Title
Removal of Sidewalks and Crosswalks Adjacent to Eastside Gateway (B)
Explanation:
On June 26, 2006, CRA staff and Zamia Design Landscape Architecture (Zamia Design) presented a conceptual design for the Gateway project proposed for the old Tacklebox site. The CRA commented that the paved walkways shown surrounding the site on East University Avenue, Hawthorne Road, and East 15th Street appear to invite pedestrian use, which could potentially detract from public safety. The intent of the Gateway is a large landscaped median, not a public park where pedestrian visitation will be encouraged. The CRA then directed staff to remove the sidewalks, which are along state and county roads, from the design. CRA set up a meeting with an FDOT official and City Public Works staff on July 13, 2007 to obtain a preliminary opinion regarding closing the sidewalks and crosswalks. The FDOT official indicated that the closures appeared to be attainable. Zamia Design removed the sidewalks from the design and redesigned the Gateway concept anticipating FDOT approval. CRA staff contacted the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to formally request permission to remove the existing sidewalks when the project undergoes construction. The FDOT issued a letter dated October 8, 2007 stating that it had determined that the "sidewalks adjacent to SR 26 (East University Avenue) and SR 20 (SE Hawthorne Road) shall remain open". A copy of the FDOT letter is included in backup. Given the recent FDOT determination, it appears additional study is needed concerning the balance between public safety and public access to determine the next action step. In the meantime, a design will be created that assumes the sidewalks will remain on the site.
Fiscal note:
None
Recommendation:
The CRA request that the City Commission refer the sidewalk and crosswalk closures to the Community Development Committee.