GENESEE TRANSPORTATION COUNCIL
PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING
Rochester Water Bureau
10 Felix Street, Rochester
May 23, 2013
PLANNING COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT
Angela Ellis, Livingston County (Vice Chairperson)
Timothy Frelier, Monroe County (partial)
Erik Frisch, City of Rochester At Large
Todd Gadd, Wyoming County
Thomas Goodwin, Monroe County Planning Board
Andrea Guzzetta, Rochester City Council
David Hartman, Yates County
Paul Holahan, City of Rochester
Scott Leathersich, Monroe County At Large (Chairperson)
Terrence J. Rice, Monroe County (partial)
Kevin Rooney, Wayne County
David Zorn, Genesee/Finger Lakes Regional Planning Council (G/FLRPC)
ALTERNATE REPRESENTATIVES PRESENT
Thomas Beck, Town of Penfield, representing James Fletcher
David Cook, Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA), representing Bill Carpenter
Christopher Reeve, NYSDOT-Region 4, representing Daniel Hallowell
PLANNING COMMITTEE MEMBERS ABSENT AND UNREPRESENTED
Donald Allport, Orleans County
Marcia Barry, Rochester City Planning Commission
Carm Carmestro, Monroe County Supervisors Association
Robert Colby, Monroe County
Timothy Hens, Genesee County
Edward Muszynski, Empire State Development Corporation
Mitchell Rowe, Seneca County
Douglas J. Tokarczyk, NYS Thruway Authority
Steven Urlass, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
William Wright, Ontario County
(Vacant), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
(Vacant), Federal Transportation Administration (FTA)
(Vacant), NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)
OTHERS IN ATTENDANCE
David Atias, Center for Disability Rights
Crystal Benjamin, RGRTA
Joseph Bovenzi, GTC staff
James Costello, Town of Penfield
Martin DAmbrose, Town/Village of East Rochester
David Dunning, Town of Chili
Michael Flanagan, Town/Village of East Rochester
Timothy Galli, Village of Pittsford
Roy Gates, Seneca County
Michael Guyon, Town of Brighton
Donald Higgins, Livingston County
Dennis Judson, Fisher Associates
Razy Kased, G/FLRPC
Thomas Lichtenthal, Town of Batavia
Jeffery Mroczek, City of Rochester
Richard Perrin, GTC staff
John Polimeni, NYSDOT-Region 4
Frederick Ricci, Town/Village of East Rochester
James Stack, GTC staff
John Thomas, Citizen
Robert Torzynski, GTC staff
Mark Valentine, Town of Penfield
Jonathan Walczak, Barton & Loguidice, P.C.
Eric Williams, Town of Perinton
Gregory Young, Reconnect Rochester
1. Call to Order & Introductions
Scott Leathersich, Planning Committee Chairperson, called the meeting to order at 10:03 a.m. Members, Alternates, and others present introduced themselves.
Richard Perrin noted two corrections to the meeting agenda. Item 5.d.21, Proposed Council Resolution 13-87 for increasing the cost of the Enhanced Wheelchair Restraint System on Future Bus Orders, will become redundant with the adoption of the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) under item 5.e. Therefore, it can be removed from the agenda. In addition, he suggested that the Committee add a discussion of the Transportation Enhancements Program (TEP) under Item 6., New Business. No Member or Alternate objected.
2. Public Forum
John Thomas, City of Rochester resident, stated that he would like to see the Bus Stop Optimization Study (UPWP Task 8539) address benches and shelters at bus stops. He explained that benches and shelters at bus stops will encourage ridership and will better accommodate the aging population.
3. Approval of Minutes
Timothy Frelier noted three corrections to the draft April 11, 2013 minutes. On page 4, under the report for the Monroe County High Accident Location Program, he noted it should read no new locations have been studied rather than identified. On page 10, he noted that in the fourth paragraph, speeds should read advisory speeds and in the fifth paragraph, speed limits should read advisory speeds.
Timothy Frelier moved for approval of the minutes from the April 11, 2013 Planning Committee meeting with corrections; David Cook seconded the motion. The minutes were approved as corrected.
Scott Leathersich suggested that items 5.a. and 5.b. be moved forward in the agenda out of courtesy to the guests. No Member or Alternate objected.
5. Action Items
a. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning accepting reports as evidence of completion of various UPWP Tasks / Proposed Council Resolutions 13-61 through
13-64.
Scott Leathersich suggested that the committee consider all the study closeouts under a single action. Erik Frisch noted that Monroe County has not had an opportunity to comment on Task 6524, the Urban Trail Linkages Eastman and Genesee Riverway Trails Planning and Preliminary Design Study, and asked that action on that item be deferred to a future Planning Committee meeting. No Member or Alternate objected.
1. Action concerning recommending the acceptance of the Regional Population Forecast as evidence of completion of a component of UPWP Task 5231 / Proposed Council Resolution 13-61 (G/FLRPC)
David Zorn introduced Razy Kased, who discussed Task 5231. Razy provided an overview of the methodology used to conduct the study and reported on the findings. He noted that the region is expected to grow by 3.6 percent between the present day and 2050, and would grow by 1.2 percent between the present day and 2020.
