Ross outlines five-year capital plan; council directs concepts for Allen Avenue safe-path improvements and feasibility study for Winship intersection

Public Works Director Rich Siminich presented the draft five-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP), reviewed completed work and outlined major projects planned through 2028. Key near-term projects include replacement of small pedestrian bridges at Nalley Coffin Green, completing Laurel Grove Safe Routes Phase 2b, work on Allen Avenue to create a pedestrian pathway/last-mile access to Ross School, undergrounding near the Civic Center ahead of a facilities project, and continuing work on the federally funded Winship Bridge replacement.

Siminich warned that while the capital projects fund currently shows roughly $10 million, planned Civic Center and undergrounding design and construction will substantially draw down that balance; without additional grants or contributions the fund could approach zero during construction. He described funding sources: roadway and drainage impact fees (approximately 1% of building permit valuation flows into those funds), TAM Measure A funds, RMRA/gas tax and federal bridge program grants for Winship.

On Allen Avenue, a resident and several council members emphasized the need for a safer route to school: staff outlined a concept that would widen the corridor, add a separated path, and likely require undergrounding of an open storm drain and partial removal of a rock wall and one mature oak tree. Staff said the roadway fund can cover the local share and proposed bringing 2–3 concept designs and an impact assessment (including lost parking, tree impacts, and school input) back to council.

Regarding the Sir Francis Drake / Winship intersection, council supported commissioning a feasibility study (ballpark $75,000) to evaluate temporary and permanent pedestrian crossing improvements, signalization and mitigation strategies while the Winship Bridge project proceeds. Council asked staff to pursue grant opportunities and to report back with costs, timeline and outreach plans. Public Works will return with refined CIP figures and funding options for the Civic Center project as staff evaluates grants, debt and other funding mechanisms.