HomeMy WebLinkAboutQuestions and Responses from Information Gathering Meetings 2017Pedestrian Mall Improvements
Frequently asked questions during development
Can a severe weather storm shelter be included in the project?
No. The City agrees that a shelter would provide needed protection, but cost and limited use deterred
development for this specific project. Space is limited in the Pedestrian Mall, and to build a sizeable shelter
some of the proposed amenities would need to be removed.
Can public charging stations for cars, phones and tablets be included in the project?
Parking isn’t included in this project, but the request has been forwarded to Parking staff for
consideration. As for charging devices, the City is reluctant to install permanent stations that will need
to change as technology evolves. The design team provided mobile charging options that may be
considered in the future.
Can public restrooms be incorporated?
No. Limited space, cost of construction and maintenance as well as access to other restrooms nearby
influenced this decision.
Electrical reliability has been an issue during events in the past. Will it be resolved?
Yes. Enhanced electrical power design is part of this project.
Will the power and cable cord maintenance at the permanent stage and canopy be considered?
Yes. The design team is planning to include underground conduits to safely store cords and cables.
Are there other options beyond using alleys for hauling trash during events?
No. Unfortunately, the alley between Washington and College Streets, from Clinton to Linn Streets, is the
only access point waste haulers have during events. The City is now only contracting with a single hauler,
which will reduce the number of dumpsters. This should make the alleys cleaner and more accessible.
Is public Wi-Fi included in the project?
The City is installing underground telecommunication infrastructure for a future network, but the actual
Wi-Fi system is not included in this project.
Can LED screens be installed that are used to announce events?
No. Installing permanent screens that can withstand the weather would be too cost prohibitive. The design
team estimates that a 10 ft. LED screen would cost $100,000 to $150,000. It’s important to allocate the
limited budget toward improvements like replacing pavement, upgrading utilities and installing amenities.
Can the stage and canopy be fully enclosed to accommodate performances during all weather?
No. The design team looked into this and it would nearly double the cost, adding about $350,000. During
poor weather, pedestrians will likely leave or take shelter nearby. They also wouldn’t return unless there is
a shelter near the stage. For these reasons it isn’t being developed.
Has the City considered a digital kiosk?
Yes. The City had considered digital kiosks during development of the master plan in 2014, but the
design consultant advised against it as it is challenging to keep up with the technology and to find a
content manager. The kiosks also need an enclosure that protects the LED screen from weather and
vandalism. Instead, the kiosks will include backlit signage that is easy to remove and replace as
businesses change or if the kiosks are vandalized. The Downtown District will help maintain the kiosks.
Could a café that is centrally located and available to all restaurants be incorporated?
The City considered this during development of the master plan in 2014, but the committee felt it would
be too challenging to manage a communal café, and its presence would also take away from the needed
flexibility in the Pedestrian Mall that allows for special event and gathering spaces.