Paul Holahan asked if the population projections included consideration of demographic changes due to the baby boomer generation beginning to pass on over the next decade or so. Razy replied in the affirmative. Erik Frisch asked if the projections show the City of Rochester falling below a population of 200,000 people. Razy replied that while the City is projected to continue to lose population, it was not anticipated to dip below the 200,000 mark.
2. Action concerning recommending the acceptance of the Urban Trail Linkages Eastman and Genesee Riverway Trails Planning and Preliminary Design Study as evidence of completion of UPWP Task 6524 / Proposed Council Resolution 13-62 (City of Rochester)
Erik Frisch noted that although a recommendation of this project would be tabled until a future Planning Committee meeting, the City would still provide a presentation.
Jeff Mroczek discussed Task 6524. He reported that it was a concept-level planning study for two trail sections in the northwest part of the City of Rochester. The study looked at different options for routing trails, including both on- and off-road. Given the uncertainties of future development at Eastman Business Park, plans for a trail through the park have been modified to route the trail along Ridgeway Avenue instead.
Paul Holahan noted that a trail running through Eastman Business Park could be an asset to the park and as development issues are resolved, the possibility of locating a trail in the park should be reconsidered. Jeff confirmed that the study includes this recommendation for reconsideration in the future.
3. Action concerning recommending the acceptance of the Black Creek Trail Feasibility Study as evidence of completion of UPWP Task 6525 / Proposed Council Resolution 13-63 (Town of Chili)
Town of Chili Supervisor David Dunning discussed Task 6525. He thanked GTC for its support of this project. He discussed the multi-jurisdictional partnership developed to prepare the study and commented on the successful public review process. The study includes both on- and off-road recommendations. He explained that the study will provide a valuable planning tool for the participating communities. He further noted that the Town of Chili has already consulted the draft study to help inform consideration of a proposed development and the identification of opportunities to support active transportation.
4. Action concerning recommending the acceptance of the BikeWalkBrighton as evidence of completion of UPWP Task 8760 / Proposed Council Resolution 13-64 (Town of Brighton)
Mike Guyon discussed Task 8760. He discussed the process followed to develop the plan and noted that it was a major undertaking. There was an extensive public input and review process; over 200 responses were received to a survey conducted as part of the project. Mike provided an overview of the project recommendations.
Scott Leathersich noted that the Towns process was very similar to the Citys and that these projects can serve as models for other municipalities and for identifying potential transportation links between municipalities.
Angela Ellis moved to recommend that the GTC Board adopt Council Resolutions 13-61, 13-63, and 13-64; Erik Frisch seconded the motion. The motion passed unopposed.
b. Action concerning consideration of UPWP Project Scopes of Work
Scott Leathersich suggested that the committee consider all the proposed Scopes of Work under a single action. No Member or Alternate objected.
1. Task 5750 Genesee-Finger Lakes Regional Critical Transportation Infrastructure Vulnerability Assessment (GTC staff)
Joe Bovenzi discussed the Scope of Work for Task 5750 including the purpose of the project and key tasks such as the determination of transportation infrastructure vulnerabilities to natural and man-made hazards. He noted that the study will produce recommendations that member agencies can use to reduce the vulnerability and enhance the resiliency of their transportation assets.
2. Task 6526 JOSANA Trail Feasibility Study (City of Rochester)
Jeff Mroczek discussed the Scope of Work for Task 6526 including the project background, proposed assessment of existing conditions, development of alternatives, and public involvement process.
3. Task 6808 East Rochester Transportation Improvement Study
(Town/Village of East Rochester)
Town/Village of East Rochester Trustee Mike Flanagan acknowledged the presence of the both the Mayor and Administrator at the meeting and discussed the Scope of Work for Task 6808 including the project background, proposed tasks, and the ongoing public interest in issues such as a lack of traffic calming in the Village that will be addressed in this study. Due to his employment with Stantec, Mike stated that Stantec would not be submitting a proposal to provide professional services for this project. Richard Perrin noted that this project includes a twenty percent local cash match, which demonstrates a high level of commitment by the community to the success of the study.
4. Task 7701 Dansville Transportation and Industrial and Commercial Access Study (Livingston County)
Angela Ellis discussed the Scope of Work for Task 7701 including the project background, assessment of existing conditions, development of alternatives, and the economic development and transportation-related issues that will be addressed through the study.
5. Task 8515 Town of Penfield Transit-Supportive Mixed-Use Development District (Town of Penfield)
Mark Valentine discussed the Scope of Work for Task 8515 including the project objectives to expand the towns proposed transit-supportive mixed-use district to include additional locations with design guidelines and standards specific to each area. He discussed the project background, proposed tasks, and the transit and development-related issues that will be addressed through the study.
