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HomeMy WebLinkAbout072507 Transportation Coordinating Committee Minutes.doc BOZEMAN AREA TRANSPORTATION COORDINATING COMMITTEE COMMISSION ROOM, CITY HALL 411 EAST MAIN STREETMINUTES WEDNESDAY, JULY 26OCTOBER 25, 2006JULY 25, 2007 - 9:30 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. AGENDA ITEM 1. CALL TO ORDER AND ATTENDANCE Vice Chairman Andrew EppleRoss GammonAndy Epple called the regular meeting of the Transportation Coordinating Committee to order at 9:35 a.m. on Wednesday, July 26October 25July 25, 2007, in the Commission Room, Municipal Building, 411 East Main Street, and directed the TCC and audience members to introduce themselves. Members Present: Carol Strizich JP Pomnichowski Jeff Krauss Bob Lashaway Chris Budeski, Streamline Al Vanderwey Chris Scott Andy Epple Rick Hixson John VanDelinder Rob Bukvich Ross Gammon Joe Olsen Debbie Arkell Tom Rogers, County Planning George Durkin Jon Henderson Rich McLane, Bozeman Police Department PTSC Jeff Key, Peccia David Cobb, Senator Baucus’ Office Andy Epple, Planning Director, City of Bozeman, Chair Bob Lashaway, Director, Facilities Services, MSU Jeff Krauss, Mayor, City of Bozeman Christopher Scott, Gallatin County Planning Debbie Arkell, Director of Public Service, City of Bozeman Ross Gammon, Maintenance Chief, Bozeman Division, MDT Lee Provance, Road Superintendent, Gallatin County Rob Bukvich, Bozeman Division, MDT Al Vanderwey, Urban Planning, MDT Jon Henderson, Bozeman Area Bicycle Advisory Board JP Pominchowski, Planning Board, City of Bozeman Doug McSpadden, Safe Trails Coalition (temporary member) Joe Olsen, Engineering Services Supervisor, Butte District, MDT Jeff Ebert, District Engineer, Butte District, MDT Rich McLane, Bozeman Police Department and Pedestrian/Traffic Safety Committee Staff Present: George Durkin, Road Office, Gallatin County Rick Hixson, City Engineer, City of Bozeman John VanDelinder, Street Superintendent, City of Bozeman Rich McLane, Bozeman Police Department and Pedestrian/Traffic Safety Committee Robin Sullivan, Recording Secretary Guests Present: Jeff Key, Peccia and Associates Chris Budeski, Streamline David Cobb, Senator Baucus’ Field Office Carol Strizich, MDT Tom Rogers, Planning Department, Gallatin County Walt Williams, reporter for the Bozeman Daily Chronicle Andy Epple, Director Joe Olson, MDT Engineering Rob Buckvich, Bozeman Jon Henderson Pat A Debbi A All Vanderway, MDT for Lynn’ Christioper Scott Jeff Rupp Lee Provance Ralph ZimmerRich McLane Bob Lashawy JP Pom Ross Gammon, MDT Chris Saunders, Assistant Planning Director Kerry White, Gallatin County Planning Board David Smith, Bozeman Area Chamber of Commerce Bill Murdock, Gallatin County Commission Bob Lashaway, Facilities Services, MSU (arrived late) Maintenace Robin Sullivan, minutes Ted Lange____, Gallatin Valley Land TrustVLT John Vandelinder Rick Hixson George Jurdin Tracy Oulson Oug Madden Steven Johnson, Executive Director, Gallatin Valley Land Trust MSU professor and students in traffic engineering class Sara Folger Jeff Ebert, MDT ITEM 2. PUBLIC COMMENT {Limited to any public matter within the jurisdiction of the Bozeman Area Transportation Coordinating Committee not on this agenda. Three-minute time limit per speaker} No comment was received under this agenda item. Ted Lange, Gallatin Valley Land Trust, noted that a temporary appointment to the TCC for the Safe Trails Coalition is one of the items on the agenda. He stressed the Gallatin Valley Land Trust’s interest in participating in the process, indicating that they wish to be a part of the working group and can serve in that capacity without a temporary appointment to the TCC. Chair Andrew Epple responded that at the last TCC meeting, there was consensus that the Safe Trails Coalition should be represented on the TCC for the duration of the update process and that official action should be taken at this meeting. He then noted that the Gallatin Valley Land Trust is always welcome at these meetings and can be represented through the Safe Trails Coalition or the Bozeman Area Bicycle Advisory Board. Doug McSpadden, Safe Trails Coalition, asked if that group should meet with representatives from Gallatin County and the Montana Department of Transportation regarding the final plans for Valley Center Road, to ensure that adequate bicycle facilities are provided, particularly through the interchange. Pat Abelin encouraged Mr. McSpadden and Mr. Lange to attend the next public meeting on the interchange to look at the plans, noting that the date and place for that meeting have not yet been set. Steven Johnson, Executive Director of the Gallatin Valley Land Trust, noted that agency has not been involved with the Transportation Coordinating Committee since the revision of the transportation plan five years ago. He stated that, since the GLVT is dedicated to bicycle and pedestrian initiatives, the agency would like to be of service in the new update, particularly in developing alternative plans. He noted that the Dan Burden event this month has resulted in tremendous energy, and he would like to bring forward some of those suggestions. ITEM 3. MINUTES OF APRIL JULY 26APRIL 25, MAY 23, AND JUNE 27, 2007, 2006 Since there were no corrections to the minutes of the regular meeting of April 25, 2007, Chair Epple announced the minutes are approved as submitted. Since there were no corrections to the minutes of the special meeting of May 23, 2007, Chair Epple announced the minutes are approved as submitted. Since there were no corrections to the minutes of the special meeting of June 27, 2007, Chair Epple announced the minutes are approved as submitted. April 25 – no corrections so Andy approved as distributed May 23 – no changes so Andy approved as distributed June 27 – no changes so Andy approved as distributed Jeff Ebert made the following revisions to the minutes of July 26: Page 3 – Item B – change to read “Pat Abelin reported that the EIS EA (environmental assessment) is currently on schedule.” Page 8 – the next to the last sentence in the first paragraph states that the two projects total $6 million; the correct number is $9 million. David Smith requested that his name be moved from the list of guests to the list of members. It was moved by Kerry White, seconded by Jeff Ebert, that the minutes of the meeting of July 26, 2006, be approved as amended. The motion carried. The list of attendees was revised to delete Pat Abelin from the list. Also, Rob Bukvich made the following revisions to the minutes of April 26: Page 8 – No. 7.b. second paragraph – change to read “Mr. Bukvich also noted that the Springhill and North 19th Avenue will now have two signals, one for the straight-away and the other a turn signal at the intersection of Springhill and US Highway 10 and the other at the intersection of Springhill and North 19th Avenue.” Page 8 – No. 8 – change to read “Mr. Bukvich stated that public meetings are continuing. HKM Engineering is doing the public outreach and preliminary design work. environmental assessment and environmental document.” Rob Buckvich, Page 8 – two signals, one at two signals in that area. One at springill and US 10 and other at Springhill Road and North 19th. No. 8. North Rouse Avenue – HKM doing environmental assessment and environmental document. Not yet to preliminary design. Say public outreach and environmental assessment. Page 9 – No. 9 – change first sentence to read “Mr. White questioned the members as to whether or not there will be a round-about at the intersection of 191 and Huffine Lane Montana 64 (Big Sky spur road) on the way to Big Sky.” Chair Epple announced the minutes are approved as amended. Ralph Zimmer requested that the pages be numbered on future minutes. Item 9 under discussion. Mr. White questioned if roundabout at 191 and Huffine. Talking 191 and MT 64. instead of Four Corners. (Big Sky spur road) Andy – declare approve as corrected. Ralph – would appreciate having pages numbered. Andy – will make sure done for next go round. ITEM 4. TCC MEMBER REPORTS A. Transit Committee Report – Chris Budeski Chris Budeski, Chair of the Urban Transit Advisory Committee, reported that a ribbon cutting ceremony for the six new bustle back yellow busses was held the middle of last week. Four of those busses are now running on routes and the other two will serve as back-ups. He noted that ridership this summer is 320 to 340 persons a day; during the school year that is expected to increase to over 500 per day. He stressed that these figures are exceeding ridership expectations and were beyond the capacity of the leased busses. He noted that the new busses have racks to accommodate three bikes, and it is very common to see them utilized. Chris Budeski reported that some of the routes are being tweaked over the summer, and a new route will be added on August 20. He indicated that one of the major changes is adjusting the schedules so the busses arrive earlier at MSU, making it easier for students to get to classes on time. He stated that once those changes have been completed, the new schedules will be distributed to the MSU faculty, staff and students and made available in various locations throughout the community as well as on the web. Chris Budeski noted that the Human Development Resource Council (HRDC) is currently managing Streamline. The next step is to look at a more permanent structure, which will probably be an urban transit district or a municipal system. At the present time, the system serves Bozeman, Belgrade and Four Corners; and it is anticipated the system may soon tie to the Skyline bus system that serves Big Sky. In the long term, there is a potential that the system may be expanded to also serve Manhattan, Logan and Three Forks. Chair Epple thanked Mr. Budeski for his report, noting the yellow busses have made a real impact throughout the community. He then asked that Mr. Budeski continue to provide updates at the TCC’s regular quarterly meetings. Chair of Urban transit. Ribbbon cutting middle of last week. Six new yellow busses with bustle back, 4 running on routs and two backups. Thanks t MDT and other members. Ridership in summer 320 to 340 a day. School year over 500 per day. Exceeded ridership expectation. Beyond capacity with lease. 2w3 passenger untis and equipped with 3 bike racks. Utilized. Also over summer taken look at routes. Lot of input last year from riders. A couple on committee are daily riders. Tweaking some of the routes. New route on August 20 and school starts on 27th. One of the major changes is so get to MSU earlier. Modified times and routes slightly. Jeff Ebert and Lee Provance arrived at 9:40. Doug McSpadden also arrived. Chris – doing marketing. Will distribute new schedule through MSU to faculity, staff and students. Want to make sure ridership well served and know changes. Website, and City has link. Streamline.org is website. Next step is HRDC is managing Streamline currently. Looking at urban transit district or municipal system and trying to determine what’s better fr Bozeman, Belgrade, Four corners and maybe later tie to Skyline. And potentially long term to Manhattan, Logan, Three Forks. It in a nutshell. Andy – great report on step forward. Yellow busses have made real impact through community. Andy – plan on joining in LOctober at next meeting. 