Commission extends North Railroad Avenue streetscape design to Tenth–Eleventh Street near Nora Hotel

The City Commission on Aug. 18 approved a resolution amending the previously approved “face of the city” design for North Railroad Avenue to extend streetscape improvements from Tenth to Eleventh Street and the frontage of the Nora Hotel.

Chris Kimberly, senior urban designer, described the terminus portion as a curbless street with pavers, narrowed travel lanes, widened sidewalks, added landscaping, lighting and signage to align with the railroad‑industrial aesthetic of the district converted to commercial use. The design will include bike racks, micro‑mobility stations, Uber/Lyft drop‑offs and continuous open spaces intended to encourage pedestrian activity and slower vehicle speeds.

Kimberly said valet operations and nearby surface lots will accommodate most parking behind buildings; the Nora Hotel will have its own drop‑off and the corridor will include multiple short‑term drop‑off spaces per block. He noted the Downtown Action Committee had recommended approval and staff supported the request.

A motion to approve the resolution passed unanimously.