Revitalization Commission Agenda and Packet 2021 07 14

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Revitalization Commission Minutes June 30, 2021 Page 4 of 6 participate in some transformative projects. She reminded the LRC that more utilitarian design of projects could allow more underpasses to be constructed and that the potential for passenger rail in DeLo should keep the underpass crossing there as a priority. City Manager Balser said Council and staff have had conversations and provided an initial attempt at prioritizing, but ultimately Council makes the decision on prioritization. The LRC has different motivation and focus than Council: the LRC's purview is only within the URA and projects that prevent or eliminate blight. Council member Leh said staff contributions are very important but the appropriation of funding is a Council decision. He noted this is a preliminary step to see if the community wants to move forward and that there is a lot of public process to come. Commissioner Smith asked if the add-ons are part of the underpass. Director Pierce said that some of the project designs reflect other components that may be integrated but are not necessarily part of the projected cost. Related to the underpass at Via Appia, Principal Planner Lisa Ritchie said detention is part of underpass, other park amenities are not. Commissioner Gambale is impressed with what the City has done in a short period of time. He inquired about incorporating signage, art, and amenities in the initial project design, rather than delaying until after project completion. Director Pierce relayed this is also the Council's intent but it can also be added to the Cooperation Agreement. He agreed with Commissioner Tofte about supporting a Hwy 42 underpass stating we can put in a budgetary allocation of funds, contributing an additional $4M or $5M for it to be built. Chair Adler said based on what she is hearing she would like to see language in the Cooperation Agreement that the LRC would like to split up costs among the $13.75M to advance an underpass at Hwy 42 and South Street. Director Pierce noted it would be important for staff to have clarification on the dollar amount of any funding split as well as other input to amend the draft Cooperation Agreement. Chair Adler called for public comment. There was none. Commissioner Smith said the Main Street and South Boulder Road underpass is a no-brainer. If we want Hwy 42 and South St to be built, we should Agenda Packet P. 12