1. Transit Committee Report - Chris Budeski Bill Murdock reported that the transit system is up and running, but the Committee is awaiting the Montana Department of Transportation’s approval of the purchase of the yellow busses. As a result, it is anticipated those busses will not be on line until next summer. Mr. Murdock reported that a connection between Big Sky and Four Corners is anticipated in the next few months. Ridership has increased from 100 to 110 rides per day when the system was started to over 300 rides per day now. This is beyond the Committee’s expectations and without any promotion or signs posted for the stops. He indicated that, while the busses are generally not full, there are times when the bus from Belgrade is full, and it is possible that a larger bus will be put on that route. Responding to David Smith, Bill Murdock stated that the interim system is being driven by HRDC and ASMSU and, until the bugs are worked out of the transit system, including the stops and schedules, they do not want to print schedules or install signs. Ross Gammon reported that Rob Buckvich has been riding the bus occasionally to identify stop locations and see how the system is working. Chris B not present. Jeff Rupp – recei ved final approval of application. So can now purchase. Have borrowed from Yellowstone Park for fair and sweet pea. Made commitmentment to MSU to keep open for students. Laidlaw is partner and trying to access inventory for lease for a year. Since long time getting monies for bus. Will not be yellow buses retro. Will be two or three square transit and three more like paratransit like see now. Rob B – City and MDT staff in last couple weeks involved in stop locactions and what need to make bus stops work. Handicapped accessibility curbs. Starting to work so will do what cdan to be ready when system is ready. Andy – so system will be up and running with leased buses and stops as best can. Jfefff – will use as many stops as can. Streamline. Rob B – mostly new. Not many existing that we found. Andy – how will this be marketed? Anyone developing marketing and advertising to get word out to maximize ridership. Rob B – waiting for logo to order signs for bus stop. Have a marketing agency on board. Will be marketing it. Some talk that would start running routes two weeks before taking on passengers. Andy – laidlaw employees? Jeff – yes. Debbie – if have any pull with logo, need to make signs. Andy – sounds like good progress being made. Energy to get going. And will be advertising to get going. Good. Feedback from fair? None. Gammon – part of marketing strategy is no cost for riding? Is that for first year? Jeff – don’t know how long. Andy – one of our members is sight impaired and would be good to have you introduce yourselves for Mr. Zimmer. 2. Transit Partnership B. I-90/East Belgrade Interchange Report – Pat Abelin Rob Bukvich stated the local committee has not met because they were awaiting the signing of an agreement between Gallatin County and the Montana Department of Transportation; and the County was awaiting the signing of an interlocal agreement between Gallatin County, the Gallatin Airport and the City of Belgrade. He noted it appears the interlocal agreement has been executed, so he anticipates the committee will meet within the next month. Lee Provance noted that it appears there will be no additional federal funding for the project, so he cautioned it may be “dead in the water”. David Cobb, Senator Baucus’ office, stated Senator Baucus still supports the project; however, neither the House nor the Senate sub-committee has included additional monies in the appropriation bill for this project. He noted that results in closing the door for 2008 funding, but it does not preclude additional funding in future years. – we haven’t had a meeting of local committee lately. Waiting to get agreement signed between County and MDT and County wating for interlocal between County, airport and Belgrade. Read that happened so assuming will meet in next month. Lee – Senators are not really endorsing the project and not getting any additional funding from the feds. May be dead in the water. Don’t know where else money would come from. David Cobb – Baucus still supports project. Neighter house nor senat subcommittees decided for additional funding. Earmkarked monies come thorugh. But no additional monies through the funding process. For 2008 closes door. Chair Epple thanked Andy – thanks for help and Mr. Cobb for his update and Senator Baucus for his help and asked that this committee be keptkeep apprised of any future issues. the committee had an interesting meeting with the Belgrade City Council on Monday night. She noted that the funding sources for the interchange must be identified, particularly since it is estimated to cost $29 to $30 million with the connector roads. She stated that Gallatin County has been considering this issue for a long time, and the City of Belgrade is looking at its sources. She suggested that, with the commercial development made available through the construction of the interchange, seeking private sector assistance seems appropriate. She indicated that, until the funding sources have been identified, the environmental assessment is not moving forward. Kerry White noted it is his understanding that some of the arterials may be included in the County’s capital improvement program and could be eligible for impact fees. Lee Provance reported that the findings of fact for Ryan Glen Subdivision require that development to construct the east bypass in addition to the monetary contribution that was required. Pat Abelin stated the committee is trying to look to the future and ensure that those who may benefit from the development made feasible with the interchange help to pay for it rather than requiring the general public to bear those costs. the EIS is currently on schedule. She noted that cooperation among agencies has been amazing, and she anticipates the final public hearing will be held within the next couple months. She stated the next issue to be addressed is links to the interchange, their locations, funding options, and who will be responsible for building them. She indicated that efforts are being made to have developers participate in the construction of these roads to the greatest extent possible. Lee Provance stated the County anticipates that it will do the lion’s share of the construction. Pat Abelin confirmed that constructing the roads to county standards would be cheaper than building to state standards. Pat – EIS moving right along. Doing ery well on original schedule. Should have final public hearing in nex Responding to questions from JP Pomnichowski, Jeff Ebert stated that Airport Manager Ted Mathis is on the committee and is supportive of the Belgrade interchange and bypass, and is helping to shepherd it through the process. Rob Bukvich indicated that the bypass study is estimated to cost $300,000, and consists of a route through the airport to Dry Creek Road to relieve pressure on Highway 10. Jon Henderson voiced a desire for adequate bicycle/pedestrian facilities through the interchange. Ted Lange reported that he and Doug McSpadden met with County Grants Administrator Larry Watson on a safe trail from Bozeman to Belgrade, and noted that Valley Center Road to Alaska Road seems to be the best alternative. As a result, the airport interchange is an extremely important link. He cited the tunnel for the linear trail along the interstate in Butte as an example of a safe trail component. Rob Bukvich stated that a separate 8-foot-wide path has been proposed for the Valley Center Road project. Responding to Lee Provance, he acknowledged that it is not the 10-foot-wide path generally required by MDT but, in this instance, the Commissioners have convinced MDT that a narrower path would be acceptable given the width of the right-of-way. He noted that, as currently proposed, the MDT would construct the project and the County would accept responsibility for its maintenance. Ralph Zimmer voiced his support for Jon Henderson’s comments, noting that the Pedestrian/ Traffic Safety Committee strongly supports adequate pedestrian and bicycle facilities in conjunction with new construction. He cited a recent opportunity to walk through interchanges in Billings, where there was no provision for pedestrians; and he does not wish to have that occur in this area. C. TSM’s Report Debbie Arkell reported that the downtown street project is going extremely well, with JTL now being ahead of schedule. She noted that JTL is working closely with Chief Construction, the City’s contractor doing the water main renovation project. The North Tracy Avenue water main project is now nearing completion, and it is anticipated paving of the street will start tomorrow. Also, NorthWestern Energy has recently done a gas main replacement project in Main Street extending east from Broadway Avenue. Debbie Arkell noted the powder coated traffic signals in the downtown area are much more attractive than the aluminum signals and suggested that the additional $1,200 should be considered for all future signal installations. Rick Hixson reported that Durston Road west of North 19th Avenue should be completed on August 3; and that roadway will then be open. Debbie Arkell noted that trying to keep all of the City and private developer projects coordinated has been very challenging this summer, especially in the downtown area. Rick Hixson reported that the contractor for the new intermodal facility has encountered several items in North Tracy Avenue that were not noted on any plans, including a giant telephone conduit and a clay pipe.Andy – catchall report. Report on local street projects as well. Debbie – downtown project is a TSM project. Thik work going extremely well. JTL ahead of schedule. Working closely with the City’s contractor, Chief Construction, doing water main renovation project. NW Energy did gas main replacement Broadway east. Think project going well. Two downtown signals up are quite attractive. Compare to the new one at 5th and Main. And $1200 differene for intersection to powder coat it. Tracy water main project should be paved starting tomorrow and open up that street. Rick – Durston should be finished August 3. Debbie Arkell reported that the Montana Department of Transportation is installing stop signs at the intersection of West Koch Street and South15th Avenue through its safety funds. Responding to Chair Epple, Debbie Arkell stated that resurfacing of Main Street is scheduled to begin on August 13; and that work will be done at night. After that is completed, the crosswalk work will begin. Since it involves colored stamped concrete, Main Street will be reduced to two lanes and travel on the side streets will also be impacted. Lee Provance announced that Ted Turner has filed an injunction against the use of millings from US Highway 191 to pave the Spanish Creek Road, citing water quality and stream degradation as the reasons for doing so. He noted that case will be heard before Judge Salvagni on August 9. Lee Provance announced that Baxter Road and Monforton School Road will be closed intermittently as the developers of Black Bull Run Subdivision and Spanish Meadows as well as Barb Campbell do improvements on those roadways. Andy – busy summer with water and gas mains and streets. Debbie – and private developer work downtown as well. Challenge to keep all projects coordinated. Andy – spoken with some downtown business owners and seems traffic still good. Not hearing a lot of complaints. Jeff K – hearing more. Especially on Tracy. Cut off for very long time now and have had e-mails about getting people to businesses. Had closed long time. Debbie – water main contractor doing what can to have roads open for business access. Rick H – in block of Tracy, intermodal facility contractor also in trying to work way around giant telephone conduit that no one knew where there. And other lines in there as well. Lines, clay pipe. Urban environment. One day