W Federal Street Median Plans

Thanks to Sharon Letson of CityScape for her generous time today answering questions about the most recent plans for changes to West Federal Street.

There will be a public meeting on or about August 6 (to be announced) to share the plan with and answer questions to the public. The most recent plan I had seen stripped out all medians and inserted diagonal parking from South Phelps down to Chestnut. A number of individuals, business and organizations, in addition to CityScape, objected to the plan and, to its credit, the city took another look and revised the plan.

The current plan preserves some green space in the street while still adding diagonal parking in other sections. The median space will be raised but not curbed and incorporate bricks with the tree plantings. It also incorporates some plantings and benches in the sidewalk. CityScape feels like the city listened and understood compromise was necessary to accommodate their concerns.

Sharon outlined the following concerns that necessitated concessions:

• The street needed to be resurfaced anyway, and the existing trees don't stand much of a chance of surviving as a result of that process
• The sidewalks are in need of repair in any event
• The infrastructure beneath the street needs attention: electric, water pipes

I'm relieved the medians will not be completely wiped out, though I do like their current look. I'll reserve judgement until seeing the plans, and I hope that will happen soon. My understanding from another source is that the project is going to bid around August 15, so hopefully the plans will be published before then.