The Albert Lea community will get their first peek at a plan to redevelop downtown Broadway Avenue during the Albert Lea City Council meeting tonight.

The plan, which was developed by architect Pat Waddick, out of Minneapolis, begins at Front Street on the south and ends at Fountain Street on the north.

It includes the replacement of the underground utilities infrastructure, as well as new sidewalks, streets and decorative lighting.

The current cost estimate is $7.4 million, according to city staff.

Because of the cost, this project will not be able to move forward without grants.

During the meeting tonight, the City Council is expected to:

• Vote whether to extend the city’s voluntary unpaid leave policy adopted two years ago.

The policy allows city employees to voluntarily take unpaid leave as a budget saving strategy.

• Vote whether to approve a resolution supporting local government aid.

The resolution has been recommended by the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities.

• Vote whether to authorize bond payments for 2011.

• Vote on the 2011 council procedures, which include meeting times and places, public hearings and other rules of decorum for council meetings.

• Vote on the amendment of the city’s building codes to reflect recent state statutory changes.

• Witness the presentation of the 2010 Program Partner of the Year Award to Albert Lea officer Jay Crabtree from Freeborn County Partners in Prevention.

• Approve the city’s depositories and signatories.