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HomeMy WebLinkAboutReport - Mail Packet - 4/15/2014 - City Manager�S Monthly Report - April 10, 2014April 10, 2014 ISSUES BEFORE COUNCIL West Nile Virus Management Plan ........................................................................................................................ 2 Lincoln Corridor Plan ............................................................................................................................................. 2 New Approach for URA Process ............................................................................................................................ 2 URA Financial Parameters Relating to Financing URA Projects........................................................................... 2 Time of Use Pilot Project for Electric Rates .......................................................................................................... 2 Community Recycling Center ................................................................................................................................ 2 Amendments to the Appeal Process ....................................................................................................................... 3 Net Metering Rate .................................................................................................................................................. 3 ECONOMY Fort Collins Sales and Use Tax .............................................................................................................................. 4 CAPITAL PROJECTS Citywide Pedestrian Access Project ....................................................................................................................... 4 Mulberry Bridge (SH 14) at the Poudre River Enhancements ............................................................................... 5 West Mulberry Bridge Replacement ...................................................................................................................... 5 West Prospect Bridge Replacement ....................................................................................................................... 5 Bryan Bridge Replacement ..................................................................................................................................... 6 Arthur Ditch at Mountain Avenue and at Myrtle Street ......................................................................................... 6 Arthur Ditch Box Section Replacement ................................................................................................................. 7 Ziegler Roundabout Landscape Renovations ......................................................................................................... 7 Shields Street and Drake Road Intersection Improvements ................................................................................... 8 Timberline Improvements – Prospect To Blackbird ............................................................................................... 8 Horsetooth and Timberline Intersection Improvements ......................................................................................... 9 Vine and Shields Roundabout .............................................................................................................................. 10 Kechter and Timberline Right Turn Lanes ........................................................................................................... 10 Foothills Mall – Larimer County Canal No. 2 Relocation.................................................................................... 11 North College Improvements – Conifer To Willox .............................................................................................. 12 Downtown River District Improvements .............................................................................................................. 13 Spring Creek (NRCC) Overpass ........................................................................................................................... 13 Mason Corridor MAX Bus Rapid Transit Project ................................................................................................ 14 Utilities Capital Projects .................................................................................................................................. 14-20 COMMUNITY EVENTS ......................................................................................................................................... 21 NATURAL AREAS QUARTERLY REPORT ...................................................................................................... 22 PUBLIC SAFETY UPDATE Fort Collins Police Services ............................................................................................................................ 23-26 Poudre Fire Authority ...................................................................................................................................... 26-28 BUILDING ACTIVITY ....................................................................................................................................... 29-32 2 ISSUES BEFORE COUNCIL April 15 Regular Meeting West Nile Virus Management Plan  Staff will bring Council an appropriation ordinance for the 2014 West Nile Virus season.  Funding request includes $17,500 for public information and $57,600 for expanded larval control.  Staff will return to Council with a matrix and staff recommendations on additional program enhancements on May 6. Lincoln Corridor Plan  The purpose of the Lincoln Corridor Plan is to summarize and document the planning process and extensive community engagement to: 1) develop a vision and preliminary long-term multi-modal roadway design for Lincoln Avenue; 2) identify related neighborhood improvement projects in the study area; and 3) identify potential funding options, project phasing, and specific strategies and actions to implement the Plan.  City Council will consider adoption of the Plan on April 15. April 15 Urban Renewal Authority (URA) Work Session New Approach for URA Process  Staff will discuss with Council a new URA process when forming urban renewal plan areas that goes well beyond the State requirements, as well as the possibility of reconfiguring the Midtown Urban Renewal Plan area. URA Financial Parameters Relating to Financing URA Projects  The item presented to the URA Board continues the process of improvement by presenting a series of parameters to be used in developing the tax increment financing (TIF) commitments made to individual projects by URA staff. April 22 Work Session Time of Use Pilot Project for Electric Rates  With the full residential deployment of our advanced meter infrastructure, several rate structures can now be implemented that were previously not possible.  The purpose of this agenda item is to briefly present some of the possible rate structures and gain direction from the City Council on whether to pursue any of the possible rate structures as a pilot study in 2015 ahead of adoption on a larger scale in 2016. Community Recycling Center  Council has inquired about the status of work on the Community Recycling Center. Original plans called for constructing Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the recycling center simultaneously, but costs proved to be higher than the amount of money budgeted for the project. 3  Staff redesigned the Community Recycling Center on a “Phase 1” scale that enables us to stay within the existing budget. Staff has written a BFO proposal to build Phase 2 in 2015-16.  All necessary land use development plans and permits have been approved to build Phase 1 of the new facility at the Timberline property directly south of the electric substation (E. Prospect Road). The following “hard to recycle” materials will be accepted: - metal items; - aggregates (concrete, bricks, asphalt, etc.); - corrugated cardboard; - wood products (non-treated, unpainted); - source-separated glass; - yard debris.  