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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-02-21 Bicycle & Pedestrian_PACKETCITY OF ASHLAND BICYCLE & PEDESTRIAN COMMISSION Agenda Thursday, February 21st, 2008 @ 5:15 P.M. Siskiyou Room @ 51 Winburn Way Community Development & Engineering Services Building CALL TO ORDER II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: January 1rh, 2008 III. PUBLIC FORUM - Business from the audience not included on the agenda. (Limited to 5 minutes per speaker and 15 minutes total.) IV. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS Subcommittee & Liaison Reports V. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION Pedicab Proposal: Ashland Eco-Cab Bike Swap — Saturday, May 10, 2008 (Is anyone willing to table at this event?) Bicycle Friendly Community Status Top 10 List... Bus/Trolley Service for First Fridays Bike Lane & Bike Path Maintenance On -Going Discussion of Commission Goals - Car Free Day & Car Free Living Follow -Up Items - Oak Street Discussion at Traffic Safety Commission (Feb. 28m, 2008 at 7.00 p.m., City Council Chambers) New Business Agenda Items for Next Month VI. ADJOURNMENT Upcoming Meetings Next Regular Meeting - Thursday, March 2e, 2008 at 5:15 P.M. ill 11NM 111 `' 1 �' 1' ..� ' 11 I'I `, 1 11 1 I f '• �� s r�. f � 11 1 1 it r Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission January 17th, 2008 Regular Minutes Roll Call: Chair David Young, Vice Chair Julia Sommer, Tom Burnham Steve Ryan, Mick Church, Matthew Seiler, Jim Olney Council Liaison: David Chapman Staff: Derek Severson, Associate Planner Steve McLennan, Police Officer RVTD liaisons: Steve Maluk, TDM Planner (absent) High school liaison: Vacant SOU liaison: Vacant Call to Order Chair Young called the meeting to order at 5:15 p.m. Approval of Minutes — December 20th, 2007 Sommer suggested that the reference to "special needs students" be removed from the Bellview School hearing notes, indicating that she didn't recall them being mentioned. There was agreement by those present that this hadn't been part of the discussion, and it was recommended that staff remove the reference. The minutes were approved as amended by general consensus. Public Forum Egon Dubois, Bicycle Safety Instructor for the Bicycle Transportation Alliance (BTA), inquired whether commissioners were interested in meetings in the field at some point, to visit sites under discussion, examine facilities, or just have a coffee ride. He also questioned the progress made in forming a Transportation Commission. Subcommittee & Liaison Reports Car Free Day Subcommittee members noted that they had met to discuss continuing a Car Free Day event and maintaining momentum. It was noted that members wanted to engage the business community in some sort of bicycle commuting challenge, similar to what has been done by the BTA in Portland, with a competition between larger local employer commuter teams, miles and days commuted logged on-line, and those participating entered into a raffle for prizes. It was noted that Car Free First Fridays were still being considered, and that there may be a blurb included in the map put out by the gallery association to encourage car free participation, and that it may be possible to use the double-decker bus to help promote this. Car Free Living subcommittee members noted that they had discussed developing a "Top 10" list of commission priorities for maintenance items to insure that the pressure is kept on until the items are resolved. Subcommittee members also indicated that they had considered trying to encourage the City Council to walk and bicycle, potentially through a letter from the Commission or through the Commission's annual presentation to Council. 2008-0117 Bike & Ped minutes Pcgge 1 of 4 Young noted his efforts to promote the student liaison position through the "Griz-O-Gram" had resulted in one inquiry. He indicated that he would follow up on the idea of approaching the student government/leadership students. Ryan indicated that he could present something similar at SOU, and fellow Commissioners suggested approaching ECOS, the Community Bike Program, and the student government. Severson clarified that the student liaison positions are a non -voting position, and require appointment by the Mayor. Olney reported on the Jackson County Bicycle Advisory Commission's discussions of a bicycle crossing for Barnett Road, noting that the current cost is $1.6 Million. Sommer noted that she was no longer representing Ashland on the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). Young updated Commissioners on the Interchange Area Management Plan (IAMP) citizens' advisory committee meetings, noting that the current proposal for Exit 14 calls for a three -lane road with a left onto North Main, ten -foot wide shoulders and a sidewalk. He noted that both directions ends would be signalized, that the shoulder would not be striped, and that the bike lanes would cross the on -ramps. Members emphasized that there needed to be unimpeded crossing of the on -ramps for bicycles and pedestrians, with designated lanes and controlled crossings; members suggested that the proposal as described was inadequate. Olney/Ryan m/s to authorize Chair Young to send a letter to this effect to John MacDonald of ODOT by the comment deadline, which occurs before the next regular meeting of this Commission. Voice vote: All AYES. Motion passed. Young noted that Exit 19 was located within Jackson County jurisdiction and was seen as having no connecting bicycle or pedestrian facilities. The plan proposes three lanes with stop signs and no sidewalks, and a ten -foot shared shoulder. He noted that roundabouts had been discussed, and while they were initially found to be not germane to the discussion they may be revisited. He indicated that there was also discussion of closing one east/west lane of Ashland Lane until future expansion in the vicinity occurs. Election of Officers — Secretary The roles and responsibilities of the secretary were discussed, and Olney indicated his willingness to serve in this role. Seiler/Church m/s to nominate Olney to serve as secretary. Discussion: No one else expressed interest in the nomination. Severson noted that the other officers had been elected in May of 2007, and Commissioners did not express an interest in appointing a new Chair or Vice Chair. Voice vote: All AYES. Motion Passed. Appointment of Representative — Croman Master Plan Meetings Church indicated that he would be interested in attending the upcoming meeting and reporting back. Seiler said that he may attend as well. 2008-01 C7 Bike & Ped ininules rave 2 of4 Follow Up Items Severson briefly discussed the status of the Wheeldon memorial, noting that it had been discussed at the Historic Commission where there were concerns that the conceptual drawing was too rustic and heavy, and that it would be going to the Public Arts Commission on January 18`h. Severson noted that Jim Olson had responded to the list of ODOT grant items formulated last month, and that he had indicated that ODOT would not consider items where the full right of way was not already in place to complete the project. Severson added that Olson now believes that the Laurel Street sidewalks are the best option, and that the prior grant application could be modified to include a significant portion of the necessary bicycle and pedestrian improvements to the railroad crossing at Laurel Street and resubmitted. Severson noted that he had met initially with Interim Public Works Director Jim Olson, Assistant City Engineer Karl Johnson, and Project Manager/City Engineer Paula Brown about the creation of a Transportation Commission. Severson indicated that Brown was now looking into what other cities have done and has taken the issues raised in the initial meeting to begin formulating recommendations. Members suggested that examples from Boulder, Colorado and Eugene, Oregon be considered. Severson noted that he had anticipated having a Transportation System Plan (TSP) update project list for Commission review tonight, but he explained that the initial project list had just been received from the consultants today. He stated that in discussing the TSP update with Public Works Staff, they suggested it might be best to have interested Commissioners attend the public open house in the Siskiyou Room from 5:00 — 7:00 on January 301n Severson reported that Paula Brown would be checking with ODOT on the North Main fog line installation request, and that he would report back if there was any new information. Severson noted that in terms of the Oak Street discussion, he wanted to be clear that in terms of that discussion, the Commission would not be the final decision making authority, and that this item would likely wind up before the Council — with significant neighborhood opposition — before a final decision is made. Sommer indicated that nothing would ever be accomplished if the right decision was avoided because it might be difficult. Church, Burnham, Sommer and Ryan all indicated that they were in favor of pursuing Oak Street parking removal to install bike lanes. Young suggested that a charette be held to bring neighbors in to pursue options for promoting safety while providing connectivity. Severson noted that there could be issues with removing parking where on -street parking credits have been used to meet the parking requirements for development which had occurred along Oak Street, and that it would take considerable staff time just to research how many lots this might affect. Young suggested that members could also take this item to Council to see if they were willing to direct staff to explore the feasibility. After general discussion, members suggested that Severson request time on the next Traffic Safety Commission agenda so that this item could be brought up before Traffic Safety and it could be determined if they had 008-0117 Bile & Ped minutes Page 3 of'4 ideas to solve the problem or an interest in finding solutions. Ryan indicated that he would attend this meeting. Car Free Day/Car Free Living There was discussion of whether the event should be held on a Sunday or a Monday, or somehow related to First Friday. It was also noted that there would be a tie-in to a bike commuter challenge. Young noted the need to challenge assumptions, and suggested that the Commission look to creating a week-long event rather than a one -day carnival. He suggested that Commissioners not be bound by the International Car Free Day date. There was discussion of seeking sponsorship and participation from larger employers in the city including the City, Darex/Drill Doctor, OSF, SOU, and the School District. It was suggested that the event could be the culmination of a week of activities; members discussed possible incentives. There was general consensus to conduct a weekend event with a commuter challenge week. Severson asked that subcommittee members e-mail him future meeting dates and times so he could cover the public noticing requirements. Ryan indicated that he would try to attend these subcommittee meetings as well. Members questioned if Siskiyou Velo could be involved. Jeff Boncheck arrived late for Public Forum, noted that he'd had two friends killed while walking in the past five years. He indicated that a friend on a bike was in an accident earlier today, and he just wanted to attend to find out what was going on with the Commission. He noted his involvement with the Community Bike Program at SOU and reminded Commissioners of the free bike clinic on Tuesdays at the bike barn. Agenda Items for Next Month Oak Street follow-up, and Car Free Day/Car Free Living. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 7:03 p.m. Upcoming Meetings: Regular Meeting — February 215t, 2008 at 5:15 p.m. 2008-01l7 Bike & Ped minutes Nge 4 of 4 w Q u z 00 C) C> N Z 0 T O C r T O T O T O T O T O O Z O U _ U U U U U 2 Z • _ �e O Q% > p O J 0 Q O .- � cc F 00 a) a) ac`v 3 aa) c 2 H c6 U a) m a3 t U a) U c a E O O V U C 0 LU U `� U O a) � U N a� Y `L O V U O O U E >>,E a N O (` O � CU 'O a) W > ° L L M cu L L LL o >+ (D O> a� � _ Z ° c_ � C 3 J o 1-0 Urn •o N L :_B 3 U .