Revitalization Commission Agenda and Packet 2012 02 13

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Minutes January 9, 2012 Page 2 of 3 Election of Officers – Karl Becker was elected Chair Carlos Hernandez was elected Vice-Chair Emily Jasiak elected Secretary Commissioners’ Comments– Mayor/Commissioner Muckle provided an update on Fastracks and the US 36 Mayors and Commissioners Coalition: BNSF gave a cost amount for the NW Rail that was $400-500M higher than expected: $1.4B. This has caused concern as to whether that is supportable as a ballot issue. Need to understand more about the money and where it will be spent (double-tracking parts of the line, and other additional pieces). Mayors have asked RTD to provide detail related to additional options. RTD has a deadline of February 1 to determine preferred option. Potential options 1. Ask voters in 2012 for 4/10 of a percent tax increase that would get the planned system done by 2023-25. 2. Option 2 with vote in 2012, still the rail, but getting some early improvements in place before the rail service in 2023-2025. Build stations at Longmont, Boulder and Louisville (would include the gateway), with delay to other corridors for 6 months. Would help to realize an improvement for the voters prior to the rail service implementation. 3. Option 3 with vote in 2012, don’t build rail, but build expanded BRT infrastructure and stations/improvements envisioned for rail, included BRT frequencies and dedicated lanes/buses. Run buses to all stations and tie to Hwy 36. Commissioner Menaker asked if there was discussion given about the proper location of bus stations vs. commuter rail stations if the plan is to abandon rail. Commissioner Menaker commented that he stands firmly behind his stance that we must ask for enough money upfront; if 4/10 won’t get the job done go higher. The longer we wait, the more expensive it will be. Susan Loo asked if there has there been discussion of a PR campaign to support this. Staff replied yes, folks are beginning to raise money for the campaign, Deputy City Manager Balser provided general updates of the process and the pros and cons related to the various alternatives. The Mayors along the Corridor continue to advocate for additional analysis and information, prior to advocating for one option over another. Staff will forward the RTD presentation with the alternatives. The Commission requested an update be provided at the next month’s meeting.