A Request for Proposal was released in March for a construction company to do the grading, paving, fencing, and seeding for Phase 1; development could, therefore, start by late April and be finished by mid-late summer.  A recycling company has submitted an offer to operate and manage the Phase 1 recycling center and staff will be negotiating this contract in the coming weeks.  If Phase 2 construction costs are approved in the 2015-16 BFO process, the City will move to accepting certain household hazardous wastes, and the existing recycling center at Rivendell School will be moved to the Timberline site with an improved design for recycling bins to be “at grade” and, therefore, accessible for use by the disabled community.  Council asked about the possibility of funding Phase 2 now, using mid-cycle funding. A benefit of completing both phases together is savings of nearly $300,000 in costs, compared to building Phase 1 in 2014 and Phase 2 in 2015. May 6 Regular Meeting Amendments to the Appeal Process  As part of our culture of Plan/Do/Check/Act, staff has identified questions or concerns raised during appeals “filed” since a new appeal code was adopted in 2011. Staff has identified process improvements or clarifying code language that will address questions or concerns raised during recent appeals processes. Net Metering Rate  The manual processes associated with net-metering can now be automated and the annual settlement process eliminated.  To provide net meter customers with a comparable annual benefit using our advance meter infrastructure with monthly settlement, the explicit payment of the distribution facilities charge is required (due to interval metering that differs from the previous approach with spinning disk meters).  The rate ordinance makes the distribution facilities charge credit explicit in the City Code. 4 ECONOMY FORT COLLINS SALES AND USE TAX COLLECTIONS February 2014 Sales tax collections increased 2.6% Use tax collections excluding rebates increased 26.4% Sales and use tax collections excluding rebates increased 6.0% 2014 YTD Sales tax collections increased 4.9% Use tax collections excluding rebates increased 23.6% Sales and use tax collections excluding rebates increased 7.5% CAPITAL PROJECTS (new information noted in blue text) ENGINEERING CITYWIDE PEDESTRIAN ACCESS PROJECT Funding Source: KFCG Funds Estimated Project Budget: $450,000 Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The City of Fort Collins Pedestrian Plan addresses citywide pedestrian needs and is a data-driven approach based on the importance for safe, sustainable walking within City limits. It, however, lacks comprehensive condition data for the City’s sidewalk system. Prior to the beginning of the Pedestrian Needs Assessment project, there was not an inventory of existing sidewalks or sidewalk deficiencies. This project provides a complete City sidewalk inventory, identifies sidewalk inadequacies, and identifies inadequate handicap accessibilities according to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.  Data collection has been completed with approximately 540 street miles of sidewalk assessed and inventoried at this time.  37,741 accessible ramps have been identified as acceptable, substandard, or missing in accordance with the ADA requirements.  Staff has implemented a methodology and analysis program used to prioritize pedestrian projects. This program takes into account a variety of factors such as, but not limited to, demand, corridor function, and high priority areas. o Upcoming project locations scheduled include Jackson, Cherry, Boardwalk, Lemay.  Staff has identified approximately 21 projects for 2014. Construction anticipated beginning in the spring.  Level of service is being implemented for the sidewalk program. 5 MULBERRY BRIDGE (SH 14) AT THE POUDRE RIVER ENHANCEMENTS Funding Source: City of Fort Collins Estimate Project Budget: $750,000 Status: On Budget, On Schedule  Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is replacing the Mulberry Bridge (State Highway 14) over Poudre River Bridge starting in the fall of 2014. Construction was delayed due to the September 2013 flood.  Due to the construction, eastbound traffic on Mulberry will be detoured for the duration of construction.  The City is working with CDOT to add city- funded enhancements to the bridge including decorative railings, landscaping and urban design features. WEST MULBERRY BRIDGE REPLACEMENT DESIGN Funding Source: Colorado Off System Bridge Program (BRO) Funds and KFCG 2011 Estimated Project Budget: $1.1 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The goal of the project is to replace the existing structurally deficient bridge with a new bridge that meets the current standards.  The posted weight limit on this bridge precludes the passage of emergency vehicles from the nearby fire station.  In December 2011, the City received a grant for $700,000 in Colorado Off System Bridge Program (BRO) funds for some of the construction cost.  Design efforts are underway. Construction is planned for fall 2014. WEST PROSPECT BRIDGE REPLACEMENT DESIGN Funding Source: KFCG 2011 Estimated Project Budget: $1.2 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The goal of the project is to replace the existing structurally deficient bridge with a new bridge that meets the current standards.  The State of Colorado inspected this bridge in March 2011 and found significant structural 6 issues resulting in a temporary plate being installed and load posting restricted to 15 tons.  City Engineering has awarded the construction contract to Mountain Constructors.  Construction began November 18, 2013.  Phase 1: Construction of the north half of the structure and reconstruction of the north half of the roadway is complete.  Phase 2: Construction will replace the south half of the structure and will be completed by late May 2014. BRYAN BRIDGE REPLACEMENT Funding Source: Colorado Off System Bridge Program (BRO), City Bridge & KFCG Funds Estimated Project Budget: $1 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The goal of the project is to replace the existing structurally deficient bridge with a new bridge that meets the current standards.  The posted weight limit on this bridge precludes the passage of emergency vehicles from the nearby fire station.  The City received a grant for $552,000 in Colorado Off System Bridge Program (BRO) funds to cover some of the project cost.  Construction is underway with completion expected in May 2014.  Bryan Avenue will be operating as a one-way directional street heading north into City Park only until project completion, with occasional temporary short term closures when needed to pour concrete. ARTHUR DITCH AT MOUNTAIN AVENUE AND AT MYRTLE STREET Funding Source: KFCG Funds Estimated Project Budget: $975,000 Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The intent of this project is to replace two structurally deficient bridges with new concrete box culverts. Both bridges are located on the Arthur Ditch, within residential areas of the City.  Utility upgrades will also occur at both locations. Improvements to existing storm sewer, along with waterline and private utility upgrades, can be expected.  A full roadway closure is expected at both the Myrtle Street and the Mountain Avenue locations. To minimize impacts to residents and the traveling public, the Mountain Avenue structure will be constructed with pre-cast 7 concrete box culvert sections. Staff anticipates this change will reduce the full road closure at this location by several weeks.  Bridge and roadway construction at the Mountain Avenue location has been completed. The roadway is open to the public. Landscaping improvements, along with reconstruction of the trolley tracks, continues at the site. Expect periodic traffic impacts as this work continues.  Construction at the Myrtle Street location continues with the primary focus being the construction of the roadway, curb and gutter, and sidewalk. The bridge reconstruction has been completed.  