6. Task 8538 RTS Route Overhaul and Refinement Analysis (RGRTA)
Crystal Benjamin discussed the Scope of Work for Task 8538 including the changes to demographic and employment patterns that drive the need for the study. She provided an overview of the primary project tasks, which include conducting an in-depth analysis of RTS routes, route spacing, geographic coverage, opportunities for reconfiguring existing routes, destination analysis, and other elements necessary to refine service levels.
7. Task 8539 Bus Stop Optimization Study (RGRTA)
Crystal Benjamin discussed the Scope of Work for Task 8538 including the need to maximize the efficiency of the system and the large number of stops that exist relative to the size of the service area. Crystal advised that the project timeline included in the Scope of Work will need to be moved back to allow time for the development and issuance of a Request for Proposals (RFP). David Cook explained that NYSDOT-Main Office has begun implementing additional oversight requirements based on FTA findings from a review of NYSDOT processes. One of these requirements is approval of RFPs and other professional services solicitation documents. Richard Perrin noted that this is the same issue affecting the issuance of an RFP for UPWP Task 8170 (Regional Mobility Management Business Plan). RGRTA and GTC staff will be meeting next week to resolve these issues.
8. Task 8701 Genesee-Finger Lakes Regional Trails Initiative Update
(GTC staff)
Robert Torzynski discussed the Scope of Work for the Task 8701 including the need for the project, the inventory of existing conditions, gap analysis, and anticipated study work products. He indicated that the project may result in fewer miles of trail recommendations than are included in the current Regional Trails Initiative but that these recommendations could be more likely to be implemented as a result of greater emphasis on feasibility early in the process.
9. Task 8771 Village of Pittsford Active Transportation Safety Study
(Village of Pittsford)
Village of Pittsford Deputy Mayor Timothy Galli discussed the need for Task 8771 resulting from the impacts created by several major roadways that pass through the Village. He provided an overview of the project objectives to develop a plan with recommendations for public and private transportation improvements and transportation-related design guidelines to create healthier, safer, and more livable places based on increased opportunities for active transportation.
10. Task 8773 Town of Perinton Active Transportation Plan
(Town of Perinton)
Eric Williams discussed the Scope of Work for Task 8773 including the overall project objective to develop a plan to improve safety and the connectivity of the bicycle and pedestrian network in the Town. He discussed the existing trails and other active transportation infrastructure on which the Town intends to build upon with this plan.
Kevin Rooney moved to approve the UPWP Project Scopes of Work for Tasks 5750, 6526, 6808, 7701, 8515, 8538, 8539, 8701, 8771, and 8773 as presented; David Hartman seconded the motion. The motion passed unopposed.
4. Reports and Action on Old Business
a. Reports of UPWP Projects and Other Activities
GTC
Richard Perrin reported:
Strategic Planning: Final revisions are being made to the Finger Lakes Regional Sustainability Plan with formal approval by NYSERDA imminent. Richard provided testimony on MAP-21 implementation to the House of Representatives Highways and Transit Subcommittee on April 25 with responses to a follow-up question provided May 22. He also presented on MAP-21 funding programs and performance measurement components at the NYS Association of Transportation Engineers' conference on May 8.
Regional Traffic Count Collection: There is no funding for additional data collection in the FY 2013-2014 UPWP; activities will be limited to analysis and dissemination of data by GTC staff.
LRTP Update/Implementation: The development of a transportation system status report that provides updated data for the Long Range Transportation Plan for the Genesee-Finger Lakes Region 2035 (LRTP 2035) performance measures and the activities accomplished since the adoption of the LRTP 2035 is continuing. Work activities include data analysis, amplification of relevant developments affecting LRTP 2035 Emerging Opportunities and Issues, and document layout and design.
Genesee-Finger Lakes Regional Critical Transportation Infrastructure Vulnerability Assessment: The Scope of work was approved earlier in the meeting.
Diversion Route Planning Initiative: Steering Committee comments on the final draft maps of diversion routes have been provided. GTC staff met with the consultant on May 13 to discuss remaining tasks.
Congestion Management Process (CMP): The update of the CMP is included in the LRTP 2035 that was adopted by the Board on June 16, 2011. A CMP report that expands on the information included in the LRTP 2035 was recommended for GTC Board acceptance by the Planning Committee at its April 11 meeting.
Greater Rochester Regional Commuter Choice Program: GTC staff is continuing to promote the program website.
Travel Time Data Collection Program: Training by the vendor, INRIX, was provided to Monroe County, RGRTA, and GTC staffs on May 16. GTC staff is identifying initial topics for analysis consistent with the LRTP 2035 and Planning Committee-recommended CMP report.
Regional Mobility Management Business Plan: GTC and RGRTA staffs are meeting May 28 to finalize the development of a revised Request for Proposals (RFP) package to comply with requirements that FTA has provided to NYSDOT and are applicable to sub-recipients.
Genesee-Finger Lakes Regional Trails Initiative Update: The Scope of Work was approved earlier in the meeting.
