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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-06-23 Planning PACKET Note: Anyone wishing to speak at any Planning Commission meeting is encouraged to do so. If you wish to speak, please rise and, after you have been recognized by the Chair, oive your name and complete address for the record. You will then be allowed to speak. Please note that the public testimony may be limited by the Chair and normally is not allowed after the Public Hearing is closed. ASHLAND PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSION JUNE 23, 2009 AGENDA I. CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 PM, Civic Center, 1175 E. Main Street II. ANNOUNCEMENTS III. PRESENTATIONS A. Ashland Transportation System Plan (TSP) - Discussion of Grant Proposal, Project Scope and Tentative Timeline. Presented by Mike Faught, Public Works Director, and Colin Swales, Transportation Commission Chair B. History of Resource Efficiency in Ashland Presented by Dick Wanderscheid, Electric Director IV. OTHER BUSINESS A. September Planning Commission Meetings - Schedule Changes V. ADJOURNMENT CITY OF ASHLAND r., In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the Community Development office at 541-488-5305 (TTY phone is 1-800-735-2900). Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to the meeting (28 CFR 35.102-35.104 ADA Title 1 ). TRANSPORTATION ENT APPLICATION FORM Section 1: Project description and background 1. Provide a brief statement of project purpose and transportation relationships and benefits: Th focused on sustainability and reducing carbon foo rints, constraints for a small city such as challenging. street narrowing, etc.). current TSP, which would be addressed in this update: trips viable . G:\pub-wrkslAdmin_NM\admin\MF Transportation\TSP Update\TGM Final Application 312 09.doc 1 of 10 variety of people, enhancing land uses and densities on transit corridors to fully support public transportation and parking requirements; · The City has completed many of the bicycle and pedestrian projects outlined in the 1998 TSP and seeks to explore new opportunities to become a statewide (even nationwide) small-city leader in green transportation systems, focusing on multi-modal elements, not included in the current TSP, such as a comprehensive commuter plan for pedestrian, bicycle and transit nodes and connections between key development sites such as Croman area, Railroad Area, and J effersonIW ashington/Benson areas; · Two key infill development areas are identified for growth, but lack integration into the transportation system at large. The Croman area is an 80-acre industrially zoned site, and the Railroad area is a 40-acre site zoned for employment; · With over 40 acres of tax lots zoned as commercial and employment with a high redevelopment potential and a 2007 Buildable Lands Inventory indicating over 160 acres of developable land would be needed by the year 2027, this potential growth will dramatically impact regional travel demand patterns and underscores the need for a timely TSP update; · The City lacks a comprehensive Safe Routes to School program (an important safety aspect missing from the current TSP) and has no formal program to inform the traveling public of alternative mode travel and commuting; · The access management and transportation impact study guidelines are in desperate need of revision and codification to manage future development; · Regional transit planning efforts such as the Rogue Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization's (RVMPO) proposed commuter rail connection between Central Point and Ashland, and Rogue Valley Transportation District's (RVTD) plans to explore future modes such as streetcar or bus rapid transit would change existing transit and auto patterns; · Addressing transportation challenges to support City goals of comprehensive and efficient land use by reducing or delaying the need for new infrastructure through smarter system management and operations; · 12% increase in population, resulting in an increased demand on the current transportation system. 