2026-0324 PWETC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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because there are no adjacent businesses along that stretch, the city would likely be responsible for winter maintenance, thereby increasing operational costs. Mr. Freihammer added that the corridor has inconsistencies in bicycle infrastructure, with on -street bike lanes present north of Iona but not south of it, where traffic volumes are higher. He noted that this creates a connectivity gap, particularly in a busy area near Twin Lakes. Chair Ficek suggested splitting the segment into two parts, identifying a pathway on the west side from County Road C to County Road C2 and a pathway on the east side from County Road C2 to County Road D. He indicated that the Commission would then need to determine whether both segments should be included. Mr. Freihammer indicated that the segment is currently listed as one, but noted that it could be divided into two separate segments if the Commission preferred, and acknowledged that splitting it may provide clearer direction. Member Brokaw Palalay expressed support for splitting the segment into two if that approach would provide greater clarity. She also asked for additional clarification on pathway conditions further south along Cleveland Avenue. Mr. Freihammer explained that, farther south along Cleveland Avenue, there is generally a sidewalk on the east side, extending down to County Road B2. He noted that on the west side, there is a sidewalk in certain areas due to terrain challenges, including a steep hill. Mr. Freihammer identified a short gap in the system, approximately 400 feet long, that is difficult and costly to complete. He explained that the gap currently requires pedestrians to cross mid -block, creating an awkward and less safe condition. He added that there are only a few properties on the west side in that area, and overall, the corridor functions primarily along an east -side alignment. Member Fergus described traveling north along the corridor, then transitioning to the west -side sidewalk, and sought clarification on the connection. Mr. Freihammer explained that pedestrians traveling north and using the west - side sidewalk must cross back due to a gap created by a steep hill in the corridor. He noted that addressing the gap would require significant improvements, such as constructing a retaining wall or narrowing the roadway, which would be costly and complex. He indicated that the current configuration reflects a simpler approach that directs pedestrians to cross mid -block. Member Brokaw Palalay noted that although there are few residents in that area, several bus stops still generate pedestrian activity. Page 13 of 28