Staff continues to perform outreach to potentially impacted residents to provide additional information on the project and its schedule.  Additional project information can be found at http://www.fcgov.com/engineering/arthur- ditch.php ARTHUR DITCH BOX SECTION REPLACEMENT – OAK/WHITCOMB, LOOMIS/OLIVE, CANYON AT MULBERRY POOL Funding Sources: KFCG/Operation Services, Facilities Estimated Project Budget: $2.5-3 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The intent of this project is to replace three structurally deficient bridge/box sections with new concrete box culverts.  Value engineering and best practices are being applied to develop the most cost efficient replacement methods. All three locations lie within local floodplains and will be evaluated prior to final design approval.  Design is approximately 40-50% complete and is currently undergoing floodplain modeling by City staff.  Staff continues to perform outreach to adjacent residents to provide additional information on the project and its schedule as it becomes available. ZIEGLER ROUNDABOUT LANDSCAPE RENOVATIONS – HORSETOOTH & KECHTER Funding Source: Street Oversizing/Parks Maintenance Funding Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The main goal of this project is to revive and enhance the existing landscape features and vegetation within the center of the roundabouts to provide a more visual element to the intersections. 8  Kechter update: Numerous, more colorful and vibrant plant species were installed in early October with the anticipation of enhanced appearance in the spring of 2014. A small amount of plant material will be added in April/May 2014 that was not available in the late fall of 2013.  Horsetooth update: A final concept has been selected, and installation began during the month of March. Plant and tree material will be procured and installed mid-late April, weather dependent.  The last of the existing trees were hand dug and temporarily transplanted at the City’s Forestry department, to be used in a location to be determined. SHIELDS STREET AND DRAKE ROAD INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS Funding Sources: Federal Hazard Elimination Grant (90%) / Local Match (10%) Estimated Project Budget: $986,000 Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The main goal of this project is to reduce the accident rate that occurs at this intersection by installing dedicated right turn lanes in the north and southbound movements. A reduced movement concept is also being considered to the Raintree Drive/Davidson Road intersection 400 feet south of Shields and Drake.  This project has multiple funding sources: Federal Hazard Elimination Grant: $887,400; City BOB funding $98,600.  The request for proposal was released in March, and the pre-proposal meeting was held on Monday, March 21. Proposals are due April 8. Candidates will then be selected for interviews.  Other safety components that will be corrected at the intersection include providing higher visibility for bicyclists by removing right turn movement conflict and installing ADA compliant ramps.  The City anticipates construction of the intersection to occur in summer 2015. TIMBERLINE IMPROVEMENTS – PROSPECT TO BLACKBIRD Funding Source: Building on Basics (BOB) Estimated Project Budget: $3.5 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The goals of this project are to improve air quality, reduce vehicle wait time and reduce the accident rate by constructing a free-right turn and acceleration lane from eastbound Prospect to southbound Timberline, as identified in our Arterial Intersection Prioritization Study. 9  The 2005 ballot language stated this project will expand Timberline Road to four (4) lane arterial standards including: o travel lanes, sidewalks, bike lanes and landscaped medians; o improvements to the Prospect and Timberline intersection and all its approaches to add additional turn lanes.  The project will add a sidewalk connection for southbound Timberline from Prospect to Blackbird.  Additionally, water quality features will be constructed to minimize the flow rates and volumes as they outlet to the Spring Creek basin.  A communication plan (public outreach) is being developed and will be implemented with the final design through construction.  A Historical Report is being finalized for the silos and Johnson family farm house.  The project website is available through the Engineering homepage at http://www.fcgov.com/engineering/prospect-timberline.php HORSETOOTH AND TIMBERLINE INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS Funding Source: Building on Basics (BOB) and Federal Grant (CMAQ) Estimated Project Budget: $3.5 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The goal of this project is to relieve traffic congestion and vehicle wait time by constructing additional intersection turn lanes.  The need for these safety and operational improvements was identified in the Engineering Department’s recently completed Arterial Intersection Prioritization Study. Turn lane needs are as follows: o right turn lane (southbound Timberline to westbound Horsetooth); o right turn lane (eastbound Horsetooth to southbound Timberline); o second left turn lane (northbound and southbound Timberline).  City Staff appropriated the CMAQ funds through Council in February 2013. These funds were applied for based upon the need for a dedicated, southbound right turn lane.  The project has moved to the final design phase, streetscape visioning and coordination with property owners for real estate purchases (right-of-way and easements).  Additionally, the project will include median and landscape improvements, sidewalk and bicycle lane improvements, and pavement improvements.  A communication plan (public outreach) is being developed and will be implemented with the final design through construction. The project website is available through the Engineering homepage at http://www.fcgov.com/engineering/horsetooth-timberline.php 10 VINE AND SHIELDS ROUNDABOUT Funding Source: Building on Basics (BOB), Federal Grant (STP Metro) and Regional Road Impact Fees Estimated Project Budget: $1.7 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The main goal of this project is to increase mobility at the intersection via multimodal transportation improvements. Currently, the east- west lanes on Vine Drive are not aligned causing additional independent traffic movements which effect the overall operation of the signal timing.  The City received a federal grant award for $1,054,000 through the North Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization in the STP- Metro category.  Other safety concerns which will be corrected at the intersection entail adding sidewalks along the northern portion of the project, installing ADA compliant ramps/crosswalks and adding bike lanes.  The City continues to coordinate our intersection project with Larimer County’s proposed improvements to Shields Street from 400’ north of Vine Drive to Willox Lane. The County received three federal grants for this stretch of roadway to accomplish the following: o replace the Shields Street Bridge over the Poudre River; o improve the Poudre River trailhead parking area and river access; o reconstruct approximately one mile of Shields Street.  The project has moved to the preliminary design phase and streetscape visioning. With this phase we’ll finalize the horizontal geometry, and define the required right-of-way acquisition areas.  A communication plan (public outreach) is being developed and will be implemented with the final design through construction.  The project website is available through the Engineering homepage at http://www.fcgov.com/engineering/vsi.php KECHTER AND TIMBERLINE RIGHT TURN LANES Funding Source: Building on Basics (BOB), Federal Grant (CMAQ) Funds Estimated Project Budget: $850,000 Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The goal of this project is to relieve traffic congestion and vehicle wait time by constructing two dedicated right turn lanes along southbound and northbound Timberline Road. 11  The need for the northbound turn lane improvement was identified in the Engineering Department’s recently completed Arterial Intersection Prioritization Study. The need for the southbound turn lane improvement was triggered by the proposed traffic impacts for the Crowne on Timberline development. The developer funds were appropriated into the Capital Project so the two turn lanes could be designed and built as one package.  