2. List the key project objectives and expected outcomes and relate them to TGM objectives: The proposed City of Ashland TSP update project is intended focus on the following objectives and supporting outcomes, which are only a sample of the expected TSP goals and objectives (note many outcomes could span multiple objectives). When objectives line up with specific TGM objectives, they are shown in parenthesis: · Improve quality of life and support economic prosperity o Adopt an comprehensive TSP that supports a safe, efficient, multi-modal transportation network based on existing and forecasted land uses, with a focus on modal equity and balance to provide travel options for system users (TGM Objective A); o Explore innovative ways through infrastructure, regulation, education and promotion to increase bicycle and pedestrian trips. Reach beyond the athletic and/or dedicated non- motorized travelers and make walking and biking options for a wide variety of people; o IdentifY and remove barriers for at least three future activity nodes to add activity and energy to the intersection and surrounding area (TGM Objective B and G); o IdentifY areas to improve and enhance public transportation system; o IdentifY areas where refinement plans would increase the life of a facility or delay the need for improvements (e.g. Ashland St. or Siskiyou Blvd.) (TGM Objective D); 734-2753 (1/09) TGM Grant Application 2 of 1 o tes and reduce the burden on the state highway system through F). I) Create a Kgreen~ o communities to follow (TGM Objectives A, C, and G) quality by reducing number of o Expand multi~modal infrastructure design to include features that ensure increased use for non-motorized users such as bicycle boulevards, separated bike lanes, four-lane bike trails, o Establish targets for incre increments); and walking trips (e.g. 10, 20 and 30 year o a multi-modal focus following the to set the standard for future development and o use and transportation measures to support the public transportation system; o code the Street Design Standards to provide m o . to School" plans for the local schools and Southern Oregon University (TGM Objectives A, C, and GJ; o Develop a comprehensive access management plan for the City that can be adopted into ements such as bicyclist and the existing network of o o o o Plan, and 0 City of Medford to ensure regional IIJ 734-2153 (1/09) TGM Grant Application 3 of 1 o Ultimately support TPR requirement of "allowed land uses are consistent with the identified dards (e.g. level of service, volume to capacity ratio, et facility." 3. ed for adoption and which government agencies will other transportation-related and land use goals for encouraging multi-modal travel and desire to expand and implement a variety of 7U>2753 (1/09) TGM Grant Application 4 of 1 Other key transportation issues this comprehensive TSP update addresses: · Function and Design of the State Highway: The main street through AsWand is a state highway (Highway 99) and therefore the TSP must balance the character of downtown and Southern Oregon University (parking, pedestrian safety, and bicycle-friendliness, tourist destination), with the intended purpose of state highway system to move vehicles, will require context sensitive planning and design, as well as close collaboration with ODOT and local stakeholders. Similarly on Highway 66, balancing pedestrian, bicycle and transit demands with auto traffic along this commercial corridor will be an important focus of this effort. Both Highway 99 and 66 are examples of the need for appropriate access management treatments, and skillful ways to deal with growth, while minimizing new infrastructure and right-of-way, within AsWand. · Alternative Arterial/Collector Connections: Planning for a long-term alternative connection off the state highway system to support growth and economic development, while minimizing UGB expansion would improve connectivity and relieve pressure from the current state highway system. · Multi-modal Balance: As multi-modal elements such as pedestrian/bike facilities and connections are established, integrating their operations in a safe and efficient manner into the existing transportation system will require careful planning, design, codification and implementation, as well as extensive public input and education. The need to establish near and long-term targets for increasing walking and biking trips also necessitates the need to develop a method of collecting trips by mode and a baseline data set. · Neighborhood Issues: Reaching consensus with residents on the location of future street connections in established neighborhoods; mixed use areas that must combine the interests of both business owners and residents; public education through public meetings and the planned project web site will all be necessary to successfully accomplish this measure. · Funding source(s): The resulting System Development Charge (SDC) developed from a portion of the identified TSP update project list will be necessary to develop a fiscally- responsible plan, while identifying other potential sources for TSP project funding beyond SDCs where appropriate. 