NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING PHOENIX CITY COUNCIL ... · Metro, Regional Public Transportation...

1

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING PHOENIX CITY COUNCIL

TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE SUBCOMMITTEE Pursuant to A.R.S. Section 38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the PHOENIX CITY COUNCIL TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE SUBCOMMITTEE and to the general public, that the PHOENIX CITY COUNCIL TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE SUBCOMMITTEE will hold a meeting open to the public on Wednesday, November 12, 2014 at 1:00 p.m., located at Phoenix City Hall, 1st Floor Atrium, Assembly Rooms A, B, & C, 200 West Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona. One or more Subcommittee members may participate via teleconference. The agenda for the meeting is as follows (items may be discussed in a different sequence than posted): 1. Call to Order Chair Williams 2. Review and Approval of the October 22, 2014

Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee Meeting Minutes.

Page 5

Items 3-7 are for Information Only. Although no presentation is planned, staff will be available to answer questions. 3. Metro, Regional Public Transportation Authority, and

Maricopa Association of Governments Meetings This report provides the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee with copies of past and/or upcoming meeting agendas or minutes for METRO light rail, Valley Metro/Regional Public Transit Authority (RPTA), and the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG). This item is for information only.

Maria Hyatt, Public Transit Page 17

4. April 2015 Proposed Bus Service Changes - Public Outreach This report provides information to the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on proposed bus service changes for April 2015 and the associated public outreach process. This item is for information only.


2

5. Customer Care and Billing System Upgrade This report provides information to the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee regarding the City of Phoenix Customer Information System hardware and software upgrade project. This item is for information only.

Neal Young, Finance John Trujillo, Public Works Kathryn Sorensen, Water Services Debbie Cotton, Information Technology Page 21

6. National Association of Clean Water Agencies – 23rd Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant Platinum Award This report provides the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee with a summary of the 23rd Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant’s award for outstanding performance by the National Association of Clean Water Agencies. This item is for information only.

Kathryn Sorensen, Water Services Page 25

7. Water Advisory Panel Update This report provides the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee an overview of the history of the Water/Wastewater Rate Advisory Committee and Water Advisory Panels, and outlines future efforts to re-establish the Committee. This item is for information only.

Kathryn Sorensen, Water Services Page 27

Items 8-10 are for information, discussion and possible action. 8. Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension

This report requests that the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee recommend City Council approval to amend the Locally-Preferred Alternative for the Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension project, including a long-term financing strategy for construction and operations, and a project definition recommendation. This item is for information, discussion and possible action.


9. South Central Light Rail Extension This report requests the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee recommend City Council approval to refine the approved Locally Preferred Alternative to include lane configuration and station locations and to initiate the Federal environmental reviews and preliminary engineering phase for the South Central Light Rail project. This item is for information, discussion and possible action.


3

10. Review of Storm Sewer and Retention Basin Infrastructure Issues This report provides information to the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee about capital infrastructure needs related to the City of Phoenix’s storm sewer and retention basin system and requests the Subcommittee recommend City Council approval to enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Flood Control District of Maricopa County to jointly conduct a study to evaluate the South Phoenix/Laveen watershed area to update the existing flood mitigation plans for the area, and to identify any additional infrastructure improvements needed for the area. This item is for information, discussion and possible action.

Ray Dovalina, Street Transportation Page 37

Items 11-12 are for information and discussion. 11. Infill Development / Utility Coordination

This report provides an update on infill development and Reinvent PHX planning efforts related to utility conflicts. This is the first of a two-phase study and discussion item. It provides an overview of current infill development modification efforts and will solicit feedback for the on-going study that will make recommendations regarding utility corridor conflicts that could potentially inhibit walkable infill development. The first phase provides an overview and evaluates the 2013 Infill Advisory Board technical recommendations. The second phase will provide the results. Staff anticipates presenting the second phase to the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee at the December meeting. This item is for information and discussion.