The proposed improvements will reduce the peak hour delay by 15%.  The project will include an interim, detached sidewalk along Timberline Road, with accessible curb ramps being installed on the northeast and southeast corners.  The City will purchase the ultimate right-of-way from the southeast corner property owner to accommodate the future four-lane Timberline section.  A communication plan (public outreach) is being developed and will be implemented with the final design through construction.  The project website is available through the Engineering homepage at http://www.fcgov.com/engineering/kechter-timberline.php FOOTHILLS MALL – LARIMER COUNTY CANAL NO. 2 RELOCATION Funding Source: Mall Redevelopment Project Status: Phase 2 Construction Estimated Construction Date: January to mid-April Project Lead: Robert Mosbey, Engineering and Greg Powell, Beck Group  This project is to relocate the irrigation ditch as a separate, but related, project to the Foothills Mall Redevelopment Plan. This section of the canal is located between West Monroe Drive and West Foothills Parkway. The relocation project will allow room for additional building construction on the mall’s main site and for a pedestrian/bicyclist underpass under College Avenue.  Construction is scheduled to occur in phases starting at West Monroe heading north through early April 2014. The overall project has ten phases.  The scope of the work includes: o general excavation; o utility relocation; o new canal box culvert installation; o street and landscaping improvements.  College Avenue is to remain open for the duration of the project with a single southbound lane restriction.  Typical working hours are from 7am to 7pm; however, variances will be granted for construction to occur during certain phases for night work, or on the weekends to minimize impacts to existing businesses.  It is anticipated that 6-7 box culverts will be installed per day. Installation includes excavation, installation, and backfill.  As of March 18, all culvert boxes were installed and have been preliminarily inspected by the ditch company. 12  Construction crews are preparing frontage road subgrade, curb and gutter installation for Red Lobster parking lot, and curb and gutter installation along College Avenue.  Work continues on the concrete headwalls at the south end of the box culvert.  Mid-April will see curb and gutter, and asphalt for Monroe Drive.  Additional items to occur during April are to install fencing, railings, pour back sidewalks, install street inlets, and striping. NORTH COLLEGE IMPROVEMENTS – CONIFER TO WILLOX Funding Source: Federal Grants, Local Matching Funds Estimate Project Budget: $12 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The intent of this project is to design and construct improvements along North College Avenue from the Conifer/Hickory intersection to Willox Lane, bringing this section of North College up to four-lane arterial standards as defined by the Larimer County Urban Area Street Standards. Both medians and sections of the planned rear access roads are included in the project.  The project was recently awarded roughly $3.9 million in additional federal funds. The additional funding enables a slight increase to $12.0 million for the overall project budget.  The engineering design is roughly 90% complete. Staff expects completed plans and project specifications over the next several months. Staff is also in active negotiations to acquire all property interests necessary to construct the project.  The original project schedule had construction beginning in early 2014. The project team now anticipates construction will not be cleared by the State until September 2014. Staff continues to investigate every possibility to mitigate this delay.  Staff anticipates pre-project construction activities, including utility relocations and the construction of a rear access road west of North College, to begin in the summer of 2014.  Additional project information is available at http://www.fcgov.com/engineering/ncollege.php 13 DOWNTOWN RIVER DISTRICT IMPROVEMENTS Funding Source: Federal Grants, Local Funds, DDA Funds Estimate Project Budget: $1.48 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The goal of this project is to develop a consulting contract capable of providing engineering services and subsequent construction projects for various improvements within the Downtown River District.  The project will also have the capability to provide various engineering services in preparation of anticipated development.  The first two projects to be addressed are developing an implementation plan for improvements along Jefferson Street between College Avenue and the Mountain /Lincoln intersection based on the available budget, and to develop a conceptual design for improvements along Willow Street.  Additional projects to follow include the development of engineering plans and specifications, as well as construction of these improvements along both Jefferson and Willow based on the results of the above. SPRING CREEK (NRRC) OVERPASS Funding Source: Federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) Grant and Building on Basics (BOB) Funds Estimated Project Budget: $2.75 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The goal of the project is to construct a new pedestrian/bike overpass that will link the Mason Bike Trail and the federal campus on the west side of the railroad tracks to the Mason Corridor Bus Rapid Transit MAX station on the east side of the tracks.  Concrete Express, Inc. (CEI) was awarded the construction contract to install the steel bridge structure on top of the ramps that they are currently building.  The bridge was installed on February 12, 2014.  There are several construction tasks remaining before the City can open the overpass for public use. The contractor is currently installing steel railings, electrical systems, and concrete flat work at the bottom of the ramps. The structure will not be opened to the public until the work is completed.  The proposed schedule is to complete construction by May 2014 in conjunction with the opening of the MAX Bus Rapid Transit (BRT).  An additional phase of construction will add stairs to the structure in the summer of 2014. 14 MASON CORRIDOR MAX BUS RAPID TRANSIT (BRT) PROJECT Funding Source: FTA 80%, Local Match (CDOT SB-1, CDOT FASTER, City, and Downtown Development Authority) 20% Estimate Project Budget: $87 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  As of March 31, the MAX project is substantially complete. Crews are currently focused on punch list items for final completion.  Construction of all 19 bus stations is nearing completion. Crews are now concentrating on MIS and electrical components including programming of the ticket vending machines and variable message boards.  The traffic signal at Fairway and College has been installed and will be operational next month.  New sidewalk installation along the north side of Fairway to provide access to South Transit Center. In addition, a major tripping hazard around a tree was repaired near Olive and College.  Installation of chain link/split cedar fencing identified in the plans is now complete from Harmony to Pitkin. Project staff has identified other areas in need of additional fencing along the corridor, and is in the process of working with the property owners for installation.  Construction at the South Transit Center is nearing substantial completion. Crews are working on landscaping, IT installation, and punch list items. UTILITIES COLLEGE AVENUE WATER LINE REPLACEMENT Project Description: In anticipation of CDOT paving in 2015, this project will replace the existing 4” cast iron waterline in College Avenue from Mulberry to Buckeye. Project Status: Final Design complete; working on contract negotiations and public outreach. Anticipated Completion Date: This project is planned to start May 5 and be completed by mid- August. Ahead/Behind/or on Schedule: On Schedule Total Project Budget: $2.5 million Budget Status: Within budget Highlights:  This project will use trenchless technology to minimize the impact to traffic and local business.  