6. If the project addresses a TGM focus area, describe how: This proposed AsWand TSP Update will address the following TGM focus areas as stated below: C. Safe Routes to School Areas including the old Union Pacific Rail yard and Croman Mill sites cannot be properly developed or redeveloped without identification of transportation solutions and funding mechanisms. Identifying solutions for these areas and other will contribute to economic revitalization. Recent buildable land inventories show that AsWand's UGB offers sufficient room to support development and redevelopment. Smart planning through this TSP update is necessary to focus on minimal infrastructure additions and support in-fill development, when appropriate, to minimize trip lengths. The TSP update will help plan a progressive multi-modal transportation system, provide a funding plan, and ensure that the development code and subdivision ordinances are consistent with the TPR rior to additional si nificant develo ment. The school district, Southern Oregon University (SOU) and the City do not current! have a coordinated Safe Routes to School Plan. The TSP U date A. Contribution to Economic Revitalization B. Urban Growth Area Planning 734-2753 (1/09) TGM Grant Application 5 of 1 D. Climate Change will allow bicycle and pedestrian projects to be prioritized to improve access to schools and support the school district and SOU with the creation of an action Ian. The TSP update will include an emphasis on multi-modal treatments and improved system connectivity, encouraging alternative mode travel, reducing number of auto trips and trip lengths, thereby reducing emissions. Part of this TSP update will include a pedestrian node study to improve connectivity for pedestrians and bicycles between current and identified key generators. There is community interest in promoting non-auto travel through traveler information programs such as Smart Trips and implementing green street design standards for drainage and landscaping to hel further this endeavor to minimize carbon foo rint and climate chan e. Section 2: Project specifics 1. Will a consultant be used on the project? If yes, describe the expected roles of consultant and local staff: A consultant team will lead the technical aspects of the proposed TSP update including technical analysis, reports, maps, project website development, graphics and participate in the advisory and public meeting presentations. City staff will lead the project management, public/Transportation Commission meetings, and be responsible for updates and communications between supporting agencies such as ODOT, RVMPO, Jackson County, and others. City staffwill support the consultant team technically with local knowledge and experience while providing data (this effort will include creating some of the inventory in a GIS format), review products, and provide meeting documentation. City staff will take primary responsibility for presenting the plan for adoption. 2. Outline the major project tasks, expected timeline, and general methods. Include a discussion of data and analysis needs and an overview ofthe expected public involvement process (e.g., technical and citizen committees, workshops, surveys, project Web page): The proposed TSP update data and analysis needs include the development of a comprehensive travel demand model, which will be used to conduct link level analysis (e.g. volume to capacity ratio). A separate highway capacity manual-based traffic model (e.g. Synchro, HCS) will be developed to conduct an intersection level analysis (volume to capacity ratio, delays) at up to 35 key locations. These analysis models will be supported through link and turning movement counts capturing auto, truck, pedestrian, transit and bicycles wherever possible. Safety and transit data will be needed to support the roadway historic safety analysis and inventory and planning for transit elements within the TSP. Survey data of transportation mode splits on a variety of facilities and locations will be used to establish a benchmark for current system use and help measure the goal of increasing non-auto model splits (transit, walking, biking, etc). The TSP update public involvement will be conducted throughout the project and will involve the following elements: · Project website to inform the public · Public Open Houses and Workshops · Joint Work Sessions with Planning Commission, Transportation Commission and/or Technical Advisory Committee. · Technical Advisory Committee (T AC) - City, ODOT, Jackson County, RVTD, and RVMPO technical representatives. 