five backhoes in that street. Drags out more than would like especially when run into things didn’t know were there. Debbie – MDT doing safety project at Koch and 15th for us. Putting up stop signs, which were TSM identified through MDT safety funds. Andy – Main Street will involve resurfacing? Debbie – scheduled to be done beginning on August 13 at night. After that is done, then crosswalk work. colored stamped at all four intersections and will go through rest of summer and fall and that will be disruptive. Main Street down to two lanes. Jeff Ebert – meeting every Friday morning 9 a.m. at City Center motel. Issues, questions come up. Contractor updates during that time. Any issues can be raised there. Lee – our biggest deal right now with MDT Ted Turner filed injunction for performing work. milling portion of 191 and going to put millings on Spanish Creek Road. In planning phase ab out three years and contract almost two and Ted decided didn’t want us to do his road. On hold now. Hope paper and general public pick it up and put pressure on him to drop it. Otherwise will hear case on August 9 before Salvagni. Andy – benefit in terms of dust protection. Lee – he’s arguing water quality and stream degredation. Ted doesn’t like it and want to stop it. And then Baxter Raod will be closed intermittently and Monforton School Road intermittently as well. Bull Run to construct Baxgter from west property line to city limit and Durston Love Lane to city limit. Don’t know when. Spanish Meadows and Barb Campbell doing improvements to roads as well. stated there is nothing to report under this agenda item D. Bozeman Area Bicycleike Advisory Board Jon Henderson stated he is seeing an increase in ridership and pedestrians along the streets. He is pleased to see recent improvements, including the bike lane on Durston Road and the video actuators on the traffic signals in the downtown area. He stated the Board is putting together a survey to capture hard figures on ridership in town so they have data from which to work. He concluded by stating the Board continues to work with the consultant on the transportation plan update. – experiencing increased ridership and pedestrians on street. Happy with lot of recent improvements especially on Durston. Bike lane getting lot of use. Anxious to see more that styple of development. And video actuators on signals downtown. Thank you for that. Finally, continuing to work with consutants on trans plan update. And putting survey together with intent of capturing hard figures that lack on extensive ridership within town. How often ride and how far and issues they see. Beginning of school. stais anxious to get started on the transportation plan update process. He served on the selection committee and is enthused and encouraged that the consultants forwarded multi-modal approaches. The board is working with the Pedestrian/ Traffic Safety Committee and the Gallatin Valley Land Trust to ensure that everything is addressed and anticipates that recommendations from the larger group will carry more weight. The Board also recommends that the bike lane in the North 7th Avenue connectivity plan be extended beyond the project boundary to Springhill Road. The board is willing to help on negotiations and research as the update progresses. Jon Henderson concluded by noting that a couple of the members have become involved in safe routes to school, which will be funded with CTEP monies. E. Other TCC Member Reports Rich McLane reported the Pedestrian/Traffic Safety Committee is working with the Engineering Department in an effort to get the old sidewalk repair and sidewalk installation programs operating once again. He announced that the Emily Dickinson School area has received a grant for non-infrastructure improvements to promote a walkable environment for children. Also, an infrastructure grant is in process for four speed sentry units that will be used to gather data in school zones. Those units will be used where problems have been identified after the pilot project at Emily Dickinson School has been completed. Rich McLane reported that the Police Department has added walking and bike patrols in the downtown area to help ensure the safety of pedestrians. What they have encountered is both drivers and pedestrians not paying attention; however, the subsequent installation of temporary stop signs has helped to improve safety. – PTSC. Committee worked with engineers to go over sidewalk repairs and see if can get back on track for installation of new and repair of old. Also good news for Emildy Dickinson School area. Grant for non infrastructure improvements to promote walkable environemtn for kids. And infrastructure grant in process which will result in four speed centry units on adjoining streets for data gathering and slow down going too fast note. And adjust our resources as need to when see data coming in. nice thinkg is portable so will start there as pilot project and then move to other school areas that seem to be problem areas. And from Police Dept, downtown some walking and bike patrols to help with pedestrian safety. Seen both driveds and pededstrians not paying attention. Had recommendations when came to stop sign implementation. Made safer. Responding to Jeff Krauss, Debbie Arkell stated that the North 25th Avenue crossing on Durston Road includes a painted crosswalk, a speed change sign to lower the speeds during school hours, and a pedestrian refuge in the center turn lane. She noted there is also a crossing guard at that intersection before and after school hours. Jeff K – Debbie, can you tell us what putting in there for Druston corssing? Debbie – there is the painted crosswalk and will be pedestrian refuge in center turn lane and speed change sign to change 25 to 20 during school hours. At 25th. Where crossing guard is at. Responding to Lee Provance, Debbie Arkell stated there is no plan for a speed study on Durston Road at this time; that is a request that must be made by the City Commission. Lee – any plans for speed study on Durston and get raised to what probably should be? Debbie – no. Andy – that needs to come from the Commission. Doug McSpadden – no report. Last couple months haven’t touched base with bike board but assume will start again in fall. Ralph Zimmer reported that the Pedestrian/Traffic Safety Committee is working through the summer this year, and is in the process of establishing better working relationships with other groups. David Smith reported that last Friday, the Chamber talked about legislative issues and identified the need for a laundry list of other items, such as potential bond issues. He noted that the unanimous support of the group for a local option gas tax reflects the recognition of transportation infrastructure needs. He concluded the expressing the Chamber’s interest in playing a big role in the transportation plan update. Chair Andrew Epple noted that when the local option gas tax issue surfaced about a year ago, one of the County Commissioners was surprised that the option was available. David Smith characterized the local option gas tax as a user tax and, with the amount of tourism in the area, the result could be to effectively double the monies available for transportation projects. Rob Bukvich noted that the local option gas tax has not yet been utilized in Montana, suggesting that Gallatin County could be the first to do so. No other reports were given ITEM 5. OLD BUSINESS There were no items under this agenda item. A. Downtown Parking GarageIntermodal Facility Update Debbie Arkell announced that next week, Martel Construction will put up signage in preparation for construction; and construction is scheduled to begin on August 6, immediately after the Sweet Pea Festival. Arrangements have been made to lease a portion of the Kenyon Noble lot on Lamme Street for those patrons who have monthly lease spaces; and the Streamline bus stop and transfer point has been moved to in front of Sterling Bank during construction. She noted that North Tracy Avenue, North Black Avenue, and East Mendenhall Street will be reduced to one lane during the construction, which is anticipated to last a year. Chair Epple noted that construction of the intermodal facility will significantly change the character and face of the downtown area. Andy – James on vacation. Any report? I approved final site plan this past week. Depicting the transit stop and archirectural design changes required. Don’t know ab out status of project. Debbie – construction scheduled to begin next week but Martel agreed to wait until August 6 after Sweet Pea. Next week will start putting up signage and then fence lot off on August 6l. made arrangements through lease with Kenyon Noble to lease part of parking lot on Lamme for patrons who pay monthly to lease spaces. Streamline bus moved to in front of Sterling Bank. One lane of Mendenhall will be closed for construction and likely one lane of Black and Tracy closed. Duration expected to be a year. Martel is general. Andy – will change character and face of downtown. Debbie – include as intermodal facility instead of parking garage on future agendas. B. Other Old Business No items were raised under this agenda item. None A. Status of Bozeman Area Transportation Plan 2006 Update B. Establish Temporary Appointment to TCC to represent the Safe Trails Coalition during the 2006 Transportation Update Process C. Other Old Business ITEM 6. NEW BUSINESS A. Transportation Plan Update Status 1. Consultant Selection Process and Results Ross Gammon stated that Robert Peccia and Associates was awarded the contract. Debbie Arkell reported that Project Engineer Bob Murray will be the lead person for the City and Chris Scott will be the lead person for the County. 2. Draft Scope of Services Debbie Arkell distributed copies of the draft scope of services and recommended that the TCC appoint a sub-committee to look at the draft scope and provide comments to Bob Murray. She suggested that this committee could be the same as the selection committee. She noted the contract will probably be ready in January and then the TCC will be asked to meet monthly or every other month rather than quarterly. Responding to Ross Gammon, Debbie Arkell suggested that there be no more than eight on the committee, and asked that there be at least one County representative. It was moved by Debbie Arkell, seconded by Kerry White, that the selection committee also serve as the scope of services committee and be comprised of Rick Hixson, Andy Epple, Jon Henderson, Chris Saunders, Al Vanderwey, JP Pomnichowski, Doug McSpadden and Lee Provance. The motion carried. Debbie Arkell asked that the committee members have their comments to Bob Murray by November 3 and be prepared to meet on November 8. It was moved by Jeff Ebert, seconded by Lee Provance, that the TCC approve the selection sub-committee’s recommendation to retain Robert Peccia and Associates to update the transportation plan. The motion carried. Jeff Key, Peccia and Associates, reported on the public meeting held on June 27. He estimated that 67 people attended the meeting, which included a power point presentation and then breakouts into three different work stations. He noted that issues identified included the timing of data collection. According to the count schedule, he stated about 1/3 of the intersections were to be counted in late spring, while school was still in session; 1/3 of the intersections were to be counted this summer; and the remaining 1/3 are to be counted in the fall. Unfortunately, the street closures resulting from construction have impacted many of the intersections that were to be counted this summer, so he has halted that portion