Rochester Area Bike Sharing Program Study: Project selected to receive NYS Energy Research and Development Authority funding. NYSDOT and NYSERDA are finalizing their interagency agreement and GTC staff will work with them to develop a Scope of Work that will be provided to the Planning Committee for its review.
Genesee County
Richard Perrin reported:
Genesee County Horizontal Curve Sign Study: The study was recommended for GTC Board acceptance by the Planning Committee at its April 11 meeting.
G/FLRPC
David Zorn reported:
Regional Land Use Monitoring Report: Data and survey follow-up is continuing.
Inventory and Mapping of Regional Zoning District Boundaries and Inventory of Land Use: No progress to report.
Regional Rights-of-Way Study: No progress to report.
Genesee-Finger Lakes Region Population Projections: The project was recommended for adoption earlier in the meeting.
Planning for Transportation and Climate Change: Model Ordinances, Incentives, and Other Resources: An outline has been provided to county planners to provide feedback and input into the data collection.
Regional Atlas: Data is being analyzed. G/FLRPC staff met with GTC staff on May 10 to discuss transportation data needs.
Livingston County
Angela Ellis reported:
Dansville Transportation and Commercial & Industrial Access Study: The Scope of Work was approved earlier in the meeting.
Livingston County Transportation Connectivity Plan: The second public meeting scheduled for May has been moved to June 6 with an Advisory Committee meeting scheduled the same day prior to the public meeting. A draft of the report has been posted to the County website.
Monroe County
Tim Frelier reported:
Monroe County Land Use Monitoring Report: Three municipalities have yet to return surveys; Monroe County Planning and Development will conduct follow-up.
Terry Rice reported:
Monroe County Sign Inventory Location Upgrade: The project is expected to be presented at the July Planning Committee meeting.
Monroe County High Accident Location Program: Two additional locations have been studied for a total of 38 out of 54 sites (70 percent).
Ontario County
Richard Perrin reported:
Routes 5 & 20 and State Route 364 Multi-Modal Study: Steering Committee meeting was held April 24 and the final public meeting was held May 16. The consultant is preparing a final report based on Steering Committee input and public comments.
City of Rochester
Erik Frisch reported:
City of Rochester Urban Trail Linkages Feasibility Study: The project was presented at todays meeting and a recommendation for GTC Board acceptance is anticipated at the July Planning Committee meeting.
JOSANA Trail Feasibility Study: The Scope of Work was approved earlier in the meeting.
Mt. Read Boulevard Corridor Study: A public meeting was held on May 20 and was well attended by individuals as well as members of neighborhood groups from the study area.
Rochester Bicycle Boulevard Plan: The RFP was published on April 30 and proposals are due today.
RGRTA
David Cook reported:
RGRTA Transit-Supportive Development Guidelines: No progress to report.
RGRTA Route Analysis: The project is ongoing.
RGRTA Suburban Transit Station Study: The study is complete.
RTS Route Overhaul and Refinement Analysis: The Scope of Work was approved earlier in the meeting.
Bus Stop Optimization Study: The Scope of Work was approved earlier in the meeting.
Wayne County
Kevin Rooney reported:
Wayne County Horizontal Curve Sign Study: The study was recommended for GTC Board acceptance by the Planning Committee at its April 11 meeting.
Wyoming County
Todd Gadd reported:
Wyoming County Horizontal Curve Sign Study: The study was recommended for GTC Board acceptance by the Planning Committee at its April 11 meeting.
Yates County
David Hartman reported:
Yates County Safe Passing Zone Survey: The study is complete.
Other Agencies
Richard Perrin reported:
Auburn Trail Connection to the Ontario Pathways Trail: The study was recommended for GTC Board acceptance by the Planning Committee at its April 11 meeting.
Irondequoit Seneca Multi-Use Trail Feasibility Study: Consultant has completed initial drafts of the existing conditions analysis, alternatives analysis, and preliminary recommendations components of the study.
Black Creek Stream Corridor Trail Feasibility Study: The project was recommended for adoption earlier in the meeting.
Village of Scottsville Traffic Circulation and Safety Study: Draft plan and executive summary being finalized. Town working towards formal adoption of plan. Presentation to Planning Committee is anticipated for July.
Webster Village Core Circulation, Accessibility, and Parking Study: Needs assessment under development.
Victor Transportation Systems Plan: Traffic Task Force met several times to review and evaluate proposals. Final list of recommended alternatives was transmitted on May 20 for Town and Village Boards' consideration.
NYS Route 250 Transit Supportive Mixed Use Development District: Steering Committee to meet on June 18 to provide additional comments on draft recommendations.
Brighton Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Plan: The project was recommended for adoption earlier in the meeting.
Town of Greece Active Transportation Plan: Project Advisory Committee met April 29 to review the draft inventory of existing and planned conditions. The first public meeting is scheduled for June 12.
