The Denton Committee on Persons with Disabilities convened on July 17, 2025, to discuss key developments in pedestrian infrastructure and accessibility within the city. A significant focus of the meeting was the installation of a 10-foot sidepath extending from the DCTA Train Station to Welch Street, along with a proposed 5-foot leg on Welch. These improvements aim to enhance mobility for residents, particularly those with disabilities.

Committee members highlighted additional segments, including LOCUS, Elm Street, Russell, Pioneer, Mulberry, and Industrial, which are planned for future development contingent on securing additional funding in the next budget cycle. The committee emphasized the importance of a pedestrian potential score criteria, which evaluates pathways based on specific factors, with a maximum score of nine. This scoring system is designed to prioritize areas that require immediate attention and improvement.

The discussion also included the integration of community shelters into the scoring criteria, recognizing their role in providing essential services to residents. The committee acknowledged that many individuals walk to various support locations, such as the Salvation Army, and stressed the need for safe pathways to these sites.

Concerns were raised about tracking pedestrian activity, particularly in neighborhoods where residents often walk in the streets due to inadequate sidewalks. The committee noted that while there is no formal tracking of this behavior, citizen requests for sidewalks are being documented and added to the work plan. This process allows the city to prioritize areas with high demand for pedestrian infrastructure improvements.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue addressing pedestrian safety and accessibility, with plans to incorporate feedback from residents into future projects. The committee's ongoing efforts aim to create a more inclusive environment for all Denton residents.