Committee recommends Concept 2 for Middleton Trailhead, citing sightlines and artwork placement

The Middleton Parks, Recreation & Forestry Committee voted to recommend Concept 2 of the proposed University Avenue Trailhead design to the Conservancy Lands Committee after a 5–1 vote.

Kylie, the project staff presenter, told the committee the two consultant concepts (from Rucker & Melke) both reduced parking to 25 spaces because a retaining wall tied to a bridge project moved 10 feet back. "The parking spaces are now down to 25 parking spaces in both concept 1 and 2," Kylie said while outlining constraints including a DNR 75‑foot high‑water setback that limits building locations. She said the project aims to provide a 10‑foot multiuse path and a 12‑foot pedestrian/bike bridge to tie into the existing creek‑corridor trail.

Alder Nelson, citing the Arts Committee review, said the Arts Committee "recommended Concept B because they liked not having artwork right in front of the bathroom." Committee members debated the trade‑offs: Concept 1 offered a slightly better pedestrian flow from parking, while Concept 2 set the building back where several members said it would open sightlines and better separate art and restroom uses. Security and vandalism risk were raised as factors favoring greater visibility.

Staff told the committee the maximum restroom building size will be 800 square feet, but noted council direction to avoid creating a rentable gathering shelter; Kylie said a 500‑square‑foot footprint might better match needs and costs. The committee asked staff to forward feedback—including recommendations on bicycle parking, signage placement and restroom sizing—to Conservancy Lands as the project advances toward 90% design and plan‑commission review.

The committee’s recommendation is advisory: Conservancy Lands will make the final siting decision and later review the detailed 90% construction drawings. The committee recorded its recommendation and closed discussion at the meeting.