� L o OL Q O (D (0 y o° o Z rn C atS rn o 0 "- OL U o U a� s Z 0 3 c ° c m °' c O a� c o 06 ° O H co _ $ c`v c co > cn Q C > U O �' ` O > U a) c .N _v U y� cn > C ° > J N > j o cl c OL C) > IL � GIL LIJ o } z z � z mz a ? } } NNN N Z; T r N N N N N (D 3 C/) C Z Uk .� O Y fa m a) O f6 v1 a) o CU w c O m a @� a a cn @� a 00 0 V O OL ° °, ca T >+ O Y Mn 0 Ccn _IleQ O U) L U) Y m Y >a) > fA a O a Q T ti N ti M ti T O iA r ti ti 00 t— O ti O a0 N co H U. O N O N O N p N O N O N p N O N O N O N O N O N W Q N IT O so T T T O N T N T N 00 N Q a �2. uj C114 0 Q M CL > 0 .c co 0 (L) t, 0 - , ;-- _0 0 cu 0 a) cu LU 0 C z a C") LU m cc 0 CL " -r— Co (1) r " 0 > (u 2 c,):) LU 06 a) U) 7t-- cu U) CL Co a 0 4- 0 CD > Z 'r- M w > CL 0 w CL L) LU cl ui *� W z uj Z! CL y (D C) O z a co C -j 0) 0 00 0 co LU 100 APPLICATION FOR SPECIAL VEHICLE PERMIT Submitted: February 2008 Marco A. Alvarez, DBA Ashland Eco-Cab, a sole -proprietorship ("Applicant"), hereby applies for a City of Ashland Special Vehicle Permit ("SVP")t to operate a bicycle rickshaw (pedicab) service within the City of Ashland. I. Introduction Ashland is not new to bicycle rickshaw service. This Commission has considered and approved at least one prior application for an almost identical service. In their 2003 SVP application, Dylan Robbins and Edward Rodgers provide an excellent apologia for the use of pedicabs in Ashland, which Applicant herein adopts by reference. (Attached) Applicant understands that the economics of this venture are marginal. Nonetheless, Applicant desires to enhance the experience of visitors and residents by adding a somewhat unique and enjoyable mode of downtown transportation and raise awareness that there are transportation alternatives that alleviate congestion and pollution. Such a service could also provide enjoyable, gainful employment and thigh development for some hardy Individuals. The prior pedicab operation generated no known complaints and demonstrated that such service could be provided in a safe and pleasing manner. Additionally, the City Council has already developed comprehensive and explicit regulations for such a service, found in AMC Chapter 6.28. Applicant will abide by all of the regulations found in AMC 6.28, including the provisions for permitted operations and insurance coverage. Therefore, Applicant requests a Special Vehicle Permit for pedicab operations to the full extent allowed by AMC 6.28. II. Information AMC 6.28.035 requires the following information be provided on the Application for a SVP: The name, address and telephone number of the applicant. Marco A. Alvarez2, DBA Ashland Eco Cab. 690 Normal Ave. Ashland, OR 97520 Tel: 541 227 8887 Although AMC 06.28.035(B) references an "application" form, Applicant has been directed by City Officials to submit the information requested by AMC 06.28.035(B) in the form of this letter. 2 By way of biographical detail, Applicant is a member on the League of American bicyclists and trained cycling instructor and competitor. Applicant has worked in the tourist and entertainment industry in Mexico City, California, Oregon and France for over 20 years. 2. A description of the vehicle, including seating capacity, colors, murals or thematic devices. Vehicle: 21-Speed Main Street Pedicab (See attached product information). Color: Forest Green with tan upholstery and folding sun canopy (See attached). Note: This is the same make of pedicab approved by the Commission in 2003, although this is a newer 2007 model which contains minor upgrades in the braking and other systems. 3. The proposed days of the week and hours of operation, and the beginning and ending dates during which the service will be offered. Applicant requests a permit to provide 24/7 and year round service beginning March 1, 2008. Nonetheless, Applicant envisions actually holding out service on afternoons and evenings during the summer tourist season and on select special events throughout the year, such as 4th of July, the annual lighting of the Christmas lights and other parades. 4. The proposed passenger pick-up and delivery point. Applicant proposes to generally hang out in the vicinity of the Lincoln statue at the East entrance to Lithia Park. The vehicle would always be attended and staged out of the way of traffic and pedestrians. Additionally, Applicant envisions picking up patrons at the Shakespeare festival, various hostelries and restaurants as well as shuttling patrons between the Plaza and all over the town. 5. A description of where patrons may park their private vehicles (applicable to tour bus only). Not Applicable. Nevertheless, Applicant points out that the proposed service is designed to alleviate parking and vehicle congestion downtown by allowing tourists to leave their cars at their hostelries and to decrease cross-town vehicle trips. 6. The rates proposed to be charged to patrons using the service. Applicant will charge 10 dollars per 15 minutes ride; however will accept tips for shorter distance trips. The exception would be for providing service for a specific function or specific block of time, which will be charged at $60/Hr. The vehicle will display an interior sign stating "Driver works for tips or $10/ 15Min," to avoid confusion. K 7. The proposed route over which the vehicle will operate. Applicant requests a permit to operate in any part of Ashland legal for Bicycles, subject to the constraints imposed by AMC 6.28. In 2003 the Commission considered allowing pedicab operations on designated bike trails and approved such use. Additionally, the vehicle will be limited by topographical constraints and where possible will favor back alleys with less traffic congestion. 8. The speed the vehicle will travel. The Vehicle will travel at roughly the speed of an ordinary bicycle on level surfaces and slightly slower up hills. III. Conclusion The Commission should grant Applicant's request for a Special Vehicle Permit allowing operations to the full extent permitted by AMC 6.28. Submitted February 2008, By: Marco A. Alvarez k The Broadway PedicabTM by Main Street Pedicabs, Inc. The Main Street Broadway PedicabTM provides an extra 5.5" of seating room and standard triple clamp fork for a more luxurious 3 passenger ride. We took our proven pedicab chassis and put on an even larger passenger compartment. The Broadway PedicabTM' brings integrated fenders and spacious 41" three person seating to the pedicab line. The Broadway PedicabTM has a strong, TIG-welded 4130 Steel Alloy frame with a black powdercoat finish & heavy duty steel axles. The passenger cabs are lightweight fiberglass with steel sub -frame and are available in a variety of colors. The seats have comfortable (black or tan) vinyl upholstery with padding and a seat belt is standard. -Braking is provided by a revolutionary hydraulic 8-3/4" rear disk brake and supported by a front V brake. The Broadway PedicabTM comes with a complete 12 volt lighting system including turn signals, running and brake lights. All Main Street Pedicabs use a Shimano 21-speed drivetrain with a rear axle differential and indexed, grip -shifting. The integrated underseat storage is 10"x12"x33". The Boardwalk PedicabTM is shipped fully assembled and will be an integral part of your Business for generations to come. Main Street Pedicabs, Inc. I Copyright © 2006 All rights reserved. 1 1-303-295-3822 1 www.pedicab.com Broadway PedicabTM Specifications msrp $3,700 LISID Lase rnodei size 110" x 50" weight 185 Ibs color White, Grey, Black, Yellow, Red, Blue, Green & custom. frame TIG welded 4130 Steel Alloy fork Polished Triple -Clamp shifters 21-speed grip -shifting derailleurs Shimano front brakes V brake rear brakes Hydraulic brake chain Shimano cranks RPM 44x32x22 175mm rims Aluminum alloy downhill hubs 48-spoke hubs Pn NU spokes Stainless Steel 13G tires 26" x 2.125" 65 psi saddle Cruiser saddle seat belt Standard lighting 12 volt LED turn signals, running & brake lights. Cat -Eye LED headlight Main Street PedicabsTm is the largest manufacturer of pedicabs in North America. Main Street PedicabsTm are mountain -bike -style, tricycles sporting cabs with cushioned seats and available waterproof canopies. The pedicabs are designed to not only provide a fun, comfortable ride, but also, to make a great presentation for sponsors' advertisements. I ASHLAND MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 6.28 TAXICAB CERTIFICATION SECTIONS: 6.28.010 Purpose. 6.28.020 Definitions. 6.28.030 Certificate Required. 6.28.0 5 Permit Required for Tour Hms or Special Vehicle. 6.28.040 Transfer, Cancellation, Suspension or Revocation of Certificate. 6.28.050 Surrender of Certificate. 6.28.060 Certificate Fees. 6.28.070 Inspection of Vehicles. 6.28.080 Taxicab Maintenance. 6.28.090 Operating Regulations. 6.28.100 Equipment. 6.28.110 Approval of Drivers 6.28.120 Insurance. 6.28.130 Hours of Service. 6.28.140 Rates. 6.28.150 Complaints. 6.28.160 Applications for Certification. (Deleted Ord 2855, S112000) 6.28.170 Applications —Information --Requirements. 6.28.175 Issuance of Certificate. 6.28.180 Existing Operators —Effective Date. 6.28.190 Indemnification. 6.28.200 Violation --Penalty. SECTION 6.28.010 Purpose. It is the purpose of this ordinance to require that those persons operating taxicabs do so in a safe, fair and efficient manner. The taxicab industry should be allowed to operate without unnecessary restraint, but because taxicabs constitute an essential part of the City's transportation systems and because transportation so fundamentally affects the City's well-being and that of its citizens, some regulation is necessary to insure that the public safety is protected, the public need provided, and the public convenience promoted. The provisions contained herein should be applied and enforced in such a manner as to require the taxicab industry to regulate itself, under City supervision, to promote innovation and adaption to changing needs, and respond to economics of the market place, so long as the public interest is served thereby. SECTION 6.28.020 Definitions. As used in this Ordinance, the singular shall include the plural, and the masculine shall include the feminine. Except where the context clearly indicates otherwise, the following words shall mean: A. Certificate. A numbered certificate issued under this chapter to operate a taxicab. (Ord 2855, S 1 2000) B. Commission. The City of Ashland Traffic Safety Commission. Page 1 of 9 ASHLAND MUNICIPAL CODE C. Director. The City of Ashland Director of Public Works. D. Driver. Every person in direct and immediate possession or charge of operating any taxicab, either as an agent, employee or otherwise, of the owner, as owner or under the direction of the owner. E. Flat rate. A fare which remains constant regardless of the distance traveled or the time involved. F. Limousine. A chauffeur driven motor vehicle that carries passengers for hire where the minimum fare charged is at least $50.00. G. Operate. Means to drive a vehicle, to use a vehicle in the conduct of business, to receive money from the use of a vehicle, or cause or allow another person to do the same. H. Operation. Any operation, movement or otherwise propelling. I. Owner. Every person having use or control of any taxicab, whether as owner, lessee or otherwise. J. Special vehicle. A horse-drawn cart or carriage, pedicab, licensed motorized street car or other similar specialized vehicle used to transport passengers. K. Street. Any street, alley, avenue, road, lane, highway or public place in the City commonly used for the purpose of public travel. L. Taxicab. Means any vehicle which carries passengers for hire whose journey has originated in the City and where the destination and route may be controlled by a passenger and the fare is calculated on the basis of any combination of an initial fee, distance traveled, and delay or the fare is a flat rate. Any vehicle which has an appearance deceptively similar to a taxicab is a taxicab for the purposes of this chapter. A taxicab does not include licensed ambulances or non -emergent medical transport vehicles, regular -route scheduled buses, bona fide State approved buses engaged in charter service with a seating capacity of more than twenty persons, the Ashland Senior Program van, limousines and courtesy vehicles operated by hotels and motels as a convenience for registered guests only, where no charges are made. A "non -emergent medical transport vehicle" means a vehicle which carries a person for hire and such person requires non - emergency medical treatment or supervision by an emergency medical technician or first responder certified by the Oregon State Health Division, while in the vehicle. M. Tour bus. A vehicle which is not subject to regulation by the State of Oregon Public Utility Commission, and which has a passenger seating capacity which does not exceed 20, provided, however, a tour bus does not include a vehicle operated for the exclusive use of senior citizens or the disabled. (Ord 2865 S1 2001) (Ord 2865, Amended, 02/06/2001; Ord 2846, Amended, 08/17/1999) SECTION 6.28.030 Certificate Required. No person shall operate any taxicab in the City of Ashland without possessing, in addition to any license required by any other law, a valid certificate issued pursuant to this chapter. (Ord 2846; S2 1999) (Ord 2846, Amended, 08/17/1999) SECTION 6.28.035 Permit Required for Tour Bus or Special Vehicle. Page 2 of 9 ASHLAND MUNICIPAL CODE No person shall operate any tour bus or special vehicle on any public street in the City of Ashland without possessing, in addition to any license required by any other law, a valid permit authorizing the proposed operation. A permit shall be valid for a period of one year and may be renewed annually by the Commission. A. Authority to Issue Permits. 