This project will have significant impacts to traffic and businesses along College Avenue. 15 WEST VINE OUTFALL CHANNEL Project Description: This is a joint project between the City and Larimer County to design and construct a stormwater outfall channel for the West Vine Basin to the Poudre River. The project is being coordinated with Larimer County’s widening of Shields Street from the Arthur Ditch to Willox. Project Status: Construction is underway. Excavation and hauling is approximately 60% complete. Anticipated Completion Date: Fall 2014 Ahead/Behind/or on Schedule: On Schedule Total Project Budget: Alternatives Analysis Phase ($104,000); Final Design ($243,000); Total Project Cost $2.8 Million. Budget Status: $500,000 spent to date. Project is within budget. Highlights:  Working on collaboration with Natural Areas.  Final Design for the Water Quality area north of Vine Drive and the Outfall to the Poudre River is complete.  Floodplain permit complete.  Construction is underway. GRANDVIEW AVENUE VALVES REPLACEMENT PROJECT Project Description: Decommissioning of Utilities’ 20 inch water transmission main between Tarragon Lane and Grandview Avenue and the removal of the existing valve vault in LaPorte Avenue at Grandview Avenue. The project involves removing services and distribution lines from the 20 inch steel line and tapping them into other nearby mains. There will also be a 12 inch HDPE sliplining at Lilac Apartments. The valve vault in LaPorte Avenue at Grandview will be taken out of service. This will remove four 90-year old inoperative valves from the distribution system. The 20 inch cast iron main will then be cut, drained and plugged. Work scheduled to precede repaving of LaPorte Avenue by Streets from Shields Street to LaPorte Avenue in August 2014. Project Status: Sliplining drawings complete. Valve replacement under design by Stantec Consulting Engineers. Anticipated Completion Date: Work to be completed by August 2014. Ahead/Behind/or on Schedule: On Schedule Total Project Budget: Design and Valve Procurement $750,000 Budget Status: On Budget 16 Highlights:  90-year old valve vault containing 4 inoperative 20 inch valves to be abandoned.  3 new 20 inch butterfly valves and valve vaults to be installed. BOXELDER CREEK OUTFALL IMPROVEMENTS Project Description: Large regional flood control project to be designed and constructed under Intergovernmental Agreements with Timnath Development Authority and Boxelder Basin Stormwater Authority. Project involves channel grading and road crossing improvements from I-25 to the Poudre River along the Boxelder Creek Corridor. Project Status: Preliminary design complete. Environmental assessment filed with Colorado Division of Wildlife. CLOMR submittal in preparation. Final Design and Permitting Requirements: May 2014 – April 2015 Anticipated Completion Date: December 30, 2015 On Schedule: On Schedule Total Project Budget: $4,100,000 Budget Status: Funding for project under negotiation with Timnath Highlights:  Preliminary Design complete.  Project suspended pending intergovernmental agreement between Timnath and Fort Collins. CATHODIC PROTECTION OF WATER TREATMENT AND TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM WATER LINES Project Description: Investigation of existing systems in place used to protect water lines from corrosion; design of rehabilitation of existing and new systems to prevent corrosion; and construction of modified and new systems. Project Status: On Schedule Anticipated Completion Date: This is an ongoing project. Ahead/Behind/or on Schedule: On Schedule Total Project Budget: $318,000 (2014) Budget Status: Within Budget Highlights:  Working with consultant and contractor on testing current cathodic protection levels and locations, and installing modified and new systems where needed. 17  Reviewing projects and work status for 2014 with consultant and contractor to create schedule and work orders.  Working with the Project Manager on his new yard piping project to include and update cathodic protection of the new piping, then connect into rectifiers. STREAM REHABILITATION AND ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM Project Description: Stream restoration and habitat enhancement across City including stabilizing stream channel morphology, restoring/creating new native in-stream and riparian habitat to attract and support native fish and wildlife populations, and promote BMPs to improve water quality. First watershed in program is Fossil and Mail Creek. Project Status: Working with consultant on design. Anticipated Completion Date: First project, Fossil Creek reach upstream of Lemay, construction to begin fall of 2014. Ahead/Behind/or on Schedule: On Schedule Total Project Budget: $600,000 each year Budget Status: Within Budget Highlights:  Centennial Archaeology conducted a Limited Results Cultural Resource Survey which was requested by the Corps of Engineers.  Reviewing requirements for groundwater permit with CDPHE.  Working with team on costs and schedule for construction.  Working with PR on website.  Met with Engineering to discuss opportunity of stream rehabilitation along Spring Creek just north of EPIC. RIGDEN MUNICIPAL STORAGE POND Project Description: The project will consist of the construction of a gravel pit water storage reservoir to include a pump station and associated piping. The project is located northeast of the Ziegler Road and Horsetooth Road intersection. Purpose of the storage is to retime flows to meet water rights return flow obligations and meet augmentation requirements. Project is a cooperative effort with Natural Areas and Parks. Project Status: Under construction Anticipated Completion Date: Design complete in 2013; construction in 2014. Ahead/Behind/or on Schedule: On Schedule Total Project Design Budget: $457,782 18 Total Project Construction Budget: $10,600,000 Budget Status: Within Budget Highlights:  Construction of the reservoir has started and is progressing.  Light & Power started the electrical service to the pump station.  Excavation has begun on the Fossil Creek Reservoir Inlet Ditch diversion.  The pump station wetwell caissons, floor slab and walls have been placed.  The temporary work on the Box Elder Ditch has been completed. WATER TREATMENT FACILITY YARD PIPING MODIFICATIONS Project Description: Design and construction of a new 48 inch diameter steel raw water pipeline to replace the aged 30 and 36 inch Horsetooth raw water pipelines, and a new 36 inch diameter steel backwash pump station influent line to replace the existing cast iron pipeline. Both of these pipelines have shown damage due to electrolysis. The finished water backwash influent line is also located under an existing sludge drying pond, increasing the possibility of cross contamination. Project Status: Kicked off design May 2013; construction began in October 2013. Anticipated Completion Date: Planned for fall 2014. Ahead/Behind/or on Schedule: On Schedule Total Project Budget: $2,300,000 Budget Status: On Budget Highlights:  Chlorinated and put 60” West Reservoir Outlet pipe back into service.  Set manhole vaults over the two new 42” BFV operators and backfilled entire site.  Finished 42” DIP piping at the new meter vault including mag meter, 42” x 24” tee and 24” BFV.  Excavated for new 36” Backwash Pump Station supply line and installed 36” outlet with 36” BFV on existing 60” West Reservoir Outlet pipe.  Installed remainder of 36” BWPS supply line except for tying in. PLUM STREET SANITARY SEWER IMPROVEMENTS Project Description: Design and construction of a replacement sanitary sewer system that currently lies in Shields Street, Plum Street between Shields and City Park Avenue and City Park Avenue. This sewer is in very poor condition and will soon be undersized as new development occurs in the immediate vicinity. Project Status: Selected design engineer, Ditesco, and contractor, Connell Resources. 