of the project until after the construction has been completed, streets opened and traffic patterns normalized. He assured the Committee that those counts can be completed this fall and will not affect the overall schedule. He indicated that he anticipates the second public meeting will be held in October; and the intersection data will be available for that meeting. He indicated that Gallatin County has requested the addition of some intersections going south toward Gallatin Gateway. He then reported that he has a meeting scheduled for tonight with the Four Corners and Gallatin Gateway areas; and MDT Director Jim Lynch has a meeting tomorrow night to discuss issues further up Gallatin Canyon. . View today’s meeting as very brief status. No powerpoint presentation. Talk about public meeting on June 27. I was very pleased with it. Very first meetings when done in other places, lucky to have 10 or 15. with this one, counted 67 people at the meeting. A little criticism I heard that not advertised enough in advance. Meeting format was a powerpoint about project and then breakout into three different work stations where people could participate. Opportunity to talk one on one with peop;le. Viewed as success and hope as read through minutes might agree. Some issues came out. Data collection was one. JP and others made comment that don’t count cars during the summer. According to our count schedule, about 1/3 of intersections in late spring counted in session. About 1/3 hoped to do in summer and 1/3 in fall. Pulled plug on everyone last week because of construction and closures this summer. Will let August ride and then start in Sept and Oct and finish. Doesn’t affect our schedule but delays info being available. When go to second meeting, which expect in Oct, nice to have info on intersection data collection. Also, notice technicians counted a few of the intersections in summer when should have been fall. So much construction, difficult. June alright but now out of control. Will count Main Street intersections aftger project is finished and patterns normalize. Those counted in June felt far enough removed. Counted Jackrabbit and some on Huffine in the summer. Also asked by Gallatin County to do a few intersectuions going south in Gateway area. I have meeting tonight with Four Corners and Gateway. And Jim Lynch talking about issues further out on Canyon tomorrow night. So counted a few of the intersections. Many Four Corners and gateway peole at public meerting. Jeff Key stated four public outreach activities have been scheduled during this update process. In addition to those activities, he plans to meet with the City and County Commissions and the Planning Boards some time in August. Also, a land use committee must be convened to identify where growth is occurring and to assist in planning for the extension of services. He indicated the results of that committee will be used in the travel modeling. Jeff Key stated that at the first public meeting, representatives from ALTA manned the non-motorized work station. Themes identified at the work station included connectivity, intersections, shared paths, and separated bike paths versus bike lanes. He noted that a pedestrian/bicycle stakeholder meeting was also held, and several issues were identified, including a request for guidance on mid-block trail crossings. Jeff Key noted that ALTA has done a memo on side paths. He stated that in that memo, ALTA recommends a standard design rather than a separated path in most instances due, in large part, to the conflicts that can arise with approaches across the path. The recommendation, instead, is for a sidewalk that can be wider than typical and is separated from the roadway by a boulevard. Doug McSpadden noted that separated bike paths and side paths are two different things. A side path is a two-way facility while bike paths are directional and located on both sides of the road. Jeff Key noted an off-street trail system to Four Corners would be appropriate, since separation from the roadway is needed for safety purposes. Jeff Krauss stated it is important to recognize the differences between the urban and rural standards in the transportation plan update. Rob Bukvich stated the biggest issue with side paths is the degree of separation from the road. He noted that the access management plan for Huffine Lane includes a backage road system instead of a frontage road system because there will be development between the two roadways. He suggested the logical place for the path is along the backage road instead of the major arterial road. Jeff – four public outreach activities scheduled. Middle or end of Oct second public meeting. Also have in August to have venue with City and County Commissions and Planing Board. One of the last things, what is month of Aguust hold? Those meetings, land use committee. Need to convene land use committee, which is very small. Bozeman dn County have pretty good idea where growth is occurring. Planning for extension of services. Expect six to eight. County, City PW and Planning, Belgrade, MDT, County PW and Planning. Results go into memo for this committee and important in doing travel modeling. Continue working on plan. Still need to do plan work. TSMs and future connections. ALTA manned non-motorized work station. In packet received, order out of p;lace. Workshop summary should have been before stakelholder minutes. Memo dated June 29 has matrix showing theams like connectivity, intersdections, shared, paths, sticky dots that may have seen more than once. See number of responses. Connectivity on Page 2. peop;le want to see development to west that trail connectivity done. Last page, shared use paths. Separated bike path not bike lane on major corridors. More off street connections. All are interim products that will get rolled into issues portion of plan and help focus efforst. PT stakeholder minutes attached. Heard at lasdt meeting. Sat in on meeting with GVLT and that one cen tered around mid block crossings, which people are struggling with here. Tell us guidance that engeineers/planners. Help us assess where shoud allow. ALTA focusing on that now. National gujidance to help. Separated paths. Don’t fully comprehend level of controversy on those. From governmental view, probably bombarded with dsire everywhere. From initial meeting with various non motorized groups, need more guidance. ALTA did side path memo. Discussion with GVLT because proponents of those. What I gleaned form memo is from ALTAs point don’t feel sparated paths are cure all for safety. Last page says in nearly all cases, ALTA recommends standard path and sidewalk. Can be separated and wider than typically seen. Side paths may be considered where certain criteria are met. View side path issue as pretty criticacl as move dorward with plan. Current plan has roadway cross sections and has separated bike path. Need good understanding of side paths versus lanes and sidewalk. Highland Boulevard – side street approaches closes and stil some issues with two way traffic and safety. Elevated by City and County staff at initial meeting. Diagrams that talk about sight distance and why good or not. Hope to take necessary data and put in draft trans plan. Will put on internet as with all technical memos. Put working draft on everything and statement that open to change. Doug Mc – met with ALTA planners and talked side paths. Separated bike paths and side paths two different things. Side path is two-way. Bike paths one on each isde with directional travel. Support the memo. Jeff Key briefly turned his attention to context sensitive solutions, noting this is a topic to be discussed at length at the August meeting. He also noted that through the public outreach, he has heard the community should contemplate a complete street design. He stated it seems the community is currently striving for complete streets, including bicycle and pedestrian facilities as well as transit. He stated a policy simply formalizes those elements as well as being sensitive to environmental issues. He indicated that many western communities have adopted a complete street policy and, while he recognizes that is an issue to be addressed by the governing body, he feels it is important to first bring it before this body. He concluded by encouraging the TCC members to review the power point presentation on context sensitive solutions and a complete street policy prior to next month’s meeting. Jeff Key stated other topics scheduled for discussion at next month’s meeting include levels of service at intersections and along roadways. He noted this discussion is to include what is acceptable, and he will have graphics to show visually what the different levels of service mean. Jeff Key – off street trail system to Four Corners, etc., lend themselves to the need for separation. And suspect will get bombarded with requests. Need something to support decision making process. Will be in draft plan. Jeff Krauss – highland wont look like Highland much longer. With regard to something like road to Four Corners where controlling access, we are discussing on major arterials a change or is that not recommended? Jeff Key – says that places where desired. Where controlled access, logical to hae shared use path offset from road. So expect not the issues in major corridors. See issues in urban setting. Jeff Krauss – need difference between Four Corners to Bozeman plan and what talkinga b out on place like Highland. Jeff Key – will put in plan. Rob B – biggest issue with side paths is degree of separation from road. What’s important. What we are proposing as part of access control is access roads to serve the development. Backage road system instead of frontage road. Development between highway and road. Logical place for path. Same place and waway from the high traffic. Maybe room for backage type road to have bike path with it. Andy – Critical part of the plan. Lease coherent guidance form last plan. Jeff Key – wanted brief update. Augusgt – land use exercise for forecasting future. Go out and visit with various bodies. City requested special meetng with engineers and architects. Received list and trying to schedule for late August. Tonight Four Corners group. Stopped data collection. Last thing. Little blurb as time allows. Jeff Key – context sensitive solutions. Postpone discussion to next month. But heads up on it. Heard through public outreach that community should contemplate complete street design. How affects me is emerging field in trans planning. Not had to write up anything until Great Falls plan. At that time south arterial study going on. And debate on what arterial should look like. As result, had verbage on context sensitive design and what means. Believe intent to develop guidance and have in plan and incorporate into typical sections and recommendations coming up with. Developed short power point to share next month with technical memo. Have info but need to include how can be used in beneficial manner. Same for complete street policy. Think community strives for complete streets right now. Try to include bike/ped and strating to include transit and be sensitive to environmental. Policy formalizes that desire. Prepared memo and done research in communities with comp;lete street policy, like Bend, Oregon. Chicago has policy. Lot of western communities. Adopted policy by governing body that says every street will have this. And some give and take on projects now. Technical memo 15 pages long. Lot of western communities, in Colorado like Bozeman. My obligation to bring to you. Inevitably up to elected officials. Andy – on right track. Concept of complete streets will be good. No way Bend, Oregon, gets