1. The Commission shall have the authority to review and approve or deny requests for tour buses and special vehicle permits. The Commission may attach special conditions to any permit and shall have the authority to waive any of the criteria specified in Section 6.28.035 for one-time only special vehicle permits for special events. 2. The Director shall have the authority to issue a special vehicle permit for non -motorized vehicles: a. When such vehicles will be used for weddings or similar events where the passengers are not returned to the point of origin; b. When the route does not require extensive travel along North or East Main streets, Siskiyou Boulevard, Highway 66 (Ashland Street) or Hersey Street; and c. If the route crosses any street noted in the above subsection, such crossing will not cause substantial conflict with traffic on those streets. B. Application Required. Any person requesting a permit for a tour bus or special vehicle shall complete the application available at the office of the City Administrator. The application shall contain the following information: 1. The name, address and telephone number of the applicant. 2. A description of the vehicle, including seating capacity, colors, murals or thematic devices. 3. The proposed days of the week and hours of operation, and the beginning and ending dates during which the service will be offered. 4. The proposed passenger pick-up and delivery point. 5. A description of where patrons may park their private vehicles (applicable to tour bus only). 6. The rates proposed to be charged to patrons using the service. 7. The proposed route over which the vehicle will operate. 8. The speed the vehicle will travel. C. Criteria for approval. The proposed operation shall 1. Have a clearly defined route that will not create traffic congestion or adversely affect the character or privacy of a residential area. 2. Have proposed pick-up and delivery locations that will not create, or materially contribute to, a parking problem. 3. Have a vehicle speed that will not create traffic congestion or safety problems. 4. Utilize strects of sufficient width, including vision clearance at intersections, so that it will not materially contribute to traffic and pedesthan safety problems. 5. Have a fixed route with passengers picked up only at a specified single point of origin and, except for Lithia Park, passengers shall be returned to that same point. . Have to comply with only subsections 3 and 4 of this section if it involves the operation of pedicabs, In addition the following criteria apply only to pedicabs. a. Any route used will not cr=te traffic congestion or adversely affect the character or privacy of a msWcutial area. b. The manner and method of pick -alp and delivery of s will not create, or "sally "huts to, a parking problem or traffic congestion. c. Prior to the operation of any pedicab and at the beginning of each shift or each dad or operation, the pedicab shall be thoroughly inspectedby the operator and found to be in safe operating condition. An inspection for safe operating conditions must include, 'but is not limited to, inspection of brakes including parking brake; all li s, signals and Page 3 of 9 ASHLAND MUNICIPAL CODE reflectors; steering system; mirrors; horn and other warning devices; and tires. For any condition found Om or at any other time that will prevent: the safe operation of the pedicab, the operator shall imniediately remove the pedicab from service and correct the condition before the pedicab is returned to service. D. Operations Prohibited. Permittees in the operations described in this section shall not: 1. Respond to specific or individual calls for transportation from one point to another in the manner of taxicabs or otherwise perform the services of taxicabs as defined in Section 6.28.020, or 2. Attempt to promote patronage through garish display of colors, sounds, murals or other thematic devices located on the vehicle. 3. Have to comply with subsection 1 of this section if the operation involves pedicabs. 4. Operate or allow the operation of any special vehicle or tour bus unless the operator possesses a valid Oregon driver's license. E. Signs. 1. Any sign located on a vehicle must not exceed six square feet in area on any one side of the vehicle. For purposes of this subsection, sign means any insignia, identification, description, illustration, symbol, logo, decal or printed or graphic information. 2. Upon completion and submission of a sign permit application to the city engineer and upon payment to the city of a fee to be established by resolution (Reso 2001-05 $50.00 fee) of the city council, the city engineer will issue to the operator of any special vehicle a special vehicle boarding zone sign permit and a special vehicle boarding zone sign. The sign is to be affixed by the operator to such post, light pole, or other location as may be specified in the permit, and only during hours the special vehicle is in operation. The sign is to be in such standardized format as the city engineer may specify; of approximately the same size as a standard city parking -hours sign; and designed so as to generally resemble some type of sign sanctioned in most current edition of the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices. The sign is to read "Horse Drawn Carriage/Pedicab/{as the case may be) Boards Here." The sign will remain the property of the city and must be returned to the city engineer upon expiration of the operator's permit issued pursuant to AMC 6.28.035.A. The sign is deemed for purposes of AMC 18.96.030 to be an informational sign placed by the City of Ashland in the public right of way.(Ord 2855, S2 2000) F. Sound Amplification. No form of sound amplification intended to be heard outside of the special vehicle or tour bus shall be permitted. G. Liability Insurance Required. Prior to the issuance of a permit, the applicant shall furnish to the City a certificate of liability insurance coverage providing limits of at least $500,000 per occurrence in combined single limit for bodily injury and property damage claims or $500,000 per occurrence for bodily injury and $100,000 per occurrence for property damage. Liability coverage shall be provided on an "occurrence" not "claims" basis. The certificate shall provide that the insurance is not cancelable without 30 days prior written notice to the City. The City of Ashland, its officers, employees, and agents shall be named as additional insureds. H. Permit Fee. Permit fees shall be set by resolution (Reso 2001-05 $50.00) of the City Council. If the permit is granted, a regular annual business license fee shall be obtained by the permittee prior to operation of the tour bus or special vehicle. No portion of the business license fee shall be refundable in the event the operation is discontinued for any reason. (Ord. 2735, 1994) Page 4 of 9 ASHLAND MUNICIPAL CODE I. Revocation. Upon any violation of this subsection, a permit may be revoked by the Director of Public Works upon five days written notice, or if the service is discontinued for a period of five days without prior written notification to the Commission. 1. At any time within the five-day notice period, a hearing before the Commission to challenge the revocation may be requested by the permittee. 2. The commission may revoke the permit or allow the permittee up to five days from the date of its decision to comply with the provisions specified in the decision. If the permittee fails to comply with the provisions in the decision, the permit shall be revoked as of the last date given by the commission. J. Violation. Each operation of a tour bus or special vehicle in violation of this section is a separate violation, whether the prohibited operations occur within the same day or different days or relate to the same of different tour bus or special vehicle. A violation of any provision of this chapter is an infraction and shall be punished as set forth in section 1.08.020 of the Municipal Code. (Ord. 2681, 1992; Ord 2898, 2003) (Ord 2898, amended, 06/17/2003) SECTION 6.28.040 Transfer, Cancellation, Suspension or Revocation of Certificate. A. No certificate may be sold, assigned, mortgaged or otherwise transferred without the consent of the city administrator. The city administrator may impose conditions with respect to the transfer of a certificate as it may deem to be in the best interest of the public safety and the general welfare. B. An application for transfer of any certificate is subject to the same terms, conditions, and requirements as the application for original certificate. C. Any certificate may be suspended or revoked by the City Council after a hearing at which the certificate holder is given an opportunity to appear if any one or more of the following conditions exist: 1. The owner ceases to operate any taxicab for a period of 15 consecutive days without obtaining permission for the cessation of such operation from the city administrator. 2. The owner fails to operate the taxicab in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. 