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Home My WebLink AboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 04/17/2018 - FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 058, 2018, APPROPRIAgenda Item 17 Item # 17 Page 1 AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY April 17, 2018 City Council STAFF Kurt Friesen, Director of Park Planning & Development Cyril Vidergar, Legal SUBJECT First Reading of Ordinance No. 058, 2018, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves in the General Fund and the Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority Fund and Authorizing the Transfer of Appropriations from the General Fund and the Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority Fund into the Capital Project Fund for the Poudre River Whitewater Park Project and Transferring Appropriations from the Capital Project Fund to the Cultural Services and Facilities Fund for the Art in Public Places Program and Transferring Appropriations in the Storm Drainage Fund from the Boxelder Creek Outfall Project and the Remington Street Outfall Project to the Capital Project Fund for the Poudre River Whitewater Park Project. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The purpose of this item is to appropriate additional funding for the Poudre River Whitewater Park project. The Whitewater Park will be located south of Vine Drive between College Avenue and the BNSF Railroad. Design and permitting for the project are nearly complete, with construction anticipated to begin Summer 2018, and the project complete in Summer 2019. There is sufficient funding available for a minimum, base project. To realize the full vision of the project, as outlined in the 2014 Poudre River Downtown Master Plan, approximately $2M of additional funds are needed. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends adoption of the Ordinance on First Reading. BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION Funding Sources Current funding for the project is provided from several sources: Funding Sources Amount Community Capital Improvement Program (CCIP) $4,200,000 Natural Areas $1,000,000 Stormwater $1,000,000 General Fund (property acquisition) $1,000,000 Park Impact Fees (property acquisition) $855,400 Fundraising $1,500,000 Total Available Funding $9,555,400 In addition to the funding sources listed, both Stomwater and Natural Areas have contributed other funds in support of the project, but not directly part of it. These projects include: Agenda Item 17 Item # 17 Page 2 Natural Areas • $750,000 for the purchase of the Coy water right Stormwater • $450,000 for development of the 2014 Poudre River Downtown Master Plan • $100,000 for Vine Drive drainage improvements These projects were completed apart from the Whitewater Park Project, and would have occurred regardless. For this reason, this funding is not included in the project total. Optional Features Optional features recommended to be added to the projects include: Project Element Description Approximate Cost Pedestrian Bridge The pedestrian bridge will provide a key connection from downtown to the Old Town North neighborhood and North College businesses, and future crossing of the Poudre Trail $525,000 South Bank Wall Enhancements Enhancements to a blank, gray concrete wall facing the river along the south bank. Enhancements may include a patterned texture on the wall or other aesthetic wall treatments. $150,000 South Bank Plaza Enhancements South bank plaza enhancements may include improved paving, sandstone benches, seating areas, and improved railing. $175,000 Landscape Enhancements Landscape enhancements include additional trees, shrubs & irrigation in the south bank plaza and park area. $250,000 Concrete Walks Concrete walks to replace proposed crusher fine walks that extend from the parking lot and Vine Drive to the river. $100,000 Children’s Play Area Lower terrace designed for children to safely access the river for play. $175,000 Site Lighting Additional pedestrian light poles $350,000 Site Security An emergency call station to provide improved security. $60,000 Additional Project Contingency Additional project contingency for constructing in the river during a limited construction season. The recommended contingency for the project is $455,000. Currently, there is $214,000 available. The additional $240,000 would bring the contingency to an appropriate level for a project of this complexity. $240,000 Total $2,025,000 Agenda Item 17 Item # 17 Page 3 Funding Approach As discussed at the February 27 Work Session, Park Planning staff recommends the optional features be funded by aligning project costs with the department or funding entity that realizes the benefits of the improvements. In the base project, the benefits realized by the Stormwater Utility exceed the existing contribution. Additionally, Stormwater related costs have increased significantly since the project inception: • Vine Drive, Parking and Storm Sewer Improvement costs have increased 60% • River Enhancements have increased 34% • Due to the complexity of permitting & alternative construction means & methods, design, engineering & contractor costs have increased significantly These cost increases are a primary reason additional Stormwater enterprise funding is needed for the project. With additional contributions secured from Stormwater, General Fund, the URA, and philanthropic sources to share in the apportioned cost of the base project, the optional features can be funded utilizing existing CCIP funds, General Fund and philanthropic sources. Cost Share by Funding Source Project Elements Cost Natural Areas Stormwater CCIP Fund raising Park Impact Fees General Fund URA Philan- thropic Support Vine Drive, Parking and Storm Sewer Improvements $513,000 $213,000 $300,000 Property Acquisitions and Cleanup $1,855,400 $855,400 $1,000,000 River Enhancements $3,165,000 $721,666 $721,667 $721,667 $1,000,000 Bridge Abutments & Gathering Areas $1,157,000 $1,157,000 Minimum Landscape Enhancements $233,000 $77,666 $77,667 $77,667 Design, Engineering and Contractor Costs $2,418,000 $129,335 $650,000 $1,138,665 $500,000 Project Contingency Agenda Item 17 Item # 17 Page 4 Construction