19 Kick-off meeting scheduled for August 7, 2013. Project on hold until spring 2014 when asphalt is available. Anticipated Completion Date: Design scheduled for completion September 2013. Construction is scheduled to start mid-March 2014. Ahead/Behind/or on Schedule: On Schedule Total Project Budget: $1,000,000 Budget Status: On Budget Highlights:  Set up traffic control to close west Plum Street from Shields Street to Aster Street.  Set up traffic control on southbound Shields Street and installed 350 LF of 12” PVC sanitary sewer by trenchless reaming. Replaced two sanitary manholes and made service connections.  Asphalt patched southbound Shields Street.  Set up traffic control on northbound Shields Street and installed approximately 250 LF of 36” PVC storm sewer by conventional cut and cover method. Replaced two storm manholes.  Began concrete curb and gutter restoration on the east side of northbound Shields Street. WATER TREATMENT FACILITY – 2014 MASTERPLAN UPDATE Project Description: Fort Collins Utilities currently has two planning documents, the 2007 Water Treatment Facility Electrical Master Plan (EMP) and the 2010 Water Treatment Facilities Master Plan. This document will update the Water Treatment Facilities Master Plan and incorporate the EMP. Project Status: Issued RFP in December 2013. Anticipated Completion Date: Master Plan to be completed by December 2014. Ahead/Behind/or on Schedule: On schedule Total Project Budget: $350,000 Budget Status: On budget Highlights:  Contracts are being put together for signatures. 20 DRAKE WATER RECLAMATION FACILITY SOUTH PROCESS TRAIN IMPROVEMENTS Project Description: The project will consist of the demolition of a portion of the existing process train, construction of new tanks for the new biological nutrient removal process, upgrading the south aeration system, and replacement of old mechanical and electrical systems. Project Status: Design in progress. Site Application submitted to the state. Anticipated Completion Date: October 2015 Ahead/Behind/or on Schedule: On Schedule Total Project Design Budget: $1.2 million Total Project Construction Budget: $7.7 million Budget Status: Within Budget Highlights:  Working on Process Design Report.  Visited Northglenn WRF to see possible blower alternatives.  Design underway. 21 COMMUNITY EVENTS 40th Annual Fiber Celebration Opening Reception and Awards Ceremony Location: Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia Date/Time: Friday, March 14, 2014 – Saturday, April 26, 2014 Details: The Northern Colorado Weavers Guild presents the 40th Annual Fiber Celebration, March 14 – April 26, 2014. The Fiber Celebration is a nationally juried exhibit of functional and non- functional fiber arts, including weaving, quilting, basketry, wearable art, embroidery, felting and more. Hours: Tues-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat noon-6pm, and evenings during most theatre performances. Web address: www.fcgov.com/galleries Contact Information: Jeanne Shoaff Phone: (970) 416-2737; Email address: jshoaff@fcgov.com View the Total Lunar Eclipse Location: Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area (Carpenter Road entrance) Date/Time: Monday, April 14, 2014 11:30 PM Details: The Northern Colorado Astronomical Society will have telescopes available to view the total lunar eclipse. The total eclipse occurs between 1:07 and 2:25 a.m. Dress warmly and bring a chair to sit on. To get updates, check the NCAS website at www.ncastro.org. No registration required. Web address: http://www.fcgov.com/naturalareas Contact Information: Deborah Price Phone: 970-416-2815; E-mail address: naturalareas@fcgov.com Kites in the Park & the Kids Summer Activity Fair Location: Spring Canyon Park, 2626 W. Horsetooth Road Date/Time: Sunday, April 27, 2014 10:00 AM Details: Get a taste of the outdoors at Kites in the Park! See kite flying demonstrations, disc dogs, kite fights and huge kites take to the sky! The event is free! Parents come and learn what activities the City of Fort Collins will have available this summer to keep your child occupied, active and engaged! Programmers and instructors from the City of Fort Collins Recreation Dept., the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Dept, the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, The Gardens on Spring Creek and the Poudre River Public Library District will be on hand to answer any questions you may have. Note: The Kids Summer Activities fair will run in conjunction with the Kites in the Park Festival on Sunday, April 27. We will have games and activities to keep your kids entertained while you browse the fair. There is no cost for the fair or the kites festival! Contact Information: Recreation Phone: 970.221.6358; E-mail address: recreation@fcgov.com To view the full calendar of events, visit http://www.fcgov.com/events/ 22 NATURAL AREAS QUARTERLY REPORT Land Conservation Update - March 2014 Acreage Cost Land Conserved - Jan - Mar 87.99 $ 410,924 Land Conserved - Apr - Jun - - Land Conserved - Jul - Sept - - Land Conserved - Oct - Dec - - Total Land Conserved - Year to Date 87.99 $ 410,924 Land Conservation Summary - To Date Acreage Cost Acres of Land Purchased 34,848 Acres of Land Leased 1,128 Acres of Land Placed in Conservation Easements 5,816 Total Conserved - To Date 41,791 $ 80,604,963 Land Conservation Funds Budgeted for 2014* $ 1,855,000 Prior year reserves and unanticipated revenues to be appropriated. $ 4,800,000 Acquisitions To Date - 2014 Acreage Cost Arnett Property (50% Partnership with Stormwater on 12.841 fee acres & 25.146 Conservation Easement) 12.841 $ 179,076 Arnett Property Conservation Easement 25.146 $ 56,712 Shields Pit Acquisition (donation received from Christensen's) 50 $ 175,136 Total Conserved - Year to Date 87.99 $ 410,924 Property Under Contract Acreage Cost Total Under Contract - - Net Land Conservation Funds Remaining for 2014 $ 6,244,076 23 PUBLIC SAFETY UPDATE FORT COLLINS POLICE SERVICES Call Load In March 2014, officers responded to 8,278 incidents resulting in 1,437 cases compared to 8,317 incidents and 1,548 cases for the same period last year. Year–to-date totals reflect a decrease in the number of incidents and total number of cases reported when compared to the same period last year. 2013 YTD 2014 YTD Incidents 23,990 24,526 Cases 4,421 4,288 Nationwide Drug Take-Back Event The next Nationwide Drug Take-Back event is Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Citizens can drop off unused, unneeded, and expired over-the-counter and prescription medications to the Fort Collins Police Services north parking lot at 2221 S. Timberline Road. The service is free and anonymous. If We Can’t Reach You, We Can’t Alert You When a disaster strikes or an emergency situation arises you need to know about it. Emergencies are defined as imminent or potential threats to life and or property. Residents in Larimer County can receive emergency notifications on their cell phones, business phones, via text messages and e-mail, in addition to receiving phone calls on their traditional home phones. You can sign up to receive an alert at multiple addresses within Larimer County. To take advantage of this free service, you must sign up at www.leta911.org If you don’t sign up, you will still receive notifications on your traditional home phone, but nowhere else. 24 Daily Drug Take-Back Service Fort Collins Police Services now offers a daily drug take-back service that complements the Nationwide DEA Drug Take-Back events, and collected over 189 lbs. during the first two week of the service. Residents may drop off unused or expired over-the-counter and prescriptions medications any day of the week to Fort Collins Police Services, 2221 S. Timberline Road Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday, 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. The service is free and anonymous. Intravenous solutions, injectables, syringes, mercury (thermometers) oxygen containers, chemotherapy / radioactive substances, pressurized canisters and illicit drugs cannot be accepted due to potential health hazards. Beaver’s Market Burglary Police are continuing to investigate the January 19 commercial burglary to Beaver’s Market, 1100 W. Mountain Avenue. The suspect was captured on the store’s security camera entering the business at 5:38 a.m., yet the burglary was not discovered until a store employee arrived to work later that morning. Police found evidence of forced entry to the store and discovered a safe was missing which contained an undisclosed amount of cash. A picture of the suspect was released and police are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect. Anyone with information is encouraged to call Fort Collins Police Detective Andy Kinkead at 970-221-6557 or Crime Stoppers of Larimer County at 970-221-6868 where you will remain anonymous and possibly be eligible for a cash reward. Crime Stoppers may also be reached through their website at www.stopcriminals.org Fatal Motor Vehicle Collision Police responded to a two car collision at the entrance to the Larimer County Landfill on March 6. A 1983 Dodge passenger van was travelling northbound on South Taft Hill Road when it struck the rear of a 2003 Mack garbage truck. The Mack truck was stopped in the northbound left turn lane waiting to turn west into the Larimer County Landfill. The driver of the van was extricated from the vehicle by Poudre Fire Authority personnel and taken to the hospital where he later died. The operator of the Mack truck was not injured in the collision. Coffee with Chief Hutto The Coffee with Chief Hutto monthly community outreach activity was held March 27 at Genoa Coffee, 2614 S. Timberline Road. The next event will be held on April 24 from 9-10 a.m. at Alley Cat, 120½ W. Laurel Street. This monthly event is held at different coffee shops throughout the year. 25 Oreo the Cat Oreo, the Armstrong Hotel cat taken from its home over the St. Patrick’s Day weekend, was found and reunited with the hotel owners. Two men in their late teens or early 20s were caught on surveillance camera taking Oreo from the lobby and walking out. Oreo, a fixture at the hotel for many years, was found a couple of days later behind the art museum downtown by two hotel guests and is now back home. Although Oreo is safely home, those responsible for his disappearance have not been identified. Crime Trends Aggravated assaults tend to ebb and flow with fewer reported incidents in colder months and higher numbers when the weather is warm. The good news is that aggravated assaults have shown a steady decrease over the past five years (see chart below). Crime Prevention During March, the Crime Prevention Specialist handled 15 telephone calls, ranging from questions about dealing with a potential stalker to providing church security measures, and made presentations/interactions with 1,419 people. A breakdown of the month’s Crime Prevention activities follows:  RESTORE - 43 attended  CSU Housing Fair - 1312 at the fair  Identity Theft PRPA - 35 attended  Identity Theft PRPA - 28 attended  CPTED - 1 attended Crime Prevention Tip The weather is very diverse this time of year, so be prepared for just about anything. Start your spring clean-up by trimming bushes and trees around windows, walkways, and lights. Replace burned out lights with compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs. Install photo cells on your front porch (the screw-in style only costs around $10 or less) assuring that your porch light is on when 26 you come home after dark. And don’t put that snow brush away just yet as we frequently receive a few more snow storms through May. Continue to be prepared for winter driving conditions until that time. Watch the weather reports and plan your day accordingly. POUDRE FIRE AUTHORITY Hazardous Materials Incident The Holiday Inn Express in Southeast Fort Collins was evacuated due to a Hazardous Materials incident in the late afternoon on March 7. Noxious fumes spread through areas of the hotel after an employee mixed ammonia and bleach products together. PVH/UCH crews transported two employees to PVH for evaluation after they complained of breathing issues. There were no other reported injuries. Employees and guests were allowed to return after fire crews ventilated the building using large fans. Leadership Fort Collins PFA hosted another event to allow citizens to learn about different government services. PFA crews took part in this very worthwhile community centered program that educates citizens about the inner workings of certain departments. PFA crews were able to give the group of ‘students’ general information about PFA and allowed them to participate in demonstrations of a vehicle extrication, spray a fire hose and walk through a smoke-filled building. Structure Fire Firefighters made a quick stop on an apartment fire March 14 in the 600 block of South Sherwood Street. When crews arrived they found fire and smoke coming from two windows on the first floor of a three story apartment building. Nobody was home when the fire started and no injuries were reported. Six units were evacuated during the incident. The origin was a bedroom; cause was accidental (unattended candle). Restaurant Fire A flash-fire injured four employees at Fuzzy’s Tacos in the 2900 block of East Harmony Road on March 28. All four employees suffered burn injuries and were transported to Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland. Investigators determined the origin of the fire to be the cooking stove in the kitchen. The cause was accidental; an overheated aerosol spray can exploded and 27 vaporized its contents, which then found an ignition source (stove). One fire sprinkler in the kitchen activated, preventing further spread of the fire. Signs Now Fire Suspect pleads guilty to First-Degree Arson. From Fort Collins Police Services press release: On January 15 Fort Collins police brought an affidavit for additional charges against Keith Edgar Lubaski to the District Attorney’s Office of the 8th Judicial District. Charges were accepted, the judge signed the motion, and the charges added on January 28. Lubaski, 35, of Fort Collins was previously charged for Second Degree Burglary to Painter’ Supply and Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft. The new affidavit presented probable cause for the following additional charges:  First Degree Arson, class 3 felony;  Criminal Mischief, class 3 felony;  Second Degree Burglary, class 4 felony;  Theft, class 4 felony;  Three counts of First Degree Criminal Trespass, (class 5 felony); and  Driving under Restraint, a misdemeanor. Fire investigators from Poudre Fire Authority and Fort Collins Police Services determined that the fire at Signs Now was incendiary, meaning that a person started a fire in a place they knew a fire should not be set. Investigators have found no evidence of other suspects involved in the crimes committed in the early morning of December 26 and they believe that Lubaski acted alone. Lubaski has remained in custody since the evening of December 26, about 10 hours after the fire was reported at Signs Now. The criminal charges are only allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Incident Statistics (by category) Report Period: March 2014 Total Loss Fires 24 $127,800 Overpressure/rupture, explosion-no fire 3 Rescue / EMS 1,047 Hazardous Condition - no fire 25 Service Call 43 Good Intent Call 101 False Alarms / False Calls 107 Severe Weather & Natural Disaster 0 Special Incident Type 3 Total = 1,353 28 YEAR-TO-DATE 2014 Total Loss Fires 74 $471,550 Overpressure/rupture, explosion-no fire 3 Rescue / EMS 3,053 Hazardous Condition - no fire 83 Service Call 158 Good Intent Call 277 False Alarms / False Calls 313 Severe Weather & Natural Disaster 0 Special Incident Type 9 Total = 3,970 Comparison: March 2013 Total Loss Fires 32 $180,980 Overpressure/rupture, explosion-no fire 1 Rescue / EMS 1,008 Hazardous Condition - no fire 29 Service Call 61 Good Intent Call 93 False Alarms / False Calls 95 