Council creates committee to plan downtown trails linking parking, parks and walkways

Councilmembers and parks advocates proposed forming a committee to develop a downtown trails/connectivity plan designed to link parking, parks and downtown businesses and to provide interpretive nearby‑nature experiences. The committee will explore short pedestrian connectors, kiosks, boardwalks/boardwalk extensions, and signage intended to increase walkability and shift parking demand away from the core square.The concept presented included sketches showing potential paths tying existing parking (for example the parking behind Oak Drive and other lots) to downtown businesses and to Blue Hole Regional Park; the presentation suggested leveraging existing ownership/agreements, incremental low‑cost improvements and interpretive elements (natural‑history kiosks, boardwalks and hands‑on displays) to create a destination walking network. Staff recommended including city trails staff and parks board members on the committee to ensure technical feasibility.Council approved creation of the committee by motion and second and asked staff to appoint members; staff noted trail/building staff (Bryce or equivalent) could serve and the committee should coordinate with ongoing sidewalk and Old Kyle Road planning. The council emphasized the need to move forward before later construction projects alter connectivity opportunities.Nut graf: The committee will prepare a phased plan to improve downtown pedestrian connections, link parking to destinations and incorporate interpretive nature elements; the approach aims to reduce parking pressure while enhancing visitor experience. Ending: Staff will form the committee, include parks and trails staff, and report back with an action plan and funding options.