A new streetscape might also be necessary, because the current canopies are held up by steel supports in the sidewalk. The removal alone would cost an estimated $93,000, Day said.

“The alley, street and sidewalk improvements will manage stormwater and make the right-of-way safe for public use after water and electric work is completed.

Some people love receiving over-the-top gifts, like a cashmere potholder or diamond-encrusted anything. But then there are the giftees who only crave what they can actually use. They’d willingly forgo ...