3. The owner fails to pay any of the fees or payments required to be paid by the provisions of this chapter. (Ord 2855, S3 2000) SECTION 6.28.050 Surrender of Certificate. Any certificate suspended or revoked by the City Council shall be surrendered to the city recorder and the operations of any taxicab covered by such certificate shall cease. Any owner who permanently retires any taxicab from taxicab service and does not replace it within 15 days shall immediately surrender any certificate granted for the operation of such taxicab to the city recorder and the owner may not secure an additional certificate for the operation of any taxicab without making application therefor in the manner provided in this chapter. (Ord 2855, S4 2000) SECTION 6.28.060 Certificate Fees. No certificate may be issued or continue in operation until the applicant has paid to the City Recorder an annual license fee as established by resolution (Reso 2001-05 $200.00) of the City Council for each vehicle operated within the City. The annual license fee is due and payable on July 1 each year. (Ord. 2735, 1994) Page 5 of 9 ASHLAND MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 6.28.070 Inspection of Vehicles. A. Prior to the operation of any vehicle under the provisions of this chapter and at least annually thereafter, the vehicle shall be thoroughly examined and inspected by either a certified mechanic or a governmental entity located within Jackson County and shall be found to be in safe operating condition. An inspection for safe operating conditions must include, but is not limited to, inspection of brakes including parking brake; all lights, signals and reflectors; exhaust system; steering system; wipers including washers; suspension components; mirrors; horn and other warning devices; tires and restraint system. Record of such inspections must be made available to the City upon request. For the purpose of this section the term "certified mechanic" means a person certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, or equivalent. B. In addition to the initial and annual inspections required above, inspection or testing of all parts vital to the safe operation of the vehicle such as brakes, steering gear, tires, lights, and signaling devices shall be made at the beginning of each shift or each day by the driver, and as often as necessary during use. Any condition found then or at any other time that will prevent the safe operation of the vehicle shall be corrected before the vehicle is used. (Ord. 2735, 1994; Ord 2855, S5 2000) SECTION 6.28.080 Taxicab Maintenance. Any taxicab found to be in violation with the requirements of this chapter shall be ordered immediately out of service and before being placed in service must comply with the requirements. Every vehicle operating under this chapter is to be kept in a clean and sanitary condition. (Ord 2855, S6 2000) SECTION 6.28.090 Operating Regulations. A. Unless otherwise directed by the passenger, any taxicab driver employed to transport passengers to a definite point shall must the most direct route possible that will carry the passenger to that destination safely and expeditiously. B. Every driver, if requested, shall give a correct receipt upon payment of the correct fare. C. No person may refuse to pay the lawful taxicab fare after employing or hiring the same. D. Whenever any taxicab is occupied by a passenger, the driver must not permit any other person to occupy or ride in the taxicab except with consent of the original passenger. (Ord 2855, S7 2000) SECTION 6.28.100 Equipment. Every taxicab is to be equipped with the following: A. Except for taxicabs charging flat rates, a taximeter in accurate operating condition with a lighted face which can be read at all times by the customer. Taxicabs charging flat rates must be equipped with a sign complying with section 16.28.140 stating "Flat Rate" conspicuous to a passenger upon entry into the taxicab. B. A top light identifying it as a taxicab. C. The company name and telephone number where service can be requested displayed on the exterior of the vehicle. D. A cell phone or "state of the art" taxi radio on a clear coordinated taxicab radio frequency for customer comfort and rapid dispatching of calls for service. (Ord 2865 S2 2001) (Ord 2865, Amended, 02/06/2001) Page 6 of 9 ASHLAND MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 6.28.110 Approval of Drivers It is unlawful for any person to operate a taxicab in the City of Ashland unless such person has previously been issued a taxicab driver's permit by the police chief in accordance with the terms of this chapter. A. Application for a taxicab driver's permit is to be made to the police chief accompanied by the payment or a fee established by resolution (Reso 2001-05 $42.00) of the city council. The application must set forth the name, address, age and Oregon driver's license number of the applicant and have attached it to the certified abstract of the driver's license of the applicant and two passport size photos of the applicant. B. Upon receipt of such application, the police chief is to make such investigation of the applicant's background as necessary to verify compliance with the following subsection. C. No taxi driver's permit is to be issued unless the applicant: 1. Is 21 years of age or more, 2. Has not have been convicted of any crimes involving moral turpitude or dishonesty, 3. Possesses a valid Oregon driver's license, 4. Has not had his or her driver's license revoked by any state within the last five years, and 5. Did not make any false statements in the application. D. If the police chief determines that the applicant meets the requirements of this chapter, the police chief shall issue the permit. The permit expires one year from the date of issue and may be renewed from year to year upon application to the police department. The fee for a renewal permit shall be set by resolution (Reso 2001-05 $20.00) of the council. E. If the application is denied, the applicant may, within seven days of notification of the denial by the police chief, appeal the matter in writing to the city council. The city council will hear the appeal at its next regular meeting and may either deny or grant the license. (Ord. 2735, 1994; Ord 2774 S13, 1996; Ord 2855, S9 2000; Ord 2865 S3 2001) (Ord 2865, Amended, 02/06/2001; Ord 2855, Amended, 03/21/2000) SECTION 6.28.120 Insurance. A. It shall be unlawful for a certificate holder to drive or operate, or cause to permit to be driven or operated, any taxicab in the City of Ashland unless the certificate holder shall have on file with the City Recorder, and shall keep in full force and effect, a written certificate of a responsible and solvent insurance corporation authorized to write insurance policies in the State of Oregon, that it has issued to or for the benefit of the certificate holder, a taxicab, commercial general or comprehensive general liability policy which is in full force and effect, and designating in such policy the taxicabs which may be driven or operated under this chapter. B. The taxicab liability insurance policy above -required shall insure the certificate holder and any other person using or responsible for the use of any such taxicab, against loss from the liability imposed upon such operator of such taxicab by law for injury to, or death of, any person, or damage to property growing out of the maintenance, operation or ownership of any taxicabs, to the amount of $500,000 per occurrence in combined single limit for bodily injury and property damage claims or $500,000 per occurrence for bodily injury and $100,000 per occurrence for property damage. Liability coverage shall be provided on an "occurrence" not "claims" basis. The City of Ashland, its officers, employees, and agents shall be named as additional insureds. Page 7 of 9 ASHLAND MUNICIPAL CODE C. The certificate required in this Section shall state that it is not cancelable nor the coverage reducible except upon 30 days prior written notice to the City Recorder. (Ord 2846; S3 1999) (Ord 2846, Amended, 08/17/1999) SECTION 6.28.130 Hours of Service. Certificate holders shall maintain and have available taxicab service for citizens of the City of Ashland during each hour of every day of the year. SECTION 6.28.140 Rates. A. Except for a taxicab charging a flat rate, the rates to be charged to passengers are to be based on the factors of mileage from the point of origin to the point of destination by the most direct route, the time involved, and the number of passengers. Each taxicab must be equipped with a taximeter to compute the rate. In lieu of the computed rate described in the previous sentences, a flat rate may be charged to passengers. (Ord 2865 S4 2001) B. The rate schedule must be posted in each taxicab in a place where it may be readily viewed by the passengers. No taxicab may charge more than the posted rate. (Ord 2865, Amended, 02/06/2001) SECTION 6.28.150 Complaints. The certificate holders shall maintain a record of all complaints received either in writing or by telephone and shall keep posted in a conspicuous place in the passenger compartment of each taxicab a statement setting forth the address and telephone number of the owners to which complaints should be directed and a notice that a record of all complaints shall be open to inspection and review by the City at any time on its request. SECTION 6.28.160 Applications for Certification. (Deleted Ord 2855, S11 2000) (Chapter deleted Ord 2855, S11 2000) SECTION 6.28.170 Applications —Information --Requirements. An application for a certificate is to be filed with the City Recorder. The application must be verified under penalty of perjury and contain or be accompanied by information and documentation specified as follows: A. The name, business address and residence address of the owner or person applying. B. The make, type, year of manufacture and seating capacity of the vehicle for which application for certificate is made. C. A description of the proposed color scheme, insignia, trade style or any other distinguished characteristics of the proposed vehicle design. D. A statement whether the applicant or any officers of the applicant have been convicted of any felony, misdemeanor or violation of any municipal ordinance or state law (other than minor traffic and parking offenses), the nature of the offense and the punishment or penalty assessed. E. A policy of insurance in the manner and form required by this chapter from a responsible, solvent insurance carrier authorized to issue public liability and property damage insurance in the State of Oregon. Page 8 of 9 ASHLAND MUNICIPAL CODE F. A receipt from the director of finance showing payment of a non-refundable fee. The fee is to be set by resolution of the city council. (RESO 2001-05 $250.00) G. Before any vehicle application is acted upon by the city administrator, the police chief is to make an investigation within 60 days from the date the application is filed. Upon completion of such investigation the police chief is to report the finding, in writing, to the city administrator. (Ord 2735, 1994; Ord 2855, S12 2000) (Ord 2855, Amended, 03/21/2000) SECTION 6.28.175 Issuance of Certificate. The city administrator will issue a certificate to operate a taxicab upon finding that the applicant has met the requirements of this chapter. (Ord 2855, S13 2000) (Ord 2855, added, 04/20/2000) SECTION 6.28.180 Existing Operators —Effective Date. Each person or company and drivers thereof who is, on the effective date of this Ordinance, a licensed operator of taxicab service in the City of Ashland shall be entitled to a like number of certificates for taxicabs as are now being operated. The City Council shall waive the application and approval of drivers sections of this Ordinance, and allow reasonable time for such owners and operators to come into compliance with all other provisions and issue taxicab vehicle certificates to such taxicabs. SECTION 6.28.190 Indemnification. A. Any recipient of a certificate of public convenience and necessity shall agree to pay all damages and penalties which the City may legally be required to pay as a result of granting a certificate and shall agree to defend and indemnify the City against all claims resulting from the granting of such a certificate. These damages or penalties shall include, but not be limited to, damage arising out of the operation or maintenance of a taxicab as authorized herein, whether or not any act or omission complained of is authorized, allowed or prohibited by this Ordinance. B. The certificate holder shall pay and, by its application and the granting of a certificate of public convenience and necessity, specifically agrees that it will pay all necessary and reasonable expenses incurred by the City in defending itself against all damages and penalties mentioned in subsection (A) above, including, but not limited to, reasonable attorney's fees. SECTION 6.28.200 Violation --Penalty. Any person, firm or corporation which violates any provision of this ordinance, or not being a certificate holder, operates a taxicab service from points originating within the City of Ashland shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense on each and every day or portion thereof during which any violation of any of the provisions of this title is committed, continued or permitted, and upon conviction of any such violation, such person shall be punished as prescribed in Section 1.08.020 of this Code.