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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 09/01/2009 - ITEMS RELATING TO THE NORTH COLLEGE IMPROVEMENTS P Y ITEM NUMBER: 18 AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY DATE: September 1, 2009 FORT COLLINS CITY COUNCIL STAFF: Jennifer Petrik Kathleen Bracke SUBJECT Items Relating to the North College Improvements Project- Phase II. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends adoption of the Resolution and the Ordinance on First Reading. FINANCIAL IMPACT The cost estimate to build the full improvements along North College Avenue is approximately$12 to $15 million. The City currently has approximately $6.2 million in funding available for this project, including the original Building on Basics (BOB) 1/4 cent sales tax funding and federal funding,from the Colorado Department of Transportation and the North Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization(MPO). Staff is continuing to seek various local, state,and federal solutions to bridge this funding gap. Staff is requesting Council approval to transfer the remaining Truck Route project funding in the amount of$1,830,944 into the North College Improvements Project Update: Phase II—Vine Drive to the Hickory/Conifer Intersection. This proposed transfer will allow improvements to extend further north and to maintain the accelerated project schedule for construction to begin in 2011, as desired by the North Fort Collins Business Association (NFCBA) and local business/property owners. This funding request to transfer the approximately$1.8 million in remaining Truck Route funds is supported by the Transportation Board and staff from various City departments including, Transportation Planning, Engineering, Finance, City Manager's office, and City Attorney's office. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY A. Resolution 2009-082 Approving the Design and Scheduling of the North College Improvements Project—Phase II. B. First Reading of Ordinance No. 090, 2009, Authorizing the Transfer of Existing Appropriations Between Capital Projects for the North College Improvements Project. September 1, 2009 -2- Item No. 18 The City of Fort Collins is in the final stage of the conceptual design phase for the North College Corridor Improvements Project — Phase II, from Vine Drive, north to the Hickory/Conifer Intersection. The Project was initiated in accordance with the voter-approved Building on Basics (BOB)Capital Improvement Program. Additional project funding was secured by the City from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and North Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). Staff is seeking Council approval of the North College Improvements Project—Phase II,Vine Drive to the Hickory/Conifer Intersection Conceptual Design Report,dated September 1,2009,as well as the proposed schedule for the Project. The Project Report includes a summary of the conceptual design phase of the Project, including the preferred conceptual design for the corridor and an implementation phasing plan. Staff is also seeking Council approval for the use of the remaining Truck Route funds for the North College Project in order to further extend the needed improvemen&along this state highway corridor and meet the intended construction schedule of 2011, as desired by the North Fort Collins Business Association (NFCBA) and local business/property owners. BACKGROUND In 2005, Fort Collins voters approved a 1/4 cent sales tax to fund capital projects — Building on Basics (BOB). One of the transportation projects funded through this package is "North College Avenue Improvements Phase 2 — Vine Drive to Conifer." This Project is the next phase of the improvements that were initially funded through the Building Community Choices (BCC) capital plan. The prior BCC program funded improvements from Jefferson to Vine Drive(see Attachment 1 for a map of the project area). The 2005 BOB ballot language included the following project description: "North College Avenue Improvement Phase 2—Vine Drive to Conifer The project will provide for the re-design of North College Avenue to bring the road to current arterial standards from Vine Drive to Conifer Street and for the acquisition of right-of-way needed for construction along North College Avenue. Construction will include curb,gutter and minor street patching;redefinition and consolidation of driveway; bike lanes and sidewalks, new streetscape and other necessary improvements." The voter-approved BOB funding provides approximately$4.8 million for this phase of the North College Project. In addition to the BOB funding,the City secured an additional$885,000 in federal funding from CDOT and the North Front Range MPO to help cover costs associated with the bicycle, pedestrian, streetscape, and safety improvements. The total Project funding previously secured was approximately$5.6 million dollars. An additional $600,000 in funding was approved by the North Front Range MPO Council in August, thus the total budget for the North College project is approximately$6.2 million. This additional funding will be appropriated into the Project budget as a separate Council action once contracts are received from CDOT. The updated engineer's estimate for the total cost of the corridor improvements from Vine to Conifer is between September 1, 2009 -3- Item No. 18 $12 million and $15 million, depending on the level of improvements. Due to funding limitations, full build-out of this Project is planned to be done in phases as funding becomes available.The City continues to seek additional funding. Project Coordination Throughout the development of the North College/US287 design project,the City's Transportation Planning Department has worked closely with other City departments, including Engineering, Traffic Operations,Advance Planning,Current Planning,Finance, Stormwater,Utilities,Transfort, Historic Preservation,Parks,Natural Resources,and Art in Public Places.The City also has worked with local and regional stakeholders, including the North Fort Collins Business Association (NFCBA),the North College Urban Renewal Authority(URA),area property/business owners,City boards and commissions, City Council, CDOT, and other interested stakeholders to develop a recommended design package that meets the many important local and regional needs of this corridor. Planned improvements for the corridor include installation of curb and gutter, consolidation of driveways, improved bicycle and pedestrian facilities, new streetscape design, and other necessary improvements such as stormwater facilities. The Project report for the North College Improvements Project is being presented to City Council for approval. This report includes the conceptual design for the ultimate corridor improvements, as well as a prioritized list of projects that can be implemented in phases based upon current and future funding resources. (see Attachment 4) Public Outreach The public outreach process during the planning phase of the Project has included three public open house meetings(April,May, and July)as well as individual property and business owner meetings. At the request of the NFCBA, a special "hands-on"workshop was held in May to develop possible conceptual design alternatives for the corridor. In addition, a right-of-way informational meeting was held at the request of property owners in June. Project presentations took place in May, June and July for various City boards and commissions. The second City Council work session for this project was held July 28. Conceptual Design and Phasing The project conceptual design was developed through input from the public, NFCBA, CDOT, property and business owners, the Commission on Disability, Bicycle Advisory Committee, Transportation Board, and the Planning and Zoning Board, as well as various City departments. The conceptual design supports the North College Corridor Plan and City Plan by providing a more attractive and functional corridor for all modes of transportation. The North College improvements will help provide more safe and direct linkages for motorists,cyclists,transit riders,and pedestrians to/from downtown and the greater Fort Collins community between North College area businesses, employment, and residential neighborhoods. In addition, the improvements will help set the stage for future infill and redevelopment opportunities to foster the City's economic health and sustainability goals. September 1, 2009 -4- Item No. 18 The conceptual design includes a reduced-width median,two 12-foot travel lanes, 8-foot on-street bike lanes on each side, curb and gutter, a 7.5-foot landscaped parkway and an off-street 8-foot shared use path(in lieu of sidewalk) on each side. Due to funding limitations, full build-out of this project is planned to be done in phases as funding becomes available. Preferred Option Phasing Option 1 is preferred. Phasing Option 1 consists of complete edge improvements,including street and landscaping. The decision was reached by the Project team with input from the public, boards and commissions, property owners,NFCBA, CDOT, and various City departments. Completing the Project from south to north with the currently secured funding of$6.2 million will provide full edge improvements, including consolidated driveways, landscaped parkways, bike lanes, shared use paths, curb, gutter, and storm water facilities up to approximately Pinon Street. In addition, the first phase of improvements will include basic safety improvements at the Hickory/Conifer intersection as required by the CDOT Hazard Elimination Safety funding. This first phase will not include raised, landscaped medians because these medians need to be installed in the future when parallel alleys and street connections are available to provide alternative access for businesses located along the corridor. Advantages of Phasing Option 1 include: • Supported by the public, Transportation Board, Planning and Zoning Board, NFCBA liaison and property owners in the North College area. • Number of disruptions to businesses is minimized. • Provides a gateway to the North College area. • Includes all elements of the BOB ballot language. • Provides complete visible improvements, demonstrating what improvements would look like along the corridor further north. • May help stimulate redevelopment interest in the area, which would help pay for future additional improvements. • Finding funding for landscaping alone may be challenging. Funding Request The current funding gap to implement the conceptual design for the entire length of the Project is approximately $6 - $9 million, depending on the level of improvements. To help address this budget shortfall,the NFCBA has requested that the project team bring forward to City Council a proposal to consider transferring the$1.8 million in remaining Truck Route funds into the North College Project. The Project team reviewed the NFCBA's requests with City Management, the City Attorney's Office, as well as the Finance Department, Transportation Planning, and Engineering departments. Based on this review, staff supports this proposal to transfer the remaining Truck Route funds into the North College Project budget and respectfully requests City Council approval of this transfer of funds. September 1, 2009 -5- Item No. 18 Transferring the$1.8 million in funding into the first phase of improvements would extend full edge improvements to north of Hemlock Street. Staff and key project stakeholders agree that this is an appropriate use of remaining truck route funds. The North College corridor is the existing,designated truck route along US287. These funds would be used to improve the existing truck route and provide safety benefits for all modes of transportation. Another benefit of adding the Truck Route funds into the North College Project is that it allows the Project to meet the accelerated construction schedule desired by the community. The NFCBA's request to begin construction in 2011 presents a cash flow challenge to the Project's budget. The original BOB program provided funding for right-of-way and engineering/design in 2011, leading to a construction initiation in 2012. This time line was viewed as too long by the community,based upon the urgency of the necessary safety improvements. To move the Project construction schedule up to 2011, design/engineering and right-of-way acquisition needs to occur in 2010 to prepare the Project for construction in 2011. Therefore,the City needs to identify funding for these key project tasks in 2010 (prior to the availability of 2011 BOB funds). The amount needed to solve this 2010 cash flow challenge would be resolved by the use of the remaining Truck Route funds. The ability to use the remaining Truck Route funds benefits the North College project in two aspects: 1. It would extend the project improvements further to improve safety for all modes of transportation; and 2. It allows all the proposed improvements to begin construction in 2011, as desired by the community. The project team has met with the City's Finance Department to determine if there are other options to provide funds for the right-of-way and design costs in 2009/2010. The Finance Department supports the use of the Truck Route funding for this Project and has indicated there are no other funding sources that would be appropriate to provide this funding bridge. Unless additional funds are made available for the project in 2009/2010 (i.e., Truck Route), only minor construction can begin in 2011. Construction for a majority of the North College improvements would then start in 2012,when BOB funds become available. If the additional funds are not transferred into the Project,the Project team can move forward with a limited construction project at the Hickory/Conifer intersection with the funds currently secured for design in 2010. The decision to transfer the Truck Route funds into another transportation capital project located within the Northeast quadrant of the City falls under the purview of City Council and does not require a citizen vote. (See Attachment 5 for the Truck Route ballot language.) Project Schedule The Project schedule was accelerated in response to requests from the North Fort Collins Business Association and area property/business owners. The current project schedule is dependent on funding right-of-way and design costs in 2009/2010: September 1, 2009 -6 Item No. 18 2009 Planning, community engagement, visioning, alternatives analysis, selection of preferred alternative, and development of prioritized phasing plan for implementation. 