8A, Motion to Accept CP Rail Bridge Pedestrian Crossing

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PARKS, TRAILS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES February 24, 2009 Page 4 of8 DR FT Councilmember McClung indicated this would be a difficult decision to pass along to Council. There were many factors to consider and that the benefits to the residents would have to be considered. The Committee discussed the traffic that would be along the trail, again addressing the safety of pedestrians with regard to the numerous intersections and driveways along the west side of the corridor. Ms. O'Malley stated she felt the heart of the activity and destinations were located on the west side of the corridor. Chair Peck indicated he was not aware of the added expense caused by the required boardwalk on the west side and stated he could be swayed to now pursue the east side. However, he was still leaning toward the west side. He indicated the cost would be a deciding factor to the Council. Council Liaison Holmes questioned if the boardwalk was needed to complete the west side underpass. Mr. Winter stated this was not required for the underpass but would have to be completed with the rest of the trail. He explained that the trail corridors were fairly similar in price due to the fact the east side required a retaining wall. MOTION: Committee Member Hilgers motioned to place the trail underpass along the west side of the bridge. Committee Member Messerly seconded the motion. Further Discussion: Ms. Garretson stated she felt the only difference was the future expense of the boardwalk. Ms. Hilgers responded that the boardwalk costs would even out with the expense of the retaining wall on the east side, stating there was only a $70,000 difference between the two trail estimates. Chair Peck stated that once we have the underpass, foot traffic could be monitored and that could possibly help with the final decision on the entire corridor. The motion passed unanimously.