(Ord 2245, 1983) Page 9 of 9 BICYCLE & PEDESTRIAN COMMISSION PRIMARY GOALS 2007-2008 Commissioners Description Young, Aitken, Olney, Burnham, Chapman onfinue to offer bicycle safety education classes in shlandschools through on -going partnerships with the icycle Transportation Alliance, Parks Foundation, and Traffic Safety Commission. ike Swap. Seiler, Sommer ontinue to promote Car Free Da & car free livin Young xpand community outreach efforts (recruit youth liaisons ,nd develo artnerh s with the schools Sommer, Seiler, Young etter utilize the media — Daily Tidings, Tribune, City ource, radio, TV Olney, Burnham ontinue and Expand Safe Routes to School efforts for all shland schools. 11fr88�1lCtIJI� Linika � Commissioners Description Church, Ryan Partner in the upcoming Transportation System Plan (TSP) pdate to identify current facilities in place and needs for ew facilities to address needed connections. Burnham ork to enhance existing maps of bicycle facilities and trail stems. Olney;ontinue to identify and develop connectivity needs djacent to all Ashland Schools as part of Safe Routes to chool efforts. Sommer, Chapman, Olney onsider ways to provide improved bicycle and pedestrian acilities from the downtown north to the city limits along orth Main Street,. Commissioners Description Burnham,Olney This could entail combining the Traffic Safety and Bicycle R an toacts liaison to (Y Safety) & Pedestrian Commissions to gain staff efficiencies, and broaden the focus of each Commission to better address transit while still retaining the current areas of interest of each Commission. Subcommittees: Adult Bicycle Safety Education: Aitken, Chapman, Church (Maluk, MacLennan (+/-), Bill Heimann) North Main Street Walkability/Bikeability: Sommer, Chapman & Olney (Severson & Swales) Ordinance Review: Burnham & Young Wheeldon Memorial: Young, Olney & Chapman (Severson, Paula Brown, Midge Thierolf, David Beaudoin) Derek Severson Re: Bicycle Friendly Community Report: ACTION NEEDED Pam From: Derek Severson To: Bill Nesper Date: 1 /24/08 10:10:31 AM Subject: Re: Bicycle Friendly Community Report: ACTION NEEDED Bill, My contact info remains the same: Derek Severson, Associate Planner (541) 552-2040 seversod(cDashland.or.us The responses to the two questions are as follows: 1) Your biggest bicycle -friendly achievement from the past year. Our biggest bicycle friendly achievement of the past year was the continued expansion of our annual Ashland Community Bike Swap event, which is both a fundraiser for bicycle safety education and a celebration of Ashland's bike culture. New and used bikes and skateboards are sold, with a percentage of proceeds going to bicycle safety education programs. These funds have enabled us to expand our bicycle safety education efforts into additional local schools, add a pedestrian safety component, and we will begin to offer adult bicycle safety education programs this year. 2) One positive outcome of receiving your BFC designation. Our designation as a Bicycle Friendly Community resulted in increased press coverage for our events, and helped our Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission gain increased recognition and support from our City Council, who were already strong supporters of our efforts including our annual Car Free Day celebration and Bike Swap events. In addition, since being designated we have been able to more fully develop a partnership that we had been trying to nurture for years between our Bicycle and Pedestrian and Traffic Safety Commissions, the Bicycle Transportation Alliance (a private non-profit), the Ashland Parks and Recreation Department, and the Ashland Parks Foundation (a private non-profit) and all are now working together to develop a self-sustaining bicycle safety education program for all students in Ashland's schools (and hopefully any interested adults as well). I'm attaching several photos which I hope will be satisfactory. Three are from our Bike Swap event, and while they aren't standard infrastructure I think they reflect just how much of a community celebration of bike culture this event is; the fourth photo is of students in a local school bicycle safety class which was funded by proceeds from the Bike Swap event. Please let me know if I can provide any additional information, clarification or assistance. Thanks, Derek Severson, Associate Planner City of Ashland Planning Division 51 Winburn Way Ashland, OR 97520 e-mail: SeversoD@ashland.or.us Derek Severson mmmmRe Bicycle Friendly Community ReportACTION NEEDED M - IT - mmTymm µµ WWµIT- 2 Phone: (541) 552-2040 Fax: (541) 552-2050 TTY: 1-800-735-2900 This email is official business of the City of Ashland, and it is subject to Oregon public records law for disclosure and retention. If you have received this message in error, please let me know at (541) 552-2040. Thank you. >>> "Bill Nesper" < Bill Nesper@bikeleague.org> 01/24/08 9:20 AM >>> Dear Derek, We are updating our Bicycle Friendly Community Report for 2008 --- and our deadline to receive materials from you is January 31. This year, we're focusing on your achievements over the past year, as well as highlighting some of your ongoing work. We need you to confirm that the current contact information we have for your community is still correct, answer the two questions below, and send us at least three high -resolution photos (1 MB in size and 300 dpi) that highlight your community's bicycle friendliness. Derek Severson (541) 552-2040 seversod(a-ashland.or.us 1) Your biggest bicycle -friendly achievement from the past year. Summarize, in two sentences or less, your community's best bicycling achievement in the past year. This could be adding bike parking, having a new enforcement strategies, or creating incentives for employers to promote cycling in their workplaces. These examples will showcase your continuing efforts to support bicycling. 2) One positive outcome of receiving your BFC designation. We need one to two sentences on this. This could be increased press coverage of bicycling issues in your local media, local resolutions to promote cycling, or increased attendance at your annual Bike -to -Work day events. The examples are meant to highlight some of the benefits of receiving a BFC designation. verson - Re: Bicycle FrienOy q9mmunity Report: ACTION NEEDED I apologize for the quick turnaround, but in order to update your profile, we need to receive this information by January 31 st. Sincerely, Bill Nesper Bill Nesper Director, Bicycle Friendly Community Program League of American Bicyclists 1612 K St. N.W., Suite #800 Washington, DC 20006 P: 202-822-1333 F: 202-822-1334 billCa)_bikeleaaue.org www.bikeleaaue.org <http://www.bikeleaaue.org/> Now is the time to make a difference for bicycling: Attend the 2008 National Bike Summit <hftp://www.bikeleague.org/conferences/summit08/index.php>! Sign up <https://www.bikeleague.orci/cogs/summit/signur)> today. v Dear, Page 1 of 1 Derek Severson - Bicycle Friendly Community Renewal From: "Bill Nesper" <BillNesper@bikeleague.org> To: <seversod@ashland.or.us> Date: 1/29/2008 3:23 PM Subject: Bicycle Friendly Community Renewal Dear Derek, Hello, this is Bill Nesper from the League of American Bicyclists. This message is a reminder to renew your Bicycle Friendly Community application. The current Bicycle Friendly Community award presented to Ashland will expire this May. I hope you have enjoyed celebrating your status and are eager to report any progress that your community has made. The deadline for renewal applications is March 21, 2008. In this renewal, we're looking to collect any changes that have taken place since your initial application. To accomplish this we are only requiring you to answer the questions on the BFC application that need updating since the initial application. Please start by reviewing your original application. Rather than writing over the original application, please create a new profile (Username/Password) at http://www.bicyclefriendlycommunities.org/applyonline/ and complete a new application. You only need to respond to questions that require updating since your initial application. Of course, if you would prefer to submit an entirely new application, please feel free to do so. In either case, please distinguish this renewal application from the previous application by filling in your Community Name and adding (2008) e.g. City of Madison (2008). Thank you for all of you efforts in creating a bicycle friendly America. We look forward to hearing about your progress. Please contact me directly if I can assist you in any way. Sincerely, Bill Nesper Director, Bicycle Friendly Community Program League of American Bicyclists www.bikeleague.org bill@bikeleague.org p.202-822-1333 f. 202-822-1334 ******************************************************** Your email: seversod@ashland.or.us Current Designation Level: Bronze file://CADocuments and Settings\seversod\Local Settings\Temp\GW}0000I.HTM 1/29/2008 STATE OF OREGON MEMORANDUM Department of Transportation Transportation Development Division Mill Creek Office Park 555 13th Street NE, Suite 2 Salem, Oregon 97301-4178 (503) 986-4121 FAX (503) 986-4174 Date: January 2008 SUBJECT: ODOT Public Involvement Policy and Procedures Update The Long Range Planning Unit at the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is seeking early public comment on the draft update of Oregon Transportation Commission's (OTC) and ODOT's Public Involvement Policies and Procedures (last adopted in 1994). Attached is the draft document for your review. The policy can be accessed on the Long Range Planning Unit's website at: http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/TD/TP/docs/LRPU/PI Policy.pdf. We would appreciate your comments and from those you work with regarding this draft. We are also directly distributing the draft policy through regular mail and e-mail to numerous stakeholders, interest groups and organizations throughout Oregon soliciting their comments. This update is just that, an update. It builds on the 1994 policies, incorporates a lot of the effective public involvement practices ODOT already uses and makes us compliant with new federal regulations. Comments will be accepted until February 29, 2008 via e-mail at Vanitha. Murthy(a�odot.state. or. us; or in writing to: Long Range Planning Unit ODOT 555 13th St. NE Suite 2 Salem, OR 97301 If you have any questions, please contact Vanitha Murthy at Vanitha. MurthvCaD-odot.state.or.us or (503) 986-3510. We will review and compile all comments received and prepare a second draft for the Oregon Transportation Commission's consideration in April 2008. We anticipate the OTC then releasing it for the official public comment period later in the spring of 2008. Thank you for your assistance. DRAFT PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT POLICY UPDATE — Early Public Review Draft January — February 2008 BACKGROUND The Oregon Transportation Commission (OTC) and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) are dedicated to the goals of developing an integrated, balanced multimodal transportation system that improves safety; moves people, goods, and services safely and efficiently throughout the state; and improves Oregon's livability and economic prosperity. Achieving these goals requires a unified transportation system plan that considers all modes of Oregon's transportation system as a single system. In pursuit of these goals, ODOT has made a substantial commitment to system wide planning and research. It is through this system wide planning effort that future transportation needs will be met most effectively and efficiently. The products of this planning effort are the statewide long-range transportation plan (the Oregon Transportation Plan and its modal/topic and facility plans) and the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). The Oregon Transportation Plan (OTP), the state's long-range multimodal transportation plan is the overarching policy document among a series of plans that together form the state transportation system plan. The OTP considers all modes of Oregon's transportation system as a single system and addresses the future needs of Oregon's airports, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, highways and roadways, pipelines, ports and waterway facilities, public transportation, and railroads through 2030. The Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, (the