RECOMMENDATION(S): (CONT'D)
DIRECT the Director of Conservation and Development to file a Notice of Exemption with the County Clerk; and
AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director to arrange for payment of a $25 fee to the Department of Conservation and Development for processing, and a $50 fee to the County Clerk for filing the Notice of Exemption.
ADOPT Resolution No. 2014/44 to APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to submit a 2014/2015 Transportation Development Act (TDA) Grant Application to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission in the total amount of $80,000 for Fiscal Year 2014/2015 for the Byron Highway-Byer Road Pedestrian Improvements (Byron Highway-Byer Road Intersection) Project.
FISCAL IMPACT:
This project will be funded approximately 47% TDA Grant Funds and 53% Local Road Funds.
BACKGROUND:
The purpose of this project is to improve pedestrian safety near Excelsior Middle School. The project will improve safety for students attending Excelsior Middle School by constructing a five foot wide asphalt path to the intersection of Hunnam Drive. The principal at Excelsior Middle School contacted county staff, requesting that a two hundred linear foot path be provided as a necessary improvement for student safety. The path and pedestrian crossing will not only provide a benefit to students, but to all pedestrians who want to cross Byron Highway in this vicinity. A school warning sign and a Rectangular Rapid Repeating Flashing Beacon (RRRFB) with pedestrian actuated push button will be constructed on each side of the pedestrian crossing. The project will also include a pedestrian platform on the east and west side of the crosswalk to provide a refuge area for students as they await a gap in the traffic to cross the road. The project will require the modification of the current drainage pattern with the creation of a drainage ditch along the newly constructed asphalt path. Appropriate best management practices (BMPs) will be implemented to minimize erosion and protect drain inlets. Four non-native trees may need to be removed. Tree and shrubbery trimming may be necessary throughout the project area. In order to minimize damage to trees, any roots exposed during construction activities will be clean cut. Emergency vehicles will have access at all times. Utility relocations or adjustments may be necessary in support of the project. Real property transactions, including right-of-way acquisition may be necessary in support of this project.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
Delay in approving the project will result in a delay of design and construction and may jeopardize funding.
CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT:
The project is located in the vicinity of the school and will provide for greater safety for students walking to school.