734-2753 (1/09) TGM Grant Application 6 of 1 · Transportation Commission (TC) - this group is made up of the key community stakeholders (business owners, neighborhood chairs, local interest groups, etc) The T AC will provide continued guidance through the TSP development process. Their technical experience will add value to the direction and decisions involved in analysis and project development and selection. The TC will review project information and provide guidance to the City and Consultant team on products, project direction and the draft plan. The Public Open Houses will be opportunities for the public voice to influence the direction and development ofTSP alternatives and review of outcomes with the TSP draft plan. The Joint Work Sessions will be used to keep the adopting body up to date on the project progress and provide guidance with regard to the goals, objectives, and evaluation criteria; alternatives development; and the TSP draft plan. This public involvement plan is weaved into the overall TSP update schedule shown below. Committee and Commission meetings will occur on the same day and combined with Consultant trips for Open Houses and Joint Work Sessions whenever possible to reduce travel costs. A TSP update project website will be established so that the public can track the progress and provide input on the outcomes of the plan beyond the open houses. The major tasks and deliverables for the TSP Update are outlined below. Task 1: Policy Development and Project Vision - Months 1 & 2 · Tech Memo # 1: Plans and policy review · Tech Memo # 2: Goals, objectives and short and long-term evaluation criteria · Creation of a project website · TAC Meeting #1 - Review documents and obtain feedback on goals, objectives, and evaluation criteria · TC Meeting #1 - Review documents and obtain feedback on goals, objectives, and evaluation criteria Task 2: Existing and Future Conditions - Months 2 through 6 · Tech Memo # 3: Existing System Conditions o Complete an existing conditions inventory and analysis of all modes of transportation o Complete inventories of the pedestrian and bicycle network in GIS o Estimate existing and historical transportation funding and sources · Tech Memo # 4: Future System Conditions - No Build o Project future transportation conditions and identify deficiencies and needs o Establish a method of collecting trips by mode and a baseline data set o Conduct a survey of trips by modes o Project future transportation funding levels · Tech Memo # 5: Pedestrian Node Evaluation (Mixed-Use Activity Center) o City will work with the public, T AC, and TC to define at least three activity centers, which will involve the creation of a vision and design concepts for each center or node · T AC Meeting # 2 - Review documents, provide input, brainstorm alternatives and future mitigations · TC Meeting # 2 - Review documents, provide input, brainstorm alternatives and future mitigations · Public Open House # 1 - Review project work completed and involve public in identifYing alternatives and improvements · Joint Work Session # 1 - Review project work completed and involve public in identifYing alternatives and improvements (this could be combined with Public Open House #1) 734-2753 (1/09) TGM Grant Application 7 of 1 Task 3: Alternatives Analysis - Months 6 through 9 · Tech Memo # 6: Alternatives Analysis o Identify alternatives to mitigate future transportation deficiencies. o Evaluate the alternatives with regard to operations and applying the project evaluation criteria from Task 1. · Tech Memo # 7: Pedestrian Node Alternatives Analysis o Project future land use (pedestrian oriented development) and density, pedestrian traffic demands, and alternatives for pedestrian connections and streetscape, fitting with the "Great Arterial Streets" concept (multi-modal and green design) for each node · T AC Meeting # 3 - Review results of the alternatives analysis for the overall TSP and pedestrian node component, select a preferred alternative and provide input on project priorities. · TC Meeting # 3 - Review results of the alternatives analysis for the overall TSP and pedestrian node component, select a preferred alternative and provide input on project priorities. Task 4: Preferred and Cost Constrained Alternatives - Months 9 through 12 · Tech Memo # 8: Preferred and Cost Constrained Alternatives o Identify the preferred alternative for the TSP as well as a cost constrained alternative based on the funding projections o The Preferred Alternative will include the following elements (in addition to those required by the TPR): · A prioritized list of alternative travel mode projects (pedestrian, bicycle, and transit) · Projects necessary to reduce transportation barriers to key development and redevelopment areas including the Croman Mill