Timeline and Sequence The following chart illustrates the timing of incorporating optional features into the project, based on the amount of additional funding secured. With $1.5M of additional funding secured, priority optional features such as the pedestrian bridge and security features can be added to the project. With an additional $500k secured from philanthropic sources, the remaining optional features can be added. This approach provides additional time to secure the funding from philanthropic sources to fully fund the optional features. City staff recommends securing the philanthropic sources by the end of 2018 at the latest for the project to be completed on schedule without significant cost increases for the remaining optional features. Project Construction Sequence Timeframe Funded Base Project $1.5M of Optional Features Additional $500k of Optional Features Aug. 2018 Mobilization September Site Grading Oct. - Jan. River Work South Bank • Pedestrian Bridge • Children’s Play Area • South Bank Wall Enhancements Dec.- Mar. 2019 River Work North Bank • Additional Project Contingency Mar. - May River Restoration Apr. - May Vine Street & Parking Lot June – July 2019 Minimum Landscape Enhancements • Site Lighting • Security/Emergency Call Station • South Bank Plaza Enhancements • Concrete Walks • Landscape Enhancements CITY FINANCIAL IMPACTS City staff recommends an appropriation of $1,526,000 from Stormwater, General Fund, and the URA, plus the required APP contributions. Philanthropic funds that are secured for the optional features will be appropriated at a later date. Stormwater $734,000 General Fund $496,920 Urban Renewal Authority (URA) $303,000 Appropriation Request $1,533,920 Philanthropic Sources (When Available) $499,000 Total Additional Funding Target $2,032,920 Total Project Funding $2,025,000 Art in Public Places Funding $7,920 The funding is currently available from these sources for the purposes described, except for the philanthropic Agenda Item 17 Item # 17 Page 5 for the project will come from two sources: 1) $134,000 from the Boxelder Creek Outfall project, which was completed under budget 2) $600,000 by defunding the Remington St. Outfall project. This will cause a slight delay in the completion of the Remington Outfall project. The project does not have sufficient budget to be completed regardless because of additional constraints identified during the design process. The Remington Outfall project will require a future appropriation to be completed. BOARD / COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION As directed by City Council at the February 27 work session, City staff has reached out to boards and commissions seeking input regarding the addition of optional project features and an associated funding approach for the features. A summary of outreach to Boards, Commissions, and citizen groups follows: Boards, Commission and Citizen Group Feedback Summary 1. Parks and Recreation Board o Meeting held February 28, 2018 o Unanimous Support 2. North College Citizen Advisory Group (CAG) o Meeting held March 1, 2018 o Unanimous Support 3. Commission on Disabilities o Meeting held March 8, 2018 o Unanimous Support 4. Water Board o Meeting held March 15, 2018 o Support from 5 out of 7 board members o The Board has 11 members, 4 were absent o All Boardmembers were in support of the optional features, but 2 did not support the use of additional Stormwater enterprise funds for the project 5. Natural Resources Advisory Board o Meeting held March 21, 2018 o Unanimous Support 6. Land Conservation and Stewardship Board o Meeting scheduled April 11, 2018 o Support Minutes from these meetings are attached. (Attachment 2) PUBLIC OUTREACH City staff conducted considerable public outreach for the 2014 Poudre River Downtown Master Plan, which includes the Whitewater Park Project. As part of the development review process for the Whitewater Park, an open house was conducted, offering citizens an opportunity to comment on the project. Staff has coordinated and communicated consistently with multiple stakeholders throughout the duration of the project, including the whitewater enthusiasts who helped raise private philanthropic funds for the project. There is strong support and significant enthusiasm for the project from these groups. ATTACHMENTS 1. Work Session Summary, February 27, 2018 (PDF) 2. Boards and Commission Meeting Minutes (PDF) 3. Powerpoint presentation (PDF) ATTACHMENT 1 Board and Commission Minutes ‐ Parks and Recreation Board, February 28, 2018 ‐ North College Citizens Advisory Group Recommendation, March 1, 2018 ‐ Commission on Disability, Thursday March 8, 2018 ‐ Water Board, March 15, 2018 ‐ Natural Resources Advisory Board, March 21, 2018 Parks & Recreation Board Meeting – February 28, 2018 Page 3 of 9 Presenter – Absolutely. The adult league will be competing in Las Cruces, New Mexico and Chicago. Juniors have upcoming trips to West Texas and Florida. Board – Are you guys as brutal as we used to see on television? Presenter – It’s not as bad. We have penalties for safety. You’re not allowed to punch or kick or to target the head or back. But you can get bruised. There are no alligators in the middle. Board – Have you talked to FC Bikes about joining Open Streets? Presenter – Junior Roller Derby did participate last Fall. Board – Can you go back to the slide that shows where other local leagues play? So, it looks like other leagues have relationships with cities & counties. Board – Have you talked to the Ranch? Presenter – Yes, and due to the cost, we were unable to use their space. Board – The Saturday 5-hour block, would that be for a bout? Will our facilities be able to handle a crowd that large? Presenter – On average we have 150 people attend. We’ve maxed out at 300. We charge admission. Staff – I would have to see the setup in the space to know. I’d also have to know if they’re chagrining at the door. Board – Would there be blocks of time this large available? Staff – That would be the challenge with the limited facilities we have and the many user-groups we serve. Board – You could go back to the Larimer County Fairgrounds as they’re expanding and may want to offer double-use in some of