Grand Forks council approves Greenway improvements south of 47th

The Grand Forks City Council has decided to recommend starting the bidding process for improvements to the southern end of the Greenway. This recommendation was approved with a 6-1 vote during a committee meeting on Monday. Council member Rebecca Osowski was the only member to oppose it. The proposed improvements will take place between 47th Avenue South and 62nd Avenue South. This area was not developed when the Greenway was built 20 years ago because it was outside the city limits at that time. According to Water Works Director Melanie Parvey, residents enjoy fishing there, but the area has faced issues with vandalism and other unwanted activities. The improvements will include extending the paved trail, enhancing the fishing area, and adding trash cans. A survey conducted in 2023 showed that most nearby residents support these changes. The total cost for the improvements is estimated at about $500,000, with construction expected to happen this year. Some initial plans, like a parking lot off Desiree Drive and a playground at 47th Avenue South, have been removed after receiving negative feedback from residents. A majority of residents surveyed disliked the idea of a parking lot in that location. Parvey noted that while the space is small, it is well-used by those who enjoy biking and fishing. Funding for the project will come from various sources, including flood protection funds, Greenway maintenance funds, and a grant the city received. Osowski raised concerns about using flood protection money for these types of projects, especially since the city plans to invest $6.5 million in the Greenway overall. In other council news, there will not be a meeting next week, and the next meeting is scheduled for April 7. The council also approved the purchase of a shredding machine for the landfill, which will help save costs on handling demolition debris.