Pedestrian & Bicycle Path Advisory Committee

Pedestrian and Bicycle Path Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes November 1, 2021 Committee Members Present: John Repke, Ron Brunk (Park Board Representative Substitute for Jim DeHerrera), John Phelps, Mary Behrendt, Antonia Malchik, Jim DeHerrera, and Doug Reed. City Staff Present: Carla Belski, Craig Workman, and Karin Hilding. Also Present: Bruce Boody and Mike Fitzgerald. A. The meeting was called to order 8:36 a.m. B. Nia moved to approve the minutes. Doug seconded. Approved. C. Public Comment: None. D. New Business a. Vice Chair: Nia nominated John Repke for vice-chair. Doug seconded. Passed unanimously. E. Old Business a. River Bend Report: John Phelps reported that the Park Board voted unanimously to forward the report to City Council. The topic is included early in the council meeting but not as a public hearing. People will have the opportunity to comment at the beginning of the meeting during public comment. The committee discussed the timeline of the project including environmental assessment, FWP permit, legal issues, and funding. b. Viaduct Improvements: The city was not awarded funding for viaduct improvements from the TA Grant. Craig reported that he did budget funds in FY2022 to cover the local share of the project, which he believes could be used to narrow vehicular travel lanes and create a 12’ wide mutli-use trail on both sides of the roadway. Project work would involve barrier and curb replacement. The committee was in favor of this modified project. Craig will put together a staff report to take to council for hiring a consultant to work with the City on the design, permitting, and bidding of this work. c. Underpass Art Project: Due to supply chain issues, the kiln needed for the project was delayed, but has since arrived. Stumptown Art Studio will move forward with firing the first panels. The Studio also just received a grant from the Whitefish Convention and Visitors Bureau to help fund the project. F. Parks and Recreation Comments: No comments. G. Public Works Comments: Karin and Craig met with police to review school traffic in the Muldown area. They have several proposed improvements including a potential flashing pedestrian crossing at 6th as well as more visible vests and signs for crossing guards. H. Committee Comments: No comments. I. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 6, 2021. J. The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 a.m.