The document summarizes the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Lynx Blue Line Extension project in Charlotte, North Carolina. The EIS evaluated building a 9.4 mile light rail extension from Center City Charlotte to UNC Charlotte. The extension would include 11 stations and modifications to an existing rail facility. The EIS found some impacts on neighborhoods, parks, and natural resources but identified mitigation strategies. It considered alternatives and received public input prior to selecting the preferred route.
Georgia Traffic Mega Projects December 2019Steven Simms
A summary of mega-transportation & transit projects that could make big improvements to Atlanta's traffic. Plus, a deeper dive into using elevated gondolas as a mass transit solution in Atlanta.
The document summarizes mapping projects in the Jade District of Portland related to climate resiliency and increasing access to affordable housing, parks, and transportation infrastructure. It identifies vacant lots that could enable affordable housing and documents transportation improvement plans. The maps help align local goals with the city's climate action plan and identify priority areas for projects involving affordable housing development, expanding parks access, and improving multi-modal transportation options.
Finch MSF EA Consultation July 7, 2014 - MSF specificCrosstown TO
This document summarizes an open house held on July 9, 2014 to discuss the environmental assessment for a proposed maintenance and storage facility for the Finch West Light Rail Transit project. It provides background on the project and facility, describes the site selection process and preferred site, and outlines the environmental assessment process and factors to be considered, including existing conditions at the site. Public comments were sought on the project to help inform further design.
Title: Taking Pedestrian and Bicycle Counting Programs to the Next Level
Track: Connect
Format: 90 minute panel
Abstract: Panelists will provide practical guidance for pedestrian and bicycle counting programs based on findings from NCHRP Project 07-19, "Methods and Technologies for Collecting Pedestrian and Bicycle Volume Data."
Presenters:
Presenter: Robert Schneider University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Co-Presenter: RJ Eldridge Toole Design Group, LLC
Co-Presenter: Conor Semler Kittelson & Associates, Inc.
Finch MSF EA Consultation July 7, 2014Crosstown TO
The document summarizes plans for the Finch West Light Rail Transit (LRT) Project in Toronto. Metrolinx will deliver the $1 billion project to replace overcrowded bus service on Finch Avenue with an 11 km LRT line serving 18 stops between Finch West Subway Station and Humber College. Construction will take place from 2016-2020, with service beginning in 2020. The LRT is expected to carry over 42,000 passengers per day and provide a faster, more reliable alternative to the busy bus route along Finch Avenue.
Comprehensive Parking Master Plan Presentation (April 2015)larsonn
The document presents a comprehensive parking master plan for a university. Key issues include deteriorating parking lots, lack of long-term maintenance and capital plans, unclear finances and rates. The plan proposes forming advisory committees to address capital needs and finances. It recommends paving gravel lots, improving the transportation center, and establishing a long-term maintenance plan. A financial plan is proposed to fund improvements through special permit fees and rates while keeping general increases modest and predictable. Risks include construction cost variability and operating costs increasing more than assumed.
The document discusses the current methodology used in Chile to evaluate bicycle infrastructure projects. It identifies several limitations of the current approach, including that it only considers current bicycle traffic rather than potential induced demand, and that some indicators like accident rates are not standardized appropriately. It also outlines a number of important social and economic benefits of bicycle infrastructure that are not adequately captured by the existing methodology, such as health savings from increased physical activity, reduced absenteeism and productivity gains, and lower external costs from private motorized transportation. A new approach is needed that incorporates more indicators of potential demand and a wider range of monetary and non-monetary benefits to fully evaluate the impacts of bicycle infrastructure investments.
East Open House - East At-Grade (Pharmacy - Ionview Stops) to Kennedy Station...Crosstown TO
Metrolinx was created in 2006 to improve transportation coordination across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA). Metrolinx has invested over $30 billion in new transit infrastructure projects according to its Regional Transportation Plan, including new light rail, bus rapid transit, and GO Transit expansion projects. One such project is the Eglinton Crosstown LRT, which will include 25 underground and surface stations along a 19km route, connecting to other transit lines and improving transportation across the busy Eglinton corridor.
Georgia Traffic Mega Projects December 2019Steven Simms
A summary of mega-transportation & transit projects that could make big improvements to Atlanta's traffic. Plus, a deeper dive into using elevated gondolas as a mass transit solution in Atlanta.
The document summarizes mapping projects in the Jade District of Portland related to climate resiliency and increasing access to affordable housing, parks, and transportation infrastructure. It identifies vacant lots that could enable affordable housing and documents transportation improvement plans. The maps help align local goals with the city's climate action plan and identify priority areas for projects involving affordable housing development, expanding parks access, and improving multi-modal transportation options.
Finch MSF EA Consultation July 7, 2014 - MSF specificCrosstown TO
This document summarizes an open house held on July 9, 2014 to discuss the environmental assessment for a proposed maintenance and storage facility for the Finch West Light Rail Transit project. It provides background on the project and facility, describes the site selection process and preferred site, and outlines the environmental assessment process and factors to be considered, including existing conditions at the site. Public comments were sought on the project to help inform further design.
Title: Taking Pedestrian and Bicycle Counting Programs to the Next Level
Track: Connect
Format: 90 minute panel
Abstract: Panelists will provide practical guidance for pedestrian and bicycle counting programs based on findings from NCHRP Project 07-19, "Methods and Technologies for Collecting Pedestrian and Bicycle Volume Data."
Presenters:
Presenter: Robert Schneider University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Co-Presenter: RJ Eldridge Toole Design Group, LLC
Co-Presenter: Conor Semler Kittelson & Associates, Inc.