2009/2010 Project engineering and rights-of-way acquisition. 2011 Construction begins. Staff will continue to work with the Project team, including CDOT, the NFCBA, area property/business owners,and City Council to advance the Project through the engineering,right-of- way, and construction phases. More detailed information regarding the North College Improvement Project is available on-line at: www.fcgov.com/northcollege. ATTACHMENTS 1. Project Area Map 2. July 28, 2009 Work Session Summary 3. Recommendations from boards and commissions - Transportation Board - Bicycle Advisory Committee - Planning and Zoning Board - Commission on Disability -North Fort Collins Business Association 4. North College Improvements Project — Phase II, Vine Drive to the Hickory/Conifer Intersection Conceptual Design Report, September 1, 2009 (Executive Summary) 5. Truck Route ballot language (Resolution 2006-090) 6. PowerPoint presentation. ATTACHMENT 1 i Hickory St w N Conifer St 0 N Heinlok t 44 c - + o ;r Pinion t t z�_. T j • Csiander St W 3 Alirte t ; <n , o M oat !�+ ° Caletan St ti'r �r ® c O 3 ■ Pascal St ■ h ' 'yd{'Ar fir,. �� ♦ ■ .�f d n Lr .w . ' • w 'Lee Martinez Park _ ■ � E Vine Dr i o n / Old Town` Collins Cegend Bus Stops 0 125 250 500 750 1.0F� w�,l a Project Area Off Street Path(Existing) ATTACHMENT F6rt City ofPlanning,Development&Transportation Collins Transportation Planning&Special Projects 250 North Mason Street P.O.Box 580 Fort Collins,CO 80522.0580 970.224.6058 970.221.6239-fax fcgov.co?Wtransportation MEMORANDUM Date: July 30,2009 To: Mayor and City Council Members Through: Darin Atteberry, City ManageA Diane Jones,Deputy City Manager Jeff Scheick, Planning,Development and Transportation Director Mark Jackson,Transportation Group Director Kathleen Bracke, Transportation Planning& Special Projects Director From: Jennifer Petrik,Transportation Planner&Project Manager for North College Improvements Project—Phase 11,Vine Drive to the Hickory/Conifer Intersection Re: July 28t'2009 Work Session Summary-North College Improvements Project Update The purpose of this memo is to provide a summary of Council's work session discussion and feedback to staff. Attendees: Council Members Ci1y Staff Mayor Doug Hutchinson Darin Atteberry, City Manager Mayor Pro Tem Kelly Ohlson Diane Jones,Deputy City Manager Ben Manvel Jeff Scheick,Planning,Development and Transportation Director Lisa Poppaw Mark Jackson,Transportation Group Director Aislinn Kottwitz Kathleen Bracke,Director of Transportation Planning and Special Projects Wade Troxell Jennifer Petrik,Transportation Planner,Project Manager David Roy Kyle Lambrecht,Project Engineer Direction Sought from Council: 1. Is Council supportive of the preferred conceptual design? 2. Does Council have any feedback regarding preferred phasing options? 3. Is Council willing to consider incorporating the remaining Truck Route funding into the project? Council Feedback and Key Discussion Points: • Staff introduced the project emphasizing three key points: 1) recommended conceptual design 2) preferred phasing plan 3)consideration of incorporating the Truck Route funding into project. • Council was supportive of the conceptual design for the corridor which includes a 15 foot reduced width median,2-12 foot travel lanes in each direction, 8 foot bike lanes, 7.5 foot parkways and 8 foot detached shared use paths. • Council was supportive of phasing option 1 for the first phase of improvements which includes all elements of the conceptual design, except the raised landscaped median. As necessitated by the street C(ty of improvements associated with the project, storm water facilities are required and included as an integral part of all phasing options. Clarification of phasing option 1: Phasing option I includes full edge improvements including street and landscaping, however, it does not include medians. Medians are to be built in a future phase once circulator streets and alleys are built, possibly with development to provide adequate access to area businesses. • Council was supportive of incorporating the remaining Truck Route funding of approximately $1.8 Million into the North College Improvements Project. r , • If Truck Route funding is incorporated into the project,phasing option 1 (complete edge improvements) can continue to just north of Hemlock Street. The funding gap to continue phasing option 1 to Conifer Street is approximately$2.7 Million.This information is included in the phasing option 1 display. • One property owner in the project area expressed a desire to minimize construction disruptions to their business by implementing phasing option 1 rather than phasing option 2. • The North Fort Collins Business Association requested City Council and staff look into borrowing funds to provide complete edge improvements up to-Conifer Street. • It was asked if it is more cost effective to borrow money now to take advantage of lower construction costs. • Staff indicated current construction costs have been coming in lower than the engineer's estimate. Some savings could be realized from construction costs being lower because of the economy. (bidding environment in 2011 may not reflect what is seen in 2009) • Several Council members indicated a preference for phasing option I as there are fewer interruptions to businesses. • One Council member indicated a desire to fmd the additional $2.7 Million to complete the edge improvements to Conifer Street. • The City Manager indicated he will report back on the possibility of finding or borrowing the additional funds. J • A question arose regarding potential funding options to complete the funding gap. It was clarified that a General Improvement District would provide a total of approximately $250,000 over the life of the funding source and is not a yearly accumulated amount. Additional funding sources are being pursued. Projected Next Steps: • The project team will present the North College report to City Council at the regular City Council meeting September 1, 2009 for consideration of adoption. The project team will also formally request Truck Route funding be incorporated into the project at this same meeting. • The project team will move forward with preliminary engineering. 2 ATTACHMENT 3 City Of Transportation Board F6rt Collins Gary Thomas, Chair July 21, 2009 Mayor Hutchinson and Council Members: By unanimous vote of the eight members present at our July meeting, the Transportation Board. makes the following recommendations for improvements to the North College corridor. Hopefully these thoughts will arrive in time for your consideration at the July 28`h study session. c There are several aspects to the plan for this stretch of road and our recommendations on each follow. Also, attached to this letter is the first official recommendation from the newly formed Bicycle Advisory Committee (BAC). The Transportation Board opens each session with an update from the BAC and is pleased to share its thoughts with Council through our minutes and official statements like the attached. In the case at hand, the T-Board supports the BAC's position on the design of the street and bicycle lanes. We do differ on the phasing concepts as described below. The Transportation Board sees several elements to this plan and recommends as follows: 1). Design of medians, traffic lanes, bike paths, side landscaping, and multi-use paths. The Transportation Board endorses the version that has now come be known as "The Vision Plan." This puts high speed bike lanes next to the traffic lanes, and puts a multi-use trail behind the side landscaping for pedestrians and bicyclists who are not comfortable out next to fast traffic. The T-Board is persuaded by the Bicycle Advisory Committee that this is the safest configuration for both the high-speed "commuter" and the slower recreational or novice cyclist as well as pedestrians. 2). Striping in light of the new Colorado law on providing three-foot clearance for bikes. This is the first streetscape plan we have considered since the new law went into effect. The T-Board would like to recommend that staff research and recommend whether any additional lane markings are needed to comply with the new requirements. Is the normal six-inch white line enough to demark the bicycle path, or should some form of hashing be used to remind motorists of the three-foot requirement? 3). Use of the previously designated truck by-pass study funds. Council will recall that the voters recently withdrew the earlier restrictions on these funds allowing them to be used for other northeast Fort Collins transportation needs. Approximately $1.8 million are available and the Transportation Board believes that the North College project is an excellent use of those funds since it provides both transportation improvements and economic development benefits: Those funds added to revenue from the Building On Basics tax imitative and other CDOT funds give the project a total of$8 million in hand against its final $12 to $15 million in needs. I City of t�oll' 4). Phasing of the work in light of economic restraints. The options presented by staff were to provide a compete rework with landscaping for as long a distance as the available funds can go, or leave out the landscaping and change the street configuration for a slightly longer distance. As you can see in the attached, the Bicycle Advisory Committee recommends the latter with safety taking preference over ascetics. The Transportation Board takes a different position: With the addition of the truck by-pass funds discussed above; and with roadway construction costs down considerably (30%according to one source); and with the potential for a return to higher fuel and constructions costs in the not too distant future; the T-Board strongly recommends that Council and staff consider some form of bonding or other innovative funding to allow the project to be completed all at one time. While the T-Board does not have the information to make a complete study, when we factor in the avoidance of future inflationary pressures and the costs of multiple mobilization/ demobilizations in the construction work, we think there would be at least a wash and perhaps a net savings even after taking bonding costs and interest into account. One source of the revenue needed to bond might be a special improvement district and the truck by-pass and other funds could be used to start the design and right of way work while the district was being organized. If an immediate financial solution cannot be found to complete the project and realize it's full potential to our community then the Transportation Board feels that the work undertaken should complete each section including landscaping. While we support the safety concerns of the BAC, we also understand that only a few hundred feet is gained by holding off on landscaping. In the opinion of the Transportation Board, getting the full visual benefit of completing each section will enhance the non-transportation benefits and will help build community value for supporting future funding to complete the project. One member did speak in favor of the BAC recommendation but voted to support the rest of this recommendation as outlined above. As usual, I would be pleased to provide more thoughts and discussion on this recommendation at your convenience. Best regards, Gary D. Thomas, Chair Home: 482-7125 Work: 223-8604 Cell: 218-8379 a } �° yr Planning, Development & Transportation City ®• Transportation Planning&Special Projects-FC Bikes 6rtCollir 250 North Mason Street P.O. Box 580 Fort Collins,CO 80522.0580 970,416.2411 _ 970.221.6239-fax fcgov.com/bicycling Date: July 14, 2009 From: Dan Gould, Chair Bicycle Advisory Committee To: Jennifer Petrik, Transportation Planner and Project Manager for North College Avenue Corridor Improvements Project Gary Thomas, Chair, Transportation Advisory Board 7� 1Rh� illIlll Subject: Bicycle Advisory Committee Support for the Nortlil,College Avenue Corridor Improvements Project update �I�jr NI��II�iG� At our June 8, 2009 BAC meeting, Jennifer Petrik pro vide°d'k escrnptt thvarious design alternatives for the North College Ave Corridor Project. The discussion is summarized in the a�a�wiir'm, minutes for that meeting. At that time the discusstonpndicated a,,preference for on=s'tree't bike lanes with the detached, mixed-use sidewalk. j Q At the July 13, 2009 BAC meeting Jennifer Petrik provided�ran�lupdate including a description of the draft recommended preferred alternative consisting of, from?bhe center of the roadway out to each side, a median of minimum width, tw-142koottvehicI travel�la es ��an on-street bike lane, curb, landscaped parkway buffer and a detached'ini c-use pathwayl, The committee unanimously supported a recommendation forilthis preferred aIt rinative. Ij j6ol�l� There was also discussionl of whether it would b preferable t omit final landscaping and allocate those funds t�oy1�,xtending�thblstreet and sidewalk improvements as far north as possible. The committee favored such a strategy. ur,�r (Pj1�M tlil 4 i p' With regardshto final„landscaping, and"glven�the.;b1 directional movement of pedestrians and less I•I , , j " l experienced"btoychstslpn.the mixed„use sidewalk, it will be important to ensure that the height of plantings� �xp does not obstructithe viewspof,travelers encountering one and other at intersections and x#J:untnjE L u� ij@ ��lZ tfr�Po',°. businessjaccess locations.