During a recent city council meeting, officials discussed the urgent need for sidewalk improvements and potential funding sources to support these projects. The conversation highlighted the importance of securing construction dollars to enhance pedestrian infrastructure, particularly in areas with existing gaps.

City staff presented a report detailing various funding sources available for sidewalk construction, including state, county, and local road funds. For the fiscal year 2025, the city anticipates receiving approximately $1.1 million from Class C road funds, which are primarily allocated for road maintenance rather than new construction. Additionally, the council noted that the transportation sales tax, enacted by voters, is expected to generate around $626,000 this fiscal year, with $250,000 already budgeted specifically for sidewalk projects.

The discussion also touched on the complexities of sidewalk construction, which often involves ancillary improvements such as curbs and gutters, making projects more costly than anticipated. Council members expressed a desire to prioritize projects that enhance safety, particularly those that facilitate access to schools.

Several funding options were considered, including the municipal energy tax, which could be implemented relatively quickly, and a potential property tax increase, which would require a longer legislative process. One council member emphasized the need for a clear strategy to communicate to residents that any new tax would be specifically earmarked for sidewalk improvements.

As the meeting concluded, officials acknowledged the necessity of ongoing discussions to evaluate and prioritize sidewalk projects effectively, with a focus on ensuring at least one sidewalk on each street to enhance pedestrian safety. The council plans to revisit the topic in future meetings to further explore funding strategies and project prioritization.