Council approves purchase agreement for Wolf Creek Park pedestrian bridge

City staff described a purchase agreement to acquire an 80-foot pedestrian bridge for Wolf Creek Park, saying the structure would replace an older bridge that was closed because erosion had undermined its supports. The staff presentation said buying an already-built bridge would shorten procurement by months and reduce cost compared with a full design-bid-build replacement.

"This item before you tonight is the acquisition of a pedestrian bridge going through the Wolf Creek Park," city staff said while describing the bridge's role as a key 0.5-mile shortcut for neighborhood students. Councilors asked clarifying questions about why the city would buy rather than commission a new bridge; staff replied the existing structure fit the project parameters and would limit disruption and expense. The council moved to approve the consent-agenda item for the purchase.

The council recorded a motion and second to approve the consent-item; staff said a contractor contract to install the bridge will be brought back to council following procurement. The discussion focused on safety (the prior structure was closed after erosion) and the bridge's pedestrian use for daily school access.

The bridge purchase was taken up as part of the consent agenda and advanced through the routine approval process; staff said they will return with installation and contractor details before construction begins.