Finch MSF EA Consultation July 7, 2014Crosstown TO
The document summarizes plans for the Finch West Light Rail Transit (LRT) Project in Toronto. Metrolinx will deliver the $1 billion project to replace overcrowded bus service on Finch Avenue with an 11 km LRT line serving 18 stops between Finch West Subway Station and Humber College. Construction will take place from 2016-2020, with service beginning in 2020. The LRT is expected to carry over 42,000 passengers per day and provide a faster, more reliable alternative to the busy bus route along Finch Avenue.
Comprehensive Parking Master Plan Presentation (April 2015)larsonn
The document presents a comprehensive parking master plan for a university. Key issues include deteriorating parking lots, lack of long-term maintenance and capital plans, unclear finances and rates. The plan proposes forming advisory committees to address capital needs and finances. It recommends paving gravel lots, improving the transportation center, and establishing a long-term maintenance plan. A financial plan is proposed to fund improvements through special permit fees and rates while keeping general increases modest and predictable. Risks include construction cost variability and operating costs increasing more than assumed.
The document discusses the current methodology used in Chile to evaluate bicycle infrastructure projects. It identifies several limitations of the current approach, including that it only considers current bicycle traffic rather than potential induced demand, and that some indicators like accident rates are not standardized appropriately. It also outlines a number of important social and economic benefits of bicycle infrastructure that are not adequately captured by the existing methodology, such as health savings from increased physical activity, reduced absenteeism and productivity gains, and lower external costs from private motorized transportation. A new approach is needed that incorporates more indicators of potential demand and a wider range of monetary and non-monetary benefits to fully evaluate the impacts of bicycle infrastructure investments.
East Open House - East At-Grade (Pharmacy - Ionview Stops) to Kennedy Station...Crosstown TO
Metrolinx was created in 2006 to improve transportation coordination across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA). Metrolinx has invested over $30 billion in new transit infrastructure projects according to its Regional Transportation Plan, including new light rail, bus rapid transit, and GO Transit expansion projects. One such project is the Eglinton Crosstown LRT, which will include 25 underground and surface stations along a 19km route, connecting to other transit lines and improving transportation across the busy Eglinton corridor.
The Purple Line light rail expansion in Houston has moved forward, providing benefits to the community. The 6.6 mile, 10 station line will connect major activity centers like universities and medical centers while alleviating traffic congestion. It faces challenges like minimizing utility disruption along the congested corridor. Features include sleek rail vehicles, contemporary stations featuring local art, and stops near sports stadiums. The line will improve transit access and support development, helping address longstanding flooding issues.
PES in Thailand CIFOR orapan_radda presentation_nov2014Radda Larpnun
This document summarizes the legal and policy framework for payment for ecosystem services (PES) in Thailand. It outlines several ongoing PES projects in the country focused on wildlife conservation, forest conservation, and PES-like programs. It then discusses elements of PES projects, including service providers, beneficiaries, agreements/contracts, and the need for transparency, additionality, conditionality, and voluntariness. The document also reviews the 20 steps involved in designing and implementing PES projects and notes legal aspects, as the existing legal framework in Thailand does not directly address PES and many projects are located on public lands.
Creating a Safer System Through State Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Campaigns
Hear about approaches used by North Carolina and Florida to develop, launch, and evaluate combined education and enforcement campaigns aimed at reducing pedestrian and bicyclists injuries and deaths.
Presenters:
Presenter: Laura Sandt Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center
Co-Presenter: Lauren Blackburn North Carolina DOT
Co-Presenter: Lucas Cruse University of South Florida, Center for Urban Transportation Research
Co-Presenter: Billy Hattaway Florida DOT
Electric vehicles (EVs) provide environmental benefits by reducing emissions even when powered by coal-based electricity. EVs also offer lower fuel and maintenance costs compared to gas vehicles. Massachusetts currently has hundreds of EV charging stations and provides incentives for purchasing EVs and installing chargers. Upcoming events will give people test drives to experience EVs firsthand and help more drivers switch to these cleaner vehicles.
This document is a dissertation submitted for a Masters in Business Administration in Infrastructure Management. It discusses the feasibility of implementing a Straddling Bus smart transportation system in Visakhapatnam, India. It first provides background on Visakhapatnam's climate and current transportation infrastructure, which includes roads, railways, a planned metro rail, and airports/seaports. The objective is then stated as assessing the feasibility of a Straddling Bus system. Literature on conventional and sustainable urban transportation planning is reviewed. Statistics on Visakhapatnam's population, transportation usage, and infrastructure are analyzed. Finally, key implementation steps for the Straddling Bus system are outlined, including remodelling roads, providing power to buses
The document proposes expanding bus transportation options along the 10-mile US-12 corridor between Ypsilanti and Saline to address a lack of public transit. A student team analyzed potential bus routes and recommends the Ypsilanti Transit Center to St. Joseph route based on higher scores from an Analytic Hierarchy Process analysis weighing criteria like accessibility, mobility, and cost. The team also recommends an off-road bike path along US-12 and collaborating with other organizations to enhance connectivity, transportation options, and livability.
The City of Hutto, Texas is holding a bond election on November 3, 2009 to fund various city improvement projects. The bond committee reviewed long-range plans and survey results to develop four bond propositions totaling $22.5 million for street improvements, parks/recreation facilities, a sports complex, and a joint city/YMCA recreation center. If approved, the bonds would require an estimated $0.19 increase to the interest and sinking tax rate over 5 years for debt repayment.