their expansion space. Staff – I’ll have to dig into the city ordinance regarding roller skating and the manufacturing recommendations for roller skating use on our floors. Board – There is a possibility that this space could be for practices rather than bouts too. Board – How much would it cost to build your own facility? Presenter – On the very low end, $2-3 Million. Board – I just want to say Thank you! It’s a cool sub-culture and supportive community. Rob Cagen mad a motion for staff to move forward with investigating feasible facility space, scheduling availability, legal city code, and facility maintenance to accommodate FoCo Roller Derby. Seconded by Kelly Smith. Passed 8:0 Whitewater Park – Kurt Friesen & Jeff Mihelich, Deputy City Manager x This presentation was given to City Council last night during a work session to find out what it would take to get some additional funding to make this project what we want it to be. This is a legacy project for the City of Fort Collins that could change the face of our community. Additionally, this project will impact nearly every city department. The good news is we finally have the permits to go forward with this project. The costs estimates are coming in high which is limiting the scope of the project, $9 million for a base level project. This would mean we would have to remove additional features wanted. Last night Council approved our presentation regarding our additional funding sources but asked that we return to all the impacted boards to discuss our plan. With our current funding sources, we have $9,555,440 budget for the project. x We have acquired seven properties for this project; we’ll be improving these properties by moving them out of the floodplain by lowering the river. We’ll also be improving the river, such as enabling fish passage and recreational features. We will also improve bike access to northern communities and provide more access to Vine Drive. x Optional elements if more funding was provided for the project. $2,025,000 funding needed for these optional features: o Pedestrian Bridge – Integral role in trail connections Parks and Recreation Board February 28, 2018 ATTACHMENT 2 Parks & Recreation Board Meeting – February 28, 2018 Page 4 of 9 o South Bank Wall & Plaza enhancements – visible from the north side, so we’d like to make it more visually appealing. The current design would provide a shelter that mimics the curl of a rapid wave. o Landscape enhancements – this would expand landscape enhancements away from the river’s edge. o Concrete walks – The only ones currently provide ADA access to the water. This would be an upgrade from crusher fines to concrete. o Children’s Play Area – This would provide protected access for children to play in the river o Safety features – Site lighting, security cameras, emergency call station Discussion Board – Can funding for these optional features be requested in your BFO proposal? Staff – They can be, but we would like to get all of this done with one contractor and get locked into a price. It’s always harder to come back later and add things. Board – If you don’t get all your funding and just get half of it, how would you allocate that based on dependencies and features? Staff – We did talk to council about their prioritization. Some things we can’t come back and do later, such as the Bridge Abutment wall. It depends a lot on the sources. If we get stormwater dollars, it should go to stormwater features. Board – Are you going to talk with the Whitewater Group for the Philanthropic support? Staff – We are working in partnership with them, but we are taking the lead. Board – What is CCIP? Staff – It used to be called BOB 2. It stands for the Community Capital Improvement Plan. Board – How is Parks going to take care of this? Staff – Very carefully. We’ll put in a BFO offer to maintain this park & its features. Council also brought up this point last night. There are some Natural Area & Police concerns to consider with maintaining this park. This will also significantly improve the storm water and clearing out the floodplain/floodway. Board – I can see what this would provide with the nice job done at North Shields Ponds. Board – Should we be making this investment with the future of the river so hazy? Staff – We’re working with other water users, including the City of Fort Collins, to see if anyone would be willing to put water back into the water. It would be a complicated inter-governmental agreement, but my goal is to get someone up- river to put water back into the river. Even with all the current & projected use (including NISP), there is enough water to provide fishing, tubing, kayaking, etc. recreation. Board – Why would someone sell their water shares? Staff – Some users aren’t using the water, and it’s just going down the river. If there is a way for us to ensure it will stay in the river, we’d like to do that. They’re already storing NISP water up top; the project would just pipe it down I-25. Board – I have some of the same concerns about the water. But what has impressed me tonight is the park that is being built. That looks like a fantastic amenity to be added to downtown Fort Collins. It’s beautiful & unique. Board – What’s the impact going to be on traffic on College Ave? Will there be parking provided? Staff – Yes, there is an off-street parking lot. There will also be on-street parking on Vine Street. We’re also designing it so it can be expanded to almost double in the future. There is also parking at NACC & Old Heritage Park available that would service this park. There three parking garages within 1 mile of this park. Board – When you add a water feature to the park, is there any risk of liability to the city? Staff – We’ve been having those conversations with Poudre Fire & Rescue to discuss the risks of the whitewater park to make sure there is easy access, discussing how they can conduct a rescue, etc. Board – Have our Park Rangers also looked at this? Specifically, with the safety of having the lighting features. Staff – Yes, we have. We’ll be moving a lot of the excess foliage which will improve visibility. Parks & Recreation Board Meeting – February 28, 2018 Page 5 of 9 Staff – If council asks, is