Planners OK improvements for CreekWalk

Planners OK improvements for CreekWalk
By Melissa Murphy/ MMurphy@TheReporter.com
Article Launched: 10/10/2008

Vacaville's CreekWalk is getting an extension, a unanimous decision made Tuesday evening by the Planning Commission.

The extension from the existing CreekWalk along Ulatis Creek will continue east along School Street to McClellan Street.

As part of Phase II, a 6- to 10-foot wide paved pedestrian walkway will be added, as well as two additional creek overlook platforms, new landscape, relocation of street lights, entry signs and security video equipment.

Other aesthetics that will be added, such as lights and benches, are intended to match the elements already existing along the CreekWalk, according to Fred Buderi, Vacaville's planning project manager.

Planning Commissioner Ella Marie Kallios said she was pleased with the project.

"I think the project looks great," she said. "I spend a lot of time downtown and I think a lot of the citizens get a lot of enjoyment out of it (the CreekWalk)."

Buderi confirmed that studies were done that show that the project causes less than a significant impact on the environment.

He also said that any improvements would not impede or obstruct the flow of the water in the creek.

Vacaville has received $822,000 in grant funding for design and construction of this project, according to a staff report.

The grant from the Transportation for Livable Cities program consists of federal funds that make up a component of the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality funds.

A match of $132,000 is required for the grant and that money will come from Vacaville's Redevelopment fund.

The City Council will have a chance to approve the allocation of funds and give a thumbs up to continue construction during a future meeting.