Alan Stephenson, Planning and Development Kathryn Sorensen, Water Services Page 41

12. 2015 Federal Agenda – Transportation, Water, Environment This report seeks input from the Transportation & Infrastructure subcommittee on the city’s federal legislative priorities in the areas of transportation, water and environment for the 2015 Federal Agenda. It is anticipated that the complete Federal Agenda will be presented to the Mayor and Council at the December Policy meeting. This item is for information and discussion.

Thomas Remes, Government Relations Page 49

13. Call to the Public: Consideration, discussion, and concerns from the public. Those wishing to address the Subcommittee need not request permission in advance. Action taken as a result of the public comment will be limited to directing staff to study the matter or rescheduling the matter for further consideration and decision at a later date.

Chair Williams

14. Request for Future Agenda Items

Chair Williams

4

15. Adjournment

Chair Williams

For further information, please call Rita Marko, Management Assistant, City Manager’s Office, at 602-262-7684 or Gabriel Morales at 602-534-9222. Persons paid to lobby on behalf of persons or organizations other than themselves shall register with the City Clerk prior to lobbying or within five business days thereafter, and must register annually to continue lobbying. If you have any questions about registration or whether or not you must register, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 602-262-6811. For reasonable accommodations, call Rita Marko at 602-262-7684 or Gabriel Morales at 602-534-9222 as early as possible to coordinate needed arrangements. November 6, 2014

5

Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee, November 12, 2014, Item #2

Phoenix City Council

Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee Summary Minutes

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

City Council Subcommittee Room Phoenix City Hall, Assembly Rooms A, B, and C 200 West Washington Street Phoenix, Arizona Subcommittee Members Present Subcommittee Members Absent Councilwoman Thelda Williams, Chair None Councilman Bill Gates Councilwoman Kate Gallego Councilwoman Laura Pastor Staff Present Staff Present Public Present Public Present Penny Parrella Cindy Stottler Gabriel Morales Rick Naimark Joe Bower Ray Dovalina Pam Willier Aimee Conroy Mark Melnychenko Karen Peters Maria Hyatt Ron Serio Allan Stephenson

Rita Marko Kathryn Sorensen Edith Baltierrez Sean Kindell Kini Knudsen Kerry Wilcox Brandy Kelso Joe Giudice Monica Hernandez Thomas Godbee

Gary Smith Brice Talbot Haley Ritter John Siebert Ricky Newport Mary Bartlett Bill Goshert Dolores Nolan Jeanne Moricki Howard May Claude Mattox Don Kentz Jeff Sherman

Phil Pangrazio Feliciano Va Alliy Ebrahim Jamies Phillips Marry Muller John C Mosher Howard Steere Terry Grover Matthew Taunton Amina Kruck

1. Call to Order Chairwoman Williams called the meeting to order at 1:07 p.m. with Councilman Gates, Councilwoman Gallego, and Councilwoman Pastor present.

2. Review and Approval of the September 9, 2014 Transportation and

Infrastructure Subcommittee Meeting Minutes. Councilman Gates moved to approve the minutes from the September 9, 2014

Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee meeting. Councilwoman Pastor seconded the motion, which passed 4-0.

3. Metro, Regional Public Transportation Authority, and Maricopa Association of

Governments Meetings This item was for information only.

6

4. Light Rail Station Feasibility Study Maria Hyatt, Public Transit Director, introduced Albert Santana, Light Rail Project

Administrator. Ms. Hyatt stated interim bus service changes have been made to accommodate the need for service on Washington Street between 44th and 48th Streets. She explained this service will assist with serving the community in the study area, especially those who visit the Arizona Bridge to Independent Living (ABIL) facility on 50th Street and Washington. She stated the new service will go into effect on Monday, October 27, 2014.

Mr. Santana explained the feasibility study included an initial evaluation of ridership,

station spacing, funding, public support and a detailed assessment that included engineering and design, accessibility and operation, and maintenance. He stated the feasibility study began in 2013 and included extensive public involvement.

