Council authorizes staff to solicit bids for Elbow street improvements after demonstration project

City staff presented permanent design proposals for the Elbow — the roadway and walkway area from Clarissa through the sharp Crescent curve — after a months‑long demonstration that used temporary walkways and barricades. Staff said the demo revealed pedestrians spilling into the street, pinch points for large vehicles and lead to an approach that widens pedestrian space with pavers, relocates the curb line and retains vehicle turning capacity through geometric refinements.

The presentation included AutoTurn simulations of the island’s largest tour vehicles to show that straightening the reverse curve and moving the curb face would allow adequate turning radii and queuing while providing expanded pedestrian pavers on the seawall side. "We've proved it. It works," the presenter said after showing the vehicle maneuver simulations. Staff described a phased pay‑as‑you‑go strategy and noted the next major mobilization window is spring/summer (the team preferred completing geometric work before Memorial Day if crews are available; otherwise the next window is fall 2026).

Following discussion of maintenance, landscape tradeoffs and the potential for future grant applications, the council authorized staff to solicit proposals. A motion to "authorize city staff to develop and solicit a request for bids from qualified contractors to complete the stated scope of work" was moved and seconded and the council voted 'All ayes.' Staff will now proceed with an RFP/RFB process for the Elbow improvements.