`+Ih{�l��i Our committee,recognizes thhf(there are large unmet needs for safe, efficient pedestrian and bicycle travel al'% the Norttif,College Corridor. We hope that the City leaders and staff can work to bring the 1i'mp iovements to the full length of the corridor as soon as possible. ",llEt�rj' We appreciate the effoet's of all those involved in planning and implementing this project. Please let me know if you have any questions. V Transportation Board DRAFT - minutes July 15, 2009 Page 2 sacrificed in order to have improved infrastructure. The Committee liked that. A subcommittee was appointed to work on the Bike Plan and bring recommendations to T-Board. ACTION ITEMS a. North College Improvement Project—Jennifer Petrik Boundary Vine to Conifer. Roadway improvements. Updated estimate$12— 15 million. Top ranked project in line for additional $600,000 in funding from the North Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization, pending approval in August 2009. Funding gap for completed vision is $6—9m. July 8 Open House gained a lot of support. Improvements do not include any reconstruction or overlay work in the roadway. Improvements with phase l are to the edges including bike and pedestrian lanes, parkway and storm water only. Draft preferred alternative vision plan narrows right- of-way as much as possible, narrow median, 12' travel lanes, 7.5' landscape buff '_ ike lanes, wider 8' shared-use paths. Hickory Conifer intersection will be done in 3 phases. undabout option was not preferred by the public.No changes to road capacity. Phasing options: Option 1 —South to North as far as funding lasts. Includes all streetkg ements to Pinon Street. Minimal safety improvements at Hickory & Conifer. Advantage: all inipravements are complete in one area; provides a gateway to the North College District. Option 2—Start at curb and work outwards. Same as opti4. I except no pedestrian lighting, no street . furniture;no street trees or landscaping, and no enhanc tra stops. This would take improvements 300 feet further than Option l. Advantage: Basic i ment �J,ch as bicycle lanes and sidewalks would be extended 300 ft. Disadvantage: no land pin gate Option 3—Complete one side at a time(fell out o d is no'onger a consideration) McCauley: I prefer Option#2 because it gi a fety ad ):dges to bicyclists for a greater length. Lund: What is the timing from Phase 1 —Ph v Petrik: It depends on funding. Lund: Is there Utility infrastruc e t ' is goin to be put in during that time? Petrik: There is a regional W e, tf ro'ect armed in the area. Thomas: Is there any thou a , is istrict to help add funds to the project? Petrik: Clark Mapes, oL4 a'n la in is investigating funding options. Thomas: Option 2 is.ffi e utilitart Q ion 1 provides a more attractive frontage for businesses. Petrik: We are looking a c th opt ns to see which provides a better product. Jackson: If you uild a com%e�rcject, it gives people a view of what the corridor will eventually look like. We m short o uilding the entire project. Robert: Whi Non was the most cost effective?None. It is very expensive because it has to be phase Id we encourage the Council to study optional funding sources for the $6m shortfall?I'd like u on record asking them to look at that. ttk: u are in line with the North Fort Collins Business District. (" iley: If you break it into phases it could cost$17 million or more. P t It will be more expensive if we chop it up. Thomas: You get ahead on bonds because of the inflation factor. You are borrowing money at 2009/2010 value and repaying it at inflated values in 2015 and beyond. Thomas: If we found a revenue stream to bond against, it would take the incentive away for the business owners to pay for it through a special improvement district. Petrik: We are going to Council on July 28, 2009. Construction is planned for 2011. Jackson: The City made a verbal commitment to the NFCBA that construction will begin in 2011. Petrik: We have to use the Federal funds now. Jackson: CDOT is more flexible. Enhancement dollars have a tight turn-around as well. One thing we will approach Council with is to use the remaining$1.8m from the Truck Bypass effort. We have to spend money in 2010 for final design and right-of-way acquisition. We need $1.6m. Since there is no Transportation Board DRAFT - minutes July 15, 2009 Page 3 political traction in relocating a truck bypass out of Fort Collins and we are improving safety and making improvements to the current truck route it could be a good plan. Use of the funds can be a City Council decision without sending it to vote. Darin gave us approval to approach Council with the idea. Lund: New bicycle safety law? Petrik: The law takes effect August 5, 2009. It says that motorists must give cyclists 3' of space when passing. Cars are allowed to cross the lane line to give the room. Jenkins: The concern with Option 3 is diminished visibility because of the trees in the landscape. Petrik: Idaho and New York decided not to put something like that in place if there were more than 8 drive cuts per mile. We were planning on 25—30 per mile. Robert: What calls for the 8' wide bike lane? Petrik: The Larimer County Urban Area Street Standards call for that. McCauley: Do we currently have 12' lanes? @ Jackson: We have 12' lanes now. CDOT requirement. 6 Petrik: This is the vision. Any redevelopment would install the vision. Petrik: I would like your recommendation to include if you support Ie isio p n, ifyou support using Truck Bypass funds, and which option you prefer. , McCauley: 1 prefer Option 2 because the landscaping there is dismal. Lund: The distance between the vehicle lane and bike lane i " stripe. Something needs to be done about the new law that was just passed because you won' e able to give a cyclist 3' if two cars are side-by-side. Steen moved that the Transportation Board reco ends e North Ilege Improvements plan to City Council with the following provisions: • That the design option called"The Vision PI a s the preferred design alternative. • That the former truck by-pass fund tly re eyed by the voters be dedicated to this project. • That the Council consider, funding p ision such as bonding so that the project can be done all at one time to avoid diti al futur c sts. • However, if the project u D.ee all at one time, that the funding option that completes each s „pig Cl . 'ng Ian scaping be chosen. • And,that staf e reque to�stigate if additional striping is appropriate to meet the new state law on obile v bic cle separation. McCauley se nded. The Booted unanimously on point 1 —3 and favored point 4 seven to one with McCayyu , &ing no. What ix �yy Continukt:j.i oordination with City Departments, CDOT, NFCBA, TAC. cc'1 work session on July 28, 2009 b. T ansit Strategic Plan—Kurt Ravenschlag e Ravenschlag: We provided presentations to you on the P evelopment. T-Board wrote a recommendation after our last presentation approv' e direction of the Plan. Our Executive Summary is provided tonight. The entire re is finalized and will be posted on our project website tomorrow fcgov.com/tsp. We developed 6 goals uide the development of the Plan. 1. Develop an anded transit system focused on productivity and performance to meet the ' Trans on Master Plan and City Plan Policies. 2. and exceed the 2008 Climate Action Plan Goal for Transportation CO2 reductions by 2020. 6 v u t ° � 0 ^ O e• 0 Vy4Yll+lli:3:! ; I •— 00° ' t ° 0 /11i1 Council Liaison: Lisa Poppaw Staff Liaison: Steve Dush Chair: Brigitte Schmidt Phone: (H)o224-9418 kssr . Chair Schmidt called the meetingto order at 6:03 m. 'f''g('" p �fl �:111, , 4a 1'I k�,nStIft,,,. Roll Call: Campana, Carpenter, Lingle, Rollins lk,Schmidt," 'fth, and Stockover Staff Present: Dush, Tempel, Petrik, Ravenschlag,,and,S hez YSprague IOff ine n�@:, -91fflfln IT Agenda Review. Director Dush reviewed the agenda. I ` 8fi Inli�,, (J( i �y .al.4110 illfi�(l� Ikfy )y�flk�il'i nft�;. P^lMli +I1 ql, Citizen participation: None q�jGh PI n Consent Agenda: y^ �I'j,1Jigl, Chair Schmidt asked members of the audience, i dhthe Board if they,,4,;like to pull any items from the consent agenda. Chair Schmidt requested it {a2f%North College Corndorml„mpfovement Project—Phase II, Vine Drive to the Hickory/Conifer Inters ionbe p"ulledfrom the con sentvagenda. 1. Minutes from the June 18 2 Planning &Zo�rnng Hea in Hi > 3. Transit Strategic Plan;Up e,- Member Stockover move .4 o approve the consent"agenda which includes item # 1 June 18, 2009 NMIPlanning and Zoning ,rd HearinI minutes and item„# 3 Transit Strategic Plan Update. Member 1WWO- )n l91"f�7" Com ana seconde a motion ,flts,tt n The motion was, proved 71POjli���1'fl��l°�+ah4'' zll; f#,,w;�I!Hup���'� flljU , fu � �,yu, �n Chair Sc, noted whengRlans suth'rtas those noted on the agenda tonight are on the consent agenda Sc,1P 4owTu 4,ib gkiitJ4h it's beca a the Board haslal�eady reviewed lthem pretty thoroughly at a work session. Unless there are memb in the audience or on,,the Board�lZl o would like a further review, they remain on consent and a . P# u are proved!;as such. �j�"T, �s, I ;1147.?. ! !f Discussion Itemsc;golrf r� 2. North Colleges,Cofrridor,Hiprovement Project— Phase II, Vine Drive to the Hickory/Conifer 'l�u µp(4mna p Intersection try jH n,. Project: North College Corridor Improvement Project— Phase II, Vine Drive to the Hickory/Conifer Intersection Project Description: This is a request for a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning board for City Council for the July 28th City Council work session. The project area includes the portion of North College Avenue/US287 from Vine Drive north to the intersection of Hickory/Conifer streets. Recommended improvements for this ll/ Planning & Zoning Board July 16, 2009 Page 2 project include curb, gutter and minor street patching; redefinition and consolidation of driveways; bike lanes and sidewalks, new streetscape and other necessary improvements such as storm water facilities. Due to funding limitations, full build out of this project is expected to be done in phases as funding becomes available. Recommendation: Board's recommendation to City Council to approve the recommended preferred alternative, phasing and implementation plan. ytii k. Hearing Testimony, Written Comments and Other Evidence Transportation Planner Jennifer Petrik provided additional information ast'"requested by the Board at their work session on July 10`t The project vision was developed throu he nplu}t,1"fr'om the public, NFCBA , CDOT, property and business owners, Commission on Disabilities?o4Bicycle A'duvisory Committee, - Transportation and Planning and Zoning boards as well as various city departments. The vision plan Ci' ,PF'r y 'i1f71{7419 includes a reduced median width, two12 foot traveled lanes,l81,fo6tt!on--street bike lanes in each direction, pil YIV9011 curb and gutter, a 7.5 foot landscaped parkway and an 8 foot shared use path (see attached figure). This pIl Nei#1111114 vision plan continued to receive support from the public,when presented as the recomm, endedkpreferred alternative in July. f��i qiklj p{'u �� J, 1I� �, r•+'ay �1 n, The phasing options presented to the public at the July 8 OpenilHlouse included the following: 1. Complete improvements incrementally from South to Northi';!112,,,, 2. Perform limited improvements on outside edgesi �,ti 3. Improvements by side t.ltylltp 4 J) uIsuli - ';I�,, "�'*I''ligi1✓��I1�7t��rui 1,, The project Technical Advisory Committee JAC),has decldedr, no longer pursue phasing option 3. i6edI o, Below is a summary of the updated phasing optlo�,,s�that:ltihavelbegng developed by the TAC. g ,"71(�Pf!u I p i(0 f III Ijl(, li �Id �Illl Option 1: pmry gnlllii", i ui , ����IFil�t 191NBIN'M� inq 14 n i. ' Cost: $5.6 Million secured plus $600,0010 pending approval f, Limits: Vine to Pmon "tl � Nq Improvements Complete Improvements;alon%edges interim improvements at gateway, and minimal improvementslat�Hickory/Conlfer'ij f a`I�n1iJ�ili{E�lii 6i'r�lil'` Iuo��IIF9Nmn�lrtpa ml 11�(�U!in Bike lanes;,,shared useupath stor K 'ter facilities, curb and gutter, interim improvements at the gateway area between the Poudre iver and th`elLake Canal, topsoil, irrigation, electric, street trees, landscaping, pedestt,OhIOighting, street f hiture, blke'Irack§'and enhanced transit stops. 0 41jn11#sr 17a 1 ,71A d�111M�f1)v Cost Addltionali,$1.8 Million �l1.1 Limits: End of`R,h'ase I to 50' no of Hemlock Improvements: C"o_mplete improvements along edges, complete improvements at gateway, and minimal rt,-nnL�, nSIr improvements at Hiek�ory/Conifer. Bike lanes, shared use`9path 's'torm water facilities, curb and gutter, complete improvements at the gateway area between the",Poudre River and the Lake Canal, topsoil, irrigation, electric, street trees, landscaping, pedestrianfilighting, street furniture, bike racks and enhanced transit stops. Planning & Zoning Board July 16, 2009 Page 3 Option 2: Cost: $5.6 Million secured plus $600,000 pending approval Limits: Vine to just shy of Hemlock (approximately 300' north of Option 1) Improvements: Basic improvements along edges, interim improvements at gateway, minimal improvements at Hickory/Conifer. Bike lanes, shared use path, storm water facilities, curb and gutter, interim improvements at the gateway area between the Poudre River and the Lake Canal, topsoil, irrigation, electr,ic�street trees, erosion control native seeding. +„ I•Vy- a• 4l 6 p Cost: Additional $1.8 Million fix,hj,ln ( Limits: End of Phase I to 425' north of Hemlock (approximately 375f,north of°,Qption 1) Improvements: Basic improvements along edges, complete improvements at gateway, minimal lf improvements at Hickory/Conifer. 01110,1£ii4p� ,rq�� Bike lanes, shared use path, storm water facilities, curb and� mlgutter, complete improvepmtents at the gateway area between the Poudre River and the Lake Canal, topsoil, Irrigation, electric, str,eetftrees, rl 1 f NI III 111111III erosion control native seeding. +Ili. �II�'lflNll(hlfU plr 'I t'rOI. � ItR Below are the details that outline the advantages and disadvantages of each option. . •'llli i"al t. Advantages: i i,¢tslM. Disadvani:6s"�,, Option 1 Complete all improvements iri;oneip ;trm g ^P' �� Len th of im rovements 300-400 �rIA 4�NI ii t In M tt ,�Yb `. area fit °qIN,�1I1l"j jnfeet shorter thantoptlon 2 y yi�ly, • Visual impact of i I' NYI�i HI�•�F f [lllll streetscape/landscape p+ll �j �91rc�t9aI�n I, ,, Ijly 111Y„ ��p•- • Minimize disruptlorr,to individual fill p propertiespf��°mutt+y( �!;ff�� ly� jtx • Provld% teway to N910h College i 6,�. uj4rlufin ill N I I District x�Pltt�y uN ieJ, Yl�uly �jt i�ll�dri,. 