North Bend City Council Approves Infrastructure Projects to Enhance Walkability and Parking

The North Bend City Council has taken significant steps to address pedestrian safety and parking challenges by approving two infrastructure projects. The Cedar Falls Way Pedestrian Improvement Project will see $332,000 allocated for design work, focusing on enhancing walkability through the addition of sidewalks and bike lanes. This project is particularly important for improving access to Opstead Elementary School, with construction potentially starting in 2026 if a $2 million grant is secured. In parallel, the Ballarat Avenue Parking Project aims to add 20 to 25 parking stalls to the downtown area, alleviating congestion for residents and business owners. A $92,000 contract has been approved for this project's design, which is expected to be completed by summer 2025.

City staff highlighted the importance of these projects in enhancing quality of life and accessibility in North Bend. Community feedback will be sought during the design phases to ensure that the projects meet local needs. Overall, these initiatives represent a proactive approach to urban planning in a growing city.