Advisory committee recommends exploring curb ramps, daylighting and small capital funds for Lakeview Park crossing

Associate Planner Eric Brubaker brought a resident-requested proposal to improve access from the South Ella/Marion neighborhood across Ontario Street to Lakeview Park and asked the committee for a recommendation to Public Works.

Brubaker described the basic needs as a curb ramp or ramps, a painted crosswalk and daylighting (no-parking zones near the crossing) so that pedestrians with strollers and mobility devices can cross more comfortably. He suggested starting with low-cost steps if full sidewalk construction is not immediately budgeted and asked the committee to request preliminary public-works designs and possible funding sources such as in-lieu sidewalk fees.

Discussion covered ADA requirements and practical sequencing: committee members noted that curb ramps are often required for painted crosswalks and that tactile pads and dual curb ramps are preferred where sidewalks will eventually be added. Molly and other participants urged pragmatic, phased improvements rather than waiting for perfect funding, and members discussed the possibility of a landing pad on one side to allow an incremental approach.

Why it matters: committee members said poor crossing conditions push families and people with mobility devices into risky mid-block crossings. Several members urged public-works prioritization and asked staff to seek preliminary designs and funding availability so the committee can return with a concrete recommendation.

Next steps: Brubaker agreed to take bullet points and preliminary design requests to Public Works for prioritization and return with options at a future meeting.