ACTION REQUESTED:
Title
Communication from the City Manager and Director of Public Works with a Request for the Following:
A. ADOPT an ORDINANCE Amending CHAPTER 1 of the CODE of the City of Peoria, Related to the Amendment of Various SIDEWALK REGULATIONS; and,
B. ADOPT an ORDINANCE Amending CHAPTER 26 of the CODE of the City of Peoria, Related to the Amendment of Various SIDEWALK REGULATIONS.
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BACKGROUND: Recently staff has experienced concerns with the issuance of permits for development where sidewalks are constructed adjacent to the curb line. The current City Code states that sidewalks shall be a minimum of five feet in width, in all circumstances. However, this does not take into account the concerns of sidewalk that is adjacent to the curb. When the sidewalk is next to the curb, the minimum of five feet does not provide adequate space to allow for a buffer area for snow storage and utilities, nor does it allow a greater separation between vehicles and pedestrians.
After a thorough review of the City of Peoria municipal code, staff recommends adding the requirement for a two-foot-wide buffer area behind the curb line or a widened six-foot-wide sidewalk. This additional space will help provide snow storage space, utility access, as well as give pedestrians additional comfort by giving them a greater separation from moving traffic, which is particularly important in high traffic areas.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The proposed amendments are not anticipated to affect the City budget.
NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERNS: The proposed amendments provide for improved sidewalk access for all users.
IMPACT IF APPROVED: These changes will provide greater pedestrian access by providing more sidewalk space, a greater distance between the pedestrian and traffic, allow for snow storage during the winter, while still providing pedestrian space, ensure ADA compliance if future appurtenance, such as garbage cans or bus benches, are added, and will allow better underground u...
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