This document summarizes Public Workshop #2 that was held in October 2010 to discuss corridor design for a new transportation project. The meeting agenda covered why the project was needed due to expected population growth and congestion. It discussed corridor alignment and streetscape goals, including improving mobility while minimizing environmental impacts. The document provided an overview of roadway design basics like horizontal and vertical alignment, cross-sections, and intersections. It also reviewed opportunities and constraints identified through stakeholder interviews and existing conditions reports. Attendees were asked to provide feedback on potential new corridor alignments using a roadway design tool.
The document discusses potential options for controlling combined sewer overflows (CSOs) on the Ottawa River, including storage/treatment facilities and sewer separation. Storage/treatment alternatives under consideration include concrete tanks and tunnels. Potential sites for these facilities near the river are being evaluated. Input is sought from the public on issues of concern and how to effectively present options. Evaluation of alternatives will consider regulatory requirements, technical feasibility, costs, and community impacts and benefits. A public meeting is planned to gather initial feedback.
On January 9, 2014, Central West Focus Area Steering Committee chair Michael Parker gave an update on the Central West plan approved by Chapel Hill Town Council.
VDOT: Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Transportation Committee: Dec. 13, ...Fairfax County
Virginia was selected to receive a $165 million federal grant to improve more than 50 miles of the I-95/I-395 corridor from Fredericksburg to the Pentagon. The improvements include extending I-95/I-395 express lanes north and south, improving commuter rail service, constructing additional rail tracks, and increasing the capacity of general purpose lanes. Public comments expressed both support and opposition for aspects of the project such as new noise walls and toll rates.
Note: This presentation uses custom animation, and so to correctly view it and read text on most slides, you will need to download it.
This is the final presentation of my senior design capstone project, delivered to a public audience and a board of reviewing engineers. Slides 1-6, and 55-58 were designed by me, with the remaining slides designed by the other members of our team of six. The movie on the final slide was also my responsibility, as was the Google SketchUp rendering used to create it. As project manager of the team, I had the final approval of each of the slides that went into the presentation.
The document summarizes a public open house meeting for a transit study evaluating options to improve transit between Amherst and Buffalo, New York. It discusses the study process and screening of alternatives through three tiers. In Tier 2 screening, light rail and bus rapid transit alternatives were evaluated on criteria like ridership, environmental impacts, and engineering needs. Based on this, one light rail and three bus rapid transit alternatives were proposed to advance to more detailed Tier 3 analysis to identify a preferred alternative. Community feedback on the proposals was solicited. The schedule for completing Tier 3 analysis and selecting a preferred option was also outlined.
This document summarizes a public open house meeting for a transit study between Amherst and Buffalo, New York. It presented the study process, alternatives being considered, and results of screening so far. Light rail transit and bus rapid transit alternatives on Niagara Falls Boulevard and Bailey Avenue were identified to advance to further analysis in the next phase of the study. The meeting provided information on the alternatives and sought public input to help identify a locally preferred alternative for the corridor by fall 2015.
The document provides an overview of the Save the Rain program in Onondaga County, New York, which aims to comply with an Amended Consent Judgment to reduce combined sewer overflows (CSOs) into Onondaga Lake. The program uses both gray infrastructure like storage tunnels and tanks, as well as green infrastructure like porous pavements, bioretention areas, and green roofs. It has already completed several gray and green projects, and aims to capture 95% of CSO volume by 2018 through continued implementation of green and gray infrastructure projects across the county.
The document summarizes discussions from a community advisory committee meeting about options to address combined sewer overflows (CSOs) in local rivers. It provides an overview of various CSO control alternatives including storage/treatment facilities, sewer separation, and flow reduction. Committee members expressed concerns about untreated overflows and preferred using vacant properties for controls. The project team is further evaluating technical and cost aspects of alternatives and seeking public input.
The document summarizes Charlotte's efforts to implement sustainable transportation networks through urban street design guidelines (USDG) and increased connectivity. It describes Charlotte's growth, centers and corridors strategy, the USDG approach and philosophy, challenges overcome through public outreach and addressing developers' concerns about costs, environment and adoption. Comparisons of fire station service areas show higher connectivity ratios increase service area sizes and distribute fixed costs, improving efficiency. The USDG continue being implemented through plans, projects and reviews, with monitoring of ongoing applications and public code reviews likely raising similar questions about costs and value.
Melksham area board powerpoint 2 Feb 2011 Abbi Gutierrez
The document summarizes plans for a proposed community campus in Melksham, Wiltshire that would consolidate various local services into one centralized location. Key details include:
- The campus would provide leisure facilities, a library, registrar services, meeting spaces, and potentially health services.
- An analysis identified land near Melksham Oak School as the preferred site due to its cost, deliverability, and proximity to housing growth.
- Public consultation on the proposed campus and services will take place through February and March to gather feedback.
The document summarizes a city council workshop presentation on Oak Harbor's wastewater treatment facilities plan. It provides an overview of the project schedule and evaluation process for identifying preliminary alternatives. Thirteen initial alternatives were developed combining two treatment process options, eight potential plant sites, and three outfall locations. The alternatives were evaluated using a triple bottom line plus analysis considering financial, social, environmental, and technical criteria. Based on this, six alternatives were within 10% cost of the lowest option. Four sites - Windjammer Park, Marina, Old City Shops, and Beachview Farm - were proposed for further evaluation to identify the preferred alternative and site.
The Purple Line light rail expansion in Houston has moved forward, providing benefits to the community. The 6.6 mile, 10 station line will connect major activity centers like universities and medical centers while alleviating traffic congestion. It faces challenges like minimizing utility disruption along the congested corridor. Features include sleek rail vehicles, contemporary stations featuring local art, and stops near sports stadiums. The line will improve transit access and support development, helping address longstanding flooding issues.
