San Angelo narrows some new street width requirements, keeps 26‑ft minimum for existing local streets

City Council on May 19 approved technical amendments to the Land Development and Subdivision Ordinance aimed at reducing development cost drivers while maintaining public‑safety standards.

Senior planner Austin Reed told the Planning Commission staff recommended lowering the standard paving width for a new local street from 40 ft to 36 ft and trimming minor collector standards to 40 ft. The committee also proposed clarifications to right‑of‑way columns and removed an unused local rural street designation. Reed said the goal is to make new development more affordable while preserving consistency.

Commissioners and staff stressed the fire department’s need for safe access. Planning staff noted a 20‑ft proposal (for existing infill streets) was considered but staff and fire/engineering feedback supported holding a 26‑ft minimum for existing streets. Planning Commission recommended approval with the 26‑ft safeguard and City Council approved the package 6–0.

Reed said the sidewalk standard was clarified so sidewalks are not required adjacent to many commercial developments and places of worship but remain mandatory within 300 ft of schools and parks, measured as a direct path along street right‑of‑way.

The ordinance will move into implementation; staff will update plat and design checklists to reflect the narrower widths and clarifications.