Albany reviews 35% design for Solano curb‑ramps to meet 2019 ADA settlement; $1.2M budgeted, more surveying needed

City staff presented the 35% design for the Upper Uptown Solano curb‑ramps project (CIP 2404) to the Albany City Transportation Commission and asked for commissioner feedback.

Engineer James Telli said the interim project is intended to satisfy a 2019 settlement agreement that requires Albany to install accessible curb ramps along major corridors by the end of 2029. The project would add accessible perpendicular curb ramps between Kroot and Tarry on Solano Avenue. "This project followed our curb ramp guidelines," Telli said, adding that most locations will be standard perpendicular ramps but that a few locations require different 'Case G' details because of retaining curbs.

Staff said there are approximately 78 curb ramps in the project; the city has budgeted about $1.2 million for construction. The guidelines prefer 5‑foot ramp widths, but some locations are constrained and were designed at the standard 4 foot‑2 inch width. Telli said three corners need additional surveying because assumed property lines are approximate; options include minor curb‑line adjustments or modest bulbing to gain clear width without requiring use of private property.

Two parking spaces are currently proposed for removal near Carmel and San Carlos streets because ramp shifts and AB 413 daylighting (20‑foot approach clearance) create conflicts; staff said they are exploring alternatives to minimize parking loss. Trees near ramps are being evaluated — staff identified several trees proposed for removal where they conflict with new landings but are exploring preservation options where possible.

Commissioners praised the 'modified triple‑4' high‑visibility crosswalk treatment staff showed and urged alignment of opposite‑side ramp orientations so visually impaired pedestrians have a straightforward path across intersections. Commissioners also raised concern about business impacts during construction and suggested phasing and design choices to reduce construction duration and access disruption. Staff said more detailed surveying and a 95% design submittal will be necessary before final construction estimates and potential additional funding requests are confirmed.

Next steps in the project are additional property surveys, refinement of ramp details at constrained corners, and preparing a 95% design package and cost estimate for return to the Commission.