out in front of us on this. This is very informative handout. Engineering and Planning spent time in video conference that was informative and was very good for us. This takes to another level. Greate to focus on in August meeting. Jeff Key – read powerpoint. Heads up. Two memos in next packet. At next meeting, level of service at intersections and roadway.s elevate discussin on acceptable level at ineresections and roadways. Done research on what happens when allow Level D. graphics that show not just for roadway but for intersction. What levels of service mean that is visual. What hope to accomplish next month. Andy – complete street sconcept would also be good at Planning Board level. Jeff Krauss – reflected in North 7th Corridor. Jeff Key – complete street policy has allowances for certain situations. Loke principal arterial like Huffine. Special situations where may not be able to adhere 100 percent. Jeff Key – public meeting, a little civil discourse on transporation. Very pleased with the meeting. Andy – looking ahead, having special meetings. Next one very meaty. Hopefully most of us can attend August 22. Walt Williams also present. By-Laws Discussion JP Pomnichowski requested that this discussion be continued to the next meeting. Following a brief discussion, Ross Gammon asked that this item be placed on the agenda for the next meeting. C. B. Other New Business Jeff Ebert announced that Director Jim Lynch had a meeting last week at Big Sky and has scheduled a meeting for Thursday night at Gallatin Gateway to discuss US Highway 191. He noted the Montana Department of Transportation is looking at those portions of the statewide network and corridors with safety issues and traffic problems. Sixteen corridors have been identified, with US Highway 191 from Four Corners to Big Sky being one of them. The purpose of this meeting is to present data and information, including crashes, ADTs, types of vehicles, animals, etc.; to show projects that are being implemented in the corridor and how they may improve safety; and to ask the public what’s missing. He acknowledged that this Committee isn’t in the midst of that effort, but it does involve transportation in the valley. – director Lynch had meeting last week at Big Sky and than another meeting Thurday night at Gateway to talk about US 191 and impetus is from Dept looking at satewide network and corridors with safety issues and traffic problems. Identified sixteen corridors staewaide. Four Corners to Big Sky is one. Director . purpseo, 1. present data and info on crashes, ADTs, types of vehicles, animals,m etc. 2. show folks projects that are implementing in corridor and how may improve safety. And 3. ask public what we are missing. Have had meetings with various groups. Include interested parties in the discussion and information gathering. From standpoint of plugging in, this is discussion from Gatweay to mouth of canyon. Not necessarily in midst of this but involves transporation in the valley. 1. South 19th Avenue and South 19th Avenue/West College Street intersection projects Jeff Ebert noted that during the transportation construction program update last week, the Montana Department of Transportation discussed urban priorities and projects, specifically the South 19th Avenue reconstruction and the South 19th Avenue/West College Street intersection improvements. He stated that during the last legislative session, $5 million was earmarked for these projects, less takedowns; and it is his understanding that Bozeman wishes to utilize urban funds to make up any shortfall in the costs of these projects. He stated that a review of the files did not reflect any documentation that that was the TCC’s desire. Debbie Arkell noted it is her recollection that the TCC passed lists of project priorities for urban funds and for CMAQ funds, but she recognizes the importance of making the City’s priority projects very clear. She then stated she is confident that the costs will exceed the monies available. It was moved by Jeff Ebert, seconded by Debbie Arkell, that the TCC reconfirm its urban priorities for the South 19th Avenue reconstruction and South 19th Avenue/West College Street intersection improvements. The motion carried. 2. North 7th Avenue connectivity plan Debbie Arkell reported that on Monday night, the Bozeman City Commission finally adopted the connectivity plan for North 7th Avenue, which is part of the tax increment financing district recently created. She recognized that this plan has not been submitted to the TCC for review, even though it does include transportation improvements along the North 7th Avenue corridor from West Main Street northward beyond the viaduct. She indicated one of the key components of the plan is three different street designs, one from West Main Street to West Beall Street, one from West Beall Street to West Oak Street, and one from West Oak Street to the north end of the project. The adopted design includes 10-foot-wide driving lanes, which does not comply with the existing transportation plan, the growth policy or the unified development ordinance standards. She then requested that this issue be discussed at the next TCC meeting. Chris Saunders noted that, not only does the plan section not follow current specifications; the street itself does not follow current specifications because the right-of-way is narrow and is subject to physical constraints. He characterized this as part of the balance between current standards and existing conditions. Debbie Arkell noted the City’s engineering staff has come concern with the 10-foot-wide driving lanes since North 7th Avenue is heavily commercialized and several of the businesses are served by semi trucks. Responding to Kerry White, Jon Henderson noted that there is a bike lane along the entire length of the project, although some parking may be restricted and the planned median may need to be removed. Responding to Rich McLane, Chris Saunders stated the travel lane is normally 11 or 12 feet wide on primary arterials. He then indicated the key issue is sharing of lanes, which is possible on lower volume streets. Chris Kukulski noted the narrower lanes are accompanied by a bike lane, which provides additional space for turning radii. He then acknowledged that in the connectivity plan, the roadway is rated as a 20-mile-per-hour road, which is based on the length of time it actually takes to get from West Main Street to the interstate. David Smith voiced his discomfort with the 10-foot-wide lanes in this major commercial corridor. He then questioned how a plan that does not meet City standards can be approved. He also expressed his disapproval of bringing the buildings to the sidewalk. Responding to questions from David Smith, Chris Kukulski acknowledged that the proposed plan does not have the unanimous support of the business community; however, the business core was heavily involved in development of the plan. He asked that the TCC look at this plan holistically rather than at individual controversial components and further asked that a battle not be created between the transportation side and the economic side of the corridor. JP Pomnichowski stated the plan does a good job of promoting good traffic flow. Lee Provance stated that a 12-foot-wide driving lane has been the national standard for a long time and is viewed as safe. He noted that people are not used to driving in narrow lanes, and he is concerned that the result will be safety problems. Further, he stressed that many plans do not work in snow country and voiced his concern that the problems will be compounded with the plowing of snow. He concluded by stating he does not find that this is a good plan for public safety. Kerry White voiced his agreement with Mr. Provance’s comments, characterizing the plan as a safety issue. Sara Folger stated she lives in the neighborhood, which has a large number of low-income people and people with disabilities, so much of the travel is by foot or wheelchair. From a pedestrian or bicyclist point of view, North 7th Avenue is a dangerous street. She stated forcing neighborhood people to accept a plan that favors 18 wheelers will not sit well and asked that the area residents be given consideration as this plan is reviewed. Chris Saunders noted that North 7th Avenue is primarily designed as a highway, and the question is whether the business people want slower lanes with more visibility, like Main Street, or the ability for motorists to fly through the corridor. He stated the narrower lane will cause traffic calming, but acknowledged that maintenance will be an issue. Chris Kukulski asked that the TCC be careful about its assumptions and that it not become overly emotional in its decisions. He stressed that both five-lane main streets and pedestrian malls utterly fail, and noted that a careful balance is critical to the success of the corridor. Jeff Ebert stated that from the State’s standpoint, the only project for North 7th Avenue is the seismic inadequacy of the North 7th Avenue interchange. That project is in the preliminary design phases and will include adequate pedestrian and bicycle facilities. He indicated the MDT will review this plan and try to incorporate those concepts into the design of its project. He concluded by noting that urban funds are the only monies available for the North 7th Avenue corridor, and the blessing of federal highways will be required for the expenditure of those monies. He then thanked Debbie Arkell for bringing this issue forward and voiced his interest in discussing it further. Ross Gammon asked that further discussion of the North 7th Avenue corridor plan be placed on the agenda for the next TCC meeting. ITEM 7. PROJECT UPDATES - Discussion only as needed MSU Projects Update Bob Lashaway stated that MSU is beginning to work on designing the reconstruction of South 8th Avenue from West Cleveland Street to West Harrison Street and West Cleveland Street from South 6th Avenue to South 8th Avenue and hopes to start construction next year. It is their hope to design the road in a manner that is compatible with the City’s intent for that roadway in the future. Responding to Jeff Krauss, Bob Lashaway stated he sees South 8th Avenue as a secondary community interface while South 11th Avenue serves as the primary community interface and South 19th Avenue serves as the regional interface to the campus. Further responding to Jeff Krauss, Bob Lashaway acknowledged that as building continues to occur on campus, some parking lots will be lost and a parking structure may be necessary. He noted the campus master plan process is underway, and parking structures at strategic points on the campus will be included. Chair Epple requested that, if the final draft of the plan is available, it be presented to this Committee at the October meeting. JP Pomnichowski suggested that additional Streamline stops be provided on campus since it is so large. Bob Lashaway responded that the south side of the Strand Union Building now serves as the hub for the Streamline bus system; and few other locations on campus would be suitable for such a hub. He indicated that, in the future, they may develop a short shuttle route that would include several stops around campus. Bob L – MSU starting to look at a project to design reconstdruction of 8th Cleveland to Harrison and Cleveland 6th to 8th through campus. Right now 8th doestn’t have median strip and looking at how want to design. Two legged intersection to do special treatement there. Traffic calming and street feature. Ideally would be nice to reconstruct 8th from Cleveland to College but don’t think the City has design in mind and don’t have funding. Will do best can to coordinate the improvements. 