03-08-95 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL MARCH 8, 1995 Sanders reported that there are some funding sources for a project of this type, pointing out the I5TEA Grant Program or DNR funding. Sanders pointed out that a pedestrian bridge would link the east and west halves of the City as well as link neighborhoods to schools. Sanders suggested these as reasons for pursuing grant dollars. Fahey asked if Sanders had any idea of cost of such a project. Sanders estimated $500,000. Fahey pointed out that the situation is better since the Little Canada Road bridge was improved with sidewalks. Sanders agreed, but pointed out that those sidewalks are an unfriendly environment for pedestrians. Fahey suggested that if there is funding available, the project could be done in stages. Fahey also suggested that groups such as the LCRA, Fire Department, and other organizations within the City which are interested in public safety, might be interested in participating. Fahey felt the matter should be investigated. Sanders suggested that it may be possible to hang a pedestrian connection from the existing bridge without getting into the construction of another structure. Fahey suggested that a crossing connecting the Viking Drive area to Demont might be the best area for it due to the large numbers of apartment complexes in the area on the west side of the freeway. Fahey pointed out that since the City has discussed this issue in the past, there may be an existing file on it that may provide some cost information. Fahey also suggested that doing the project in steps will result in the project being accomplished over time. Sanders felt the ISTEA Grant Program may be a good funding source given that this is a highway grant program, and the pedestrian bridge would reconnect the two halves of the City which were separated by the freeway. Sanders sugqested that he, working with the City Engineer, could investigate this grant program. 2