there anything you would like to state regarding the optional features? Are you okay with us asking for an additional $2 million? Board – I would prefer to provide our support as a motion. Not that council doesn’t read our minutes, but I’d like to show unanimous support. Board – The Pedestrian bridge does meet one of our goals to encourage trail connectivity. Additionally, the safety features are very important to the use of the space. I have concerns about the children’s play area during the high-water times of the year. Would it set a precedent to children to play in the water when it’s not safe? I would pull that one. It looks great a Twin Silos, but I would think it would be a risk on the Poudre River. It’s hard to provide guidance or a warning that will be heeded when it’s dangerous. This project has been going on for about 20 years. We would like to get ‘er done! Staff – We think no matter what we do, kids will want to get into the river. We would like to create a safe space for them to do so. We are going to sign it when it isn’t safe. We work with the PFA to do that currently. Board – Should we prioritize which features we would like most rather than say all? Based on the funding sources, we may not get that. Board – We would like to commend you for all the partnership you have established to see this project through. Scott Sinn made a motion to approve the all the additional funding aspects per the PPD presentation and to move the safety features up in priority within the list of optional features for the Whitewater Park Project. Second by Bruce Henderson. Passed 8:0 Transportation Liaison Q&A – Nathalie Rachline x Scott got an email from Eric, the chair of the Transportation Board, and one of their goals is to establish a liaison with other related boards. x We get updates on i25 expansion, transportation, Transfort, bicycle use, etc. There is the debate going on regarding electric bicycles that touches on trails that would overlap with discussions your board has. Discussion Board – Which City Departments come to your meetings? Presenter – FC Moves, Streets. We talk a lot about bicycles and trail connectivity. Board – How much input can you guys provide on the Transportation Plan? Are you actively involved in the process? Presenter – It’s not a 50/50 thing. I honestly haven’t seen that process happen yet, but it will be upcoming. We provide input on the plan they provide. Board – Is PPD involved in the Transportation Plan? Staff – We are, but we dovetail in our involvement with the City plan. I talk to FC Moves all the time. STAFF UPDATES: Park Planning Updates x Poudre River Whitewater Park - Based on a recent request from the Council Leadership Planning Team (LPT), Park Planning & Development presented an update to Council at a work session on Tuesday, Feb. 27 regarding the status of the whitewater park, and a proposal to fund currently unfunded elements of the project. The total cost of all unfunded elements is approximately $2M. Optional elements include the pedestrian bridge, south bank wall and plaza, lighting, safety features, and additional landscape enhancements. If funded in full, the total North College Citizens Advisory Group Recommendation Meeting Date: March 1 The North College Citizens Advisory Group reviews and provides recommendations on all North College Plan Area projects. They provided the following recommendation of support for the Whitewater Park Project request: “The Citizens Advisory Group recommends approval of the request to provide a $300,000 funding grant to complete the initial phase of the Kayak Park improvements with a focus on the completing the pedestrian bridge and addressing potential risks associated with transients to include sufficient lighting, sprinkler irrigation, and video surveillance as soon as possible.” This recommendation was unanimously supported by the seven members in attendance at the meeting. COMMISSION ON DISABILITY Fort Collins City Hall 300 LaPorte Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80522 970.416.4254 phone 970.224.6107 fax fcgov.com COMMISSION ON DISABILITY Fort Collins City Hall, City Oﬃces Building, 215 North Mason Thursday March 8, 2018 Board Members Present: Sherri Reichow, Mandy Morgan, Michael Marr, Jan Barela-Smith, John Morris, Arianna Kilmer, Terry Schlictling City Liaison Present: Carol Thomas City Oﬃcials Present: Matt Day & Kurt Friesen - Park, Planning & Development Jeﬀ Minelich & Todd Dangerﬁeld - Downtown Development Authority Others Present: Chauncy Billups, John Beggs Call to Order: 12:25 pm 1. Introductions: All Board members, City Liaison, and all others present introduced themselves. All were welcomed. 2. Approval of Minutes: Michael made a motion to approve the minutes as is, Jan seconded the motion. All were in favor, and the minutes were approved. 3. Open Discussion: a. Kurt Friesen with Parks, Planning & Development put on a presentation for the Commission overviewing the Poudre River Whitewater Park project. Afterwards, Kurt and Matt ﬁelded questions pertaining to the park’s accessibility for persons with disabilities. The COD unanimously recommended approval of construction of the additional features as part of the initial phase of development and further recommends that Council spend the additional monies for these improvements. The Commission further recommends the construction of an ADA accessible restroom facility with changing tables for both children and adults as soon as is practical. Mandy suggested adding grab bars from the bathroom entry doors to the ADA bathrooms themselves, as people will likely be walking with wet feet in addition to having to mitigate mobility issues. b. Todd Dangerﬁeld and Jeﬀ Mihelich with the City’s Downtown Development Authority led a presentation and spoke about the 2018 Alley Project. Speciﬁcally addressed were the Old Firehouse Alley East and West Mountain Avenue. We discussed pavers and alley paving surfaces, pedestrian lighting, consolidated trash enclosures, noncompliant parking, plants/ landscaping, and more. A short Q & A followed. The COD enthusiastically endorsed this project fully, and Terry suggested adding anything to slow down traﬃc on Mountain Avenue. 