Village of Pittsford Active Transportation Safety Plan: The Scope of Work was approved earlier in the meeting.
b. Any Other Old Business or Announcements
1. Status of updates to the Rochester Adjusted Urbanized Area, Rochester Transportation Management Area, and GTC Metropolitan Transportation Planning Area boundaries
Richard Perrin stated that, as reported at the April 11 Planning Committee meeting, GTC staff has been working on proposed revisions to the boundaries of the Rochester Adjusted Urbanized Area, Rochester Transportation Management Area, and the GTC Metropolitan Planning Area. As part of this process, GTC staff has realized that there are multiple options for each of these respective boundaries.
There are implications connected with each of these boundaries though, changes to the boundaries would have extremely limited impacts on federal-aid highway funding to the Region and GTC staff would feel most comfortable forming an ad-hoc committee of Planning Committee members and alternates to review proposed revisions to the boundaries and make recommendations to the Planning Committee for its consideration. Final revisions to the boundaries (inclusive of GTC Board approval) have been requested by NYSDOT-Main Office by September 30, 2013. To accommodate this schedule, GTC Board action is anticipated at the September 12 meeting. Per federal regulations, the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and Governor must both approve any changes so a nay vote by NYSDOT can effectively veto revised boundaries supported by the rest of the Region.
The Planning Committee was agreeable to forming an ad-hoc committee of Planning Committee members and alternates that would present a recommendation on the revised Rochester Adjusted Urbanized Area, Rochester Transportation Management Area, and the GTC Metropolitan Planning Area boundaries to the Planning Committee at its August meeting.
Terry Rice asked if outreach on potential Functional Classification changes would occur after the boundary updates occur. Richard Perrin replied that it would.
2. Reaffirmation of Planning Committee recommendation to the GTC Board accepting the RGRTA Signal Prioritization Study as evidence of completion of UPWP Task 8423
Richard Perrin reported that the study was recommended for acceptance by the GTC Board at the July 12, 2012 meeting as proposed Council Resolution 12-103 contingent on revisions to the Executive Summary of the report prior to it being provided to the GTC Board for action. The revised executive summary, which was reviewed and concurred with by Monroe County, was transmitted to GTC staff on March 5. Given the length of time (including the change in calendar year) between the Planning Committee recommendation and GTC Board consideration, GTC staff suggest that the Planning Committee recommendation be reaffirmed and that the proposed Council Resolution number be changed from 12-103 to 13-66.
Terry Rice moved for approval of proposed Council Resolution 13-66; David Cook seconded the motion. The motion passed unopposed.
5. Action Items
c. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the FY 2013-2014 UPWP to reflect the contribution of actual FY 2012-2013 rollover amounts and add new projects / Proposed Council Resolution 12-45 (GTC staff)
Richard Perrin discussed the need to adjust the budgets for several projects included in the FY 2013-2014 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) that were not expected to be completed by March 31, 2013 (the end of the fiscal year) at the time of UPWP adoption. He noted that the accounting for Fiscal Year (FY) 2012-2013 has been completed and the FY 2013-2014 budgets for these projects can now be adjusted to reflect the actual rollover amounts.
In addition, the final apportionments of FHWA and FTA Metropolitan Planning funds were issued on April 24 and May 13, respectively. NYSDOT-Main Office provided the revised distribution of these funds to the 13 MPOs in the state on May 17. The net change for GTC is an additional $9,446, which GTC staff recommends be added to Task 1600 Program Reserve for reprogramming in the FY 2014-2015 UPWP.
Paul Holahan moved for approval of proposed Council Resolution 12-45; Angela Ellis seconded the motion. The motion passed unopposed.
d. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 Transportation Improvement Program / Proposed Council Resolutions 13-67 through 13-98 (excluding 13-87, as it is included in the draft 2014-2017 TIP)
Scott Leathersich suggested that the committee consider the proposed council resolutions under a single action. No Member or Alternate objected.
1. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by decreasing the cost of the I-390 Rest Areas project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-67 (NYSDOT)
2. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by adding the I-390 Rest Areas Sewer, Roof, and Water Line Work project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-68 (NYSDOT)
Richard Perrin discussed Proposed Council Resolutions 13-67 and 13-68. He explained that these resolutions are related and address an administrative change by splitting off the I-390 Rest Areas Sewer, Roof, and Water Line Work project from the I-390 Rest Areas project. The new project will be administered by the New York State Office of General Services.
3. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by decreasing the cost of the Replace 13 Articulated Transit Buses
(FY 2012) project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-69 (RGRTA)
4. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by adding the Upgrade Bus Driving Simulator (FFY 2012) project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-70 (RGRTA)
Richard Perrin discussed Proposed Council Resolutions 13-69 and 13-70. He explained that these resolutions are related; decreasing the cost of the Replace 13 Articulated Transit Buses (FY 2012) project provides an offset for adding the Upgrade Bus Driving Simulator project.
David Cook noted that the bus driving simulator upgrade will include the movement into and through the new Downtown Transit Center so drivers can gain familiarity of the operations before the facility opens.
5. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by deferring a portion of a phase of the City of Rochester Bicycle Trails project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-71 (City of Rochester)
6. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by advancing a phase of the Rochester Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle Charging Stations/Vehicle Expansion Project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-72 (City of Rochester)
Richard Perrin discussed Proposed Council Resolutions 13-71 and 13-72. He explained these amendments allow the Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle Charging Stations project to be accelerated while taking advantage of NYSDERA funds awarded for project implementation.
7. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by decreasing the cost of the Highway Bridge Block Program project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-73 (NYSDOT on behalf of several project sponsors)
8. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by deleting the South Lyon Street over Tonawanda Creek project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-74 (Genesee County)
9. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the Griswold Road over Black Creek project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-75 (Genesee County)
10. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost and changing the scope of the Livingston County Bridge Preventive Maintenance project / Proposed Council Resolution
13-76 (Livingston County)
11. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by adding a phase to and deferring a phase of the Clarendon Street Bridge over Falls Road Railroad project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-77 (NYSDOT on behalf of the Village of Albion)
12. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the Wyoming County 2013 Bridge Preventive Maintenance project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-78 (Wyoming County)
13. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the Wyoming County Bridge Preventive Maintenance project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-79 (Wyoming County)
Richard Perrin discussed Proposed Council Resolutions 13-73 through 13-79. He explained that these resolutions decrease the Highway Bridge Block Program and delete a project to make funds available for increases on other projects.
14. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by decreasing the cost of the Interstate System Preventive Maintenance (2014) project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-80 (NYSDOT)
15. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the Route 5 Bridge over NFSRR & FLRR project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-81 (NYSDOT)
Richard Perrin discussed Proposed Council Resolutions 13-80 and 13-81. He explained that decreasing the cost of the Interstate System Preventive Maintenance project provides an offset for an increase on the Route 5 Bridge over NFSRR & FLRR project.
16. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by decreasing the cost of the Route 590 ITS Improvements Part II project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-82 (NYSDOT)
17. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the Highway Emergency Local Patrol (HELP) Program project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-83 (NYSDOT)
Richard Perrin discussed Proposed Council Resolutions 13-82 and 13-83. He explained that decreasing the cost of the Route 590 ITS Improvements Part II project provides an offset for an increase on the Highway Emergency Local Patrol (HELP) program.
18. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by deleting the Passive Railroad Crossing Warning Device Upgrade project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-84 (NYSDOT)
Richard Perrin discussed Proposed Council Resolution 13-84. He explained that NYSDOT Region 4 is not able to progress this project and it will be removed from the TIP.
19. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by decreasing the cost of the STP-Rural Block Program project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-85 (Town of Shelby)
20. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the Bates Road Reconstruction project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-86 (Town of Shelby)
Richard Perrin discussed Proposed Council Resolutions 13-85 and 13-86. He explained that decreasing the cost of the STP-Rural Block Program project provides an offset for and increase on the Bates Road Reconstruction project.
21. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by Amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the Enhanced Wheelchair Restraint System on Future Bus Orders project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-87 (RGRTA)
Richard Perrin discussed Proposed Council Resolution 13-87. He explained that this item will be removed from the agenda because it will become redundant when the new TIP is adopted.
22. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by decreasing select phases of the CMAQ Block Program project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-88 (NYSDOT on behalf of several project sponsors)
23. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by decreasing the cost of the Mt. Hope Station project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-89 (RGRTA)
24. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by changing the source of federal funds for a portion of the Renaissance Square Transit Center project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-90 (RGRTA)
25. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the Route 78 Bridge over Cattaraugus Creek project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-91 (NYSDOT)
26. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the Interstate Overhead Sign Structure Improvement (2011) project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-92 (NYSDOT)
27. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the Mount Hope Avenue Reconstruction - Phase 1 project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-93 (City of Rochester)
28. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the City of Rochester Preventive Maintenance project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-94 (City of Rochester)
29. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the Lyell Avenue Reconstruction project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-95 (Monroe County)
30. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the Jefferson Avenue, Ayrault Road to Route 31F project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-96 (Monroe County)
31. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the Lincoln Road Reconstruction project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-97 (RGRTA)
32. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning amending the 2011-2014 TIP by increasing the cost of the East Ridge Road Rehabilitation project / Proposed Council Resolution 13-98 (Monroe County)
Richard Perrin discussed Proposed Council Resolutions 13-88 through 13-98. He explained that these actions replace STP-Flex funds on the Renaissance Square Transit Center project with Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program (CMAQ). This action allows the region to fully use available CMAQ funds in FFY 2013, maintain funding to the Renaissance Square Transit Center project, and make STP-Flex funds available for other eligible projects that have had cost increases that have not have been able to be accommodated.