Site and the Railroad Site · Corridor improvement needs for Highway 66 and Highway 99, and the determination of additional refinement plans on these and/or other corridors · Access Management Strategies for Highway 66, 99 and other key facilities · "Safe Routes to School" pedestrian and bicycle projects will be identified and receive weighted priority on the pedestrian and bicycle project list · Project cost estimates referenced to the Construction Cost Index (CCI) for updates. · Tech Memo # 9: Preferred Pedestrian Nodes o Identify the preferred alternative for each of the three or more pedestrian nodes (mixed- use activity centers) o Preferred alternative will include conceptual perspectives and elevation drawings of each node, streetscape design perspective or elevation for each node, street improvement design treatments, transportation improvement conceptual plans in plan and perspective view for each node, and land use and transportation regulations to support desired development · TAC Meeting # 4 - Review Tech Memos # 8 and 9, confirm all elements for Draft TSP · TC Meeting # 4 - Review Tech Memos # 6 and 9, confIrm all elements for Draft TSP · Public Open House # 2 - Obtain comments on the Preferred Plan and project priorities · Joint Work Session # 2 - Obtain comments on the Preferred Plan and project priorities 734-2753 (1/09) TGM Grant Application 8 of 1 Task 5: Draft TSP and Implementing Ordinances - Months 13 through 15 · Prepare a Draft TSP that incorporates all of the projects identified in Task 4 in addition to the following: o Updated future street, pedestrian, bicycle, and transit network o Prioritized list of multi-modal projects (preferred and cost constrained) with CCI cost estimates o Project summary prospectus sheet including project costs, location map, and cross- section o Updated roadway design standards, emphasizing "green" aspects. o Access spacing standards o Pedestrian node (Mixed-Use Activity Center) plan . Draft Implementing Ordinances · T AC/TC Meeting # 5 - Review Draft TSP and Implementing Ordinances Task 6: Final TSP and Adoption - Months 16 through 18 · Prepare a Final TSP and Implementing Ordinances o The Final TSP should be accessible on-line and include on-line maps that can easily direct the reader to the individual project prospectus sheets by clicking on the maps. . Provide 45-day notice · Public Hearings (Planning Commission and City Council) 3. In addition to data and analysis that will be gathered or performed as part of the project, list any, including mapping, traffic counts, or transportation analysis, that must be completed before the project can begin: Traffic counts must be collected and the sidewalk and bicycle networks mapped in GIS. In addition, the travel demand model may need to be updated by RVMPO, ODOT Transportation Planning and Analysis Unit (TP AU) and/or the consultant to reflect current land use and the new future year. 4. Provide an estimated budget breakdown for the major tasks. If a consultant will be used, separate the costs for local staff and consultant: Budget breakdown*: Task 0 $ 3,400 $ 14,800 Task 1 $ 4,600 $ 20,400 Task 2A $ 19,100 $ 38,700 Task 2B $ 8,700 $ 24,000 Task 2C $ 3,500 $ 18,600 Task 3A $ 9,900 $ 46,800 Task 3B $ 7,100 $ 30,500 Task 4A $ 6,700 $ 25,200 Task 4B $ 3,800 $ 16,500 Task 5 $ 4 800 $ 25,000 Task 6 $3,400 $ 14,500 Totals: $ 75 000 $ 275 000 734-2753 (1/09) TGM Grant Application 9 of 1 * Public involvement component included in budget estimate. 5. Describe the experience and capability of the proposed project manager to manage the project. The Public Works Director, Michael Faught, has been in the public works field for 32 years. He has extensive experience preparing Request for Proposals, managing, and successfully completing significant contracts for transportation, water, sewer, stormwater, and facilities master plans. His project resume includes successfully managing a TGM grant from start to finish. Michael will work in cooperation with Maria Harris, City of Ashland Planning Manager. 6. Project Area [gI Map attached 7. Submit letters or resolutions of support for the project from local officials: SOURCE ATTACHED EXPECTED 1. Ashland City Council Resolution 0 ~ 2. Jackson County Roads and Parks [gI 0 3. Ashland Chamber of Commerce [gI 0 4. Southern OrelZon University 0 ~ 5. Rogue Valley Transit District [XJ rl 6. Rogue Valley Council of Government [gI 0 7. Ashland School District #5 0 ~ 8. Ashland Planning Commission ~ 0 9. Ashland Airport Commission [gI 0 10. Ashland HousinlZ Commission [gI 0 11. Ashland Parks Commission ~ 0 12. Ashland Historic Commission [gI 0 734-2753 (1/09) TGM Grant Application 10 of 1