1i liixifPiinni._ iuY4n"'' mx wxl. x:n1 uII�II1IlIl 101111'� (�I n* Option 2 • Bicycle and petlestrian 411u„l�IxI�I J!�S'jl'�J„�p�l in: Reduced gateway to North College u(glllmprovements provided for more ,tNti(d District a NAn Nr�:�6ar�, at l+wl length im feadh dlrectrormI�, • No Landscape or streetscape '�4Pmx�rrllpx. roursamN �fI Largest numtier of properties Completion of vision plan niilnnl"14, u iT" wrl �ll"'[1 in experiencing(some levelfwlslble construction requires work in front of t;SWIrW improvements I;I I/l. „ many properties more than once y'r��l�")���9qh�t, I , yt 'N{iin The project scheddle'11has beenl;accelerated in response to requests from the North Fort Collins Business Association (NFCBA)''?Thetotal''project funding secured is approximately $5.6 million dollars, with an additional $600,000 in fecie�al funds pending issuance by the NFR MPO. The estimate for design, right of way and construction of thxe project is between $12 million and $15 million dollars, depending on the level of improvements. Due to funding limitations, full build out of this project will be performed in phases as funding becomes available. The City is continuing to actively seek additional funding. Petrik said that business owners in the area said they'd prefer the complete improvements. They feel it would encourage development in the area. The Transportation Board at their meeting on July 15`h supports Option 1 with full improvements. Next steps are they continue coordination with CDOT, all City departments, the Technical Advisory Committee and the NFCBA. Staff will be going to City Council's July 281h work session and the September 1 regular city council meeting. At the July 281h work session Planning & Zoning Board July 16, 2009 Page 4 they will be talking about the recommended phasing Option 1 or 2 and whether the Council is supportive of the vision plan. After September 15f they will be going into preliminary and final engineering design followed by right-of-way acquisition with construction to begin in 2011. Petrik had two questions. Does the Board support and endorse the vision plan and does the Board have any recommendations or comments for the team to incorporate in the decision making process regarding Option 1 or Option 2? Board Questions: Member Campana asked what the total length of the proposed improvement"Is If'everything is done. Petrik said (Option 1) is about '/2 mile. Current Planning Director Dush„said to clarify Option 1 is complete improvements and is 300 feet less than Option 2. Cam pana"saldJ;It)appears with both options the median would not be put in. Petrik said correct—with the current level ofrfunding it would just be RMi stripped. 11 Q o ��I�ry (�1jlt�11 lY, in •n ta��,i ����'��ank Chair Schmidt asked about the possibility of getting the truck route funding ($1.8 million), � unr,,^n. Would that be added to current funding? Petrik said that't� . 41 something they'll be discussing with City A1044I'"h,. �n, ,I111,1 11�,1IFF01 Council at their work session on the 28`h. It could potentially be funding for Phase 2 improvements. Chair Schmidt asked what the next phase would be if Option Ttgbs 11-4 approved and completed. Petrik said it would be phase 3. Phase 1 is for the funding we have currentlyltl phase 2 ($1.8 million) would expand the basic improvements an additional 375 feet viand phase 3 when`funiied could be improvements all the way to the Conifer/Hickory intersection. W�.,ry �'ufgii�m, IjOA @llli�h10�i1 ,o'Iftj ; r ! Jt � i(�S'iPea., Member Campana asked if there are any safetydconcerns inHhe 300 feet (between Option 1 and 2). Petrik said safety concerns (accident location ("hothspots'�;)y'are;;ati,t7he,,.Hickory/Conifer intersection, in front of JAX, and at Vine Drive. Both options include interim" 'improvers is such as curb and gutter in front of x �x' .,al',o, 'fifxiidlir q�, JAX to provide a defined drive entrance. Chair Schmidt asked for clarification—her impression is if Option 1 is selected there,�irvould bek'nSoimprovements"jfrom Pinon up to the curb and gutter that will be done in front of JAX. ,Petnk;said that,is;l"correct. fiflN FF I, ,5 1��1' nugv uu,fu Member Lingle said we keep treferriq gl,tw0ption las�full Aimprovements and it really isn't because it doesn't' includeithefinedian—helthinks It's a�littlea isleading. Member Lingle said the current estimate trinu�'1ni:n'nrnla,«,» 'yn�run for the entire�iprotect Is $j1,2-.15 milli 1�ikls that a significant change from earlier estimates for the complete nary, ,C}unm(Plr 9flp1 ,1h. project?6s�Petrik said yes,•.tl -, ri inaI estimate was $8.2 in 2005 but prices have escalated since then so that's, difference. LingieFasked why,16ity Council placed it on the BOB ballot at only $5.6 million. He doesn�,t think the general public understands that the complete project will not be done. Petrik said she has a md'olthat states thatjCity Council decided to provide approximately ''/z of the $8.2 million project estimates(or,$4.8 million)!with a directive to staff to continue to try to find additional sources of fundingto make'u 'lKthe differen e INII!Uepif airy, 4 UJy�Hr. Member Carpenter Illll- t given the median is not going in with either Option 1 or 2, how disruptive is that going to be to in I . s in the area. Petrik said that one thing that needs to happen before medians go in is to have')circulator alleys and streets set (some of which will come with future development). Petrik said medians were always intended in a future phase. Chair Schmidt asked when the Greeley water line would cross College Avenue. Petrik said she doesn't have that answer right now. TAC will be having a "utility" meeting on July 17 to discuss details related to the various utilities in the area. I Planning & Zoning Board July 16, 2009 Page 5 Chair Schmidt said it appears the difference between the options is the landscaping. Schmidt asked if the space people will have to walk off the main road will be available for them. Petrik said yes. Chair Schmidt said part of CDOT's North College Access Plan was to assemble driveways in some fashion to limit access. Will that happen with either option? Petrik said both options have the same short-term access management plans from the North College Access Management Plan as a safety feature. Curb and gutter will be consolidating driveways and providing access; however, in some cases if it doesn't make sense because an existing building is still there; they will make interim modification improvements. Schmidt said that worries her a little due to the fact that shei,sees people driving along that center strip to get to the driveway they want. Petrik said the plan was`rtlioroi5ghly reviewed with Traffic Operations, Transportation Planning and Engineering staff as welPit., Larimer County staff and CDOT staff. � '�i4irlr�,�,� Chair Schmidt asked how many years it would be before the funding would cometfor the medians. Petrik says there's a lot of interest in this area and she's hopeful'•there will be potential funding sources. , 1 lillf� e �4)(;,f 'i 4�110�11,. Member Smith asked if NFCBA endorsed Option 1. Petrik said theytlhave a NFCBA repriejentative on TAC. That liaison has been a part of this team but he'�hasllnot made an,official stance 0WiI it her options. yaltr117I, nme. mpw She has received preference information from several members of NFCBA but not yet offcially from the ANV �Q. NFCBA. Smith said that he understand the organization has not!ltaken an official position but would like to know what member preferences have been expressed. Petrik(�said Option 1 with full landscaping and 7e,luan, streetscape improvements was preferred. Smith MOO tasked for the rationale behind those preferences. Petrik said they believe if you provide streetscapelielements such as Vertical trees and landscaping & pedestrian v„.av1 n , lso show development g nl the ng tarea that this is "starting tohat sets the stage for lhappfene�l���Wi�ht;the Colleq,e"'&46, Willoxg. tMa ket would aPlace project on the north and these improvements on the sou4h',I devielopmen-, .-V .provide improvements outside of City funding. � ip I� J „ Iy ;'ioilii lh f'lyN. ;ilr" Member Lingle said bothoptions, asi,cufrently funded��say"interim improvements at the gateway area '01611mn,. between the Poudre RiverAand Lake Canal'; what does',that mean? Petrik said we have the water quality 'ql`I,P,1A' Ill:1F t'AI"1I4r�'�� ponds that are required in bothloptionst those are our basic improvements in the gateway area. Light more com letepan one meat k sah, aN y»aLmgl(funding if the million) is secured, that would provide im lemeneatt Ipr�,ntern,lodle,jnenpt aatl;�le� atew'pi6 ��tm11 Tn�Iv landscaping is tanned f hen p �g {1 II e,asked if the extra improvements are easy to l a q it 1. an additional $300,000 and it's primarily landscaping. p f Ir.,r p .�n'n ntlinyjl�q• e;o�1111 fy1n. ,P ,,IKM I R,i4 �Ili�lli�illlil0n P Chair,Schmidt asked PetrikI,tojspeak to the whole right-of-way issue. Schmidt asked if we have any right"of way,!�along the road or.isitlpiecemeal. Petrik said we do not currently have right-of-way. In order px to acquire rightLof-way, final des§gn plans must be submitted before right-of-way acquisition starts. Schmidt askedlwhen new businesses such as Auto Zone came in was right-of-way dedicated at that time. Petrik said'When any devdelopment comes in they are required to dedicate the right-of-way and do improvements suc st'landscaping and detached sidewalk to the Larimer County Urban and Street Standards. We do ha've;,several new businesses in the area with the required improvements. 'wP�Prydt Chair Schmidt said it appears part of the cost for Option 1 is to obtain all the associated right-of-way and wait until we got additional funding to keep obtaining right-of-way as we go; with Option 2; we'd get the right-of-way at this point in time. Petrik said that is a good observation. TAC will be getting together on July 17th with all the information they've received from the Boards & Commissions to weigh the different pros and cons for each option, and to look at strategies for which one would be best for potentially getting additional funding. Right of way acquisitions is on the July 17th meeting agenda. �V Planning & Zoning Board July 16, 2009 Page 6 Member Stocker said it might be beneficial to discuss which element inflates faster—property'or materials. He said they are likely to go up an equal percentage over time. Member Lingle said with Option 2 we get an extra 300 feet (without landscaping). Does that 300 feel also end at a logical place like the north side of Pinon in Option 1? Petrik said in the conceptual phase in order to show people how far the limits could go they needed to show in those increments; however, in the preliminary and final design, it'll be in a logical place. Public Input: None irJ( v x: Board Questions: Chair Schmidt asked Petrik how she's like the Board to proceed. Petrik saidishe's like to have an endorsement (or not) of the vision plan. Secondly, like to,i,knowoif the B666' refers recommending Option 1 or 2; or would they provide comments she would takeo4ithe TAC on Julyf1t7ch 110T, Member Lingle asked to confirm the vision plan is the ultimx ate build out of the entire length -everything in YIJI<4ggr r x4 her PowerPoint presentation. Petrik said yes. �sr iuti�j'ir@@.221If��`` i1r�q �Ix y'f IU` ilSUi Ff�;jlQ�'p�l�l'bs N Member Campana made a motion to recommend approval4of,the vision plan for the North College Corridor Improvement Project— Phase II, Vine Drive to the Hickory/Conifer Intersection as �r presented. Member Smith seconded thAhotion. l;'� 1 r�x1Gy I jf111(:r , Motion Discussion Wl1N�iallill�rfl,n Chair Schmidt asked if the vision plan would go as far as WilI Ix when funding becomes available. Petrik said she'd assume so -- it would be looked at ag'1, on�e vvel^'gent,e,,5�additional funding. Member Carpenter asked for.clanfcation—the vision plan is the whole length of College is that correct. ip�;na,+�a4 Petrik said the vision plan is for the pNoject area (Vinej�o Hickory/Conifer Intersection.) Carpenter asked if there'd be another vision plan depending on which option is selected. Petrik said she would think the M^m mlrx Itnlx 'l .