The Lincoln City Council has approved $1.5 million in tax-increment financing for improvements to the University Place commercial corridor, including work aimed at making businesses along North 48th Street easier to access.
Urban Development Director Dan Marvin told council members Monday that the busy street, narrow sidewalks and stairs can make access difficult for customers, particularly those with mobility challenges. One proposed solution would improve the alley behind the businesses and make it function more like a sidewalk.
Marvin said that could allow customers to park behind businesses and enter through rear entrances rather than relying solely on access from 48th Street.
The funding is part of the University Place Commercial Corridor Facade Restoration and Streetscape Enhancement Project. Marvin said the plans also envision improvements around St. Paul Avenue that could create more opportunities for evening activity and events in the neighborhood.
The $1.5 million in TIF funding will help pay for engineering and improvements included in the larger redevelopment plan. The City Council unanimously approved the funding Monday.