Ord. 20601 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Strengthen the pedestrian connection between the downtown core and activity on 5th Avenue, and ultimately to the planned Riverfront Park and the Willamette River. Analysis from Public Works staff confirms the surrounding street network is a traditional blocked street grid, which provides ample street connectivity as required by Eugene Code and negates the need for a secondary public thoroughfare. Because of the existing local street grid, the alleys to be vacated do not provide significant public transportation benefit, although they do provide public vehicular and pedestrian circulation on adjoining streets aswell as the primary parking facilities for the surrounding businesses (primarily the 5th St Public Market). The proposed vacation will not impede or modify on-site circulation at this time. To the north is East 5th Avenue and to the west is Oak Street, both local City streets and fully improved with paving, curb and gutter, bike lanes, sidewalks and street lights. Pearl Street is to the east and is a major collector n, and East 6th Avenue to the south is a major arterial. The surrounding street network provides ample transportation facilities for all users and is consistent with city design standards and master plans. The proposed alley vacation will not have a significant effect on the surrounding transportation systems. Public Works staff supports the right of way vacation from the perspective of providing adequate transportation facilities and services. The applicant has not provided plans showing a feasible relocation of the existing facilities in the right of way to be vacated. The utilities currently provide service to existing development and improved public rights of way. The applicant has proposed a Public Utility Easement (PUE) over the entire vacated area until such time as plans can be provided and approved through a development or public improvement permit application. A subsequent PUE vacation process will be required prior to the approval of development or public improvement permits. The proposed PUE provides the easement necessary to continue perpetual ownership, operation and maintenance of public utilities that remain. Public Works supports the right of way vacation contingent upon the reservation of a PUE. Conclusion: The applicant’s requested right-of-way vacation is in the public interest, based on the above facts and the terms of the ordinance. Exhibit C: Findings