by April Scheinoha
Reporter
Plans are in the works for the City of Thief River Falls to become more pedestrian-friendly. At its meeting Tuesday, Jan. 17, the Thief River Falls City Council approved two matters related to the potential extension of a trail along Barzen Avenue, south of the roundabout with Third Street.
In order to be eligible for federal funding, the council approved acting as the sponsoring agency for the trail. Public Works Director Travis Giffen said such approval is needed in order for the city to be eligible for federal funding. In a separate resolution, the council agreed to maintain the trail.
The trail, including engineering costs, is expected to cost $350,000. If the city received federal funding, it would be required to provide a 20% match. City leaders hope to construct the trail in 2027.
As it stands now, the trail would be constructed on the west side of Barzen Avenue and connect to existing sidewalks. However, it would also include a 465-foot segment west of the intersection with First Street to connect with sidewalks along First Street.
Mayor Brian Holmer raised concerns about the latter portion of the trail since the sidewalks are on the north side of First Street and the proposed trail would be on the south side. Pedestrians would have to cross partway in the street to continue walking on a trail or sidewalk. Giffen replied that he is open to discussing the city’s options at that location.
Giffen expected to present the proposed project to the Minnesota Department of Transportation in February.
City Council approved the feasibility report for the proposed 2023 Street and Utilities Improvement Project. Proposed improvements include:
• Reconstructing the base and pavement on portions of Arnold, Duluth and Knight avenues between Ninth and 12th streets. That proposed improvement would also include resurfacing pavement on portions of streets located between Arnold Avenue and Highway 32
• Completing the cul de sac at the Robson Court development
The proposed project is estimated to cost $1,750,000.
As part of its motion, the council called for a public hearing for the proposed project. The public hearing will be held Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.