City outlines Morland Road and Westtown path projects, both targeting 2028 construction

At the June 17 meeting staff presented two separate shared-use path projects intended to expand all-ages-and-abilities bike and pedestrian connections.

Morland Road shared-use path: Staff described a TAP-funded project from Wayland Drive east to the Morland split that would remove the on-street bike lanes and most on-street parking, shift the south curb to create a 26-foot travelway and install a 10-foot asphalt shared-use path with a grass terrace. Staff noted constrained sections near a mobile-home park and large trees; they said easements secured during a nearby solar redevelopment allowed a wider terrace in parts of the corridor. Construction is targeted for 2028. Commissioners asked about a possible north–south connection to the Baxter Spur and tying into the Cap City Trail; staff said they had discussed potential connections and would continue exploring easement options with partners.

Westtown Path Phase 2B: Staff presented plans to fill a long-standing gap along the Westtown corridor, continuing the 10-foot path to the Gammon Road underpass. The project requires retaining walls, guardrail along the beltline shoulder, and easements from property owners (MSCR is negotiating a connector on its parcel). The project will be a DOT-let contract and is expected to be constructed in 2028.

Commissioners and attendees welcomed both projects and asked staff to look for opportunities to coordinate future developer-built connectors and to refine tie-ins to existing trails for visibility and safety. One written registrant supported Westtown Path; neighborhood commenters praised Morland as a dangerous stretch that urgently needs a safe route for children and residents.