Provo Council explores innovative parking and stormwater solutions on Center Street

During the recent Planning and Zoning Meeting held by the Gunnison Planning Commission on January 29, 2025, significant discussions centered around improving traffic flow and enhancing parking solutions in the community. A key proposal emerged regarding the management of access and traffic patterns, which aims to balance efficient transportation with the economic vitality of local businesses.

Commission members highlighted the importance of maintaining traffic flow while ensuring that businesses remain accessible. Concerns were raised about potential economic harm if traffic is diverted away from commercial areas. To address these issues, the commission reviewed various design options for roadways, including a unique concept observed in Ketchum, Idaho, where parallel parking is situated in the middle of wide streets. This approach could provide additional parking without the need for costly sidewalk expansions or road narrowing, particularly on less busy streets like Center Street in Gunnison.

The meeting also included discussions on stormwater management, with recommendations to utilize fire swells along the sides of streets. This method offers a cost-effective solution to manage stormwater runoff without the need for extensive infrastructure investments.

As the commission moves forward, these proposals aim to enhance both traffic efficiency and community accessibility, ensuring that Gunnison remains a vibrant and economically healthy area. The next steps will involve further evaluation of these ideas and potential implementation strategies to benefit residents and local businesses alike.