PES in Thailand CIFOR orapan_radda presentation_nov2014Radda Larpnun
This document summarizes the legal and policy framework for payment for ecosystem services (PES) in Thailand. It outlines several ongoing PES projects in the country focused on wildlife conservation, forest conservation, and PES-like programs. It then discusses elements of PES projects, including service providers, beneficiaries, agreements/contracts, and the need for transparency, additionality, conditionality, and voluntariness. The document also reviews the 20 steps involved in designing and implementing PES projects and notes legal aspects, as the existing legal framework in Thailand does not directly address PES and many projects are located on public lands.
Creating a Safer System Through State Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Campaigns
Hear about approaches used by North Carolina and Florida to develop, launch, and evaluate combined education and enforcement campaigns aimed at reducing pedestrian and bicyclists injuries and deaths.
Presenters:
Presenter: Laura Sandt Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center
Co-Presenter: Lauren Blackburn North Carolina DOT
Co-Presenter: Lucas Cruse University of South Florida, Center for Urban Transportation Research
Co-Presenter: Billy Hattaway Florida DOT
Electric vehicles (EVs) provide environmental benefits by reducing emissions even when powered by coal-based electricity. EVs also offer lower fuel and maintenance costs compared to gas vehicles. Massachusetts currently has hundreds of EV charging stations and provides incentives for purchasing EVs and installing chargers. Upcoming events will give people test drives to experience EVs firsthand and help more drivers switch to these cleaner vehicles.
This document is a dissertation submitted for a Masters in Business Administration in Infrastructure Management. It discusses the feasibility of implementing a Straddling Bus smart transportation system in Visakhapatnam, India. It first provides background on Visakhapatnam's climate and current transportation infrastructure, which includes roads, railways, a planned metro rail, and airports/seaports. The objective is then stated as assessing the feasibility of a Straddling Bus system. Literature on conventional and sustainable urban transportation planning is reviewed. Statistics on Visakhapatnam's population, transportation usage, and infrastructure are analyzed. Finally, key implementation steps for the Straddling Bus system are outlined, including remodelling roads, providing power to buses
The document proposes expanding bus transportation options along the 10-mile US-12 corridor between Ypsilanti and Saline to address a lack of public transit. A student team analyzed potential bus routes and recommends the Ypsilanti Transit Center to St. Joseph route based on higher scores from an Analytic Hierarchy Process analysis weighing criteria like accessibility, mobility, and cost. The team also recommends an off-road bike path along US-12 and collaborating with other organizations to enhance connectivity, transportation options, and livability.
The City of Hutto, Texas is holding a bond election on November 3, 2009 to fund various city improvement projects. The bond committee reviewed long-range plans and survey results to develop four bond propositions totaling $22.5 million for street improvements, parks/recreation facilities, a sports complex, and a joint city/YMCA recreation center. If approved, the bonds would require an estimated $0.19 increase to the interest and sinking tax rate over 5 years for debt repayment.
This document summarizes Public Workshop #2 that was held in October 2010 to discuss corridor design for a new transportation project. The meeting agenda covered why the project was needed due to expected population growth and congestion. It discussed corridor alignment and streetscape goals, including improving mobility while minimizing environmental impacts. The document provided an overview of roadway design basics like horizontal and vertical alignment, cross-sections, and intersections. It also reviewed opportunities and constraints identified through stakeholder interviews and existing conditions reports. Attendees were asked to provide feedback on potential new corridor alignments using a roadway design tool.
The document discusses potential options for controlling combined sewer overflows (CSOs) on the Ottawa River, including storage/treatment facilities and sewer separation. Storage/treatment alternatives under consideration include concrete tanks and tunnels. Potential sites for these facilities near the river are being evaluated. Input is sought from the public on issues of concern and how to effectively present options. Evaluation of alternatives will consider regulatory requirements, technical feasibility, costs, and community impacts and benefits. A public meeting is planned to gather initial feedback.
On January 9, 2014, Central West Focus Area Steering Committee chair Michael Parker gave an update on the Central West plan approved by Chapel Hill Town Council.
VDOT: Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Transportation Committee: Dec. 13, ...Fairfax County
Virginia was selected to receive a $165 million federal grant to improve more than 50 miles of the I-95/I-395 corridor from Fredericksburg to the Pentagon. The improvements include extending I-95/I-395 express lanes north and south, improving commuter rail service, constructing additional rail tracks, and increasing the capacity of general purpose lanes. Public comments expressed both support and opposition for aspects of the project such as new noise walls and toll rates.
Note: This presentation uses custom animation, and so to correctly view it and read text on most slides, you will need to download it.
This is the final presentation of my senior design capstone project, delivered to a public audience and a board of reviewing engineers. Slides 1-6, and 55-58 were designed by me, with the remaining slides designed by the other members of our team of six. The movie on the final slide was also my responsibility, as was the Google SketchUp rendering used to create it. As project manager of the team, I had the final approval of each of the slides that went into the presentation.
The document summarizes a public open house meeting for a transit study evaluating options to improve transit between Amherst and Buffalo, New York. It discusses the study process and screening of alternatives through three tiers. In Tier 2 screening, light rail and bus rapid transit alternatives were evaluated on criteria like ridership, environmental impacts, and engineering needs. Based on this, one light rail and three bus rapid transit alternatives were proposed to advance to more detailed Tier 3 analysis to identify a preferred alternative. Community feedback on the proposals was solicited. The schedule for completing Tier 3 analysis and selecting a preferred option was also outlined.
