Advisory group weighs grants, dedicated taxes and novel private funding for sidewalks, trails and transit pilots

Panel members reviewed a range of funding approaches to pay for sidewalks, multi‑use connectors and transit pilots and asked staff to present organized options in advance of the council study session.

Staff said the city has been successful with transportation grants but is currently managing many active awards and cautioned that federal funds often add administrative cost and compliance requirements that can raise project costs. The group discussed large grants used by neighboring cities, noting Centennial’s Colorado Boulevard example where federal and state funding covered most costs but still required years from design to construction.

Options considered: members and staff grouped possibilities into (1) traditional grants and TIP/state funding, (2) locally dedicated revenue (a narrow sales tax for streets or a geo bond), (3) impact fees and metro district financing tied to development, and (4) novel/private sources including crowdfunding, private donations and corporate contributions. Several members suggested dynamic curb pricing and paid parking as operating revenue to support circulator service.

Equity and political reality: speakers agreed dedicated tax measures are politically sensitive and urged careful messaging. Staff recommended matching the scale of federal funding to appropriately large projects to avoid increased project costs from grant requirements. The group also discussed allowing limited community contributions for high‑profile projects subject to city attorney guidance.

Next steps: staff will assemble a concise funding memo with categories (taxes, fees, novel mechanisms), legal constraints and equity considerations for the next meeting so the advisory group can present a coordinated recommendation to council.