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Council approves Safe Streets grant application to fill sidewalk gaps near Crosby and Heler
Summary
The City Council authorized staff to apply for an implementation grant from the U.S. DOT Safe Streets and Roads for All program to build sidewalks and pedestrian improvements at Crosby and Heler (an estimated $4.3M project); the application requires a 20% local match and coordination with Island County for portions in county right-of-way.
The Oak Harbor City Council voted unanimously at the May 12 workshop to approve submission of a Safe Streets and Roads for All implementation grant application to the U.S. Department of Transportation for a sidewalk-infill project on Heler and Crosby.
Grants administrator Wendy Horn explained the federal grant has planning and implementation tracks established under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law; the city previously applied for a broader SR 20 pedestrian package and was unsuccessful. Capital projects manager Philip Escua described the revised, more-focused scope: an approximately $4.3 million implementation project to install continuous sidewalks, drainage and pedestrian lighting, striping and related features across several gaps along Crosby and Heler, improving safe walking routes to Hillcrest Elementary and Oak Harbor High School and serving the Redwing neighborhood.
Escua said the project timeline is up to five years for completion under grant rules, and that the city’s required local match is 20% of the grant-funded portion. Staff noted some northern segments fall in county right-of-way; the county has been briefed and staff plan to secure county concurrence and permitting as the application advances.
Council members emphasized the safety rationale and neighborhood requests that informed the narrower application. Council Member Merrill moved to approve submission of the application; Council Member Stucky seconded. After discussion and clarification of county coordination and match funding, the council voted in favor by voice/hand-raise and the motion passed unanimously.
Ending: Staff will submit the application and continue coordination with Island County; if awarded, the city would return to council for match commitments and project phasing.