This document summarizes a public open house meeting for a transit study between Amherst and Buffalo, New York. It presented the study process, alternatives being considered, and results of screening so far. Light rail transit and bus rapid transit alternatives on Niagara Falls Boulevard and Bailey Avenue were identified to advance to further analysis in the next phase of the study. The meeting provided information on the alternatives and sought public input to help identify a locally preferred alternative for the corridor by fall 2015.
The document provides an overview of the Save the Rain program in Onondaga County, New York, which aims to comply with an Amended Consent Judgment to reduce combined sewer overflows (CSOs) into Onondaga Lake. The program uses both gray infrastructure like storage tunnels and tanks, as well as green infrastructure like porous pavements, bioretention areas, and green roofs. It has already completed several gray and green projects, and aims to capture 95% of CSO volume by 2018 through continued implementation of green and gray infrastructure projects across the county.
The document summarizes discussions from a community advisory committee meeting about options to address combined sewer overflows (CSOs) in local rivers. It provides an overview of various CSO control alternatives including storage/treatment facilities, sewer separation, and flow reduction. Committee members expressed concerns about untreated overflows and preferred using vacant properties for controls. The project team is further evaluating technical and cost aspects of alternatives and seeking public input.
The document summarizes Charlotte's efforts to implement sustainable transportation networks through urban street design guidelines (USDG) and increased connectivity. It describes Charlotte's growth, centers and corridors strategy, the USDG approach and philosophy, challenges overcome through public outreach and addressing developers' concerns about costs, environment and adoption. Comparisons of fire station service areas show higher connectivity ratios increase service area sizes and distribute fixed costs, improving efficiency. The USDG continue being implemented through plans, projects and reviews, with monitoring of ongoing applications and public code reviews likely raising similar questions about costs and value.
Melksham area board powerpoint 2 Feb 2011 Abbi Gutierrez
The document summarizes plans for a proposed community campus in Melksham, Wiltshire that would consolidate various local services into one centralized location. Key details include:
- The campus would provide leisure facilities, a library, registrar services, meeting spaces, and potentially health services.
- An analysis identified land near Melksham Oak School as the preferred site due to its cost, deliverability, and proximity to housing growth.
- Public consultation on the proposed campus and services will take place through February and March to gather feedback.
The document summarizes a city council workshop presentation on Oak Harbor's wastewater treatment facilities plan. It provides an overview of the project schedule and evaluation process for identifying preliminary alternatives. Thirteen initial alternatives were developed combining two treatment process options, eight potential plant sites, and three outfall locations. The alternatives were evaluated using a triple bottom line plus analysis considering financial, social, environmental, and technical criteria. Based on this, six alternatives were within 10% cost of the lowest option. Four sites - Windjammer Park, Marina, Old City Shops, and Beachview Farm - were proposed for further evaluation to identify the preferred alternative and site.
This document summarizes Oak Harbor's facilities plan update, which evaluated alternatives for upgrading the city's wastewater treatment plant and outfall. It discusses refinements to the project schedule and evaluation of 5 potential sites. Based on technical analysis and public input, it recommends further evaluation of the Crescent Harbor, Old City Shops, and Windjammer Park sites using a membrane bioreactor process with the preferred outfall location in Oak Harbor. The next steps are a public forum in August and seeking City Council approval in September to narrow the alternatives to 3 sites for final selection by early 2012.
Michigan Energy Forum - November 7, 2013 - Balancing Energy and Environmental...AnnArborSPARK
This document summarizes a presentation given at the Michigan Energy Forum on balancing energy and environmental demands when developing new energy facilities. It discusses the need to consider energy systems holistically and analyze alternatives while accounting for reliability, costs, and impacts. Renewables offer sustainability benefits but also require environmental review during siting. A balanced, diverse energy portfolio is ideal, incorporating natural gas, renewables, and alternatives like advanced coal with carbon capture or nuclear. Public involvement is important in developing solutions.
Modern Roundabouts: Safety & Mobility Wrapped in a Pretty PackageOHM Advisors
http://www.ohm-advisors.com - Mad about Modern Roundabouts: Coupling Safety and Mobility. This presentation delivers a primer on roundabouts, the differences between roundabouts, traffic circles and rotaries, and the important rules of roundabouts.
Alan Jones, TDOT Long Range Planning Division Policy Office, presents an update on air quality trends and conditions in Middle Tennessee and an overview of the Congestion Mitigation Air Quality (CMAQ) program being administered by TDOT.
This document discusses the case for lowering speed limits to improve road safety. It presents evidence that lowering speed limits is associated with reductions in crashes and deaths. Strict compliance with speed limits could reduce traffic fatalities by almost 50%. Lower speed limits also provide environmental, neighborhood amenity, and economic benefits. Studies show cities with lower residential speed limits of 40-50 km/h experience significantly fewer crashes. The document advocates setting limits based on human tolerance for injury rather than just infrastructure design.
An engineering firm evaluated three site alternatives for developing a dental office on a 3.5-acre parcel. Alternative 1 placed the building in the southeast corner with two driveways and 78 parking spots. Alternative 2 placed the building in the center-west with two one-way driveways and 73 spots. Alternative 3 placed the building in the northwest corner with two two-way driveways and 86 spots. The alternatives were ranked based on cost, accessibility/flow, and environmental criteria. Alternative 1 was recommended as the best option due to its high accessibility, substantial landscaping, and relatively low cost.
Infographic : What's Your Go-To Transit AccessoryMeghan Makoid
Infographic : What's Your Go-To Transit Accessory
#TransitThursday riders contributed their favorite accessory to use while riding transit. Responses are grouped by male and female response.
Infographic : Automobile vs. Light RailMeghan Makoid
Infographic : Automobile vs. Light Rail
This infographic was developed using the information from the LYNX Blue Line Extension Final EIS. This was just a test to see which types of graphics were most receptive. Some of the data included in the infographic may now be out-of-date.
