Council staff and members provided multiple public-works updates during committee reports, including a postponement of Center Street paving, plans to seek grant funding for maintenance, sidewalk GIS planning that may require additional appropriations, and traffic-calming options following an electronic speed survey on Jacob Lane.
Center Street and street maintenance: city staff said street work for Center Street was postponed until July because of railroad issues. The committee discussed coordinating sidewalk, curb, and paving work so that sidewalks and curb repairs are completed before resurfacing to avoid cutting new pavement later.
Sidewalks and GIS: councilmembers said previously appropriated funds for sidewalk work will likely require additional appropriation to implement a GIS-based sidewalk grading and inventory system; staff will send the matter to finance for cost discussion.
Street lights: committee members approved proposed legislation regarding new street lights for Kenny in East High, Andrew Court in East High, and Eagleton in Lafayette to go to council for consideration.
Traffic-calming and Jacob Lane survey: Chief Nicholl conducted an electronic traffic survey on Jacob Lane between April 20 and May 1 that recorded 8,777 vehicles. Councilman Hayes summarized the survey results to the committee and said, "the average violation speed ... was 28.87 miles per hour in a 25 mile per hour zone." Members discussed traffic-calming options including striping, portable speed signs, removable speed cushions (to be removed for winter plowing), and potential enforcement increases in the near term.
Sanitation and equipment: committee members noted one sanitation truck is broken and that the city will likely need two trucks in August when certain trucks are paid off; staff will check on glass being left by trash trucks and follow up.
Next steps: items were referred to finance where appropriate for appropriation discussions and to upcoming public service meetings for follow-up on street lights and traffic-calming pilot options.