8th designed in Model T days and widths. Shared use lane and parking lane and see what have for median. Our desire would be design to start construction next year. Jeff Krauss – thirty some years ago, how got to campus. Now it’s not front door. How do you see 8th functioning for campus? B ob L. secondary community interface. If NE area is where going, what use would be. 11th and College will bea rrival point for portion and 19th and College for regional. Jeff K – once were proposing parking garage. Bob L – continuing to look at it. As build up the campus in that area, some parking lots will be gone so build parking structure and remove parking lots. Jeff Krauss – wanted to know how would impact. Bob L – campus master paln underweay and will be done this fall. Looking at parking structures for strategic points on campus. Andy --= in October present close to final draft of the plan if you can. JP – some reference in one of these reports about a diffeent Steamline stop instead of SUB at the mall on Garfield. Do bus people know? Campus is big. Are there other Streamline bus stops on campus? Maybe one closer 11th and College and one closer to mall? Bob L – places to develop more. Now south side of SUB is hub. The location mentioned here is not a good viable site. See as many as thre at once. Wil continue to work with those folsk. And they are more than willing to provide additional stops as MSY ends up needed. Currently routs into comapus want to keep stops along the routes. May evelove to shorter shuttle route that woud serve rea in campus and around campus with multiple stops. JP – the one on Mall would be near Roberts Hall. Bob L – issue is where traffic would go and it’s constricted an challenging for maneuvering. Chris Saunders stated that he attended one of the planning sessions for the campus-wide master plan He encouraged TCC members to look at the website for this project and to provide input. Belgrade Projects Update – Jeff Ebert reported the County Commission asked the Montana Department of Transportation to look at a slip ramp eastbound onto I-90 off Amsterdam Road. He cautioned that might not be feasible because of drainage facilities in the middle of where it was proposed, so the MDT is looking at the possibility of moving the ramp toward the existing on ramp and connecting to it. He noted the impetus of the request was to eliminate some of the left turn traffic from Amsterdam Road that turns right onto the Interstate. He indicated that one possible alternative would be to install an additional lane at the intersection to allow a left turn lane, a left turn/straight lane, and a right turn lane; however, additional right-of-way would be required and no funding is available at this time. – we were presented a proposal by Counjty to llook at slip ramp off Amsterdam Road to I-90 estabound. Might not be feasible. Drainage in middle f where proposed and once get to connection of I-90 have ramp from downtown Belgrade and tying into that. What looking at now is moving that ramp further toward intersection where ramp comes and ttaches to Amsterdam Road. And have that leg come off there and cnnect into Belgrade. Impetus is eliminate left turn from Amsgterdam to Jackrabbit to get onto interstate. Looking at it still. Do owe response to County on that. Also seal and covedr projecgt at Jackrabbit in Belgrade interchange area in future and might look at some intersection revamping on Amsterdam that if this one doesn’t work can eliminate the bottleneck of left turn traffic with an additional turn lane. Recommendationw as to install additional lane to make left turn, left turn/straight, and right turn. Don’t have funding at this time. May be able to temporarily fix that. Responding to Chair Epple, Jeff Ebert stated that the Belgrade TCC has been formed, but no formal meetings are being held at this time. Andy – is Belgrade TCC up and running? Jeff E – not like here or Livingston. Have done plan but not formal meetings. Jeff Ebert stated the Main Street/Jackrabbit Lane project is completed. Jeff Ebert turned his attention to the Valley Center project, noting that acquisition of right-of-way is underway for both projects. An update of construction plans for the next five years was given at last week’s Transportation Commission meeting, and improvements from the interstate to Love Lane are included. The issues are the 30 to 40-percent increase in costs and the legislative directive to maximize recouping of overhead costs, which is 11 percent. In light of those changes, the project has been moved from 2007 to 2009, based on the monies available for secondary roads. He indicated that acquiring right-of-way and relocating facilities will continue as originally planned in anticipation that grab bag monies may become available. Lee Provance noted that the entire project was initially estimated at $3 million; the estimate for the first half is now estimated at $5.4 million. Jeff Ebert stated that Bozeman is in the lowest allocation of the five districts in the state, and indicated that this project will be readied for any potential additional funding. CTEP Projects Chair Andy Epple reported that the Library/Peets’ Hill trail connection and landscape project is underway, including bridge crossings across the Story Mill Ditch. He noted that project is moving forward and should be completed by early fall. Chair Epple indicated the other current project is reroofing of the East Willson School. At this time, the contractor has been selected, and he has been given the notice to proceeed. Andy – Main issues are library and Peets Hill trail and landscape connection project that is underway. Includes bridge crossings across Mill Ditch. Progressing well and shoud be completed early fall. Disruptive during Sweet Pea Festival. Other project is East Willson School reroof system. Contractor has been selected and been given notice to proceed. is about to wrap up the Soroptimist Park project; bids for the Library site rail/trail project are to be opened on Monday; work will be undertaken this winter to get a consultant for the West College Street/Huffine Lane pathway project; and steps are being taken to move the East Willson School reproofing project forward. South 19th Avenue – Main Street to Kagy Boulevard Rob Bukvich stated that appraisal of the property needed for right-of-way is now being undertaken, and MDT is working with utility companies on the relocation of utilities for this project. He indicated that the bid is to be let next summer, although possibly not as early as originally anticipated. Debbie Arkell asked that the work not be undertaken while the Wally Byam convention is being held next summer. Bob Lashaway noted that in the past, 7,000 to 8,000 Airstream trailers have converged on Bozeman for this annual event; next year they are anticipating approximately 1,200 trailers will be parked on the campus. – started appraising property as first step in buying property for ROW. And working with utilities to relocate utilities. Shooting for next summer although may not let as early as thought. Debbie – to be let while Wally Byams here. Bob L – Wally Byams from past. 7,000 to 8,000 trailres. Expecting ab out 1200 this time. It’s a lot but not like in old days. Ebbs and flows, and now down. Rob B – have been talking to us about signage and routes to the site. suggested the possibility of breaking the South 19th Avenue/West College Street intersection improvements from the roadway improvements because of the right-of-way negotiations with one of the landowners near the project. He noted that the landowner is causing the MDT to look at redesigning the intersection improvements and moving West College Street to the south. Letting of the bid for the project was originally anticipated in June 2007; however, it appears that project will not be ready until August or September. The plan now is to continue acquiring right-of-way and finishing the design work with the contract to be let in January or February 2008 and construction to begin in the spring and be completed in one construction season. Kerry White asked about a bypass for traffic for this project. Jeff Ebert stated the intent is to accommodate one or two-way use during construction but recognized there may be times when the road must be closed and alternative routes provided. cautioned that inability to successfully resolve the issues with the Dr. Rogers property could potentially be a show stopper. He noted Dr. Rogers feels the street should be realigned and that the right-of-way should be acquired from MSU. He cautioned that shifting the alignment of West College Street affects the City’s options for that street in the future. He also noted that shifting the alignment to the south will affect MSU property both east and west of South 19th Avenue. Responding to Chair Epple, Mr. Ebert stated that, whether the roadway is shifted or not, it will be necessary to acquire some right-of-way from Dr. Rogers. Responding to Debbie Arkell, Rob Bukvich stated the West College Street legs of the intersection are to include four lanes: a right turn lane, a straight through lane, a left turn lane, and a straight through lane in the opposite direction. He cautioned that these improvements are essential before South 19th Avenue can be improved between West Main Street and Kagy Boulevard. Further responding to Debbie Arkell, Jeff Ebert noted that both the West College Street and South 19th Avenue improvement projects must be designed at the same time and then constructed at essentially the same time. He indicated that the $5 million earmarked for this project is available until it is expended. He cautioned that, while Congress has earmarked those monies, it is important to remember the federal highway administration has “takedowns” that amount to approximately 12 percent, which are deducted from the amount appropriated for a specific project. Further, legislation adopted during the last legislative session provides that the State utilize the maximum amount of overhead for the processing and use of FAU monies. He cautioned that these deducts from the appropriation will result in the necessity to use more urban funds for projects. Mr. Ebert noted that the department is working hard on the improvements to the intersection of West College Street and South 19th Avenue since it has been identified as one suffering from congestion and air quality issues. The design and construction costs for this intersection have been estimated at $3 million, and he will request that additional CMAQ funds be earmarked for this project. He then estimated that the two projects will total $6 million. Sara Folger stated discussions with the head of the CTEP Bureau have revealed that after 2008, approximately 15 percent of the allocation will be taken for administration. 5. North 19th Avenue/Valley Center Project Debbie Arkell reported that this project is substantially complete and can now be removed from the list. She indicated that once all of the construction is complete, the speed limit will be set at 40 miles per hour, based on the results of a recent speed study. David Smith announced that the ribbon cutting for this project is set for August 17 at the rest area. Chair Andrew Epple noted this project has opened the doors for businesses to construct and has allowed traffic to move better. 