This document provides an overview and update on the Lynx Blue Line Extension Transit Station Area Plan. It discusses the background and policy context for the plan. The Blue Line Extension will be a 9.3 mile light rail project serving 11 stations. Station Area Plans are being developed for 6 stations to provide a framework for future growth, development, land use, and community design recommendations. The plans identify public and private investments needed and a shared vision for each station area. A process of data collection, public workshops, and adoption will be used to develop the plans.
This document provides an overview of working as a NEPA practitioner. It discusses backgrounds useful for becoming a NEPA practitioner, such as planning, environmental science, and engineering. It also discusses options for working at a public agency or private consulting firm, and tips for finding NEPA jobs. The document gives advice for networking, managing expectations as a new practitioner, and using tools like social media in the NEPA process.
14. Environmental Benefits Environmental Benefit Area Impact Land Use Supports Center, Corridors and Wedges Growth Framework Air Quality Included in conforming TIP and region’s LRTP for air quality conformity Reduces Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) = reduces regional emissions Energy Reduces VMT = reduces vehicle energy consumption Jobs and Economic Development Creates jobs from construction and operation of light rail Potential for transit oriented development Neighborhoods Improved access to transit
15. Natural & Water Resources Impact Area Impacts Impacts to forests 10.48 acres (clearing for one park and ride facilities and UNC Charlotte alignment) Impacts to protected species No impact to protected species. Impact on 1 Federal Species of Concern / State Listed Species: Carolina Birdsfoot Trefoil Impacts to groundwater None Impacts to streams 3,304 linear feet Impacts to floodplains and floodways 0.2 acre in FEMA floodway 0.24 acre in Community Encroachment Area 2.18 in Community Floodplain Impacts to wetlands 0.462 acres
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17. Historic Resources Resource Light Rail Alternative Section 4(f)* 1. Philip Carey Company Warehouse No Effect n/a 2. McNeil Paper Company Warehouse Complex No Effect n/a 3. Orient Manufacturing Company/Chadwick Hoskins No. 3 No Adverse Effect de minimis impact 4. Chadbourn Hosiery Mills No Effect n/a 5. North Charlotte Historic District No Adverse Effect de minimis impact 6. Herrin Brothers Coal and Ice Company Complex No Adverse Effect de minimis impact 7. Standard Chemical Products Plant No Adverse Effect de minimis impact 8. Republic Steel Corporation Plant No Effect n/a 9. General Motors Training Center No Adverse Effect de minimis impact
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Editor's Notes
Introductions Final EIS and Alternatives Findings and the proposed mitigation measures Next steps, How to comment Open House, review the exhibits around the room and talk directly with City staff members and CATS’ consultants directly
The LYNX BLE Draft EIS is required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 otherwise known as NEPA. NEPA mandates that Environmental Impact Statements be prepared for major federally-funded projects. The EIS discloses the impacts of the proposed project, responds to comments on the Draft EIS & describes planned mitigation. The document is designed to improve decision making, as it Requires governmental agency coordination And public participation
Improved transit travel times -Compared to automobile travel times, the Preferred Alternative would result in approximately 12 minutes of travel time savings from UNC Charlotte to Center City Charlotte. (37 minutes in the automobile as compared to 19 minutes on the light rail) Reliable and safe transit service Exclusive alignment Signal pre-emption Avoids delay due to congestion, traffic signals, and accidents Transit ridership 51,500 daily riders light rail Blue Line and Blue Line Extension by 2035 (24,800 on BLE alone) Special events – additional 900,447 annual riders
Although the LYNX BLE Final EIS evaluated two alternatives, the Final EIS recommends the adopted NEPA Preferred Alternative: The No-Build Alternative The Preferred Alternative Following the circulation of the Draft EIS and the MTC’s approval of the revised Locally Preferred Alternative, a NEPA Preferred Alternative was adopted by the MTC. The NEPA Preferred Alternative is that which causes the lease damage to the biological and physical environment, while best protecting, preserving and enhancing historic, cultural and natural resources. The Preferred Alternative is the light rail alignment that would begin in Center City Charlotte at the terminus of the CATS LYNX Blue Line light rail near 7 th Street and extend 9.4 miles northeast to UNC Charlotte. The Preferred Alternative would begin in Center City Charlotte at the terminus of the CATS LYNX Blue Line light rail near 7 th Street and extend 9.4 miles northeast to UNC Charlotte. The proposed Light Rail Alternative would include bus services to support and supplement the light rail system. The trackway would be configured with two tracks, one for northbound service and one for southbound service. The proposed project would generally exist within either existing railroad or roadway right-of-way. Some portions would be elevated up and over existing freight tracks, roads or other geographic constraints. In one location, the tracks would be depressed under an existing road.
The Preferred Alternative would have 11 stations (7 walk-up and 4 park-and-ride) And would also include bus service to support Light Rail Stations features would include: Security features, such as Closed Circuit TV cameras Passenger assistance phones Blue Light emergency phones
It was determined that improvements could be made to the existing South Boulevard Light Rail Facility to provide additional capacity to perform vehicle maintenance for the Preferred Alternative The Preferred Alternative will modify the existing SBLRF site It will also include a storage yard and dispatch facility at the existing Norfolk Southern Intermodal Facility. As a separate project, Norfolk Southern plans to relocate the existing intermodal facility to the Charlotte-Douglas International Airport.