Mr. Santana noted that three options for the 16th Street station were provided to the

community. He explained evaluation criteria included: • Ability to generate required ridership (3,000 average daily riders) • Minimum station spacing • Funding • Public Support

Mr. Santana stated that Option A, which involved placing stations on 16th Street and Washington and 16th Street and Jefferson, had the most public support and would cost approximately $9.6 million. He stated the stations are technically feasible; however, they do not the meet the station addition criteria. He stated staff’s recommendation is to defer the stations at 16th Street, because they do not meet the ridership criteria, and the proposed stations are in close proximity to other stations on 12th Street. Mr. Santana explained that a second part of the study examined three station options near 48th Street and Washington. He stated Option A, which involves placing a station at 48th Street and Washington, was the most technically feasible; however, the community was interested in Option C, which would place a station closer to 51st Street, providing accessibility to ABIL and other amenities in the area. Mr. Santana stated Option C was not feasible because of right-of-way impacts. He noted that this information was shared with the public. Mr. Santana stated that based on public feedback, staff revaluated Option B (station between 48th Street and 51st Street), making modifications that would have less right-of-way impact, no impact to service and meet the needs of the community.

Mr. Santana stated the final recommendation to the subcommittee is to defer the 16th Street stations and continue to work with the community, as well as partner with Reinvent Phoenix to determine the future of the stations. He requested approval from the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee to pursue funding for Option A and B for the 48th Street station.

7

Maria Hyatt stated that the Citizen’s Commission for the Future of Phoenix Transportation will be presented with information from Reinvent Phoenix regarding the proposed 16th Street stations on November 5, 2014.

Hailey Ritter commented that the northwest light rail extension is extremely important and should take priority over the proposed stations. She spoke in favor of the 48th Street station, because it serves the disability center and provides a stop between Priest and 44th Street.

Phil Pangrazio, with ABIL and the Disability Empowerment Center (DEC), thanked the Public Transportation Department for their work on the study. He stated staff listened to him and the disabled community. He stated there is significant business growth opportunity in the area, so he believes the stop will be very important to economic development. He also stated the 48th street corridor is the only area on the light rail with a 2-mile stretch without a stop. He encouraged the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee to move the recommendations forward to City Council.

Howard May spoke in favor of the station near ABIL. He also stated bus drivers need to watch for disabled people at bus stops. He stated on his way to ABIL, several disabled individuals told him that bus drivers were passing them at the 44th Street station.

Jean Oriki asked for clarification of the station options. Mr. Santana provided clarification on the options for the 48th Street station. Ms. Oriki recommended moving forward with the station. Gary Smith, owner of the Stockyards Restaurant, stated he is in support of the station near the ABIL facility. He also thanked staff for their time, effort and the education they provided on the various station options. Councilwoman Pastor was pleased to hear the ABIL community was in support of the station and thanked staff for listening to the concerns of the community. Councilwoman Gallego moved staff’s recommendation on the 48th Street station and asked staff to re-evaluate the 16th Street stations at the conclusion of Reinvent Phoenix. Councilwoman Pastor seconded the motion. Councilman Gates clarified the motion was not committing any money to the project at this time. Mr. Santana stated that funding was not part of the study. Chairwoman Williams stated ABIL has presented a very good case for the 48th Street station, and she is in support of the recommendation; however, she wants staff to look for additional sources of funding and consider previously established priorities as top priorities.

The motion passed 4-0.

8

5. Update on Private Street Policy Rich Naimark, Deputy City Manager, introduced Ray Dovalina, Acting Streets

Transportation Department Director, and Kini Knudson, Assistant Streets Transportation Department Director.

Mr. Dovalina explained the topic of private streets involves departments throughout

the City. He stated the City of Phoenix has approximately 446 miles of private streets and approximately 5,000 miles of public streets.

Mr. Dovalina provided a timeline regarding the City’s involvement in maintaining

private streets. He stated the City council accepted responsibility for minor maintenance of private streets in 1973; however, in 1982, liability concerns arose. Mr. Dovalina stated that, in 1985, the City Attorney opined that spending public tax dollars on private streets was unconstitutional and conflicted with the gift clause. He then stated that the City Council adopted a process in 1986 through which private streets could be dedicated to the City. Mr. Dovalina stated a notification was sent to all Home Owners Associations (HOA) at that time, clarifying the dedication process.