Terry Rice moved to recommend that the GTC Board adopt Council Resolutions 13-67 through 13-98 with the exception of 13-87; David Cook seconded the motion. The motion passed unopposed.
e. Recommendation to the GTC Board concerning adopting the 2014-2017 Transportation Improvement Program / Proposed Council Resolution 13-99
Richard Perrin informed the Planning Committee that based on its approval of the Draft 2014-2017 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Update Project List for public review (Project List) at the April 11 meeting, GTC staff finalized the list for public review and developed the associated transmittal memo. The Project List package was distributed and available for review from April 15 to May 15 at the GTC office and on the GTC website, at the county planning department offices in the TIP Area (excluding Monroe County), and at the central repository libraries of the counties in the Rochester Transportation Management Area. A media release was sent to print, radio, and television outlets and garnered articles in the Democrat & Chronicle, Messenger Post newspapers, and Batavia Daily News, as well as a spot on WXXI radios All Things Considered. In addition, a legal notice was published in the April 15 edition of the Democrat & Chronicle and GTC issued several announcements of the public review period via its Twitter account.
Four public meetings were held in conjunction with the public review period. Summaries of the comments received and copies of the written comments submitted have been provided in the meeting package. Based on the comments received, no changes to the Project List are being recommended.
Richard stated that the Project List plus existing projects programmed in FFY 2014 (inclusive of Planning Committee-recommended amendments to existing projects from this meeting) comprise the Draft 2014-2017 TIP for the Planning Committees consideration. He reviewed the following items related to the Draft 2014-2017 TIP:
GTC staff will work with NYSDOT-Region 4 to reconcile all available funds and amounts programmed in FFY 2014 by MAP-21 fund source;
The effective date of the adoption of the 2014-2017 TIP will be July 22. This is because an air quality conformity determination is no longer required as of July 20 (a Saturday) per the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys revocation of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard that all but Wyoming County was designated as being in nonattainment of in 2004. GTC staff is still conducting a regional emissions analysis of the TIP using the newest emissions model and the results will be included in the 2014-2017 TIP document;
The Draft 2014-2017 TIP includes projects recommended by the TIP Development Committee to receive the remaining balance of FTA Section 5317 New Freedom program funds apportioned to the Rochester Urbanized Area for FFY 2012. A notice of the availability of these funds was published in the March 18 edition of the Democrat & Chronicle and sent to interested parties with applications due April 18 (remaining funds from December 2011 addition to TIP); and
The Draft 2014-2017 TIP that was provided does not include FFY 2014 funds that are currently programmed for ongoing transportation system management and operations projects (127 through 130) or for the replacement of six Lift Line buses in FFY 2014. This adds an additional $3.6 million in federal funds to the overall draft program.
Richard stated that once the reconciliation of available and programmed funds for FFY 2014 is complete, GTC staff will work with the TDC to schedule the projects in year of expenditure dollars (i.e., inflation adjusted project costs) and produce the Draft 2014-2017 TIP document for transmittal to the GTC Board for its consideration. GTC staff has begun the identification of new projects that can have pre-construction activities accelerated into FFY 2014 to utilize all funds in all FHWA and FTA programs to the maximum extent practicable. Depending on the amount available by FHWA program, there is the possibility that projects from the Yellow Component of the Draft 2014-2017 TIP Update Project List may be able to be added. No additional action is required by the Planning Committee as these projects were provided for public review as being contingent on additional resources being available.
The 2014-2017 TIP adopted by the GTC Board at its June 20 meeting will be incorporated into the Draft 2014-2017 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) by NYSDOT-Main Office, which is anticipated to be made available for public review from July 17 to August 16. No decision has yet been made by NYSDOT-Main Office on the award of funds to projects solicited through the Statewide Prioritization program or the Strategic Transportation Enhancement Program, which it now characterizes as a process to inform NYSDOTs capital program development. The 2014-2017 TIP will become effective October 1.
Terry Rice moved to recommend that the GTC Board adopt Council Resolution 13-99; Kevin Rooney seconded the motion. The motion passed unopposed.
Terry Rice asked for clarification on projects that have funds programmed before FFY 2014. Richard responded that the TIP project list only includes projects with funds programmed in FFY 2014 through FFY 2017.
Terry Rice asked for clarification on project scheduling. Richard Perrin responded that GTC and NYSDOT-Region 4 staffs need to reconcile projects currently funded in FFY 2014 with available funds in the programs authorized in MAP-21 and then program new projects in FFYs 2014 through 2017, adhering to project sponsors requested schedules as much as possible.
Tom Lichtenthal asked for an update on the funding status of projects in the Yellow Component. Richard explained that NYSDOT has not yet announced project funding but that he fully expects funding for the Yellow Component to be available in the period covered in the 2014-2017 TIP.
6. New Business
a. FFY 2013 Transportation Investments Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) program
Richard Perrin stated that the notice for the fifth round of TIGER funding was issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation on April 22. $473.8 million will be available nationwide on a competitive basis for projects that will have a significant impact on the Nation, a metropolitan area or region. In the first four rounds, there has been $3.11 billion available and $103 billion requested. We have every reason to believe that this round will be highly competitive as well.
