2017 sidewalk connectivity price tag: $48,408

Bluffton council approved a 2017 sidewalk connectivity plan anticipated to cost $48,408. The plan was approved on Aug. 14.

Projects in this year’s plan call for 4-foot sidewalks in the following areas:
• East College Avenue gap
• Cherry Street – 465 Cherry to County Line
• Augsburger Bike Path – Riverbend to Hawthorn
• Jefferson Street – beside 204 N. Jackson

This project includes roughly 2,017 linear feet of connectivity. This year’s budget for the project was $50,000.

Here are some further details on these projects:
• East College – 157 Geiger Street placement within the right of way (near road or garage)
• Cherry – Pole obstructions on east side, connectivity on west
• County Line – Placement on edge of right of way
• Augsburger – Riverbend subdivision to Hawthorn

Letters were sent to all property owners affected by this plan. Bids are expected soon.

The connectivity plan was one of three topics discussed by the council streets, alleys, lights and sidewalk committee on July 31.

The other two topics included:
•  a food truck ordinance, which had a first reading on Aug. 14.
• Village property on south side of Mustard Seed Café from Main to Lake Street. Survey pins are now in place and a plat and legal description is being worked on.