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Planning proposes UDO changes to sidewalk rules and payment-in-lieu process
Summary
Planning Director Henry Earle proposed revisions to the Unified Development Ordinance clarifying sidewalk triggers, a six-foot minimum width, exceptions for certain roads like Shelby Road, and a formalized payment-in-lieu process requiring developer justification and pre-CO payment to a Sidewalk Master Fund.
Planning Director Henry Earle presented proposed amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance concerning sidewalks and payment-in-lieu standards at the March 10 council meeting.
Key points: sidewalks would be required for new development, redevelopment and expansions of 50% or more; a six-foot minimum width is recommended as a baseline (the National Association of Transportation Planners suggests six feet as a minimum and 8–10 feet in some contexts); multifamily developments must provide internal sidewalk networks; for major subdivisions sidewalks would be required on both sides of new rights-of-way and on one side of existing rights-of-way; for minor subdivisions and infill sidewalks would be required only if they touch existing sidewalks.
Earle noted Shelby Road, with a 55 mph speed limit, presents safety constraints that make sidewalks generally impractical there. The proposed payment-in-lieu process would require developers to submit a justification and engineering cost estimate, include 110% of the estimated installation cost as the payment basis, be reviewed by the Planning Director, Public Works Director and City Engineer, and require payment before issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. Collected funds would go to a Sidewalk Master Fund for future sidewalk projects.
The draft language seeks to reduce vague standards in the current ordinance by specifying review authorities, cost-estimate requirements and timing of payment.