6. Signal Projects Rob Bukvich stated that traffic signals are anticipated at the intersections of East Oak Street/North Rouse Avenue and Griffin Drive/North Rouse Avenue. He noted that the signal at the Griffin/Rouse intersection is anticipated to be installed shortly after the chip seal and striping at that intersection, which will be done by August 20. Chair Epple noted that the signal at the Oak/Rouse intersection has implications for the development project there, with occupancy for portions of the project being tied to the installation of that signal. Rob B -- couple signals. Anticipate at Oak and Rouse this fall. And Rouse and Griffin maybe before that. OakRouse has tulity conflicts not yet addressed. Rouse Griffin before because minor road waork. Contractor wants to come in do work and chip seal and stripe and then stand up poles. Chip seal by August 20. Andy – Oak/Rouse signal has implications for development project there. Debbie – a meeting this afternoon and expect another one. Andy – key is if signal at Griffin will affect immediate need for signal at Oak. If doesn’t, then project goes on hold. Debbie – partos of occupancy are contingent on light. a. Willson Avenue/ College Streetnoted that Andy Epple has written a letter to the City Commission stating that a roundabout was determined to be not feasible because it would have adverse effects on three of the four quadrants of the intersection and the fact that those property owners were not receptive to allowing the purchase of additional right-of-way to accommodate the improvements. Based on previous Commission action in December 2005, the next step was to be installation of a traffic signal. At this time, the MDT is awaiting an answer from the Commission to Mr. Epple’s August 28 letter; however, their plan is to install the signal unless told to do otherwise. Debbie Arkell reported that she and Rick Hixson have finished reviewing the report and should be prepared to discuss it with the Commission within the next couple weeks. b. Other Main Street. Jeff Ebert reported on the Main Street signal upgrade project. He noted it is scheduled for the 2007 construction season, and is tied to milling and overlaying of Main Street from Grand Avenue to Haggerty Lane. He indicated that a review of the signals also considers the North 7th Avenue and 19th Avenue corridors. noted that part of the Main Street project is improvements to the crosswalks in the downtown area. She stated a variety of different methods for bringing attention to the crosswalks have been considered, including inlaying of designs and colored concrete. She noted the preferred alternative seems to be colored concrete; however, she cautioned that will increase the construction time and will require a lot of cooperation and discussion with downtown businesses since all four quadrants of the intersection are to be done. Lee Provance cautioned that concrete requires a 14 to 21-day cure time before trucks can travel on it. Jeff Ebert stated that the milling and overlay can be done fairly quickly; the concrete crosswalks, ADA ramps, and signal replacements are the components that will take the time. Rich McLane asked if the traffic signal at East Main Street and Church Avenue is to be part of the project; Joe Olsen responded that it is. Rich McLane noted that bicycles on the sidewalk are a current problem and asked if anything can be done about that issue; Debbie Arkell indicated she will see if signage can be done. noted that Lowes is being required to install a left turn arrow on the traffic signal at the intersection of North 19th Avenue and Baxter Lane. She asked if the Montana Department of Transportation would be willing to determine whether that left turn arrow can wait or if it needs to be installed before that business opens; Jeff Ebert indicated a willingness to do so. (OVER) 76. North Rouse Avenue Rob Bukvich stated the Department is working on the environmental assessment document; and that work is moving slow. Jeff Ebert indicated the Department is almost ready to send out the draft environmental assessment to other participating agencies and, once the document is complete, it will be submitted to the public. He indicated that probably the most controversial component of the project will be the loss of on-street parking. Andy – sounds like intersections are where action is. Rob B – some of the work liable to see by Story Mill are development driven. We are working on environemtnal document and moving slow. Jeff E – almost ready to send environment assessment out as a draft to participating angencies and then to the publc. Andy – does EA identify right of way and impacts? Jeff E – yes and prob ably most controversial willb e loss of parking to get desired improvements in. Andy – streets are meant to move traffic, not for parking lots. Tracy Oulman stated that HKM Engineering held a meeting with the NorthEast Neighborhood Association last night. She noted that they are working hard to continue communications with the neighborhood while moving forward with the project; and construction is scheduled to begin in 2010. She indicated that a survey conducted by NENA in conjunction with MSU revealed a statistically positive response on the North Rouse Avenue improvements. Jeff Ebert cautioned that the project is probably further out than currently estimated. He then stated work on the environmental assessment is currently underway, and that will drive the design. He indicated that accommodating bike lanes, pedestrian facilities, parking, snow removal and Bozeman Creek within the corridor will be extremely difficult. Tracy Oulman noted it is anticipated that three or four parcels will be subject to takings for this project; and efforts are being made to find out what the EPA will require for Bozeman Creek. Jeff Ebert noted that the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks is not excited about the concept of piping the creek but acknowledged that is an issue to be addressed. Rob Bukvich reported that meetings have been held with the school district, and some of the concerns regarding bicycle and pedestrian facilities are being addressed. He noted that the department is currently working through the environmental assessment process, and he anticipates another public meeting will be scheduled during the winter. Jeff Ebert noted that staff and the consultant also met with residents along North Rouse Avenue to discuss the processes and the amount of right-of-way to be acquired for the project. He noted several of the homes are located on fairly small lots, and acquisition of the right-of-way will probably result in a total taking of those sites. He indicated that almost all of the residents have voiced appreciation for their efforts to involve them in the process early. He noted that, while the five-lane option might be considered for the north end of the project, it has been dismissed as an option for the southern end. 78. Durston Road Street Improvements Chair Andy Epple noted City Engineer Rick Hixson reported earlier in this meeting that all Durston Road street improvements will be completed and the road open on August 3 – August 3 opening? Rick – yes.. Debbie Arkell reported that Durston Road between North 11th Avenue and North 19th Avenue is substantially complete; that portion between North 7th Avenue and North 11th Avenue and the sidewalks will be done next year. Debbie Arkell noted that the North 19th Avenue/Durston Road intersection improvements are being done in conjunction with the Durston Road west project. The pads have been poured for the signal poles, but the mast arms are not yet on. That portion of Durston Road between North 27th Avenue and Fowler Avenue is now open, and it is anticipated the remainder of the road to North 19th Avenue will be open in mid-November. 98. I-90 Improvements Jeff Ebert noted the structures over the Montana Rail Link lines are substantially complete. He then indicated the next projects will include the bridge over North Rouse Avenue and the overpass at North 7th Avenue. – project substantially complete. Structures over MRL and seal and cover contemplated earlier. Can be taken off list now. Subsgtantially complete. Ross – have repaved the bridge approaches Jeff E – have bridge over Rouse and have 7th so keep on. 7th beyone 2011 now. Jeff Ebert stated replacement of the structures over Montana Rail Link lines continues. The contractor has poured the bridge decks, and they are currently curing. The approaches are now being paved and the rumble strips are in. Yet to be completed are the pavement markings and the guard rail. It is anticipated that the bridges will be open by mid-November and the crossovers will be eliminated for the winter. While a portion of the chip seal has been completed, the approaches will be done next summer. Responding to Kerry White, Mr. Ebert stated the overpass on North 7th Avenue is scheduled beyond 2011 due to funding constraints. He indicated that replacement of the North Rouse Avenue overpass is scheduled for 2009 or 2010. Further responding to Kerry White, Mr. Ebert stated that one-third of the interstate is located within the Butte district. He then indicated that there is no separate funding for seismic projects; rather, those projects must compete with other maintenance projects. He indicated that the North Rouse Avenue overpass can be completed earlier because there is separate funding available for steel structures. 910. Huffine Lane Access Control StudyJeff Ebert stated a consultant has been hired, and work is being done on the final access plan. A public meeting is to be scheduled over the winter, with the final plan to be submitted in June 2007. 9110. Jackrabbit Lane, Access Management Plan Jeff Ebert indicated there is nothing new to report at this time, particularly since the project is scheduled beyond 2011. He noted that fairly significant improvements are anticipated at the Four Corners intersection, and some of those improvements will be coordinated with the Town Pump’s new convenience store project at the northwest quadrant of that intersection. – nothing new to report. Out beyond 2011. intent is to build first three miles Four Corners north. Fairly significant improvements at intersection of Four Corners. Also will coordinate with Town Pump on NW quadrant and looking at convenience store. Not much new. 10. Huffine Lane, Access Management PlanJeff Ebert indicated this project has been divided into two parts, reconstruction from Four Corners north to Hulbert Road and reconstruction from Hulbert Road to Frank Road Work is currently being done on the design, with construction for both parts now scheduled for beyond 2011. Chris Saunders noted there is a lot of development occurring along that corridor, and suggested that developers might help to fund these road improvements so they can be completed earlier. He stated the alternative might be that the County Commissioners won’t approve any further development because the road has not been improved. Jeff Ebert acknowledged that the need for road improvements is being driven by development and noted that two new subdivisions are being required to provide some of those improvements. He then stated that Butte gets the least amount of funding statewide, and Jackrabbit Lane is designated as a national highway. Responding to Lee Provance, Jeff Ebert identified the boundaries of the Butte district, which includes Garrison, Dillon, Springdale, Gardner, West Yellowstone, White Sulphur Springs, and nearly to Helena. He indicated that the Transportation Commission allocates the monies based on what is needed to preserve existing infrastructure after which congestion needs are addressed. Rob Bukvich stated that the comments received at the last meeting were incorporated into the draft, and the plan will now go to the Montana Transportation Commission for consideration – took comments from last meeting and incorporated into draft. Will go to the Highway Commission.. 