4. New Business: a. Michael was able to get the CSU Ballroom for the Mayor’s Awards venue! Way to go Michael!!! Michael reminded all that a date needs to be set for the 2018 Awards to reserve the Ballroom. Carol conﬁrmed that the 10/18/2018 date has been conﬁrmed with the Mayor’s schedule. Terry will reserve the ballroom, under the “Commission On Disabilities” name. Michael will work directly with the Event Planning staﬀ to conﬁrm rental fees for this event. Excerpts from Unapproved Water Board Minutes – March 15, 2018 Whitewater Park Reappropriation (Attachments available upon request) Director of Park Planning and Development Manager Kurt Friesen introduced Deputy City Manager Jeff Mihelich who summarized the project history, which has been in process for more than three years. Mr. Mihelich stated two members of City Council asked staff to find funding for the $2 million in optional features as it is a signature project that would also provide stormwater improvements; staff proposes diverting Remington Outfall Project funds to the Whitewater Park Project; Remington (which does not have enough funding to be completed anyway) will be delayed about two years. Mr. Friesen presented an overview including total cost ($9.5 million) and optional features ($2 million). Interim Water Engineering Field Services Operations Manager Matt Fater and Stormwater Engineering & Development Review Manager Ken Sampley assisted in answering questions. Discussion Highlights Board members commented on and inquired about various related topics including land purchased (from home and business owners of seven properties); fundraising status (going well; small gap that will close within a few weeks); fencing; permitting costs; stormwater benefits (including removing structures from the floodplain); Remington Outfall Project; whether optimal flow is possible considering Northern Integrated Supply Project (NISP) and Halligan Reservoir projects (staff determined flow would be sufficient); liability; and stormwater benefits compared to stormwater contributions. Motion: Vice Chairperson Kent Bruxvoort moved that the Water Board recommend City Council support allocation of additional stormwater funds for the increased costs for the stormwater and river enhancements associated with the Poudre River Whitewater Park where the increased costs were defined as optional features presented on page 10 of the presentation.  Board Member Mike Brown seconded the motion. Discussion on the Motion: Board members discussed refining the motion language, and Vice Chairperson Bruxvoort agreed to the friendly amendments. One board member commented on project costs; two board members indicated they would vote against the motion; one board member indicated support for the motion. Revised Motion: Vice Chairperson Kent Bruxvoort moved that the Water Board recommend City Council support allocation in the amount of $733,667 of additional Stormwater funds to go toward increased costs associated with optional features for Stormwater and river enhancements associated with the Poudre River Whitewater Park.  Vote on the Motion: It passed 5-2, with two dissenting votes.  Reasons for No votes: Board Member Jim Kuiken stated the $733,667 in optional enhancements to be paid by Stormwater funds does not offer additional Stormwater benefits. Board Member John Primsky stated as the original investment by the Stormwater Utility was 10.5% of budget ($1 million of $9.55 million) asking Stormwater Utility to fund 36.2% of the "optional" features ($734, 000 of $2.025 million) is disproportionate. In addition, he was not satisfied with the answer to his inquiry on the status of the $1.5 million in private fundraising, now increased to $2 million in the proposal. 4/6 NRAB – March 21, 2018 Nancy DuTeau brought up the idea of a moratorium and Rebecca said that the intention was a casualty in a prior legal challenge. Elizabeth Hudetz added that perhaps the “Martinez Case” would give us some margin in this area since the judges seem to be ruling (thus far) in favor of enhanced regulations. Nancy DuTeau also wanted to analyze the considerations of City versus State regulations, specifically how that influences NRAB recommendations to City Council. Nancy thought it would not be appropriate (at the City level) to increase buffer zones. Rebecca Everette said that the basic request is to change the City standards to meet what is required at the State of Colorado level. Elizabeth Hudetz advocated for a moratorium and 1,000-ft. buffer zone minimum especially near schools and outdoor/recreation areas. Elizabeth and Nancy DuTeau discussed that the present issue before the NRAB (recommendation) is a separate question from the dispute (and potential resulting regulations) in the “Martinez Case”. Luke Caldwell and Danielle Buttke endorsed an increased buffer in High Occupancy buildings. Concerning the parties involved in the negotiation between developers and oil and gas operators, Elizabeth Hudetz said it is appropriate to consider third-party oversight. Nancy DuTeau concluded the discussion by noting that April 13, 2018 is the due date for a first draft of recommendations. The Fort Collins City Council will review all observations, commentary and recommendations in June 2018. V. POUDRE RIVER WHITEWATER PARK RECOMMENDATION Kurt Friesen - Park Planning and Development Director, City of Fort Collins began his presentation by introducing his colleagues. Joining Kurt this evening to assist is Jeff Mihelich - Deputy City Manager, Adam Jokerst, Water Resources Engineer, and Matt Day, Sr Landscape Architect from the City of Fort Collins. The purpose of the presentation tonight is to outline a plan for additional funding for optional features on the Poudre River Whitewater Park. The presenters hope that the NRAB will recommend their enhanced design to the City Council of Fort Collins. Jeff Mihelich noted that this project is a legacy project initiated in 2011. The project is located near the intersection of College Avenue and Vine. The project has successfully moved forward such that construction bids will be accepted in the near future. He was enthusiastic about the project overall. Kurt Friesen gave a high-level overview of various segments of