Revitalization Commission Agenda and Packet 2019 12 09

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SUBJECT: PRESENTION ON HW 42 AND SHORT STREET IMPROVEMENTS DATE: DECEMBER 9, 2019 PAGE2OF3 The roadway improvements and traffic signal form part of the Hwy 42 Gateway Plan, which also included the South Street pedestrian underpass that opened in 2017. The two projects together provide connectivity from the west side of SH 42 to Main Street Louisville. The $2.5 million construction project is funded jointly through City, the Colorado Department of Transportation, and Boulder County. At this time, the City has received CDOT approvals for the installation of all infrastructure and geometric intersection improvements. Staff continues to work with CDOT on the final approval of the signal. CDOT has granted approval for the signal once further commercial/retail construction breaks ground on SH 42 and Short Street, and staff will continue to pursue full operation of the signal as soon as the installation is complete (vs. waiting until a project is underway). BACKGROUND: The project was determined necessary to accommodate new development between SH 42 and Main Street in downtown Louisville. High traffic volumes on SH 42, particularly during peak travel times, makes for challenging and unsafe turns into and out of the development. In addition, the intersection improvements will create a fourth leg at the intersection into the Louisville Sports Complex/Future Lafayette Ball Fields. While traffic on Short St. crossing SH 42 to access the fields is expected to be light most days, during weekends, evenings and special events the Sports Complex could see a sizable amount of traffic entering and exiting the west leg. Left turns could be difficult at this location if special events overlap with peak hour traffic. The SH 42 and Short Street intersection will play a key role in connectivity across SH 42 and into downtown Louisville, as indicated in the City's Transportation Master Plan.