Final applications are due June 3 and projects must be able to meet all local, state, and federal requirements by June 30, 2014. Multiple agencies in the Region have inquired about the TIGER program and GTC staff is aware of two likely applications the Inner Loop East Reconstruction and Portageville Bridge Replacement projects both of which submitted applications in the third round (FFY 2011).
b. Designation of Direct Recipient for sub-allocated FTA Section 5310 funding
Richard Perrin stated that MAP-21 includes a provision for the direct sub-allocation of funds under the new FTA Section 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities (FTA Section 5310) program 60 percent in urbanized areas with a population over 200,000, 20 percent in small urbanized areas with a population of 50,000 to 200,000, and 20 percent to rural areas with a population less than 50,000. The MAP-21 FTA Section 5310 program consolidates the former Elderly and Disabled Program and New Freedom Program. The amount sub-allocated to GTC for projects in the Rochester Urbanized Area will be approximately $665,000 annually in FFYs 2013 and FFY 2014.
In urbanized areas with a population above 200,000, the MPO is responsible for identifying a Designated Recipient to administer projects selected to receive FTA Section 5310 program funds sub-allocated to it. The Designated Recipient is responsible for ensuring that funds are applied for from FTA, awards to sub-recipients are derived from the regional coordinated public transit-human services transportation plan, are made based on a competitive selection process, and that sub-recipients can meet all FTA requirements. Up to 10 percent of the funds can be used to administer the program. A statewide teleconference was held on May 10 between NYSDOT-Main Office, NYSDOT regional offices, MPOs, and public transportation operators to review the requirements of the FTA Section 5310 program and discuss potential Designated Recipients. GTC and RGRTA staffs participated on in the teleconference.
Potential candidates to be the Designated Recipients in this region include GTC, RGRTA, and NYSDOT. GTC staff does not have either the experience in directly administering FTA capital and operating programs or capacity to serve as the Direct Recipient. NYSDOT has administered the FTA Section 5310 program (and its predecessor) for several decades and RGRTA has experience administering FTA funds to sub-recipients through the SAFETEA-LU New Freedom Program. Pursuant to MAP-21, if NYSDOT is selected as the Direct Recipient for this region, our direct sub-allocation would have to be awarded to projects in the Rochester Urbanized Area (i.e., there is no risk of award of our sub-allocated funds to other areas of the state) and need to be derived from our coordinated public transit-human services transportation plan (adopted September 2011).
NYSDOT has offered to serve as the Designated Recipient for any MPOs who would like them to act in this capacity. NYSDOT has requested that a final decision via MPO Board action occur by September 15 to ensure that any areas choosing NYSDOT as the Designated Recipient will be included in the planned statewide solicitation this fall. Accordingly, a Designated Recipient for the Rochester Urbanized Area must be identified by the GTC Board via resolution no later than at its September 12 meeting. RGRTA and GTC staffs have discussed this issue and recommend that the Planning Committee consider recommending to the GTC Board that NYSDOT be selected as the Designated Recipient for Rochester Urbanized Area Section 5310 funds. If the Planning Committee makes this recommendation, GTC staff will prepare an associated resolution for the Boards consideration at its June 20 meeting.
David Cook moved to recommend that the GTC Board designate NYSDOT as the Direct Recipient for sub-allocated FTA Section 5310 funding; Paul Holahan seconded the motion. The motion passed unopposed.
c. Transportation Enhancements Program
Richard Perrin stated that on May 2, NYSDOT announced that it would be soliciting projects to be funded with the remaining Transportation Enhancements Program (TEP) funds from SAFETEA-LU. Approximately $30 million is available statewide. The minimum award amount is $160,000 and the maximum is $2.5 million (potentially more than this region will receive). TEP funds can be used for 80 percent of the total project cost with the rest borne by the project sponsor; there are no Marchiselli funds made available for TEP-funded projects. Project sponsors are also responsible for the full cost of any overruns.
NYSDOT-Region 4 is holding three workshops: May 29 in Rochester, May 30 in Canandaigua, and June 13 in Batavia. Project applicants are required to attend a Federal-Aid 101 workshop as well to be eligible to apply for TEP funding in this round. The only exception is if an applicant can demonstrate that it attended a Federal-Aid 101 workshop in 2012.
Final applications are due to NYSDOT regional offices by August 16. Prioritized lists of applications received based on evaluations by NYSDOT regional and MPO staffs are due in mid-October with project selection by NYSDOT-Main Office expected by the end of calendar year 2013.
Under MAP-21, the TEP, Safe Routes to School, and Recreational Trails programs were consolidated into the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP). A portion of these funds are now directly sub-allocated to Urbanized Areas similar to the FTA Section 5310 program. The MPOs in New York State will work with NYSDOT to determine if a joint process for soliciting, evaluating, and selecting projects to receive TAP funding can be developed.
7. Public Forum
No one from the public spoke during the public forum.
David Cook noted that 30 new regular and six new articulated RTS buses are now in operation. Construction work on the new downtown Transit Center is proceeding rapidly.
8. Next Meeting
July 11, 2013 at Wayne County Courthouse
26 Church Street
Lyons, NY
All materials for items to be considered at this meeting should be submitted to GTC staff no later than Friday, June 28, 2013.
9. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 12:21 p.m.