�u;n tr same general vision would'ibe continued north but that would be up for discussion at the next phase of planning/funding °�dry� r� i �it��ijgilNiil, prw,w � �,tl�914'0',�Irt ebglfFlf�lllfigl'1�1'nq�narHux, a7(mxlptni, Member Lingle-askediifathe.vision would thematically be a continuation of phase 1 improvements done emut. viO�PrCri."" `Ufl".9 to from Jefferson to the River"l4n'terms of�s�t, t lighting styles and amenities or is it potentially completely diffe�entflO.,etrik said, in fact;l�flas a part of the;!outreach different streetscape themes were presented to the public` They had cultural arid�histo i inndustrial, and outdoors (natural) themes. The industrial and outdoors themes showed favor(with the public so the streetscape improvements will be along those lines. Member -ampana,�said when h�eyreferred to vision plan he was speaking to what was shown in the handouts—a planriedl�v flew and!!;a section view of the project area. Is that the plan staff is referring to and seeking Board recommendation? Petrik said the cross section is what she's really referring to with regard to vision plan. pY�, Member Lingle said that's not the same thing he thought he heard when we asked about the PowerPoint presentation—it has all the themes in it. Lingle said we're not recommending any of the project elements such as streetscape themes; is that correct. Petrik said not the themes. The themes are the type of materials for benches or transit stops and the artistic flair that come in later stages. The request is just the cross section—the median width, the bicycle lane width, the width of the landscaped parkway and the width of the shared use path. Lingle said the only comment is that when he hears the term vision plan, he assumes it would include all those things that we're not including. I ' Planning & Zoning Board July 16, 2009 Page 7 Chair Schmidt said we could certainly entertain the idea of changing the motion and adding some specifics—that our recommendation is to go with a preferred alternative of the road cross-section. Member Carpenter asked when will the themes be determined and by who. Petrik said that would all be determined in preliminary and final engineering depending on if the streetscape and landscaping element is part of the scope—at a later phase if not. Schmidt said that makes sense because if Option 2 is selected there would not be any discussion of design elements. Petrik said if Option 1 is selected than Arts in Public Places would be on board using the public preferences to move'forward with a design. Director Dush said to clarify the first recommendation is a recommendation on the vision which is simply the cross section, not the themes relative to design, for the project area40d'(Hickory to Vine). The second recommendation is the option relative the improvements within that,area based"upon the identified tl�f Yd) funding. Petrik said that's correct. Member Rollins, said she's a little confused because typically what the Board wouldsdetermine is if the v qu 11111 vision meets a higher level plan adopted by the City andOf.it's in lineywith City Plan. It 411. would end there and we wouldn't get into financing or some of the other derails. She's1confused as to why�lwe're not just saying this looks like this is supportive of a higher level plan7�inghich1Pfanning &Zoning,Board would have been more intimately involved. Schmidt said she doesn,t;IwaAnt'to speak for Jennifer(Petrik) but she thinks this is probably tied into and meets the goals of the North°College Corridor Plan starting with BOB and moving forward to develop the whole area.,t,Within that Plan thereeare some guidelines with regard to 7in11 streetscapes. Carpenter said yes, but usuallyw✓henpwe have that; it's aj!part of,the recommendation �!o Ijnitll hititr° -144 gll"ti,-,qd (facts, findings and conclusions in a staff report)„so 4tl ey d,,know If yes, indeed, this does meet those objectives. Carpenter agrees that it's confusingfy��SchmI t�`s`;ays,llthis Is a (little different,because this whole North College project is a bit different. This is a lithe urnq ue—they re;tseeking more feedback rather than a specific recommendation. Are,we in agreemeni in forward,4'because we'll be looking at development proposals on,thls`cor'rid'or and this will'i"arl'�eady be I place? � ��Iy 'IiCI �"tw't;� rrl�i��id !l`� Member Campana saidhe.d,like to revise his motion. ,nun'. ilU' !D�'n+llih Member Campana made wimotion to.make a recommendation to approve the vision plan in the 0041 "Yu,, 'tiff framework of the cross section,that haslibeen presented in the project area boundaries (from Vine 1u190fW . 191f1f'¶ *dhxnlai•pill", Drive to inte rsect olmpof Hickorp&I.Conlfer),.,Member Smith seconded the motion. 41ji Member,.Rollrns said she s,not�going tw�suApport the motion because what she needs to see is a vision plan that4supports the components of a-higher level plan. She's certainly not opposed to it—it looks wonderful!6utshe just feels sh'eCuvould have to say no. Schmidt said that's certainly what might need to is be taken info":consideration as it"moves forward to CitV Council because there might be some City Council memb4e that are also fo'oking for that kind of connection to the North College Corridor Plan. Member Lingle said;ithere just could be a finding (that the design as its progress to this point) is .,;erFn consistent with the North College Corridor Plan. Petrik said they have been working with Clark Mapes (author of the North Colleo%;,Corridor Plan) on the Technical Advisory Committee JAC). Petrik said the Larimer County Urban A"[ea'Street Standard has the elements for this type of arterial. They are modified—the median width is narrowed, the landscaped parkway has been narrowed to 7 '/2 feet from. 10 feet, and the sidewalk has been expanded by 2 feet to 8 feet. Member Smith said that besides being an obvious health and safety improvement in a technically blighted area; he does recall City Plan calls for focused, economic redevelopment activities in certain pockets throughout town. He doesn't know how it addresses North College but he does remember that it does. He understands Rollins' concern but the vision statement is linked to statements contained within City Plan. He's comfortable with it for that reason. - � a Planning & Zoning Board July 16, 2009 Page 8 Member Schmidt said the people that have been working on the different phases—Clark Mapes and others-- are very familiar with those plans and NFCBA has certainly been very assertive in trying to help get funding and really pushing this through. That might be why it's on an accelerated timeline. Maybe not all the "t's have been crossed but it's something that can be improved. Clark Mapes may need to be a part of the discussion on how it all ties in with the appropriate plans. Member Carpenter said she thinks the need for safety and improvement is this area is so great that while she shares some of Rollins' concerns she thinks she can stretch it--put it unydelfiCity Plan and the basic North College Improvements project. This is important enough and a big�ienough improvement in a place that so badly needs it that she will be supporting it. The motion passed 6:1 with Rollins dissenting. , 5.` Chair Schmidt asked the Board how they'd like to proceed with lthe.;Moptions; do they4iwant a motion recommending one or the other or would they just like to 44m5, ke comments pro or conk niiulgi�y, V'ib, )iU41�i1A1'On'^h`� Member Campana said the thinks they should make,a motion for one:,option or the otherlso)Petrik will q 0!mm gu !10 . !'I have a concrete recommendation. x,ir, ,llj+ „n.� 41J� Member Stockover would agree with that because it is a recommendation—we're voicing what the Board ,A,,, 111 RUJI prefers then City Council will look at that alonggith all the other recommendations. P���iJ',i�i�"flin,�. Member Smith said a lot of the financial issuesffalthough,he's interested))"are,not relevant to the Board's purview. He thinks from a planning perspective.&iperhapsYeven�an economic development perspective; lie's pretty close to being able to recommend Option 1 after"he'aring,�NF,CBA member preferences. He said you'd be extending the vritalityof downtown tothejnorth and youlcan show potential developers what the full flavor will be. Whemyo&-book, with what will occur at the North College Market Place (King Soo ersproperty, he thrrks you tiavreia great o or't�unit to real) stimulate redevelopment through the P ) Y jf" 9 pP Y Y P 9 assistance of the NorthlCollege UrbanLRenewal Authority. He said the disruption of business is `TR31: . J fl��f1 �I,flu�.'r significant so if you can minimize thatand set the tone fo[;the full length of development, he thinks it would be pretty powerful and.ifiwouI' r'obably a(c� hieve+s`ome results pretty quickly. i f' ut,�y na 1�9 of i.tlsy„ uJ7IN)I!I)iI IffilV�I rrnlp" 4 )f 91 11uv+�fill1'Fe Chair Schmidt said ifffib4 s,the motion, she won t be supporting it. She certainly understands the feeling mm" a Ia,ptlp all.Mill lb,. of the NFCBA and the idearfof havingla6gateway—we already have that as you come towards the bridge. It's good o say more funding;fis;going to come and we II go further but in her mind the safety features are most important for citizens andIthe furthest'we can go with that the better. There are going to be other disruptions'w,itn,6redevelopmenQ§b trees''and other features can be put in at the time of redevelopment. She would su 6q,, tion 2. � n;t;;,,,.p u`iul xip�ij. J�� Member Carpenter"says she's,tieen going back and forth as well. She would agree with Schmidt if it were going enough fii°ither,tgmake a difference. With just 300 feet (they're not even getting to another intersection), the chanceslof getting the funding and having the redevelopment actually happen are better. You can see that=vitality coming into the North College area much more than you can with Option 2. She'll be supporting Option 1. Member Stockover said he could go either way also but the thing that's "tipping" him is the sooner you get the trees planted, the bigger they get. He thinks its curb appeal that spurs development and without the landscaping, he feels it would look like a project that's incomplete. Planning & Zoning Board July 16, 2009 Page 9 Schmidt said she doesn't know that curb appeal will be the answer or the Albertson project would have spurred more redevelopment than it has. Schmidt said the work of the NFCBA and hopefully the King Soopers project will make the difference. She agrees with Carpenter's point that 300 feet is not a whole lot. She's hoping the truck route money will come in and they will be able to do more but she just worries they'll have these segments (like Albertson's) but they'll be there by themselves with "no where" lands in between. Member Stockover says he rides his bike the full length of North College from Country Club Road to Cherry two to three times per week. He said it's not as unsafe as you wouldrthink. It is a little rough but f p:I y�r. it is plenty wide except for a couple of narrow spots. In his opinion, 300 feet,would,not change anything. You're going to have nice sidewalk to nowhere until you get to King Soo and AThertsons. No matter what,you're going to have a big gap in the middle. He thinks if you start so I, finish it. He doesn't All 18 nN think it's as big a safety issue from the bike and pedestrian perspective. It snot,nice, smooth or clean but it is plenty wide. Crossing the driveways is more of an issue,,bu'tt`you're go n 'ito have that anyway. 1 r,� 111. 1.,,I N • 4tl u�tr(r�. rg�f�irl��,wlh2, "�f Member Campana said with either option we're addressing') the hot spots". He IikesOption 1 more 14iri, because we just need to finish it as complete as possible (short of the center medlan).a'114 ust>can't image putting in that improvement and not landscaping it it doesn't rnarke sense for about"{r, more length of walk and curb. ri f`�j"I�iill`i1 r,Iol 411 Z4ft�{liut<4%�a��! Member Smith said to show a completed section is important especially in this economy. It provides some vision in the contrast between the oil.teI�understands some•{ofithe other opinions but he thinks to be able to make a bold design statement and(tol 'how the business owners and developers is the better nr R' �bmrru4 ry, rq,INS••.Mly way to go. To say this is what we're going to d6 a-hdRin-thellong term wetire`going to take it all the way north) would accelerate some of the redevelopment ideas!Ibetween King Soopers and Vine. i, IQ11, i, „�1�I8ii1fii r�tIfil,is�m i r ifi Chair Schmidt said she could,certainly support Option4ty She'dlikhef,'either option to have the note the . intent is to go further as sob6fa"V'weylfcan. If we cou"U'add that to tK6 language, maybe it'll spur additional um° drl discussions. She can support Opti'o.H ill so long as staff believes that the team will carry that goal forward. Petrik said,the,Lteam is certainly looking for additional funding consistently and constantly to 'yfiA.0 ) provide the funding gap fog°�thel full vision. it � ��7alf 1, to a 1,)iialiv8�n irarrp,,,;vp �ru,� Member Rollins�a"sked m the North College Corndor;�PIan was-there priority given to pedestrians and rlrp•oaur6rMugdPni"nw."y. nr�a�im, , bicyclists over landscapingre Petri said she d have to get back to her on that as Clark Mapes is the expert and she's been '6�e{focusedforrlthis particular part of the project. She's not as familiar with it as nif IliYw. Clark,woulldybe. Schmidt d6es �'t recall the Plan had that kind of priorities. There may have been statemehtsrthat they were all important �E dPmi�• „ � � C^ n I"117fl1a Member Lingle'saiyd{{,he's defimt i,'!in the Option 1 camp for all the reasons already mentioned: fl�iil"Il" 1111' Member CampanAMt 5cle a motion to recommend Option 1 for the North College Corridor Improvement Project;fr,om;yine Drive to Hickory/Conifer. Member Smith seconded the motion. The motion passed 7:0"d'c„-"" Chair Schmidt said is sounds as if staff is still working through a lot of different facets and that options could technically change. Petrik said it that would depend on what would be more strategic to getting additional funding. What we hear from you is you want to see complete improvements, however, if it's more strategic to pull one section out for a year because we might get additional funding source; we could definitely modify things. Schmidt asked if you varied from the option, you would always opt for more completeness not less. Lingle agreed. He understands there are other things associated with why the medians are not being done right now (access and all those issues) but that would be his L3 Planning & Zoning Board July 16, 2009 Page 10 preference—as opposed to extending interim improvements. Member Campana and Member Smith agree. Chair Schmidt said that would be another take-away comment—the direction would be towards more completeness. Member Carpenter said another thing she'd like staff to take away is what Member Smith said. We have done projects in the City in the past that have put businesses out of business and she thinks its really important with street improvements where people can get in and can't shop. She thinks its' very important that we pay close attention to disrupting the businesses as little as possible so they can continue to be there. Member Rollins wanted to thank Petrik for all her hard work. �!