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CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCE O-1516-3 UPON SECOND AND FINAL READING: AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORMAN, OKLAHOMA, CLOSING THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY LOCATED BETWEEN LOTS 4, 5 AND 6 AND LOT 7, BLOCK 2, G.H. COLLEY’S 1ST ADDITION TO NORMAN, CLEVELAND COUNTY, OKLAHOMA; AND PROVIDING FOR THE SEVERABILITY THEREOF. (601 NORTH PORTER AVENUE)
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BACKGROUND: The applicant has requested closure of the designated public right-of-way within the above stated development. The final plat for G. H. Colley’s Addition was filed of record in the late 1890’s or early 1900’s. The public right-of-way is located on the north side of Hughbert Street between Porter Avenue and Ponca Avenue. Planning Commission, at its meeting of July 9, 2015, recommended closure of a 20’ public right-of-way (typically used for alley purposes).
DISCUSSION: The attorney for the applicant has submitted a request to close and vacate the right-of -way so that the properties can be contiguous for the use of a restaurant and parking lot. The physical alley paving no longer exists and the alley is not in use. There are existing utilities within the right-of-way and City staff is recommending that a utility easement be provided at the time of vacation in District Court. In addition, City staff is opposed to the planting of trees or large shrubbery over the existing sanitary sewer main.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the request to close certain public right-of-way located east of Lots 4 through 6 and west of Lot 7, Block 2 of G. H. Colley’s First Addition (601 North Porter Avenue) and, if approved, condition an easement be provided at the time of vacation in District Court.