STIP), is Oregon's four-year transportation capital improvement program, and includes a prioritized listing/program of projects that identify the funding for, and scheduling of, transportation projects and programs. The STIP is consistent with the OTP, metropolitan transportation plans, and required projects to be eligible for funding under title 23 U.S.C. and title 29 U.S.0 chapter 53. GOALS The OTC establishes the following policy and procedures to assist in meeting Federal and State public participation requirements in carrying out the statewide transportation planning processes, and intends to provide: a) Statewide consistency for public involvement processes, b) Improved coordination in the development and major revisions of the long-range statewide multimodal transportation plans and the STIP, and c) Advice and assistance to agency regions and staff for public involvement processes; and expected coordination during the development and major revisions of the regional long-range transportation plans (RTP) and transportation improvement programs (TIP). POLICY The OTC and ODOT will meaningfully involve the public in important decisions by providing for early, open, continuous, and effective public participation in and access to key decision -making processes. PROCEDURES The purpose of the public involvement procedures is to implement the policy and reflect guidance received from the OTC, recent federal, state, and local regulations regarding public involvement, and other related ODOT policies and procedures, and incorporate comments received through a broad distribution of a draft policy and procedures to interested parties. Additionally, the procedures include the part of Policy on Formation and Operation of the Area Commissions on Transportation (ACT) relating to ODOT's advisory role to the ACT in the development of the STIP. Attachment A is a diagram of the Integrated Transportation Planning Framework for public involvement. Attachment B provides definitions. The following procedures implement the public involvement policy. The OTC and ODOT will: 1. Abide by all applicable state and federal laws and rules in implementing its public involvement processes for the development and major revisions of the statewide long-range transportation plan (the Oregon Transportation Plan and its modal/topic and facility plans) and the STIP. 2. Follow the requirements of the Oregon Public Meetings Law (ORS 192.610 to 192.690) for all advisory committees appointed by or reporting to the OTC, such as holding meetings at convenient and accessible locations and times. Maintain a broad based, statewide list of stakeholders: individuals and organizations that are interested in or affected by transportation decisions such as members of the public; representatives of public transportation employees; freight shippers; private providers of transportation; representatives of users of public transportation; representatives of users of pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities; representatives of the disabled; providers of freight transportation services; other interested parties; and organizations who are interested in or affected by transportation decisions; including but not limited to representatives of Indian tribal governments; organizations traditionally underserved by existing transportation systems such as low-income minority households; and, others who may face challenges accessing employment and other services. 4. Provide an ODOT representative to advise the Area Commissions on Transportation (ACT) and other advisory bodies or committees on transportation technical or policy issues; provide technical and policy information in a timely manner; and assist with public involvement processes ensuring appropriate meeting support. 5. Seek out and consider the needs of those traditionally underserved by existing transportation systems, such as low-income and minority households, who may face challenges accessing employment and other services in the development of statewide long-range transportation plans and the STIP. 6. Develop the statewide long-range transportation plan and the STIP in consultation and cooperation with affected metropolitan planning organizations; state and federal agencies such as natural resources agencies N and land management agencies; local agencies responsible for land use management, natural resources, environmental protection, conservation and historic preservation; Indian tribal governments; non - metropolitan local governments; including advisory committees formed under Oregon Revised Statutes or otherwise appointed by the Governor, OTC or ODOT to assist with specific transportation issues. 7. Provide stakeholders (as in procedure 3) with timely information about transportation issues and decision - making processes and adequate notice of key decision points leading to the development or major revision of the statewide long-range transportation plan and statewide transportation improvement program. 8. Work with metropolitan planning organizations to coordinate public involvement for the statewide long- range transportation plan and the STIP with public involvement for the, metropolitan transportation plan and its transportation improvement program. 9. Employ visual aides such as maps, photographs, display boards, and other devices as applicable to describe the proposed statewide long-range transportation plans and the STIP. 10. Provide reasonable public access to technical and policy information used in the development or major revision of the statewide long-range transportation plan and the STIP and make such information available in an electronically accessible format and means such as the World Wide Web, and as required by the Oregon Public Records Law (ORS 192.420 to 192.505). (Charges will be assessed per ODOT Administrative Instruction #5.) 11. Provide a 45-day public review and written comment period of the proposed statewide long-range transportation plan, a 45-day public review and written comment period of the proposed STIP, and a 45-day public review and written comment period of an update of either document prior to adoption of the plan or program by the OTC. In addition, facility plans will follow specific requirements provided in the State Agency Coordination Program (OAR 731-15-065). 12. Provide statewide opportunities for public review and comment on the proposed statewide long-range transportation plan and the proposed STIP by scheduling at least two public meetings in each of ODOT's five regions prior to adoption of the plan or program by the OTC and at least one public meeting prior to the adoption of facility plan by the OTC. 13. Consider and respond to all public comment on the proposed statewide long-range transportation plan and the proposed STIP and modal/topic and facility plans prior to adoption of the plan or program by the OTC. 14. Publish, distribute, and make available in an electronically accessible format and means such as the World Wide Web, the adopted statewide long-range transportation plan including modal/topic and facility plans, and the adopted STIP. 15. Coordinate public involvement for the statewide long-range transportation plan and the STIP with public involvement for project development. 16. Submit the proposed public involvement policies and procedures to a 45-day public review before their adoption by the OTC, and submit any major revision of the adopted final document to a 45-day public review and comment. 17. Publish and distribute the adopted public involvement policies and procedures and provide them in an electronically accessible format and means such as the World Wide Web. 18. Establish a separate and discrete documented process for consulting with non -metropolitan local officials representing units of general purpose local government and local officials with responsibility for transportation that provides for their participation in the development of the long-range statewide transportation plan and the STIR Solicit and review comments from such officials and other interested parties regarding the effectiveness of these consultation procedures at least every 5 years, allowing a 60-day public review and comment period. 19. Periodically review the effectiveness of the public involvement process to ensure that the process provides full and open access to all interested parties and revise the process, as appropriate. rd U z 0-4 z a a ATTACHMENT A - INTEGRATED TRANSPORTATION PLANNING' OREGON TRANSPORTATION PLAN • MODEITOPIC PLANS ♦ 2 • Refine broad policy • Refine/define state role • Inventory • Minimum and desired Levels of Service • Implementation/priorities STATE FACILITY PLANS* MPO PLANS CITY/COUNTY TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM PLANS • Facility function • Transportation need • Mode choice • Projects SUPPORT FOR DECISION MAKING • Management systems • Guidance documents • Modal program direction • Environmental assessment • Implementation plans • STATEWIDE TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM* • MPO TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM' • AGENCY BUDGETS • LOCAL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS SOLUTION DELIVERY • Development/construction • Maintenance • Operations • System management ♦ Oregon Transportation Commission action. 1. Influenced by the Transportation Planning Rule. 2. Aviation, Bicycle/Pedestrian, Freight, Highway, Public Transportation, Rail, Transportation Safety Action. 3. MPO TIPS must be included in ODOT's STIP without modification. To ensure state priorities are considered, ODOT must be involved in the local planning project selection process. 0 Attachment B DEFINITIONS Area Commission on Transportation — The OTC established the ACTS as advisory bodies to improve communication and interaction between the OTC and local stakeholders who share transportation focused community of interest. ACT policy, a stand-alone policy adopted by the OTC. One of the purposes of establishing the policy was to encourage statewide consistency while balancing local needs for flexibility and uniqueness. The ACT policy establishes membership requirements that include voting and non -voting membership. The voting share, which is 50%, consists of elected officials that is comprised of City, County, and MPO officials, Tribal Governments, Port Officials, and Transit Officials The remainder of the stakeholder representation includes and does not limit to: freight, trucking, bicycle, pedestrian, public transportation system, public interest advocacy groups, environmental, land use, local citizens, business, education, public safety providers. Additionally, in fulfilling its advisory role to the Oregon Transportation Commission, the ACT coordinates statewide, regional, and local transportation issues with the following agencies but not limited to - other ACTS within and across ODOT Regions, ODOT Advisory Committees, Community Solutions Team, Regional Partnerships and Regional Investment Boards, Tribal Governments, MPOs, Local Governments, Transit and Port Districts, Stakeholder groups that include environmental, business, state and federal agencies with landholdings within the ACT boundary. ACTs represent ten geographic areas around the state. More information on ACTs and their public involvement can be found on the ACT website at h .// .ore on.�ov/C3Q T/CQM act main shtml. Advisory Committees — During plan development, ODOT typically involves one or more advisory committees that represent a broad range of stakeholders that are specific to a mode or program. For example, the recently adopted Oregon Transportation Plan had one steering committee and three policy committees during plan development. Committee members represented alternate modes, city, and county governments, MPOs, special interest groups, private industry, ports, Indian tribes, state and federal agencies. Information on different advisory committees can be found on ODOT's public involvement website at h=.,//www.oreLon.gov/0DOT/involvement.shtml. MultimodaI Statewide long-range transportation plan: This consists of the Oregon Transportation Plan and other modal plans such as Bike and Pedestrian Plan, Rail Plan, Public Transportation Plan, Transportation Safety Action Plans, along with other topic plans such as the Sustainability Plan Visualization techniques means methods used by States and MPOs in the development of transportation plans and programs with the public, elected and appointed officials, and other stakeholders in a clear and easily accessible format such as maps, pictures, and/or displays, to promote improved understanding of existing or proposed transportation plans and programs. Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 30 / Wednesday February 14 2007 / Rules and Regulations Planning definitions: Administrative Modification means a minor revision to a long-range statewide or metropolitan transportation plan, Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) or Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) that includes minor changes to project/project phase costs, minor changes to funding sources of previously included projects, minor changes to project/project phase initiation dates. R Amendment means a revision to a long-range statewide or metropolitan transportation plan, TIP, or STIP that involves a major change to a project included in a metropolitan transportation plan, TIP, or STIP, including the addition or deletion of a project or a major change in project cost, project/project phase initiation dates, or a major change in design concept or design scope (e.g., changing project termini or the number of through traffic lanes). Changes to projects that are included only for illustrative purposes do not require an amendment. An amendment is a revision that requires public review and comment, redemonstration of fiscal constraint, or a conformity determination (for metropolitan transportation plans and TIPs involving "non-exempt" projects in nonattainment and maintenance areas). In the context of a long-range statewide transportation plan, an amendment is a revision approved by the State in accordance with its public involvement process Consideration means that one or more parties takes into account the opinions, action, and relevant information from other parties in making a decision or determining a course of action. Consultation means that one or more parties confer with other identified parties in accordance with an established process and, prior to taking action(s), considers the views of the other parties and periodically informs them about action(s) taken. This definition does not apply to the "consultation" performed by the States and the MPOs in comparing the long-range statewide transportation plan and the metropolitan transportation plan, respectively, to State and Tribal conservation plans or maps or inventories of natural or historic resources (see § 450.214(i) and § 450.322(g)(1) and (g)(2)). Cooperation means that the parties involved in carrying out the transportation planning and programming processes work together to achieve a common goal or objective. Freight shippers means any business that routinely transports its products from one location to another by providers of freight transportation services or by its own vehicle fleet Provider of freight transportation services means any entity that transports or otherwise facilitates the movement of goods from one location to another for others or for itself. Federal land management agency means units of the Federal Government currently responsible for the administration of public lands (e.g., U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, and the National Park Service). Metropolitan planning organization (MPO) means the policy board of an organization created and designated to carry out the metropolitan transportation planning process. Indian Tribal government means a duly formed governing body for an Indian or Alaska Native tribe, band, nation, pueblo, village, or community that the Secretary of the Interior acknowledges to exist as an Indian Tribe pursuant to the Federally Recognized Indian Tribe List Act of 1994, Public Law 103-454. Long-range statewide transportation plan means the official, statewide, multimodal, transportation plan covering a period of no less than 20 years developed through the statewide transportation planning process. Metropolitan transportation plan means the official multimodal transportation plan addressing no less than a 20-year planning horizon that is developed, adopted, and updated by the MPO through the metropolitan transportation planning process. Non -metropolitan area means a geographic area outside a designated metropolitan planning area. Non -metropolitan local officials means elected and appointed officials of general purpose local government in a non -metropolitan area with responsibility for transportation. Revision means a change to a long-range statewide or metropolitan transportation plan, TIP, or STIP that occurs between scheduled periodic updates. A major revision is an "amendment," while a minor revision is an "administrative modification." Update means making current a long-range statewide transportation plan, metropolitan transportation plan, TIP or STIP through a comprehensive review. / ", FEBRUARY 2008 iver along the gap between Then in December, the City of erty developers south of OMSI must Esplanade and the Spring- Portland and the BTA, which defend- dedicate a strip of riverfront land for )r trail —without providing ed the citv's decision at LUBA, filed their part of the trail. The court required to close the gap cross' -appeals at the Court of Appeals. should issue its decision by summer. rails. The BTA has been Christine Cook will continue to repre- As this story progresses,we will Jane/Feb, A Year in Legislation 2007 saw its fair share of legislative activities. These included House and Senate bills that address underage alcohol, safety corridors, photo radar for highway work zone safety, expanded use of photo red light, felony DUII, cell phone use by teen drivers, careless driving penalties, and Safe Routes to School to name a few. All bills became effective January 1, 2008 unless otherwise indicated. House Bills House Bill 2148 Underage Alcohol Provides that person commits violation if person is under age 21years and has personal possession of alcoholic beverages while operating motor vehicle. Punishes violation by maximum fine of $720. House Bill 2274 Safety Corridors Provisions authorizing enhanced enforcement in safety corridors currently sunsets on January 1, 2008. HB 2274 removes the sunset on the department's authority to designate segments of Oregon's highways as safety corridors. Fines for speeding and other traffic violations double within designated safety corridors. The bill extends the state's ability to use increased traffic fines as part of a comprehensive approach to improve highway Connecting Oregon's Community Traffic Safety Advocates safety using enforcement, engineering, education, and emergency medical service. Effective Date: December 31, 2007 House Bill 2275 Safety Belt Law House Bill B2275, removes commercial vehicles which are "designed or used to transport property" from the classes listed as exempt from safety belt and child restraint requirements at ORS 811.215. This broad definition includes all types of trucks, vans, and passenger cars including those that are used for bulk transport, specialized delivery services, or movement of materials in conjunction with various projects or activities. The only "commercial" exemptions to remain will be taxi cab drivers and vehicles designed AND used to transport MORE than fifteen persons, including the driver. Other exemptions to remain include: paramedics giving aid, persons in the custody of law enforcement, persons holding medical exemptions, and persons involved in solid waste collection, recycling operations, utility meter reading, or newspaper delivery. House Bill 2466 Photo Radar for Highway Work Zone Safety This bill makes three changes in Oregon's traffic law: • Authorizes ODOT to conduct a pilot program to test the effectiveness and acceptance of photo radar used to enforce traffic speeds in highway work zones. • Adds Gladstone, Milwaukee, and Oregon City to the list of cities authorized to operate photo radar on city streets. • Changes the requirements for the sign that advises drivers that a photo radar unit is ahead. Allows ODOT to partner with Oregon State Police or cities that are authorized to use photo radar. Photo radar unit(s) deployed in work zones will be operated by a A, ;ON Volume 6, Number 3 uniformed police officer from a marked police vehicle. Signs will advise drivers that traffic laws are photo enforced, that a photo radar unit is ahead and what speed the vehicle was traveling. The registered owner of a vehicle that exceeds the work zone speed as identified by a photo radar unit will receive a citation in the mail. The registered owners have the due process safeguards currently in place for those cited by photo radar used on city streets. House Bill 2508 Expanded Use of Photo Red Light HB 2508 allows any city to operate a photo red light program and to have as many intersections as needed equipped with photo red light cameras. House Bill 2651 Felony DUII HB 2651 prevents a person with a prior DUII conviction in Oregon or elsewhere from participating in Oregon's diversion program. The bill has provisions that protect police officers from prosecution when vehicle -mounted video recorders, or tasers with recorders, record conversations without the knowledge of the participants. House Bill 2872 Cell Phone Use by Teen Drivers HB 2872 would prohibit a driver less than 18 years of age who holds a provisional driver license, student permit, or instructional permit from using a cell phone or similar device while driving unless he or she was summoning emergency assistance or was engaged in farming activities. Police officers would enforce the prohibition only in conjunction with other suspected violation or offense. Oregon's provisional driver license limits the distractions for teenaged drivers, and has resulted in a significant (over 45 percent) reduction in the number of fatal and injury crashes involving teen drivers. Continued on Page 3 Traffic Safety Connection • Jan./Feb.............................................For information call 503-643-5620 or 1-800-772-1315.......................................................... 1 ACTS Oregon Child Passenger Safety Week 2008 STAFF Ruth Harshfield Executive Director ruthh@actsoregon.org Gayle Watts Child Passenger Safety Program Coordinator gaylew@actsoregon.org Sandy Holt Child Passenger Safety Technician Coordinator sandyh@actsoregon.org Kate Murphy Community Traffic Safety Coordinator katem@actsoregon.org Tory Brixey Administrative Assistant safety@actsoregon.org BOARD MEMBERS Tammy Franks, President Hillsboro TFranks@LHS.ORC Lucie Drum, Secretary Portland lucie�-drum@amr-ems.com Daniel Marcisz, Treasurer Medford MarcisDE@jacksoncounty.org Larry Christianson McMinnville dejaceo@msn.com Stephen J. Manning Keizer stephen68 7@earth link. net John Naccarato Oregon City johnnac@co.clackamas.or.us Rob Nou Burns robt.nou@centurytel.net Ed Simon Newport simonsez@actionnet.net Mike Stupfel Salem Michael.Stupfel@state. or. us Beth Wemple Portland BWEMPLE@kittelson.com Graphic Design by Melissa Gannon Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Week 2008 has been changed from February to September. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) made this change to accommodate states with severe weather issues. September was chosen for many reasons. Among them: back to school, a time when many parents are carpooling and children are riding to school in booster seats, new state booster laws are being enforced for the first "school year" after enactment/enforcement; several national partners conduct child passenger safety activities during the month which ]ends itself to partners for activities; better weather conditions, etc. In 2008 NHTSA will encourage a national child restraint (CR) inspection day on September 20, the Saturday before the CPS Week. This day was selected because it would allow a great media kickoff to the week. CPS Week will be September 21-27. Begin planning your events now!!! Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Educational Materials Maintaining current information on CPS is a goal of the CSSRC. Working with many partners throughout Oregon, we continue to develop and improve access to educational materials. ODOT— i Transportation Safety Division is an excellent resource for brochures, fliers, and posters. Carla Levinski, Occupant Protection Program Manager, has recently added the poster "Size Up your �Fchild's safety needs." This poster is Stock #330514 and can be ordered through the ODOT Storeroom. Send a fax to 503-986-2801. Another national source of information is the Partners for Child Passenger Safety (PCPS), an ongoing research partnership between State Farm and The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. PCPS offers a complete library of educational materials for CPS technicians, parents, and advocates. PCPS hosts two websites. These websites are designed especially for parents, CPS technicians and educators looking for the most up-to-date information on keeping kids safe in the car. Parents and educators will find brief, interactive videos, along with download -ready fact sheets and other information based on the most curren research from PCPS. These resources are availab free and are in English: www. chop. edu/carseat an Spanish: www. chop.edu/asientos-infantiles. 2007 PCPS Fact & Trend Report The third annual Partners for Child Passenger Safety Fact & Trend Report is an up-to-date snapshot of child passenger safety trends including legislation, injury rates, and crash characteristics, as seen in the PCPS data. For the first time data specific to Latino children in crashes has been included. This report is available at: http://stokes. chop. edu/ programs/injury/files/PCPS Reports/2007 Trauma LinkRptEnglish.pdf. PCPS Videos Choosing and installing a i child's car seat or booster seat can be confusing. PCPS has developed a series of four brief, age -specific, downloadable videos - designed to help parents choose the right child restraint system and install it correctly. These videos are in English and Spanish. CPS technicians and educators looking for comprehensive, easy -to -understand information will find these useful. They can be found at www.chop.edu/carseat and www. chop. edu/asientos-infantiles. These videos are also available to CPS technicians on CD-ROM. The CD-ROM can be ordered at: http://stokes. chop. edu/programs/ injury/files/PCPs Vids/pcps-orderfrm. pdf. PCPS Charts and Images Charts and images featuring relevant PCPS data including "Effectiveness of Booster Seats in Preventing Injury," "Trends in Child Restraint Use by Age" and "Injuries to Children Ages 0-12 in Front vs. Rear Seat" can be downloaded at hap.//stokes. chop. edu/programs/injury/ educational -advocacy/charts-images.php. These still images and illustrations provide clear, accurate visuals to use for reference, in presentations, or in brochures or handouts. These charts were very useful in testimony to the Oregon Legislature last year regarding changes to Oregon's Occupant Protection Law. In w, to ChO dre n G to 12 Yews Od Seated Ore the Front . ea. va flflo-;ar Seat/ - ....... ..... -.. ... .... ... e _., Front Seat Rear Seal. PCPS has created a series of 37 educational illustrations, along with descriptions in both English and Spanish, to help demonstrate proper restraint use for a variety of ages, sizes, vehicle types, and restraint types. These illustrations can be used to enhance presentations, fact sheets, and brochures with accurate depictions of vehicle safety features, restraint types, and correct vs. incorrect restraint use. These illustrations are downloadable at: http.//stokes. chop. edu/programs/injury/educational-advocacy/ educational illustrations.php. Traffic Safety Connection •Jan./Feb.......................................Click on www.actsoregon.org for Traffic Safety Information in Oregon..........................................2 A Fixing the Most Dangerous Street in Portland Northeast 82nd has been deemed the least pedestrian friendly thoroughfare in the city of Portland. This came after a November city report. In the last ten years, there have been 3,747 crashes on the seven mile stretch, including eleven fatalities. Surprisingly that number was not higher. One hundred nineteen of those crashes were car on pedestrian collisions. "Pedestrians are more likely to die or be seriously injured from a collision on the corridor than anywhere else in Portland, with the corridor averaging over one pedestrian fatality a year," the city reports. The reports are a part of a massive study that began last spring. 82nd is also designated a state highway, therefore the Portland Office of Transportation, Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), and neighborhood associations all work in tandem to highlight cost- effective ways to protect motorists and pedestrians. Beaverton Technician Class November 28 to December 1st The Beaverton certification course took place at the ACTS Oregon office. Typical of the Pacific Northwest climate in late November it was cold and rainy. However, one benefit of hosting the class at the ACTS Oregon office is that many of the hands on activities occurred in the dry and heated garage. In addition to excellent facilities, the instructor team made the class a great success. Thank you A Year in Legislation Continued from Page 1 House Bill 3314 Careless Driving Penalties HB 3314 enhances the penalties associated with careless driving when the person convicted of this offense also contributed to the serious physical injury or death of a "vulnerable user of the public way." Under the bill, a "vulnerable user" includes a pedestrian, a highway worker, a person riding an animal, or the operator or user of a farm tractor, a skateboard, roller skates, in - line skates, a scooter or a bicycle. Requires a court to sentence a person convicted of this offense to complete a traffic safety course, perform 100 to 200 hours of community service, The plan relies on an approach emphasizing pedestrian safety. The avenue is home to the busiest bus line in the city along with many shops and parking lots. The number of variables that exist lead to crashes. The plan of action focuses on street engineering, enforcement, and community education, the three E's. Each facet included in the approach is equally important. Possible engineering changes include traffic signal changes and bigger pedestrian islands. Additionally law enforcement will be targeting speeders and tailgaters. The third piece in the approach, education, includes outreach to corridor residents. Ruth Harshfield, executive director at the Alliance for Community Traffic Safety in Oregon (ACTS), stresses that without education residents can put themselves at risk by not understanding the newly engineered areas. A downside to the whole project is that engineering is expensive. For 2007 the city set aside $4.7 million for the Safe Streets Program, which will improve the most dangerous streets. Last year the program cost $6.3 million. The -city is striving to engineer safe havens for pedestrians at minimal cost. For example new traffic signals cost between $150,000 and $250,000 a piece, and that does not include ODOT's procedural analysis. Pedestrian islands run about $20,000 a piece, a fraction of the cost. As the city and its' partners look ahead into the new year there is a bit of ambiguity. The city has never done a safety corridor study in the past. However they are hopeful that they will see a decline in crash rates along the "Most Dangerous Street in Portland." This piece is a summary based on an article from the Daily Journal of Commerce, available at www.djc-or.com. to Bill Balzer —Portland Police Bureau, Jeff Oliver —lake Oswego Police Dept., Robert Tibbetts —La Grande Fire and Technician Assistant Grant Johnstone —Tualatin Police Dept. and Sandy Holt —ACTS Oregon. Congratulations to the newest editions to the child passenger safety technician community: Devin Baker —Community Volunteer, Kathleen Adams and Nicole Gibbs —American Medical Response, Janelle Scruggs —Beaverton Police Dept., Jennifer Olin— Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue, Gary De Moss —]Lake Oswego Police Dept., Asha Petoskey and Jim Reynolds —Native American Rehabilitation Assoc., Becky Morgan —Oregon Center for Applied Science, Sandy Van Baggen, Charisse Wall and Keith Wright —Portland Public Schools Pupil Transportation, and Carmen Perezchica—Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield. Also a special thanks to Officer Kevin McDonald and Beaverton Police Dept. for hosting the clinic on December 1st. pay a fine of up to $12,500 and suspension of driving privileges for one year. Payment of the fine and suspension of driving privileges may be waived by the court upon completion of the traffic safety course and community service. Senate Bills Senate Bill 242 Safe Routes to School SB 242 requires a school district to evaluate the need for safety improvements necessary to create safer routes to schools, when it seeks voter approval for bonds to fund a capital construction or improvement project that costs more than $lmillion. The district must evaluate the potential for joint funding with other public or private entities and consider including the cost of the improvements within the funding of the larger construction project. This summary was merely a glance at bills that were voted on this past year. For a complete listing of 2007 legislative activity, contact Bob Gallagher: robert j.gallagher @odot.state.or.us at ODOT Transportation Safety Division. Traffic Safety Connection 9 Jan./Feb.......................................Click on www.childsafetyseat.org for clinics scheduled in Oregon..............................................3 Check Up Clinics and Fitting Stations 2008 Oregon Please check wwmchildsafetyseat.org under Child Passenger Safety/Calendar for Transportation current list, specific dates, locations and times. Safety Date City Location Address Time Conference 01/31/2008 La Grande Fire Department 1806 Cove Avenue 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. 02/06/2008 McMinnville Fire Department 175 E 1st Street 12:00 P.M. to 1:30 P.M. October 20-22 02/07/2008 Eugene Fire Department 1725 W 2nd Avenue 2nd & Chambers 5:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. 02/07/2008 Redmond Fire Department 341 Dogwood Avenue 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. It's back! The annual 02/09/2008 Lake Oswego Fire Department 300 B Street 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. conference has returned 02/09/2008 Canby Fire Department 221 S Pine Street 97013 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. for 2008 and will be held 02/09/2008 Hillsboro Wa. Co. Fairgrounds 827 NE 28th Avenue 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. at the Seven Feathers Training Opportunities Conference Center in Canyonville. Watch for nomination forms. 2008 Pacific NW Driver & Traffic Safety Conference Awards for "Looking "Driver Education -Moving Forward Taldng Action" Beyond the Traffic February 29 and March 1 at Clackamas Community College Portland, OR Ticket" and "Oregon Register online at www.wou.edu/trafficsafety. Transportation Safety" 2008 DUII Multi -Disciplinary Conference Awards will be presented Friday, March 14th to Saturday March 15th, 2008 at the Bend Riverhouse Resort and Hotel. In order to during the conference. In register visit http.//www.odotstate.or.us/ffp/is/duiimdc.htm. addition ACTS Oregon Grants will hold its' Annual Meeting. Contracts for the Building Safer Communities Mini -Grants are in the process of being signed and returned in order for agencies to begin their projects. ACTS Oregon is excited to partner with all grantees throughout Oregon as they set out to enhance the safety in their communities. Many applications for the Bicycle Safety Mini -Grants have been received. We look forward to reviewing everyone's ideas. Traffic Safety Connection 9 Jan./Feb.......................................Click on www.childsafetyseat.org for clinics scheduled in Oregon..............................................4