09-14-20 Regular Meeting of the La Porte City Council

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REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM Appropriation Agenda Date Requested:September 14, 2020 Source of Funds:N/A Requested By:Ray Mayo, Director Department:Public Works Account Number:N/A Amount Budgeted:N/A ReportResolutionOrdinance Amount Requested:N/A Exhibits:Area Map;ROW Dedication Deed;Tree Conflicts Budgeted Item:YesNo SUMMARY& RECOMMENDATION th Staff identified the area along the north side of W.Main Street, between 8Street and th 7Street, as a potential location to provide better sidewalk connectivity. However, trees exist within the public right-of-wayand conflict with theproposed location of the sidewalk.During field investigation of the proposed sidewalk location, staff was approached by Sherman Moore, property owner of 820 W.Main Street, and the tree conflicts were discussed. In order to preserve the trees and construct the sidewalk, Mr. Moore has agreed to dedicate a portion of his property as public right-of-way.Staff recommends acceptance of the right-of-way dedication deed to allow for the construction of the public sidewalk. Additionally, there are areas of existing sidewalk, along W Main Street, that are impacted by existing tree roots. Realizing the destruction that the existing trees have caused to the existing sidewalk, staff intends to coordinate with a landscape architect to determine alternative options to address tree/sidewalk conflicts along W Main Street. Initial consideration is given to replacing some treeswith trees with less invasive root systems. The potential to work around existing trees will be evaluated, butmay be challenging due to changes in sidewalk elevation required to cross existing tree roots. The concept of replacing trees and repairing sidewalks aligns with the goal of enhancing of Main Street.Staff is requesting input from Council regarding the potential to enhance Main Street by repairing sidewalk and replacing existing trees. Benefits: Allows sidewalk to be constructed along the north side of WMain Street, thth between 8Street and 7Street, within areas dedicated for public use, without requiring tree removal.