City Council Minutes 2012 02 29 SP

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City Council Special Meeting Minutes February 29, 2012 Page 8 of 9 • Councilor Keany favored Option 2 and moving forward with building stations and the rail line in segments. Building the stations would help the City's economic development and alleviate the traffic congestion problem. RTD General Manager Washington stated they met with BNSF and have discussed a phasing plan. He noted RTD has made a $17 million dollar investment, however having BNSF as a partner is a different matter. Councilor Sackett asked if the rail could be put in the center lanes of US 36. Mayor Pro Tem Muckle stated US 36 will have rapid bus transit and not light rail. Councilor Jasiak inquired whether the 2020 Bid for the Olympics would provide roadway infrastructure. RTD General Manager Washington stated they are always looking for federal dollars. Mayor Muckle voiced his appreciation for RTD's time and their presentation. He noted the highways surrounding Louisville are strained and it is difficult to understand how Option 3 would be a benefit. He did not understand the capped number. He stated Louisville, like Longmont wants rail. Councilor Loo addressed delaying other projects and noted the City has been waiting a long time. • City Manager Fleming asked what the RTD reps have heard and what they would put in their recommendation. RTD General Manager Washington stated they have heard about the segment, the permanent alignment, a commitment in the way of an IGA. They will take those items into account when preparing their recommendation. They want to put the actual language in the ballot, which would be much stronger than an IGA. He has been the RTD General Manager for 2.5 years and wants to build and complete this project, but never envisioned dealing with the BNSF. They want to form a staff recommendation based on the public input. Deputy City Manager Balser addressed the 2004 Plan and the risks involved and the voters supported those risks. She asked if RTD has shut off negotiations with BNSF. She asked if RTD can move forward and win a vote without consensus from the corridor. She stressed time is necessary to build this system and deliver what was promised in 2004. General Manager Washington explained there are new dynamics in commuter rail and railways. New federal regulations, unfunded mandates, have impacted rail and railway and escalated the cost. RTD is trying to navigate the challenges of new federal regulations. RTD Board Member Tayer represents all of Louisville. He thanked the RTD Staff for raising the issues for discussion, which are the significant cost to complete • the FasTracks Project. He thanked Council for their discussion.