Severe Weather & Natural Disaster 0 Special Incident Type 2 Total = 1,321 Comparison: YEAR-TO-DATE 2013 Total Loss Fires 95 $551,846 Overpressure/rupture, explosion-no fire 2 Rescue / EMS 2,871 Hazardous Condition - no fire 84 Service Call 176 Good Intent Call 263 False Alarms / False Calls 307 Severe Weather & Natural Disaster 0 Special Incident Type 4 Total = 3,802 *Information subject to change due to updated data. 29 BUILDING ACTIVITY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES 2013 YTD 2014 YTD % Change Development Project Submittals Received 79 77 -3% Conceptual/Staff Reviews Performed 69 62 -10% Building Permits Issued 1,315 1,317 +.15% Building Permit Valuations ($M) $87 $144 +65% Building Inspections Performed 7,683 7,892 +3% Plan Reviews Performed 450 487 +8% Development Review revenues are approximately $101,000 over projections for 2014 as of March 31. The General Fund portion of this is approximately $154,675 over 2014 projections (Transportation Development Review Fees are currently under projection). Development Projects of Note  Foothills Mall Redevelopment – The Foothills Mall Redevelopment Phase One Final Plan and development agreement have been recorded and site work has commenced. A development agreement and Final Plan for the main mall redevelopment (Phase Two) still need to be approved and recorded.  Milestone Apartments – (formerly Terra Vida II) 276 units on 10.62 acres with 449 parking spaces located at the northeast corner of Lady Moon Drive and Precision Drive, just south of Banner Health.  Ridgewood Hills Apartments – 146 units on 10.42 acres with 256 parking spaces located on both sides of Avondale Road (extended) at Triangle Drive.  Summit on College Parking Structure – The Project Development Plan (PDP) was approved by a hearing officer on March 19 and the approval was appealed on April 2. The project proposes a parking structure at the south end of The Summit student housing project to provide 427 spaces, replacing 96 surface spaces for a net gain of 331 spaces.  Townhomes at Library Park – 10 units in 2 buildings at 220 East Olive Street, the northwest corner of East Olive Street and Mathews Street.  Woodward – Final plans for the river restoration area have been approved. Final plan review for Phase 1 of the Woodward campus is nearing completion and mylars will likely be recorded by the end of April. Projects that submitted final plans during the past month: o Front Range Community College Parking Lot Replat - submitted 3/21/2014 o Avalon Estates Subdivision - submitted 3/31/2014 30 Construction Projects of Note for March  Candlewood Suites Hotel at 314 Pavilion Lane  Chippers Lane addition at 217 W. Horsetooth Road  Sunshine House Early Learning Academy at 2060 Perennial Lane  Multi-Family residences at 218 W. Laurel Street  Tenant finish for Arc Thrift Store at 2701 S. College Avenue Other Items of Note  Downtown River District – Standards and Guidelines for the River Downtown Redevelopment (R-D-R) Zone – This project is progressing and our most recent outreach was with the Natural Resources Advisory Board on March 19, 2014. A City Council work session is scheduled for April 8, 2014.  Lincoln Corridor Plan – The purpose of the Lincoln Corridor Plan is to summarize and document the planning process and extensive community engagement to: o develop a vision and preliminary long-term multi-modal roadway design for Lincoln Avenue; o identify related neighborhood improvement projects in the study area; and o identify potential funding options, project phasing, and specific strategies and actions to implement the plan. City Council will consider adoption of the Plan on April 15, 2014. For more information on the project, including summary of public outreach, visit www.fcgov.com/lincoln  Nature in the City – The Nature in the City strategic plan was funded through the annual appropriation ordinance and launched in January 2014. This strategic plan will develop a vision for incorporating nature into the urban environment and include design guidelines, policies, and actions for achieving this vision. o We are currently conducting the inventory and assessment (using existing data, e.g., GIS, Natural Areas bird data, etc., and field data to be collected this summer) using a triple bottom line approach, and have already engaged almost 200 citizens and met with three City Boards; o The project was also awarded $25,000 from the City’s Sustainability Innovation Fund to build the first green wall in our community. We are collaborating with the Institute for the Built Environment and the Urban Lab (urbanlab.colostate.edu) to design and install the wall this year. For more information about the project, please see our website at fcgov.com/natureinthecity  Oil & Gas – A moratorium is now in place for all hydraulic fracturing within the City of Fort Collins. The moratorium will remain in place for up to five years and stops the current operator from using hydraulic fracturing to enhance existing wells or drill new ones. Staff has ceased working on land use code revisions until further direction is received from Council. Staff is working with legal staff to provide information to Council about how “best” to comply with the ballot measure passed by voters. 31  Smoking Ordinance Expansion Options – City Council will discuss whether to consider adding smoking regulations in Fort Collins at their work session on April 8, 2014. Staff will provide background information, community feedback, and information about what other communities have done. The additional smoking regulations to be discussed include: o parks, trails, and natural areas; o public events and festivals; o high-use pedestrian areas (such as Old Town or the Downtown area); o electronic smoking devices/vaporizers; o 100% hotel/motel rooms.  Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Parking Study – Kimley-Horn and Associates have been hired to assist with the study. This item is scheduled for Council work session on May 27, 2014. Study development and implementation are scheduled to be complete by the expiration of the temporary ordinance (September 13, 2014) which was approved by City Council on September 3, 2013.  Urban Agriculture o Phase 2 code changes were adopted by Council on March 18, 2014. o To focus efforts more strategically from here on out, staff continues to work with the Local Food Cluster on the development of a strategic plan to ensure the City of Fort Collins has a healthy, resilient local food system. o A budget offer has been prepared for the 2015-2016 Budgeting for Outcomes (BFO) cycle to align internal staff efforts in the development of the local food and wellness strategic plan.  West Central Area Plan / Prospect Corridor Design – Generally encompasses the neighborhoods south and west of CSU and was adopted in 1999. Since then, several development projects have been completed with varying degrees of impact. Given City Plan’s emphasis on infill versus sprawl, CSU’s increased enrollment projections, and the possibility of an on-campus stadium, it is now time to reassess plans and policies so that quality of life is preserved and enhanced. Transportation needs, such as connections to the MAX Bus Rapid Transit and a new conceptual design for a segment of Prospect Road, will also be addressed. Four public outreach listening sessions were conducted in March and April with more than 175 residents, property owners, and other interested stakeholders in attendance. Neighborhood walking tours are scheduled for the week of April 21 at various times and locations. An online “WikiMap” is being used to collect input and ideas from those interested in the planning effort, including those unable to attend other public events. Scheduled for a presentation to the Air Quality Advisory Board on April 30, 2014. 32 Development Projects under Appeal  Bella Vira Filing Two Major Amendment, FDP140001. Amended appeal was filed on March 28, 2014. Council hearing is scheduled for May 6, 2014.  Summit Parking Structure, FDP130056. Three appeals were filed on April 2, 2014. Council hearing is scheduled for May 20, 2014.