Neighbors urge safety upgrades on State Street as Plan Commission advances draft 2027–2031 CIP

The City Plan Commission opened a public hearing on the draft 2027–2031 capital improvement program on June 29 and received one public comment urging safety improvements on State Street.

Deputy Director highlighted the ordinance timeline requiring an approved budget by July 1 for council consideration on the August cycle. Christina Thompson of 1520 State Street spoke in support of CIP item 26212 and asked the commission to include infrastructure between 15th and 17th Streets on State Street, specifically requesting two raised intersections at 15th and 16th streets, curb extensions and consideration of a four‑way stop at 15th and State. Thompson said the street is heavily used by families and students and that current parking and visibility conditions create safety risks.

After public comment, Commissioners Yeager and Similac moved to close the public hearing, and Council member Trost moved to approve the CIP item with Director Gallagher seconding; the commission approved the motion unanimously. Staff said the CIP must be submitted to council on the timeline discussed.