1211. Other Jeff K – does August 3 date for Durston include chip seal at 19th? Or is that later? Debbie – will be by August 20, after this. Wn’t be full closure, just flaggers and delays. Will come into 19th. Ross G – Arrow shoud complete striping today. Responding to Rich McLane, Rob Bukvich indicated that a new design is being developed for the intersection of South Willson Avenue and West College Street, since it has been determined that additional right-of-way will be needed for either signalization or a roundabout; and that information will be presented to the City when it is available. Rich McLane – College Willson signal? Rob B – at one time, during preliminary investigation, convinced could put up signal without RPOW but needed for roundabout. But found need for both. So now new design and will do for City to show what footprint needed. Jeff E – at first were doing with aerial photo and found that when needed ROW for either, did fullblown survey so will add and will have something shortly to present to City. JP – why calling parking garage an intermodal facility? Debie – got funded through intermodal facility federal program and will be main bus port in downtown area. That’s the proper name. JP – view intermodal facility as one that will accommodate all aspects. Jeff – will be nexus for pedestrians, bicycles, cars and parking and buses. Andy – draw attention to schedule for remainder of year. August 22, Sept 26. and then standard Oct 24. and special meeting in November. Mark calendars. Highway 191/Big Sky. Responding to Kerry White, Jeff Ebert stated several projects are currently underway. He noted that centerline rumble strips are being installed in the no passing zones from the mouth of the canyon to Big Sky, and the fog seal and final pavement markings are yet to be done. The signal at Big Sky is scheduled for completion by November 22, and is the subject of a $200,000 contract. The safety project from the mouth of the canyon to south of Big Sky includes identifying locations for turn lanes, slope flattening, and installation of guard rails. Turn lanes are to be provided at Big Sky and the Forest Service campgrounds located at Greek Creek, Moose Creek, Red Cliff, and Swan Creek. He indicated that passing lanes had been proposed originally, but were not well received by the public. Ross Gammon stated he met with representatives from the Forest Service and, in addition to the turn lanes for the campgrounds, they are considering safe pull-offs for fishing, including building a trail under the 35-mile-per-hour bridge so people can cross the highway without incurring the current visibility problems. Jeff Ebert stated that pavement preservation from Yellowstone Park to Big Sky, including overlay and seal coat, is scheduled for next construction season. He indicated that the MDT is also looking at engineering studies regarding the speed limit in that corridor, along with variable message signs at Big Sky and north of West Yellowstone for the migration of wildlife on the road. Ross Gammon stated two speed trailers and sign boards were installed along the road; however, someone unbolted the electronics and took the radar. Turn arrow on North 19th Avenue/Baxter Lane signal. Responding to questions from and concerns voiced by David Smith, Debbie Arkell stated that improvements are being made to Baxter Lane in conjunction with the Lowes project, and the road is to be open soon. Chris Kukulski stated that he talked to the crew this morning. He noted they were doing work on the manhole covers and would be working on paving except for the snow. He indicated that the underground work is complete and, as soon as the weather permits, they will pave. Ross Gammon addressed the hazards of working along roadways, noting that there are 4,000 workers killed every year in work zones. David Smith stated that utilities seem to be a problem, noting there should be better coordination and more effort made on correct utility locates. Debbie Arkell responded that one call locates are required for construction projects, however, no one knows here the fiber optics are located. She also noted it is difficult to get the utility companies out to assist in locating their services, and the City has no control over them. Chris Kukulski stated Montana is unique in how it handles utilities in the public right-of-way, which makes construction projects even more difficult. Ross Gammon stated the MDT requires plans for utilities; however, it is not uncommon for companies to move the line a few feet but not indicate the change on the plans. Main Street resurfacing. Bob Lashaway asked if the US191/Main Street resurfacing is still on schedule; the response was that the downtown street is to be resurfaced next summer with the remainder scheduled for 2010 or beyond. David Smith voiced concern about the negative impacts that the chip seal and overlay project had on businesses along North 7th Avenue earlier this summer. He suggested that the contractor be encouraged to do evening work and to keep impacts on businesses to a minimum when the downtown project is undertaken. Rob Bukvich responded that when Main Street was last improved, the work was done at night. He then indicated that input will be sought from the downtown business owners before the project is undertaken. Jeff Rupp noted the various downtown boards are well aware of the impending street project. Jeff Ebert suggested that a contractor website and weekly meetings could help to keep everyone informed on the progress of the project. He then cautioned that it is not possible to avoid the June to August time period for undertaking the work due to the area’s weather conditions. Rob Bukvich noted this is anticipated to be a week-long project, and one lane will remain open each way during the work. He then indicated that countdown timers are to be installed in the downtown core, and detector loops are to be added on the side streets with emphasis to be placed on the Main Street traffic. Responding to Jon Henderson, Rob Bukvich stated that today’s actuators are not sensitive enough to respond to a bicyclist; rather, a cyclist must use the pedestrian button. He indicated another option that could be pursued is a video actuator. Responding to Debbie Arkell, Joe Olsen stated the crosswalk treatment has not yet been determined, and assured her that the City will be involved in that process. Debbie Arkell then expressed an interest in possibly using the same crosswalk treatment on the side streets as on Main Street. Responding to Ralph Zimmer, Rob Bukvich stated the traffic signals are to be interconnected in an effort to maintain progression; however, they will be also semi-actuated through the core. Sara Folger stated the Downtown Bozeman Partnership has let the request for proposals to expand the downtown core to include the side streets between Mendenhall Street and Babcock Street. With that expansion, she suggested that CTEP monies could possibly be used to fund a portion of the costs of decorative crossings on the side streets. Detours. George Durkin asked that detours for city projects that impact county roads be better noticed. He also proposed that the contractors be required to provide dust abatement on unpaved county roads when they are used for detours, noting it is difficult enough to maintain them without the additional traffic. Valley Center Road. At Debbie Arkell’s request, Jeff Ebert provided an update on the Valley Center Road project, noting it is scheduled for 2008. He indicated the department is currently in the process of acquiring right-of-way. Responding to Doug McSpadden, Rob Bukvich stated the speed study on Valley Center Road was done by the City, but that study did not apply to the entire length of the roadway. He then indicated that the reconstruction project is divided into two pieces, with the east section to be done first and the west section to be done at a later date. ITEM 8. DISCUSSION ITEMS 19th Avenue Overpass. Kerry White proposed an overpass on 19th Avenue at West Main Street. He noted that from 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on any given day, traffic is backed up because both streets are very busy and there is no way to handle the current volume of traffic with a traffic signal. Chris Saunders stated some of the current Main Street congestion problems result from the closure of Durston Road. He also suggested that if Stucky Road were extended to Kagy Boulevard, many of those accessing the southwest quadrant would take that route. He stated there is a plan in place to provide the needed transportation links, but they are costly. Debbie Arkell stated that, as development is occurring, the grid system is coming into place. She cited the improvements to Flanders Mill Road and Harper Puckett Road as examples and noted that two new signals are anticipated along South 19th Avenue south of Kagy Boulevard. Gas tax/miscellaneous updates. Chris Kukulski stated that the issue of a two-cent gas tax was discussed at the last City/County meeting; the County Commission is interested, and the City Commission is definitely interested. He then indicated that, during his Wednesday morning radio talk, one of the issues raised was left turn arrows, and he attempted to explain the challenges of planning when no left turn arrow was considered in the initially installation. City Manager Kukulski noted that opening of the Fowler Lane/West Garfield Street connection will be a huge reliever for the West College Street/South 19th Avenue corridor. Setting of speed limits. Chris Kukulski suggested that steps need to be taken in becoming more proactive in setting speed limits, particularly since rural roads are significantly different from urban streets. He suggested that the designing of streets and roads should include discussion of the speeds rather than setting the speeds at the 85th percentile from speed studies done after the improvements have been made. He noted that the Durston Road improvements will solve a lot of problems; however, he anticipates the neighborhoods will be unhappy when the speed limits are set at 35 or 40 miles per hour. Lee Provance stated the same issues revolve around setting speed limits in the County. He characterized it as a hugely political issue, noting that setting the speed limit at the 85th percentile will reduce accidents and improve safety; however, that often does not match with political pressures. ITEM 9. 2006 & 2007 MEETING DATES AND AADJOURNMENT – 11:0847 a.m. There being no further business to come before the Committee at this time, it was moved by Jeff Krauss, seconded by Debbie Arkell, that the meeting be adjourned. The motion carried. * Special Meeting: Wednesday, August 22, 2007 – 10 a.m.-12 p.m. * Special Meeting: Wednesday, September 26, 2007 – 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Standard Meeting: Wednesday, October 24, 2007 – Regular meeting at 9:30 a.m. * Special Meeting: Wednesday, November 28, 2007 – 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. * Special Meeting: December date to be determined due to holiday schedules. _____________________________________________ Andrew C. Epple, Chairperson Bozeman Area Transportation Coordinating CommitteeMoved by Jeff Krauss, econded by Debbie Arkell. Wednesday, October 25, 2006 - Regular meeting 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 24, 2007 – Regular meeting 9:30 a.m. There being no further business to come before the Committee at this time, iJeff EbertKerry White *Transportation Coordinating Committee meetings are open to all members of the public. If you have a special need or disability, please contact our ADA Coordinator, Ron Brey, at 582-2306 (voice) or 582-2301 (TDD).