Commission recommends abandoning portions of Ross Avenue to allow campus pedestrian improvements

The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of TC2026-02, a request by McMurray University to abandon portions of Ross Avenue (from S. 15th to Hunt) and a portion of S. 16th Street. Mason Teagarden, planning manager, told commissioners the case had one supporting notice within the 200-foot buffer and that staff recommended approval with conditions including that “all utilities must be relocated at the expense of the applicant,” emergency-access and drainage easements be provided, and the property be replotted within one year.

A nearby resident, Paul Frazier, asked whether the abandonment would close Ross Avenue to regular traffic. Engineer Kendra Hanfeld, representing the project, said the intent is to “close a portion of that road” while leaving sufficient access for emergency services and to create a more pedestrian-friendly area around campus. She told the commission the proposal aims to reduce hazardous vehicle speeds near stadium parking and walking routes and that the school would maintain access where needed.

Chair noted that, because only four commissioners were present, commission recommendations require unanimity; the motion to approve the staff recommendation passed by voice roll call with all present commissioners voting yes. The commission’s recommendation advances to the City Council for its required readings and final vote.