The Preferred Alternative would also include ancillary facilities, such as electric substations and signal control houses. TPSS -Provides electricity for light rail vehicles -Seven TPSS are planned along the alignment, approximately 1 mile apart Signal Control House Contains signaling control system, circuits and equipment for safe vehicle operation. Seven signal houses are planned; the distance varies related to the location of the crossover tracks (range: 800 ft minimum, 16,000 ft maximum)
*The median openings at Reagan Drive/Kemp Street and at Stetson Drive are eliminated with the Weave reconstruction project.
Proposed 147’ ROW plus additional for turn lanes and stations The typical section would include: Two 11’ travel lanes for northbound and southbound directions 11’ turn lanes at intersections - Two light rail tracks within median - 5’ bicycle lanes - 2’6” curb and gutters on both sides - 8’ planting strip - 6’ – 8’ sidewalks on both sides Between Old Concord Road and the “weave”, asymmetrical widening to the west Six-lane typical section, with turn lanes is proposed in the area of University City Blvd. station (due to additional parking needs/increased traffic at UCB due to new terminus at UNC Charlotte) North of the “weave”, symmetrical widening Additional widening of 10’ – 20’ for left/right turn lanes at signalized intersections
In addition to the transportation benefits and impacts, the Final EIS covers 17 environmental impact areas Tonight, I’ll highlight a few areas of significant impacts on the community
In addition to improving access and mobility, increasing transit ridership, improving the quality of transportation service, the Preferred Alternative would result in the following environmental benefits: Land Use – The proposed project supports the adopted land use plans, including Center Corridors and Wedges Growth Framework and the 2025 Integrated Transit/Land Use Plan. Air Quality – The proposed project: Is included in the current conforming Transportation Improvement Program Long Range Transportation Plan for air quality conformity Would result in an overall reduction of 75 million vehicle miles traveled per year. Would *not* result in the creation of CO hot spots Energy – The preferred Alternative would save energy through a reduction in vehicle miles traveled over the No-Build Alternative. Jobs and Economic Development – the Preferred Alternative would result in: Nearly 8,00 new jobs as a result of the money infused into the local economy from the capital expenditures. An addition of 109 CATS rail operations or maintenance jobs. Neighborhoods – Communities near the proposed stations would be expected to benefit from improved access to many businesses and residential uses in the vicinity. Stations would also be expected to serve as a focal point to reinforce the community character, especially in areas that are currently undergoing rapid development intensity changes, such as the North Charlotte Historic District (i.e. “NoDa”).
Forests Trees & Landscaping will replace vegetation loss Park-and-ride lots will comply with the Charlotte Tree Ordinance Protected Species No mitigation required. For birdsfoot trefoil, contractor will confirm presence prior to construction. If present, seeds will be collected & scattered along road/rail embankments seeds will also be donated to NC Botanical Garden Impacts to Groundwater Although no impacts anticipated, CATS and/or UNC Charlotte will complete the abandonment/closure process to seal well within proposed alignment on UNC Charlotte campus Impacts to Surface Waters Design will continue to minimize impacts to streams, including: relocation of channels using natural channel design; preservation of stream banks at proposed bridge crossings; Compensatory mitigation through Charlotte Umbrella Stream and Wetland Mitigation bank will be used when impacts are unavoidable as required by Clean Water Act and determined by USACE & NCDWQ Impacts to Floodplains and Floodways Bridge design will continue to minimize impacts to floodplains/floodways. Continued coordination with Charlotte and Mecklenburg County Stormwater Services Impacts to Wetlands Additional efforts to avoid/minimize impacts to wetlands will continue with design, including: Steepening fill slopes where practicable; Use of retaining walls or similar structures; locating construction staging and access areas away from wetlands; and, demarcating preserved wetland areas prior to construction. Compensatory mitigation through Charlotte Umbrella Stream and Wetland Mitigation bank will be used when impacts are unavoidable as required by Clean Water Act and determined by USACE & NCDWQ
SHPO Determination of Eligibility – 9 properties listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places FTA and CATS have undertaken consultation with other interested parties, including SHPO and the general public pursuant to Section 106. FTA and CATS have also consulted with the SHPO and the public regarding the Section 4(f) De Minimis Finding; no comments from the public. FTA will make a final determiniation of a de minimis finding as part of the Record of Decision for (Orient, North Charlotte, Herrin Brothers, Standard Chemical and General Motors) SHPO Determination of Effects – No Effect or No Adverse Effect Proposed Section 4(f) de minimis impacts – based on minor land acquisitions and No Adverse Effect determination by SHPO
It is anticipated that the Preferred Alternative would have a positive impact for several park and recreation facilities. The proximity of several proposed stations to existing park and recreation facilities would provide enhanced access, specifically for pedestrians or bicyclists, to these facilities. The Preferred Alternative would result in a potential impact to the Toby Creek Greenway. Potential impacts to this facility and would result from crossing the greenway and visual intrusions. All other park and recreation facilities would not be negatively impacted by the proposed project. -FTA and CATS informed MCPR, the local agency with jurisdiction over the resources, of their intent to propose de minimis findings for the Toby Creek Greenway. In addition, FTA solicited public review/input on this finding as part of the Draft EIS. FTA has determined that a de minimis finding for impacts to Toby Creek Greenway is appropriate. Mitigation for Toby Creek Greenway Vegetative screens will be maintained to the extent practicable, and where existing vegetation must be removed, landscaping will be planted where the ROW width would allow. CATS will coordinate with MCPR to ensure that the bridge would not conflict with the Toby Creek Greenway. CATS will coordinate with MCPR to minimize impact to the Toby Creek Greenway during construction of the Preferred Alternative. It is anticipated that CATS will have to temporarily close a portion of the greenway during construction of the Preferred Alternative; an alternative route will be provided and attempts will be made to coordinate closure during the period of the least activity (such as the winter holiday when students and facility are absent). CATS will notify MCPR 48 hours in advance of temporary closure of greenway due to construction.
