make those bigger projects less and less possible," arguing for conserving funds for a transformational project. Others urged a balanced approach of funding limited design work now so the agency would have shovel-ready options later.
Directors asked staff to prepare a clear timeline, legal opinion and fiscal projections. The presenter said the city attorney, Laurie Cooper, is drafting a URA opinion and staff expects to have documents and timelines within roughly 30 to 60 days. The board also discussed the URA funding sunset and whether revenue continues through the referenced fiscal/sunset cycle; staff said it will provide a projection tied to the fiscal year and confirm the precise dates.
Members suggested public outreach and an open solicitation so interested parties can propose projects before the deadline. One director recommended issuing a public letter to invite proposals and make the community aware that the clock is ticking.
The agency did not take a final funding decision on the larger projects; members directed staff and the city attorney to return with more detailed legal guidance, timelines and budget projections at a future URA meeting, currently scheduled as part of the June budget cycle.
