City Council Minutes 2012 12 04 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Meeting Minutes December 4, 2012 Page 13 of 16 throughout the region to the downtown Louisville. They also contribute to revenues supporting City services. In 2012 City staff worked with various groups on two different approaches to the Main Street Patios: permanent sidewalk/streetscape improvements or modular structures installed on a seasonal basis. Most favored the seasonal patios because of their significance in signaling the beginning and end of the summer season. A smaller number favored the patios becoming permanent and year-round streetscape improvements. A prototype steel patio was constructed to help clarify ideas on functionality and aesthetics and refine the concept. This prototype patio was displayed in front of City Hall for several weeks to encourage public comment. The mock up was fabricated of welded steel and Ipe Wood also known as "Iron Wood". The steel and Ipe Wood make for a more durable product. The design includes slots on the base for a forklift to lift the patios into place. On November 7, 2012 staff conducted a public meeting to review the permanent and seasonal patio concepts and discuss the public comments received in response to the prototype patio display. Several email comments were also received after the public meeting with the majority of those comments favoring the prototype patio and the idea of a seasonal patio kicking off the summer season. They liked the sturdy aspect of the new patio, but wanted a wooden handrail. Some thought the dark color was cold. Others liked the idea of horizontal balusters and of applying artwork. A smaller number of people preferred the idea of permanent patios. Mid-block crossing was also discussed as was a public plaza next to the Rex Theater. Another design option discussed was the extended sidewalk with seating adjacent to buildings, which would remove issues of servers crossing a pedestrian path and allow for seamless, unobstructed pedestrian circulation. It was noted it may result in quicker deterioration of the patios due to higher foot traffic and it would also permanently remove the parking along Main Street. Final design details include continued improvement of aesthetics for the railing designs, color selection, planting boxes, and utility connections for water and power. Staff requested Council discussion and direction and recommended finalizing the design of the modular steel patios, preparing a RFP and using approved Capital Project Funds to construct up to 20 modular patio sections in time for the 2013 summer season. PUBLIC COMMENT Jim Tienken, 404 W. Spruce Lane, Louisville, CO supported seasonal patios He stressed water and power and flowers are important to soften the appearance of the patios. He felt the flower boxes will last another year, but suggested in the future they be replaced with planters matching the new patios. He stated the new patios should be one foot wider than the existing patios to accommodate the chairs. Judy Goodson, 801 Main Street, Louisville, CO addressed the vitality of downtown •