the project. First, he noted that the property acquisition phase is complete which was necessary for visibility from the road, safety of visitors, and a park site. A bridge will connect downtown Fort Collins (southside) with the North side business and residential area of the Poudre River. It will become part of the Trail System and provide pedestrian access. The proposed “South Bank Wall” is a plaza with shade structure and more funds are necessary to add seating to encourage “gathering.” The landscaping will be restorative with native plantings. Concrete walks provide greater accessibility. Included in the plan is a “play area.” Lighting, cameras and emergency call boxes are proposed safety features. Included in the plan is “Dark Sky” light fixtures, which minimize glare, reduce light trespass and sky glow. Vine Drive improvements include sidewalks, bike lanes, a parkway and parking. The goal is to make the area attractive to increase interest in the area. A grant from the Poudre Heritage Alliance (“PHA” promotes Poudre River’s national significance in water development, water law and water management) might fund a “Heritage Walk” area. The most critical improvement is the flood plane and floodway which must be completed at the front end and not in “stages.” This is a costly and time-sensitive part of the plan. Of interest was the 1865 Coy Ditch in the proposed area that previously irrigated the family farmland. In 1958, the City purchased the water rights. In 1980, the water was used to irrigate a now-defunct golf course and now will be reworked as part of a low-impact water improvement operation within the Whitewater Park Project. This modification also helps correct flooding and erosion issues while slowing flow in the play area. Jay Adams was interested in the South Bank of the River and its impact on the business in that area. Kurt Friesen said that the North College business area is evolving and the bridge will provide North and South businesses reciprocal access. The neighbors on both sides of the river are in support. Luke Caldwell asked for an overview of the River Access for ADA individuals. Kurt replied that a properly sloped concrete sidewalk ramp from the sidewalk to the edge of the river provides access for ADA individuals. Two “pools” provide kayak river access and a kayak “play” area. This increases the season for kayakers during the “off season” on the Poudre River traditional recreational areas. In addition, river tubing is encouraged. Regarding Water Protection, Elizabeth Hudetz inquired whether “Save the Poudre” (a Fort Collins Organization to “Protect and Restore” the Cache la Poudre River) was supportive. Kurt Friesen said that the organization supports our proposal. Natural Resources Advisory Board March 21, 2018 5/6 NRAB – March 21, 2018 Conversation ensued re the impact of NISP (defined above). Adam Jokerst said a 2015 river flow study showed that kayaking will be impacted 30-35% of the season and that tubing would be impacted 20-25%. He said analysis indicates that this project would still be viable - even with NISP. Nancy DuTeau asked what impact would this have on fish passage at various water flows. She received assurance that Colorado State Parks and Wildlife was satisfied with the plan. She further inquired as to the impact on the ADA access and, in particular, the proposed “play area.” Kurt said that flow would be very low at certain times. Nancy was also concerned that Pedestrian and Bicycle users comfortably share the throughways. Kurt said that the width of the proposed thoroughfare would be sufficient for co-access and use. Danielle Buttke thought a climate change impact study would be helpful. The additional funding, about $2 million, is specifically for the additional optional features: the pedestrian bridge, south- bank wall and plaza enhancements, landscape enhancements, concrete walks, children’s play area, and security. Kurt explained that the funds are to come from a combination of these City Departments and private sources: Natural Areas, Storm Water, CCIP (Community Capital Improvement Program), Fundraising (public and private), Park Impact Fees, General Fund, URA (Urban Renewal Authority), and Philanthropic assistance. Luke Caldwell expressed general support for the additional funding. He is particularly impressed with the stormwater (southwest wetland system) upgrades. He also appreciates the proximity to the Gustav Swanson Natural Area (445 Linden Street - further east on the Poudre River.) Additionally, he felt the addition of the “Heritage” area would be beneficial for River education. He invited a presentation from the group to the Bike Advisory Board. Elizabeth Hudetz and Danielle Buttke also expressed enthusiasm for the project while voicing their disapproval of NISP (defined above). Jay Adams made a motion to support the “additional project funding.” Motion seconded by Luke Caldwell. The motion passed unanimously. Nancy DuTeau noted that the NRAB recommendations are due April 17, 2018. Luke Caldwell will draft and circulate the memo. VI. UPDATES AND ANNOUNCEMENTS Earlier in the evening, (for the record), several NRAB members (Barry Noon, Danielle Buttke, and Elizabeth Hudetz) expressed their disapproval of the Northern Integrated Supply Project (“NISP”.) NISP is a proposed water storage and distribution project incorporating Glade Reservoir in Northwest Fort Collins near Ted’s Place, and Galeton Reservoir on the South Platte River. The stated goal of the project is to supply an additional 40K-acre ft of water supply diverted from the Poudre River. The NISP received notice in part during the previous NRAB meeting February 21, 2018. The main opposition is negative water flows on the Poudre River. Nancy DuTeau said that Bob Mann was absent tonight because he attended the City Wasteshed meeting. Jay Adams said he might be absent next month due to a surgery. Ling Wang is due to give birth in the next few weeks and may miss the April meeting as well. Luke Caldwell said that he has completed a draft recommendation giving Class I & II electric bikes access to all Fort Collins Trails for a year probationary period. He will be soliciting opinions from other municipalities on the success