_� Member Smith agreed. This is important work, it's tough work, and lI'',it s wor'4k'R 1nan area which for a generation or longer has needed drastic improvements. This is�the right direction,�N. He's proud of being r4.'76-. ,s r a part of getting this going—recreating some vibrancy and betterrhealth & safety on,?North College. ° l�r l , �1A III Ili Ilb Chair Schmidt also wanted to thank Petrik and the whole team that has been working' gI'lithis project. l f Niu. vpy I mt`II npb• dIY 1WYIryB7p�yp I „7 YI�N'rN1l r `'(4}�iltlP,{In 1°(@�r7„j,k. �II� Other Business: a4,I� �z f To' � +� Ill None ^�.�r ri... &�,ru Meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m. n tu�u�run I I !! ppp Up y�� 16, 11 i If�lY al 1p1�iPi i° dNG° nnurn rcul8l. Steve D'usih IAi,!Ii iJ�C•u'uqy rI�r!5n�.e u�fyyI!In�(�u:(trII�Y1,+ypp-uPjl.Ul�1fl1a 11i�Nr1flaV�n n IIr(pq11Wni r'iIiI�„'np-Na.n 1�T,1r�1A g n r�llItuD1I ir)'�e.'q�+l�tc!g•�u t�(oN+u�tl t1i9vYpg9rr(lil�flr , i Br�nP g' 1I, i1 i5f_1t �tI+e� Schmidt, Chair 01 ut Fl I v1II TAMI N IP n 1.� �ly .YV'ti tl,,tt14 71�•h ar , 41 f9�I(F1111i. q0T I n eIa fNNN ll., NI(ilf v f1�N�111�, ,i I •�ii ei'�nl II •A�tl•I�rIA . July 18, 2009 To Whom It May Concern: On behalf of the Fort Collins Commission on Disability,we would like to express our full support for the North College Improvement plan. Specifically,the option which has an on street, 8' bike lane,with a landscape buffer and an 8'shared use path.The plan will allow plenty of space for use by pedestrians, bicyclist, and people in wheelchairs.This option will give bicyclist the choice of using either the bike lane or the shared use path. By having an 8' shared use path,there will be plenty of room for everyone. The landscape buffer will offer added safety considering North College is heavily used by cars and trucks of all sizes. We also see this plan as increasing access and independence for members of the community who have disabilities. Considering that this stretch of college is very dangerous and difficult to navigate in its present state,for people in wheelchairs. In sum,the North College Improvement plan is a proactive measure that will increase mobility for the general population. It will also serve as a much needed face lift for an area of town that could greatly benefit from improvements,such as those included in this project. Sincerely, Terry Schlicting Chairman Fort Collins Commission on Disability 15 North Fort Collins Business Association Positively Impacting Fart Collins' Ncrthern Gateway 1475 N. College Ave. FL Collins, CO 80524 (970) 484-5384 i July 20, 2009 i I City of Ft. Collins Attention: Mayor Hutchinson, Mayor Pro Tern Ohlson, City Manager Darin Atteberry, and Council Members Roy, Manvel, Troxell, Poppow, and Kottwitz City Hall West 300 LaPorte Avenue P. O. Box 580 Fort Collins, CO 80521 i Dear Mayor, Council Members, and City Manager: li We appreciate all the hard work that you and City Staff have done to come up with the necessary improvements that need to happen in North Ft. Collins, specifically in regards to the North College Avenue BOB improvement i project. As it stands now, there are two preferred options on the table for these improvements. Although these options factor in monies that are currently available to complete a portion of the BOB project, the North Ft. Collins Business Association feels that now is the time to step up to the plate and make this project whole. The NFCBA would request that full improvements be made all the way from Vine to Conifer. According to the information we have seen, it is estimated that the cost to complete the entire stretch is approximately $10 Million. We strongly urge City Council to move monies that were originally slated for a truck-by-pass into this North College Project. With the current base money of $6.2 million, the addition of these truck bypass monies would bring us to a total of $8 million in current funding. That only leaves the City $2 million short of a completed project. We would request and urge City Council to completely close the $2 million gap with monies from surplus of the general fund. We would request and suggest that this additional $2 million would be in the form of a loan and that it would be paid back to the City from URA funds as development progresses within the URA boundaries. This would enable the City to complete a full project on North College, giving this portion of the corridor sidewalks, gutters, bike lanes, landscaping and storm water improvements that are so much needed in the area. What a great beginning to jump starting many more great things that can happen to this neglected area. The NFCBA strongly urges City Council to designate the funding for the complete North College BOB project. Without this additional funding, it literally leaves the project in bits and pieces with no funding guarantees for the foreseeable future. Re ards, 2• Dean R. Hoag President North Ft. Collins Business Association North Fort Collins Business Association (NFCBA) Minutes I of supply drive for at-ri udents July 22, 2009 .—ons, monetary or y, can be - - ---- dropped of at any Great Western Bank location or Realities For ren, 1610 S. College Ave. by August 9`' Partners Mentoring Youth: Greg Sothe- Partners is serving appro 0 youth ages 7-17 in Larimer County. They provide opportunities for adult mentor youth in our community. Commitment for a senior partner is 3 hours week. Wait for a child to get a mentor/partner is 5 months for girls and Iyear oys. Partners needs more senior partners, especially men. There are also op nities to volunteer on a every-other-month basis at an established event or to get r entire company involved. Partners Superstars is August 22°d. There are 4 team s left. Please contact Greg Sothe for more information. \ North College Improvements: I. Jennifer Petrik presented Option I and Option 2 of the North College Improvement Plan. Option I would include curb & gutter, bike lanes, pedestrian facilities, landscaping and streetscaping and would go as far as $6.2 million will take us from south to north. Option 2 would have the same curb and gutter improvements with bike lanes and pedestrian facilities, but no landscaping or streetscaping. Those would come later when more funds were available. Option 2 construction would stretch a little further north with the $6.2 million than Option 1. 2. Dean Hoag stated that he sent a letter to City Council asking for them to find the money to get the whole job done with all the funding instead of"putting a band-aid on the project."NFCBA members agreed that they would like to see this happen. Monica also stated, and many agreed, that the project seemed extremely expensive and wondered if there was any way to do the road improvements in a less costly manner. 3. Jennifer stated that a big chunk of the cost was the drainage system—there is currently no storm water drainage system at all on North College, so it is a huge expense to have to go in and build one before repaving the road and adding sidewalks. 4. Neil asked if Advanced Planning has looked in to a Mill Levy for financing. Joe Frank said, from what they have researched so far, Mill Levy would only bring in about $250,000, but yes, they are considering it as a funding source. 5. Members agreed that they would like to first and foremost push for further funding to get the entire improvement funded. Secondly, after much discussion, business owners on College stated that they wanted as little disruption to their businesses as possible, and did not like the idea of Option 2 disrupting their business and its access more than once. The group agreed that those with businesses directly on N. College .should have the highest weighted opinion on N. College Improvements because their businesses would be affected the most by the construction. Overall the group agreed that Option 1 would be the best for N. College businesses. Outcome: NFCBA favors Option 1 of North College Improvements Project. There was no recommendation of support or lack of support for conceptual design at this meeting. Meeting adjourned 8:37 a.m. /r7 ATTACHMENT 4 North College Improvements Project - Phase II, Vine Drive to the Hickory/Conifer Intersection Conceptual Design Report, September 1, 2009 (Executive Summary) The entire Plan and appendices are available at: www.fegov.com/northeollege ' n ATTACHMENT 4 North College Improvements Project: Phase II Vine Drive to the Hickory /Conifer intersection Conceptual Design Report ` September 1, 2009 i 1< "Mm.ww. yy � Prepared By: it City of assmates Fort Collins North College Improvements Project: Phase II Conceptual Design Report NORTH COLLEGE IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT: PHASE II Vine Drive to the Hickory/Conifer Intersection Conceptual Design Report Prepared for: City of Fort Collins 250 North Mason Street Fort Collins, CO 80522 Project Manager: Jennifer Petrik Prepared by: Stolfus & Associates, Inc. 5690 DTC Boulevard, Suite 101 W Greenwood Village, CO 80111 303-221 -2330 Project Manager: Michelle Hansen, P.E. In association with: Design Workshop Ayres Associates PBS&J Farnsworth Group 120 E. Main Street DEsIGNWORKSHOP 3665 JFK Parkway ARM 4601 DTC Boulevard j j� 3538 JFK Parkway Farnsworth �Aspen, CO 81611 Building 2, OCI^Ta Suite 700 1 Suite 3 GROUP 970-925-8354 Suite 200 Denver, CO 80237 Fort Collins, CO 80525 Richard Shaw, AICP Fort Collins, CO 80525 303-221 -7275 970-266-1066 970-223-5556 Carrie Wallis, P.E., AICP, LEED Dave Difulvio, PLS Andrea Faucett, P.E. aces Fort Collins North College Improvements Project: Phase II Conceptual Design Report ACKNOWLEDGEMENT A sincere acknowledgement to City Council, Transportation Board, participating Boards and Commissions, City Staff and all of the Technical Advisory Committee members for their diligent efforts throughout the conceptual design process. Their efforts have helped achieve the successful completion of the Conceptual DEesign. Technical Advisory Committee Jennifer Petrik — City Project Manager, Transportation Planning Christina Vincent — Urban Renewal Authority Kyle Lambrecht — City Project Engineer, Engineering Bruce Vogel — City Light and Power Kathleen Bracke — City Transportation Planning Bill Whirty — City Parks Roger Buffington — City Water Tim Tuttle — CDOT Region 4 Nicole Hahn - Transfort Michael Bello - NFCBA Marsha Hilmes-Robinson — City Floodplain Administration Michelle Hansen — Stolfus & Associates Project Manager Lindsay Kuntz — City Real Estate Specialist Elizabeth Stolfus — Stolfus & Associates Steve Lukowski — City Parks Richard Shaw — Design Workshop Clark Mapes — City Advanced Planning Ashley Allis — Design Workshop Ellen Martin — Art in Public Places Andrea Faucett — Ayres Associates Joe Olsen — City Traffic Engineer Jaclyn Michaelsen — Ayres Associates • Pam Opiela — City Historic Preservation Carrie Wallis — PBS&J Sue Paquette — City Utilities Jeff Kullman — PBS&J Brian Pederson — City Real Estate Specialist Anna Smith — PBS&J Glen Schlueter — City Stormwater Dave Difulvio — Farnsworth Group City Staff City Council Transportation Board Boards & Commissions Darin Atteberry — City Manager Doug Hutchinson, Mayor Gary Thomas, Chair Planning & Zoning Board Diane Jones- Deputy City Manager Kelly Ohlson, Mayor Pro-Tem, Dist. 5 Olga Duvall Bicycle Advisory Committee Jeff Scheick — Planning Development Ben Manvel, District 1 Sara Frazier Commission on Disabilities Transportation Director Lisa Poppaw, District 2 Bill Jenkins North Fort Collins Business Mark Jackson — Transportation Group Aislinn Kottwitz, District 3 John Lund Association Director Wade Troxell, District 4 Kip Mcauley Helen Migchelbrink — City Engineer David Roy, District 6 Shane Miller Rick Richter — Engineering and Capital Edmond Robert Projects Manager Sid Simonson John Stephen — Purchasing Garry Steen Sandy O'Brien — Financial Coordinator Scott VanTatenhove City of a� �� t_ Coltins �� North College Improvements Project: Phase II Conceptual Design Report Executive Summary North College Avenue, also US Highway 287 and Colorado State Highway 14 (north of Jefferson Street), is a major north-south route through the City of Fort Collins which provides the northern entryway into the City. The arterial provides both local and regional connectivity and carries a large volume of interstate truck traffic. Over time, citizens have expressed concern about the corridor's physical condition, as well as, associated challenges to economic prosperity. Through previous planning efforts, the City identified needs to create a gateway into the City, to improve mobility for the traveling public, including bicyclists and pedestrians, and to establish a strong connection to downtown along the Poudre River. In 2005, Fort Collins voters approved the Building on Basics (BOB) 1/4 cent sales tax to fund capital projects, including improvements on the North College Avenue between Vine Drive and Conifer Street. In addition, the City has secured State and Federal funding for construction of improvements between Vine Drive and the Conifer/ Hickory intersections. Project costs are anticipated to exceed appropriated funds. The purpose of this Conceptual Design effort was to establish a roadmap for constructing improvements to North College Avenue between Vine Drive and the Conifer/Hickory intersections. As part of this effort, the project team developed a strategy for funding the proposed improvements, identified potential funding sources for project elements, and developed a plan for executing a 2011 construction project, using appropriated funds. Project Goals Previous planning efforts combined with input from project stakeholders including the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), City Staff, Colorado Department of Transportation, North Fort Collins Business Association (NFCBA) and the general public were used to establish the following project goals: • Begin construction of proposed improvements between Vine Drive and Conifer Street in 2011 • Create a safe and effective travel corridor for all users including large trucks, passenger vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, and transit users • Support the economic viability of the project area • Upgrade the image of the North College Corridor • Maintain compatibility with existing and proposed utilities, including stormwater, water, sewer, electric • Provide a phased implementation plan • • Maintain