The evaluation of visual impacts includes: Understanding the visual context, the existing visual character and quality Identifying visually sensitive resources, such as historic resources, parks and visual resources identified by stakeholders Visual impacts occur when: Altering view and/or Adding an element that is out of scale or character The project is adding some new visual elements (catenary, bridges, substations, etc), but for the areas of the project in an existing railroad corridor and along N. Tryon St or near I-277 in an urban environment, this is not out of character Urban Design Framework – Part of BLE Design Criteria that recommends design treatments for areas along the corridor to reduce the visual impacts and integrate the project into the context of the project setting (eg. decorative concrete finishes on retaining walls or bridges, surface texture or color pigmentation)
Noise impacts are assessed for the Preferred Alternative using the FTA detailed noise impact assessment methodology. The detailed noise analysis takes into account the existing noise environment as well as the introduction of the new noise source which may cause impact to sensitive receptors (based on the type of use e.g. residential, institutional, park and other sensitive land uses) New noise sources for Light Rail include: Operations - Wheel/rail interactions & Traction motor Train horns and crossing gate bells Substations Moderate Noise Impacts: 4 single family residences 402 East 19 th Street (primarily due to wheel squeel on tight curve near Parkwood station) 352 Leafmore Drive (close proximity of sensitive receptors to proposed alignment & speed of trains) 358 Leafmore Drive (close proximity of sensitive receptors to proposed alignment & speed of trains) 364 Leafmore Drive (close proximity of sensitive receptors to proposed alignment & speed of trains) 2 Multi-family buildings at Alpha Mills (horn sounding at grade crossing of 12 th Street) 311 East 12 th Street 1 hotel, Residence Inn by Marriott (crossing bells & horn sounding at grade crossing at Ken Hoffman) 8503 North Tryon/US-29 Severe Noise Impacts: 1 single family residence 328 Parkwood Avenue (primarily due to wheel squeel on tight curve near Parkwood station) 2 college dormitories at UNC Charlotte (increased noise from a double-crossover and the potential for wheel squeal on a tight-radius curve) Laurel Hall Spruce Hall -Vibration Impacts: -Assessed for residential and institutional land uses along the proposed light rail. 1 single family residence 332 St. Anne Place is the only property that would potentially be impacted by vibration prior to mitigation. Vibration impacts were also assessed for vibration-sensitive equipment at UNC Charlotte Bioinframatics building, Duke Centennial Hall, Grigg Hall, EPIC building, and CMC-University Vibration levels at all receptor locations would be lower than the criterion; therefore, no vibration impact is anticipated as a result of light rail operations.
Mitigation considered on need, feasibility, reasonableness and effectiveness of potential options Typical mitigation measures control noise at the source, along the sound path, or at the receiver, and include options such as: Rail vehicle skirts Sound barriers Resilient or damped wheels Building sound insulation Proposed Noise Mitigation: 311 East 12 th Street: Noise barrier of approximately 600’ in length and 4’ in height on east side of proposed alignment At-grade for approximately 200’ and then transition to the top of the proposed retaining wall for the elevated guideway which eventually goes over the CSX railroad For the historic building adjacent to the railroad corridor, the noise barrier would reduce noise approximately 5 decibels and the resulting future noise levels would be below the moderate criterion For the building on the Southside of 12 th Street, the noise barrier would reduce noise approximately 2-3 decibels, and would not complete mitigate the potential impact; therefore the building is a candidate for sound insulation improvements. During Final Design, the existing outdoor-to-indoor noise reduction will be tested to determine the need for sound insulation improvements. 328 Parkwood Avenue & 402 East 19 th Street near Parkwood Station: Installation of a automated top of rail friction modifier system along the curve. With mitigation, project noise levels would be 4-7 decibels below the moderate noise impact criterion 352, 358, 364 Leafmore Drive: Noise barrier approximately 600’ long and approximately 10’ in height With mitigation, the future noise levels, including noise from existing Amtrak and freight trains would be reduced by 5 decibels or more. 8503 North Tryon Street/US-29 (Residence Inn by Marriott) : Sound insulation improvements to approximately 16 units, including the first and second floor units closest to North Tryon St. During Final Design, the existing outdoor-to-indoor noise reduction of the units will be tested UNC Charlotte Spruce Hall & Laurel Hall: Automated top of rail friction modifier system on the curve and the use of specially-engineered hardware for the double-crossover just west of the proposed UNC Charlotte Station (i.e. flange-bearing or spring-rail frogs to minimize gaps in the rail running surface). With mitigation, future noise levels at these receptors would be 4 decibels below the moderate noise impact criterion. Proposed Vibration Mitigation: 332 St. Anne Place: Approximately 150 feet of track vibration isolation treatment installed in the LYNX BLE trackform would be effective in mitigating the potential vibration impact Treatments such as ballast mats and tire derived aggregate can reduce vibration levels from the light rail trains by up to 15 Vdb. With such mitigation, vibration levels from light rail trains would be below the vibration impact criterion.
Full acquisitions: 11 Partial acquisitions: 212 Displacements: 14 businesses 0 residential parcels All affected property owner received a notice of the Real Estate Public Meeting and the Final EIS Public Meeting City Real Estate staff available to answer questions about the Federal Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act
Final EIS – includes responses to comments, mitigation, any changes to the project, NEPA Preferred Alternative Final EIS Comment Period ends October 27 Record of Decision – mitigation commitments, completion of NEPA