and/or struggles of comparable programs. He expressed enthusiasm for the program. Elizabeth Hudetz mentioned a “Rally Against Oil & Gas Extraction” in Greeley, CO at Bella Romero Academy (1400 E 20th St) Friday, March 23, 2018 from 3:20 – 4:30 PM. Danielle Buttke mentioned the National Park Prescription Day event on Sunday, April 29, 2018 at Lee Martinez Park – details posted soon on Fort Collins Recreation site. Lindsay Ex said that the City of Fort Collins – City Plan is moving forward into the “Visioning Phase”. Look for additional postings in April regarding the coming events. The Greenhouse Gas subcommittee of the AQAB will be meeting soon and the details posted on the AQAB website. Community Greenhouse Inventory presentations are coming soon as well. 1 Poudre River Whitewater Park Kurt Friesen, Park Planning & Development Director 04/17/2018 ATTACHMENT 3 Action Requested An Appropriation of $1,533,920 from Stormwater, General Fund, and the Urban Renewal Authority (URA) for the whitewater park project. 2 3 Project Funding Sources 4 Community Capital Improvement Program (CCIP) $ 4,200,000 Natural Areas $ 1,000,000 Stormwater $ 1,000,000 General Fund 2015 (Property Acquisition) $ 1,000,000 Park Impact Fees (Property Acquisition) $ 855,400 Fundraising $ 1,500,000 Total Funding $ 9,555,400 Supporting Project Contributions 5 Natural Areas $750,000 - Purchase of Coy Water Right Stormwater $450,000 - 2014 Poudre River Downtown Master Plan Development $100,000 - Vine Drive Drainage Improvement Optional Features 6 Project Feature Estimated Cost Pedestrian Bridge $525,000 South Bank Wall Enhancements $150,000 South Bank Plaza Enhancements $175,000 Landscape Enhancements $250,000 Concrete Walks $100,000 Children’s Play Area $175,000 Site Lighting $350,000 Site Security $60,000 Additional Project Contingency $240,000 Total Estimated Cost $2,025,000 Funding Approach 7 Cost Share by Funding Source Project Elements Cost Natural Areas Stormwater CCIP Fundraising Park Impact Fees General Fund URA Philanthropic Support Vine Drive, Parking and Storm Sewer Improvements $513,000 $213,000 $300,000 Property Acquisitions and Cleanup $1,855,400 $855,400 $1,000,000 River Enhancements $3,165,000 $721,666 $721,667 $721,667 $1,000,000 Bridge Abutments & Gathering Areas $1,157,000 $1,157,000 Minimum Landscape Enhancements $233,000 $77,666 $77,667 $77,667 Design, Engineering and Contractor Costs $2,418,000 $129,335 $650,000 $1,138,665 $500,000 Project Contingency $214,000 $71,333 $71,333 $71,334 Optional Features $2,025,000 $1,033,667 $492,335 $498,998 Total Estimated Cost with Optional Features $11,580,400 $1,000,000 $1,733,667 $4,200,000 $1,500,000 $855,400 $1,492,335 $300,000 $498,998 Current Available Funding $9,555,400 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $4,200,000 $1,500,000 $855,400 $1,000,000 Additional Funding Needed $733,667 $492,335 $300,000 $498,998 Project Benefits By Funding Source URA • Vine Drive Improvements • Pedestrian Bridge Stormwater • Removal of Properties From Floodway • Floodway Improvements • Improved Flow Capacity Beneath College Avenue Bridge • Removal of Existing Boat Chute • Added Drop Structures • Low Impact Development (LID) Enhancements General Fund/Philanthropic Support • Optional Features 8 Construction Sequence 9 Timeframe Funded Base Project $1.5M of Optional Features Additional $500k of Optional Features August 2018 Mobilization September Site Grading October – January River Work South Bank • Pedestrian Bridge • Children’s Play Area • South Bank Wall Enhancements December- March 2019 River Work North Bank • Additional Project Contingency March - May River Restoration April - May Vine Street & Parking Lot June – July 2019 Minimum Landscape Enhancements • Site Lighting • Security/Emergency Call Station • South Bank Plaza Enhancements • Concrete Walks • Landscape Enhancements Appropriation Request 10 Stormwater $734,000 General Fund $496,920 Urban Renewal Authority (URA) $303,000 Appropriation Request $1,533,920 Philanthropic Sources (When Available) $499,000 Total Additional Funding Target $2,032,920 Project Funding Total $2,025,000 Art in Public Places Funding $7,920 Action Requested An Appropriation of $1,533,920 from Stormwater, General Fund, and the Urban Renewal Authority (URA) for the whitewater park project. 11 12 -1- ORDINANCE NO. 058, 2018 OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS APPROPRIATING PRIOR YEAR RESERVES IN THE GENERAL FUND AND THE FORT COLLINS URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY FUND AND AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF APPROPRIATIONS FROM THE GENERAL FUND AND THE FORT COLLINS URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY FUND INTO THE CAPITAL PROJECT FUND FOR THE POUDRE RIVER WHITEWATER PARK PROJECT AND TRANSFERRING APPROPRIATIONS FROM THE CAPITAL PROJECT FUND TO THE CULTURAL SERVICES AND FACILITIES FUND FOR THE ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PROGRAM AND TRANSFERRING APPROPRIATIONS IN THE STORM DRAINAGE FUND FROM THE BOXELDER CREEK OUTFALL PROJECT AND THE REMINGTON STREET OUTFALL PROJECT TO THE CAPITAL PROJECT FUND FOR THE POUDRE RIVER WHITEWATER PARK PROJECT WHEREAS, the City is planning to construct a park in the downtown area along the Poudre River, to be known as the Downtown Whitewater Park, funding for which City voters approved in 2015 as part of the City’s Community Capital Improvement Program (the “CCIP”); and WHEREAS, the Downtown Whitewater Park will include world class whitewater features, park gathering places, river overlooks, fish passage and habitat improvements, stormwater improvements, street and sidewalk improvements, and various other related public improvements (the “Park Project”); and WHEREAS, the initial Park Project budget of $9,647,000 was approved in Budget Offer 21.1 (2015), and since such time Park Planning and Stormwater Utility staff have identified an additional $2,032,920 in optional improvements, including a pedestrian bridge, south bank wall and plaza enhancements, concrete walks, children’s play area, and site lighting and security features (the “Enhancements”), to support the project; and WHEREAS, at its work session on February 27, 2018, City Council