2026-36 Addressing sidewalks on Malbone Road

WHEREAS, Malbone Road serves as a key east-west connector within the City of Newport and provides access to residential neighborhoods, recreational facilities, schools, and major arterial roadways; AND

WHEREAS, a portion of Malbone Road currently lacks continuous sidewalk infrastructure connecting it safely to Admiral Kalbfus Road, which is a heavily traveled corridor and serves as an important link to community destinations, and increasing pedestrian exposure to vehicle traffic; AND

WHEREAS, the absence of a continuous sidewalk forces pedestrians—including students, families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities—to walk along or within the roadway, creating hazardous conditions; and

WHEREAS, the construction of a continuous sidewalk connection between Malbone Road and Admiral Kalbfus Road would enhance safety, accessibility, and connectivity for residents and visitors; and

WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes pedestrian safety as a priority and supports infrastructure improvements that promote walkability, accessibility, traffic calming, and public health; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT

RESOLVED, the City Council hereby directs the City Administration to develop a plan for the design and construction of a sidewalk along the remaining segment of Malbone Road necessary to provide a continuous pedestrian connection to Admiral Kalbfus Road; and BE IT FURTHER

RESOLVED, that the plan shall include, but will not be limited to the following:

o ADA-compliant sidewalk standards;
o Evaluation of drainage, grading, utility relocation, and right-of-way considerations;
o Traffic safety analysis and potential complementary traffic-calming measures;
o Estimated project costs, including design, permitting, construction, and contingency;
o Fiscally responsible and expeditious funding strategy;
o Identification of any required easements or property impacts;
o A proposed project timeline.

STEPHANIE SMYTH
ELLEN PINNOCK

IN COUNCIL
READ AND PASSED
MARCH 25, 2026

Laura C. Swistak, CMC
City Clerk