Revitalization Commission Agenda and Packet 2011 10 10

Home Browse Search

Phase 2: Understanding the character and function After developing a "context of understanding the second phase will allow us to gain a full understanding of the project area in the transportation, land use, economic, and environmental contexts. Task 3: Initial data collection and assessment The Atkins team will conduct an initial data collection and contextual assessment to supplement Louisville's existing knowledge of the corridor. The existing conditions analysis will provide an understanding of the multimodal transportation context of the corridor. Previous studies will be reviewed for critical elements, strengths, weaknesses, future challenges, and inconsistencies. Base mapping, vertical and utility assessments, and upgrade needs. We will confirm the study area with the PMT and develop a comprehensive base map using data provided by Louisville and supplemental information collected including vertical assessments at the BNSF near Short Street, and other critical areas along Highway 42. A complete investigation and inventory of utilities, including water, storm, and sanitary systems, will be completed. Safety assessment. To support the development of the project purpose, the Atkins team will analyze data from Louisville and CDOT files that will provide history on crash statistics and /or identifications of pedestrian and bicycle conflicts in the project area and along the Highway 42 Corridor. Environmental evaluation. Potential environmental issues will be mapped and evaluated during the alternatives development process. Based on our project understanding, the key environmental considerations include: Recreational areas and Section 4(f): Louisville Sports Complex and Miner's Field Open space: Harney /Lastoka Open Space Cultural resources: potentially historic homes and businesses Natural resources: wetlands, raptors, and other threatened or endangered species Noise: residential, park, and open space land uses in close proximity to the Highway 42 Corridor Air quality: assessment to meet requirements of CMAQ process Water quality: sensitive water resources (Coal Creek) Hazardous materials: underground storage tanks Proposed impacts to these elements will be considered in balance with the mobility characteristics and needs of the project area. This is also an element of the PEL process— adequate resource documentation and coordination will be developed so it can be used throughout project development. Harney /Lastoka Key environmental considerations Integrated Infrastructure Implementation Plan Louisville FasTracks Station Area Hwy 42 Corridor (Lock Street to Paschal Drive) BNSF Coordination Challenge: Recognizing the issues and positions of BNSF early in the process. Solution: We have included Susan Grabler (David Evans and Associates, Inc. [DEA]), a former Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) Manager of Industry and Public Projects. Susan is trusted and respected by the BNSF railroad. During her career, she has worked collaboratively with BNSF and several DOT and local agencies in nine states managing public projects similar to this. As a result of her experience and relationships, particularly with the Colorado BNSF Manager of Public Projects, Andy Amparan, Susan will engage and work with BNSF through the study process to keep the project on schedule. 5