compatibility with the intent of previous local planning efforts In addition, several required project elements were identified. These elements, listed below, are necessary for permitting, preserving funding eligibility, receiving construction clearances, and ultimately for constructing the proposed improvements. • Meet BOB ballot language • Meet Floodplain Administration's requirements within Poudre River Floodway • Meet State Water Quality requirements • Follow Federal, State, and Local right-of-way acquisition process Criteria for measuring the effectiveness of solutions were established prior to concept development. The measures of effectiveness were used subsequently to evaluate and compare potential solutions. Project Coordination and Public Involvement The City of Fort Collins initiated the North College project with strong support from the NFCBA and the community at large. Based on the State Highway designation and the Federal—Aid status of the project, CDOT provided project oversight. A Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) was established to engage agencies, city departments, and stakeholders in developing the Conceptual Design and prioritizing project elements for implementation. The TAC consisted of representatives from City Departments, CDOT, the NFCBA, and the consultant team. The public, including corridor property owners, tenants, potential developers, advocacy groups, City Council, City boards and commissions, business associations and the general public, were engaged in the project using multiple techniques. The following groups actively participated: • City Council • Commission on Disabilities • Transportation Board • North Fort Collins Business Association (NFCBA) • Planning and Zoning Board . Urban Renewal Authority Citizen Advisory Group (URA CAG) • Bicycle Advisory Committee U Page I i City of _ � aces � tf1 North College Improvements Project: Phase II Conceptual Design Report The following events and techniques engaged the public in the project: • 3 Public Open Houses held on April 8, 2009, May 21, 2009 and July 8, 2009. Community • Planning & Zoning Board —June 12, 2009 and July 16, 2009 Workshop held on May 6, 2009. • Bicycle Advisory Committee—June 8, 2009 and July 13, 2009 • ROW meeting held on June 23, 2009. • Commission on Disabilities —June 11, 2009 and July 9, 2009 Property Owner One-on-One Meetings held on July 16, 17, and 21, 2009. . NFCBA— regular monthly meetings • Transportation Board Meetings— May 20, 2009 and July15, 2009 . Project website, www.fcgov.com/northcollege. • City Council Work Sessions—June 9, 2009, and July 28, 2009 On average, 70 people attended the Public Open Houses. Attendees provided valuable input and helped shape the overall Conceptual Design. The public responded positively to the Conceptual Design and phasing approach. City Staff will seek City Council approval of the Conceptual Design and phased implementation plan at the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on September 1, 2009. Existing Conditions The project area encompasses approximately 1/2 mile of North College Avenue between Vine Drive and Hickory Street. The roadway is a four-lane, urban highway with a two-way left turn lane throughout most of the corridor. The highway is generally shouldered with open, uncontrolled access, and limited storm drainage facilities. Corridor users include automobiles, heavy truck traffic, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Designated facilities for bicyclists and pedestrians are not continuously available. In general, land use along the project corridor is commercial and light industrial. Partial right-of-way acquisition of multiple properties is anticipated as part of the project due to additional width need for proposed improvements. A portion of the project lies within the Poudre River floodway. Construction of improvements in the floodway is limited for public safety reasons. Conceptual Design Development The Conceptual Design for the project was developed using data, technical analyses, industry design standards, and input from the City, CDOT, TAC, NFCBA, and the general public. The project team developed three primary concepts: Standard Arterial Option, Intermediate Option, and the Minimum TAC Option. The options varied in median width, types and widths of bicycle/pedestrian facilities, landscaping areas, and ROW impacts. The Intermediate Option, with minor modifications, is recommended as the Conceptual Design alternative. Refer to Section 3 for details on the design options considered and evaluation process. The Conceptual Design is illustrated in cross-section in Figure ES-1 and includes the following: • 12' through lane width (exclusive of the curb and gutter) • 11' auxiliary lane width (exclusive of the curb and gutter) ; tta • 15' raised, landscaped median—4' median with 11' left turn lane 79 I 8' 70 B' tP 17 1B• 12 12 C 7.S 8' I 15' • 8' detached shared use path } .� *+� ,•.�uP. *• .a MTI �IITl1 lAK IN! NDl�1 MTI r • 7.5' irrigated landscape buffer(inclusive of 0.5' curb head) • 8' on-street bike lane (inclusive of 2' gutter) • 110' ROW width dl • Potential 15' utility easement • A combination of Outdoors/Natural theme with addition of Artistic elements • Native, drought resistant plantings including street trees, shrubs, and ground coverings Pedestrian lighting, enhanced intersection crossings, transit stop amenities, street furnishings • Gateway Entry between Poudre River and Lake Canal compatible with floodway Traditional storm sewers stem with water quality ponds a /I requirements • Y q tY P Pedestrian bridge crossings at Lake Canal • Utility accommodation within the proposed ROW, wherever possible ' • Side-by-Side Left-Turn Option at Conifer/Hickory intersection 2.5'CURB AND GUTTER 25CURB AND GUTTER • Long-term realignment option Conifer/Hickory intersection 1.5'CURB AND GUTTER LS'CURB AND GUTTER -11 KqT 1.l111UPN LW P R1011fl9 MPp•N iO1lO'Jf MIPM1N Figure ES-1 : Conceptual Design Section Page I ii City of Fprt Collins � assMates North College Improvements Project: Phase II Conceptual Design Report The Conceptual Design defines baseline conditions and establishes a foundation for project improvements. Continuing design efforts will consider unique circumstances and will adapt the project elements to fit specific conditions by selecting distinct urban design treatments customized for each location circumstance or condition. Interim conditions will be required based on existing property and business uses, timing of off-highway improvements, and funding limitations; however, the Conceptual Design provides a comprehensive plan to implement as conditions allow and funding becomes available overtime. Phasing and Implementation The total anticipated Conceptual Design cost of$13.25 Million exceeds available funding of$6.2 Million. Three phasing concepts were developed to provide some level of improvement within the corridor in the short-term, using funds currently available, while planning for implementation of the full improvements as additional funds are obtained: • Option 1 — Improvements from South to North • Option 2— Reduced Improvements on Outside Edges • Option 3— Improvements by Side (west side only) �s s zs a �z iz rs it Ir r is r is r LYPI'# w• •M• IM Araua wrten llO••tW U1O fti6 we MRIN! w LM•Wew+su,i, Phasing concept development considered funding source requirements, logical construction elements, � ..�• � I ,.,, .,,,•, „„„ project element priorities, and input from City Staff, City Council, City Boards and Commissions, CDOT, NFCBA, property owners, and the public. Refer to Section 6 for descriptions of each phasing option. The TAC eliminated Option 3 due to limited visible improvements and multiple disruptions to area businesses. After weighing advantages and disadvantages of Option 1 and Option 2, along with public comment, the TAC recommends Phasing Option 1 for the following reasons: • Minimizes number of disruptions to businesses • Establishes a gateway to the North College area y • Includes all elements of the BOB ballot language • Provides complete, visible improvements, demonstrating benefit of extending construction north to the project limit and potentially beyond • May help stimulate redevelopment interest in the area, which could help pay for future improvements • Identifying funding sources for landscape/streetscape amenities separately may be challenging • Supported by the public, City Council, Transportation Board, Planning & Zoning Board, NFCBA, and property owners in the North College area. 2 5'CURB 2.5'CDRB/WDOU7TER . MO GU"TL-R- Figure ES-2 illustrates Phasing Option 1 improvements in cross-section. Figure ES-3 on the following page depicts Phasing Option 1 for the entire project graphically and provides associated costs. Figure ES-2: Ph asing Option 1 Section — Improvements from South to North Potential project elements, consistent with Phasing Option 1, have been separated into logical segments or logical construction components and are summarized in Table 6-1 in Section 6. When additional funding is obtained, outstanding project elements, consistent with funding sources, can be constructed to complete the planned improvements. A summary of potential funding sources linked with project construction elements can be found in Section 7.5. Project limits and elements of future phases will be defined to match funding sources and amounts, when available. Next Steps The following steps and timelines for achieving construction in the 2011 construction season and for ultimate completion of the entire project are recommended: • Initiate preliminary engineering for the entire project immediately following acceptance of the Conceptual Design Report. • Complete preliminary engineering with a Field Inspection Review (FIR) in December 2009. • Complete the Right-of-way Plans Review (ROWPR)for the entire project early in 2010. • Complete CDOT Form 128 and supporting documentation for a Categorical Exclusion early in 2010. • Continue pursuing additional funds through formal project funding requests for Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), HES, and URA CAG funding sources. • Use the Funding Matrix in Table 7-2 for future funding pursuits. • Continue coordination with the public including NFCBA, individual property owners, and the general public. • Develop a Maintenance Plan that establishes specific responsibilities, protocols, routine maintenance schedules, and budgets for long-term maintenance of the project. Page I iii City of Aa CoLlins ,� atP..S F�t_`` North College Improvements Project: Phase II Conceptual Design Report n North College Corridor Phasing Options r4 4 Option 1 - Improvements from South to North ---- it- Water Quality Ponds - e, Path— - ` y F' - , C _i" -vim - `. - � e---a�►� �---� 1� Gateway Entry Future phases will be constructed as funding becomes available. Limits "°"° •`•"` and elements of future phases will be defined to match funding sources and amounts and are not limited to the phases shown. Phase 1 -$6.2M Interim Conifer/Hickory Improvements Improvements from Vine Drive to Pinon Street excluding median and overlay-$5.4M . - Water quality pond-$0.15M Interim Conifer/Hickory Improvements (Striping,Signal Modifications,Curb&Gutter at southeast corner()ax)) - $0.5M •" "� Interim Gateway Improvements (Path,Irrigation,Revegetation)-$0.15M - Phase 2 - $1.8M -------------. _._— ---- _ Complete Gateway Entry- $0.3M Improvements from Pinon Street to Hemlock Street excluding median&overlay-$1.5M —" Phase 3 -$4.25M •'-s_-"u'o"" .,:_y. - _ —. _+e _ Improvements from Hemlock Street to Conifer Street excluding median &overlay-$2.7M Complete Conifer/Hickory Improvements -$1.55M 3 Phase 4 - $1.1M _ Overlay-$O.SM Median, off-street alley connections,and side street parking-$0.6M Advantages: Disadvantages: • Complete all improvements in one area (Bicycle, Pedestrian,Access Consolidation,Landscaping) • Length of improvements limited • Visual impact of streetscape/landscape • Minimizes disruption to individual properties • Provides gateway to North College District Figure ES-3: North College Corridor Phasing Option 1 _ P _-.,- IVCityof - Staffim -Fort Collins as ,¢ ates } ATTACHMENT 5 RESOLUTION 2006-090 OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS SUBMITTING TO THE REGISTERED ELECTORS OF THE CITY AT A SPECIAL CITY ELECTION TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 7, 2006, THE QUESTION OF WHETHER CITIZEN-INITIATED ORDINANCE NO. 142, 1999, PERTAINING TO THE RELOCATION OF THE COLORADO HIGHWAY 14 TRUCK ROUTE, SHOULD BE REPEALED WHEREAS,in 1997,the voters of the City approved the imposition o f three separate quarter- cent sales and use taxes to fund the "Building Community Choices"("BCC")Capital Improvement Program (the "Program"); and WHEREAS, the Program included three groups of capital projects,each of which was to be funded by revenues derived from one of the quarter-cent taxes; and WHEREAS, the BCC "Community Enhancement" projects included the Northeast Truck Route Project, the purpose of which project was to provide for the planning, design, right-of-way acquisition and/or other project costs associated with road improvements for an alternative truck route in the northeast quadrant of the City; and WHEREAS, in 1999, the voters of the City approved citizen-initiated Ordinance No. 142, 1999,(the"Ordinance")which re-directed the funds remaining in the BCC Community Enhancement fund that had been earmarked for the Northeast Truck Route Project and provided that they be used instead to fund an effort to relocate Colorado Highway 14 Truck Route ("the Truck Route") to a location outside the boundaries of the City's then-current Urban Growth Area, which is currently known as the Growth Management Area("GMA"); and WHEREAS, the Ordinance further stated that the City was to: (1) work with appropriate federal,state and county entities to pursue the relocation of the Truck Route;(2)encourage all truck traffic without local business in the City to use the existing U.S. Highway System rather than proceeding through the City en route to other destinations; (3) pursue the implementation of a funding plan for the relocation of the Truck Route,which plan would involve a combination of City, county,state and/or federal funding sources; and(4)permanently abandon the idea of relocating the Truck Route in the vicinity of East Vine Drive or locating a new Truck�Route between the currently existing Truck Route and two miles north of Douglas Road (the "Prohibited Routes"); and WHEREAS, since the enactment of the Ordinance, the City has expended substantial sums to encourage truck traffic without local business in the City to use the existing U.S. Highway System, with only limited success; and WHEREAS, the fact that the City cannot consider the Prohibited Routes in its efforts to pursue the relocation of the Truck Route to a location outside the GMA have made it difficult, if not impossible, to reach agreement with Larimer County(the "County") and the Colorado Department of Transportation ("CDOT") about pursuing the relocation of the Truck Route; and WHEREAS,absent such agreement,the relocation of the Truck Route remains a low priority for CDOT and Larimer County; and WHEREAS, CDOT's and Larimer County's cooperation are essential to the successful relocation of the Truck Route; and WHEREAS, the City Council believes that it would be in the best interests of the citizens of the City to repeal the Ordinance,so that the$1.8 million remaining to be expended for the relocation of the Truck Route under the Ordinance can be used instead for other high priority, immediate transportation needs in the northeast quadrant of the City,and so that the City,the County and CDOT can pursue the idea of a viable bypass around the City for through traffic without the impediment of any prohibited routes; and WHEREAS, by Ordinance, No. 110, 2006, the City Council has, this same date, called a special election to be held in conjunction with the November general election for November 7,2006 and has reserved the right to submit additional measures to the voters at such election. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS that the question of whether to repeal the Ordinance shall be submitted to the registered electors of the City at the special City election to be held on November 7, 2006, in substantially the following form,provided,however,that the title of said measure,as shown below,maybe modified so as to read "A City-Initiated Measure" if, in the judgment of the Larimer County Clerk and Recorder,such modification is necessary to accommodate the number of ballot measures that are to be submitted to the electorate at the November 7, 2006 general election: CITY OF FORT COLLINS A CITY-INITIATED MEASURE TO REPEAL CITIZEN-INITIATED ORDINANCE NO. 142, 1999, PERTAINING TO THE PROPOSED RELOCATION OF THE COLORADO HIGHWAY 14 TRUCK ROUTE Shall citizen-initiated Ordinance No. 142, 1999, which requires the City of'Fort Collins to work with other affected government agencies to pursue the relocation of the Colorado Highway 14 Truck Route to a location outside the City's Growth Management Area boundaries and which also requires the City to use all funds remaining from the "Building Community Choices" Capital Improvement Program for such relocation efforts, be repealed in its entirety, so that said ordinance would be of no further force and effect and the remaining funds referenced in the ordinance, in the approximate amount of$1.8 million, would instead be used either to further pursue the relocation of the Colorado Highway 14 Truck Route or to fund transportation capital improvement projects in the northeast quadrant of the City or for both such purposes? YES NO Passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Council of the City of Fort Collins this 15th day of August, A.D. 2006. J Mayo .ATTEST: City Clerk ATTACHMENT 6 North • - • - Improvements Phase DriveVine to Hickory/Conifer Street City Council Meeting September119 SPEED LIMIT 4'0 M rr7 No PA City of ++ Fort Collins Project • - CO IM * mail WILLOX PROVEMENTS �. MNa Ni''lA[E City of N. UNN1N PUCE � z m K 0 a XPUMAN f RDBINSDN NICKORYST. XFWlOGiIDN CONIFER ST. N COLLEGE 1, 3 I " "FOVEMENTS Poudre River rll• DR. *FU1NAE l0GitlN Di RMI� Fort Collins 1 Resolution & Ordinance Resolution : Approval of Conceptual Design Report Ordinance : Transfer Truck Route Project Funding into North College Improvements Project F`rt`�l 3 Conceptual Design Report A f 4 Project Goals • Safety for all modes • Upgrade image of North College • Maintain Compatibility with proposed utilities Compatibility with previous planning efforts —' • Phased implementation k • Begin Construction 2011 5 Project Coordination and Public Involvement * North Fort Collins Business Association * City Council and Boards and Commissions • Property/Business owners and General Public * Technical Advisory Committee * Colorado Department of V Transportation * Consultant Team lead by Stolfus & Associates 6 Existing Conditions * Approximately '/2 mile s 7 • Poudre River floodway e Uncontrolled access • Lack of storm water facilities • Sporadic Pedestrian facilities • Non existent bicycle facilities Conceptual Design Development All Y, l AA City Phasing and Implementation Existing funding Tj I'l, Truck Route funds —$2.7 million— $1.55 million C n - $1.1 million o ° A o $6 . 2 $ 1 . 8 $2 . 7 1 . 55 i 9 Transferring Truck Route Project Funding *Truck Route funds available $ 1 . 8 Million * Special Election November 7 , 2006 • Ballot Language : " . . . . used either to further pursue the relocation of the Colorado Highway 14 Truck Route or to fund transportation capital improvements projects in the northeast quadrant of the city or for both such purposes" 10 Truck Route Project Funding • Request initiated by NFCBA • Permitted by Ballot Language • Extend improvements northward • Achieve accelerated project schedule ( begin construction 2011 ) ollins 11 Funding Summary - BOB $4 . 8 million CDOT/NFR MPO $8851000 CDOT/NFR MPO $600X0 Total Secured Funding $6 . 2 million Pinon to Hemlock $ 1 . 8 million (Truck Route Funding) Hemlock to Conifer $2 . 7 million Hickory/Conifer $ 1 . 55 million Medians/Alleyways/Overlay $ 1 . 1 million Updated Engineer' s $ 12 to $ 15 million Estimate (Total Project) Gap $4 to $ 7 Million 12 Schedule * Conceptual Design Mar 2009-Aug 2009 * Preliminary and Final Aug/Sep 2009- Mar Design 2010 * Right of Way Mar 2010 — Dec 2010 * Begin Construction 2011 Collins 13 _ Next Steps t ! * Begin Preliminary Engineering Awto * Continue to seek additional funding * Continue Public Outreach of Fort Collins 14 Resolution & Ordinance Resolution : Approval of Conceptual Design Report Ordinance : Transfer Truck Route Project Funding into North College Improvements Project — Phase II City of www . fcgov . com/northcollege Fort Collins 15 RESOLUTION 2009-082 OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS APPROVING THE DESIGN AND SCHEDULING OF THE NORTH COLLEGE IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT - PHASE II, WHEREAS, in 2005, .Fort Collins voters approved Ordinance No. 092, 2005 (the "Ordinance) establishing a one-quarter cent sales tax to fund capital projects as part of a program known as "Building on Basics" ("BOB"); and WHEREAS,the Ordinance states that the design, scheduling and amount of tax revenue to be set aside for the construction and operation and maintenance of the BOB projects are to be determined by the City Council; and WHEREAS, one of the projects to be funded by.BOB is the "North College Avenue Improvements Phase II - Vine Drive to Conifer" project(the "Project"); and WHEREAS, the Project is intended to provide more safe and direct linkages for motorists, cyclists, transit riders, and pedestrians to and from downtown and the greater Fort Collins community and will help set the stage for future infill and redevelopment opportunities, thereby fostering the City's economic health and sustainability goals; and WHEREAS,the City's Transportation Planning Department has worked closely with other City departments, regional stakeholders, area property/business owners, City boards and commissions,and the Colorado Department of Transportation to develop a recommended design and schedule for the Project; and WHEREAS,City staff is recommending that the Project schedule be accelerated in response to requests from the North Fort Collins Business Association and area property and business owners, with commencement of construction to begin in 2011, contingent upon appropriation of the necessary funds and completion of the Project design and right-of-way acquisition in 2009 and 2010. WHEREAS,the proposed design for the Project is contained in a report dated September 1, 2009, which report is on file in the office of the City Clerk (the "Project Report"); and WHEREAS, the design shown in the Project Report supports the North College Corridor Plan and City-Plan by providing a more attractive and functional corridor for all modes of transportation; and WHEREAS, the proposed Project design also takes into account the need to construct the Project in phases and offers two phasing options for Council consideration; and WHEREAS,Phasing Option 1 for the Project,which is the phasing option recommended by City staff, consists of complete edge improvements including the street and landscaping, consolidated driveways, landscaped parkways, bike lanes, shared use paths, curb, gutter, and stormwater facilities up to approximately Pinion Street and also includes improvements for public safety purposes at the intersection of Hickory and Conifer as required by the Colorado Department of Transportation; and WHEREAS, the City Council agrees that Phasing Option 1, as described in the Project Report, is in the best interests of the City and should be approved by the City Council. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS as follows: Section 1. That the North College Improvements Project - Phase II (Option 1) Conceptual Design Report dated September 1, 2009, is hereby approved. Section 2. That, subject to appropriation of the necessary funds, completion of the Project design and acquisition of the necessary right of way, construction of the Project shall commence in the calendar year 2011. i Passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Council of the City of Fort Collins this 1 st day of September A.D. 2009. Mayor ATTEST: City Clerk ORDINANCE NO. 090, 2009 OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF EXISTING APPROPRIATIONS BETWEEN CAPITAL PROJECTS FOR THE NORTH COLLEGE IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT WHEREAS, in 2005, Fort Collins voters approved Ordinance No. 092, 2005 (the "Ordinance) establishing a one-quarter cent sales tax to fund capital projects as part of a program known as "Building on Basics" ("BOB"); and WHEREAS, one of the projects to be funded by BOB is the "North College Avenue Improvements Phase II - Vine Drive to Conifer"project (the "Project") and WHEREAS, the Ordinance states that the design, scheduling and amount of tax revenue to be set aside for the construction and operation and maintenance of the BOB projects are to be determined by the City Council; and WHEREAS,the Council has determined the design and scheduling of the Project by adoption of Resolution 2009-082; and WHEREAS,the current estimated cost to build the entire Project is approximately$12 to$15 million depending on the level of improvements; and WHEREAS,the City has currently identified approximately$6.2 million in funding for the Project from the following sources: BOB ($4.8 million), Colorado Department of Transportation ($885,000), and the North Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization ("MPO") ($600,000); and WHEREAS, of this$6.2 million, $5.6 million has already been appropriated for the Project by the City Council, and City staff anticipates presenting an ordinance appropriating the additional $600,000 for Council's consideration as soon as arrangements for that additional funding have been finalized with the MPO; and WHEREAS,the Project is planned to be completed in phases as additional funding becomes available; and WHEREAS, City staff is requesting the transfer of additional funds for the Project in the amount of$1,830,944 from the SH14 Truck Route Phase II (the "Truck Route") project; and WHEREAS, in November, 2006, the voters of the City considered and approved a ballot measure initiated by the City Council that authorized the use of such funds to either pursue the relocation of the Truck Route or to fund other transportation capital improvements in the northeast quadrant of the City (the "Ballot Measure"); and WHEREAS, using the Truck Route funds for the Project as authorized by the voters would facilitate the eventual construction of the entire Project and would provide safety benefits on North College for all modes of transportation; and WHEREAS, Article V, Section 10, of the City Charter authorizes the City Council to transfer by ordinance any unexpended and unencumbered appropriated amount or portion thereof from one project to another project, provided that the purpose for which the transferred funds are to be expended remains unchanged. NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS as follows: Section 1. That the City Council hereby finds and determines that the Project is located within the northeast quadrant of the City within the meaning and intent of the Ballot Measure. Section 2. That the unexpended and unencumbered appropriated amount of ONE MILLION EIGHT HUNDRED THIRTY THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED FORTY-FOUR DOLLARS ($1,830,944) is hereby authorized for transfer from the SH14 Truck Route Phase II capital project to the North College Avenue Improvements capital project and appropriated therein for Phase II - Vine Drive to Conifer Street improvements. Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 1 st day of September, A.D. 2009, and to be presented for final passage on the 15th day of September, A.D. 2009. Mayor ATTEST: City Clerk Passed and adopted on final reading on the 15th day of September, A.D. 2009. Mayor ATTEST: City Clerk