St. Pete Beach City Commission Debates Infrastructure Projects
- Meeting Overview:
The St. Pete Beach City Commission’s recent meeting was dominated by discussions on a series of infrastructure projects, including the contentious Bo Casa Drive construction project and the replacement of dune walkovers damaged by Hurricane Ida. The commission also tackled the feasibility of relocating the Don CeSar boat ramp and the approval of proposals for the 29th Avenue seawall project. Public input featured prominently, with residents voicing concerns over community impact and safety.
During the meeting, the commission scrutinized the Bo Casa Drive construction project designed to improve pedestrian and traffic safety near schools. The project proposals included the introduction of traffic calming measures like reduced lane width, bicycle signalization striping, and a sizable 10-foot sidewalk. Public Works director, Mike Clark, highlighted the project’s alignment with city goals for pedestrian connectivity while commissioners requested more information on design cross-sections and public feedback integration.
Public comments reflected dissatisfaction with certain project facets, such as the 10-foot sidewalk and the $5 million expenditure, which was not universally supported. They noted that the design was a compromise between different interests. Discussion extended to the application of impervious materials in sidewalks, storm water drainage, and the selection of Florida native plants for landscaping.
The commission also evaluated the use of pervious material for road construction on Bay Street and El Centro, with the Public Works director explaining its successful water drainage capabilities despite maintenance requirements. The cost of the project, initially pegged at $3.5 million, escalated, and questions arose regarding the necessity of features such as 10-foot sidewalks and bike lanes. The engineer suggested postponing approval to address property impact and cost concerns.
A proposed road project, which involved widening sidewalks and removing bike lanes, sparked debate over the potential loss of a $1.5 million grant if delayed. Safety concerns were raised regarding e-bikes on sidewalks, the effectiveness of sharrows for cyclist safety, and maintaining bike lanes for safety and equity. Public opposition called for a re-engineering of the project to prioritize safety for all road users.
The replacement of dune walkovers was another focal point. The city engineer presented the plans, addressing cost, bidding, and construction process questions. The commission approved price proposals for the dune walkover replacements with CADC Construction Company for $183,500 and a services agreement with Villa Forte Construction for the 29th Avenue seawall project, amounting to $61,195.
The feasibility study for the Don CeSar boat ramp weighed two potential locations, considering costs, challenges, and community impact. Plans for a town hall meeting were made to gather more feedback before decision-making. Public comments highlighted safety issues with the current boat ramp and the ecological importance of the area, stressing the need for comprehensive consideration of the project’s implications.
Finally, the commission addressed concerns raised by a resident regarding the boat ramp at Egan Park, incidents observed, and user profiles. Discussions on summer commission meeting schedules, virtual participation guidelines, and upcoming workshops and reviews occupied the latter part of the meeting. The City Attorney requested a private meeting to discuss a legal settlement proposal, and the announcement of adjournment concluded the session.
Adrian Petrila
City Council Officials:
Karen Marriott, Nick Filtz, Betty Rzewnicki, Richard Lorenzen
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
03/12/2024
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Recording Published:
03/12/2024
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Duration:
152 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Pinellas County
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Towns:
St. Pete Beach
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