The Rapid Creek greenway and the creek itself may gain some benefits from planned improvements to Omaha Street from Mountain View Road to 12th Street.
The main purpose of the project, outlined Monday night at a public meeting in city hall, is to upgrade the road surface, which according to project engineers, “is at the end of its useful life.” Planned actions include widening of the road and bridge, additional lanes, new signals, sidewalk, curb and gutter.
On the environmental side of the project, plans include measures that will improve storm water drainage, provide treatment to storm water that flows into Rapid Creek, and consider issues that the Land and Water Conservation Fund requires before permitting in the park and greenway area. Wetland values and fish and wildlife habitat that enhance multiple uses of the greenway will be taken into account, according to project engineers from CETEC, the firm that is working with the State Department of Transportation to do the project, and Ferber Engineering, which is providing the utilities reconstruction related to Omaha Street and additional city-led projects in the area.
Cyclists and pedestrians will get consideration, too, with bike lanes on both sides of the road, and sidewalk and improved crossings for walkers.
The project is in the planning stage now, and additional public meetings will occur before construction starts, expected in late 2016 or 2017.
Watch this space to see comments submitted by Friends of Rapid City Parks.