reviewed the scope of the Enhancements and additional budget elements, including contributions to Art and Public Places Program and $240,000 of additional construction costs contingency; and WHEREAS, on March 6, 2018, the City and the Urban Renewal Authority (the “URA”) entered into an intergovernmental agreement by which the URA agreed to pay the City $300,000 toward the Park Project costs, recognizing the value of the Park Project in furthering the URA’s North College Plan; and WHEREAS, combining funds committed by the URA with funds identified in the Stormwater Utility enterprise and General funds, Park Planning staff recommends the City Council appropriate an additional $1,526,000 for the Park Project, plus $7,920 to be transferred to the Art and Public Places Program, as set forth herein; and -2- WHEREAS, during completion of the design and associated regional improvements for the Park Project and Enhancements, staff has identified additional benefits Stormwater Utility ratepayers will realize, supporting a proportional increase in the Utility’s contribution to project costs; such benefits include additional flood conveyance under the College Avenue Bridge, removal of developable land from the 100-year floodway, and new structures to convey runoff from Vine Drive into a reconfigured water quality pond; and WHEREAS, Article XII of the City Charter authorizes City Council to expend net operating revenues of the City’s utilities for renewal, replacement, extraordinary repair, extension, improvement, enlargement, and betterment of such utilities, or other specific utility purposes determined by Council to be beneficial to the ratepayers of said utilities; and WHEREAS, Article V, Section 9 of the City Charter permits the City Council to appropriate by ordinance at any time during the fiscal year such funds for expenditure as may be available from reserves accumulated in prior years, notwithstanding that such reserves were not previously appropriated; and WHEREAS, the City Manager has recommended the appropriation described herein and determined that these appropriations are available and previously unappropriated from the General Fund, the Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority Fund and the Storm Drainage Fund, as applicable, and will not cause the total amount appropriated in the General Fund, the Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority Fund or the Storm Drainage Fund, as applicable, to exceed the current estimate of actual and anticipated revenues to be received in these funds during the fiscal year; 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 fund or capital project to another fund or capital project, provided that the purpose for which the transferred funds are to be expended remains unchanged; the purpose for which the funds were initially appropriated no longer exists; or the proposed transfer is from a fund or capital project in which the amount appropriated exceeds the amount needed to accomplish the purpose specified in the appropriation ordinance; and WHEREAS, this project involves construction estimated to cost more than $250,000, as such, Section 23-304 of the City Code requires one percent of these qualified appropriations to be transferred to the Cultural Services and Facilities Fund for a contribution to the Art in Public Places (APP) program. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS as follows: Section 1. That the City Council hereby makes and adopts the determinations and findings contained in the recitals set forth above. Section 2. That there is hereby appropriated for expenditure from reserves in the General Fund for transfer to the Capital Projects Fund the sum of FOUR HUNDRED NINETY- SIX THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED TWENTY DOLLARS ($496,920) for the Poudre River -3- Whitewater Project and appropriated therein. Section 3. That there is hereby appropriated for expenditure from reserves in the Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority Fund for transfer to the Capital Projects Fund the sum of THREE HUNDRED THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($303,000) for the Poudre River Whitewater Project and appropriated therein. Section 4. That the unexpended appropriated amount of SIX THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED SEVENTY-EIGHT DOLLARS ($6,178) in the Capital Projects Fund - Poudre River Whitewater Project is authorized for transfer to the Cultural Services and Facilities Fund and appropriated therein for Art in Public Places projects. Section 5. That the unexpended appropriated amount of ONE THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED FORTY-TWO DOLLARS ($1,742) in the Capital Projects Fund - Poudre River Whitewater Project is authorized for transfer to the Cultural Services and Facilities Fund and appropriated therein for the Art in Public Places Program Maintenance and Operations. Section 6. That there is hereby appropriated for expenditure for transfer from the Boxelder Creek Outfall Project and the Remington Street Outfall Project in the Storm Drainage Fund for transfer to the Capital Projects Fund the sum of SEVEN HUNDRED THIRTY-FOUR THOUSAND DOLLARS ($734,000) for the Poudre River Whitewater Project and appropriated therein. Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 17th day of April, A.D. 2018, and to be presented for final passage on the 1st day of May, A.D. 2018. __________________________________ Mayor ATTEST: _______________________________ City Clerk Passed and adopted on final reading on the 1st day of May, A.D. 2018. __________________________________ Mayor ATTEST: _______________________________ City Clerk sources, which are in process of being secured. The appropriation of $734,000 of additional Stormwater funds $214,000 $71,333 $71,333 $71,334 Optional Features $2,025,000 $1,033,667 $492,335 $498,998 Total Estimated Cost with Optional Features $11,580,400 $1,000,000 $1,733,667 $4,200,000 $1,500,000 $855,400 $1,492,335 $300,000 $498,998 Current Available Funding $9,555,400 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $4,200,000 $1,500,000 $855,400 $1,000,000 Additional Funding Needed $2,025,000 $733,667 $492,335 $300,000 $498,998