West Fork City council approves TAP grant pursuit for Riverside Park path and bridge lighting

The West Fork City Council voted to approve Resolution 2025-5 authorizing the city to use federal Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) funds to build a pedestrian loop ramp and lighting from Highway 170 into Riverside Park.

Council members described the project as a way to connect the north-side pedestrian trail across the new bridge with easier, illuminated access into Riverside Park. Council members said the preferred design would route a pathway under the bridge into the park, rather than placing a crosswalk on the curve of the roadway, and that the state had discouraged a crosswalk because of safety concerns.

Speakers noted the city would remain responsible for maintenance and repairs if flooding or other high-water events damage the pathway or lighting. Council members asked whether there is a deadline for spending the grant and were told that, as long as the city indicates it will use the award for that project, it should be able to hold the funds until the work is programmed.

The council moved, seconded and approved the resolution on a voice vote; no roll-call tally was recorded in the meeting transcript. The resolution authorizes city staff to pursue and accept TAP funding and to track next steps for design and construction programming.

The council did not specify a dollar amount in the meeting discussion; staff said the TAP application window was closing and recommended approval to preserve the city’s opportunity to receive the grant. Next steps include formal grant acceptance if awarded and subsequent design and maintenance planning by staff.