Mr. Dovalina stated the dedication process is only available to private streets built

prior to 1986; these streets cannot be gated and must meet minimum design requirements. He also stated the process needs to be initiated by an HOA or group of people within the neighborhood. He explained once a formal application is submitted, the streets are evaluated. The City requires that streets be brought up to current standards before proceeding with the dedication process.

Chairwoman Williams asked if the HOA or owners of the private streets are

required to pay for the upgrades to bring the streets into compliance. Mr. Dovalina stated yes.

Mr. Dovalina explained the current issues regarding private streets include infill

areas where there is not enough land to meet City standards; HOAs are going out of business, leaving neighborhoods unable to maintain their infrastructure; and evolving street standards make it costly to upgrade private streets to meet City standards.

Mr. Naimark stated private streets are widespread, and it is important to think about

the policy implications and ultimate impact they will have across the city. He also asked members of the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee to provide staff with areas in their districts that might be experiencing issues with private streets as well as provide guidance on the development of a plan to help staff in addressing this issue.

Chairwoman Williams stated the issue with private streets is much larger than she

realized. She also stated several communities in her district were required bring their streets up to standards for dedication. She emphasized changes need to be made at different levels to address private streets in residential and commercial areas.

9

John Seifert, from the Gold Key Racquet Club community, stated the community has been working with the Streets Transportation Department on establishing an improvement district and possible cost sharing agreement. Mr. Seifert explained the community was created in 1976 with the intent of having an HOA; however, the HOA provision was removed by the builder because of lagging home sales. He explained that there was an easement established for the Streets Transportation Department to maintain the streets in 1976. He also stated the streets surrounding the racquet club were deemed public streets. Mr. Seifert stated that, in 1986, when the City Attorney determined maintaining private streets was a violation of the gift clause, unlike neighborhoods that had HOAs, they were not notified of the change in street maintenance.

Chairwoman Williams asked about what progress the community has made with the

improvement district. Mr. Seifert stated the community currently has 84 percent approval for the improvement district.

Chairwoman Williams asked what percentage is needed to move forward with the

improvement district. Mr. Seifert stated 70 percent community approval was needed to move forward.

Chairwoman Williams asked if a cost analysis has been done to determine how

much it would cost the Gold Key community to bring their streets up to City standards. Mr. Seifert stated a cost analysis has been completed.

Chairwoman Williams asked if the City can assume a percentage of the cost,

associated with bringing the streets up to standard, because of the public use of private streets in the Gold Key community. Mr. Naimark stated it would be necessary to discuss this request with the City Attorney to determine how to evaluate the impact of public use on the condition of the private streets.

Mr. Seifert stated the Gold Key Racquet Club is a public business within the

community. Chairwoman Williams asked who determined it was public. Mr. Dovalina stated the racquet club was determined to be a public business when maps were first drawn for the community.

Chairwoman Williams clarified the racquet ball club was a public facility. Mr.

Dovalina stated the racquet ball club is a public facility that is accessed using private streets. Mr. Seibert stated the community map provided a public easement to access the racquet ball club. Mr. Seibert also stated the community is next to the Shaw Butte trailhead, which is used by the public on a regular basis.

Mr. Naimark stated staff would be happy to work with the Gold Key community. He

also noted the need to work with the Law Department to ensure there is not a conflict with the gift clause.

Councilwoman Pastor asked why the Gold Key community is not grandfathered into

the private streets dedication process. Mr. Knudsen stated the community is grandfathered into the process.

10

Mr. Naimark clarified that if the community had been built after 1986, they would not be able to participate in the dedication process.

Mr. Naimark explained it is difficult for communities, built prior to 1986, and wishing

to dedicate their private streets, because of the cost associated with bringing their streets up to City standards. Mr. Naimark stated some neighborhoods feel the City ought to be responsible for a portion of the cost to bring private streets up to City standards for dedication.

Councilwoman Gallego asked if the estimate of $155,000 for street upgrades in the

Gold Key community is accurate. Mr. Seifert stated the estimate has gone up, and Mr. Dovalina has more accurate figures.

Councilwoman Gallego asked how much the conversion of private streets would

cost the City. Mr. Dovalina stated the cost would be substantial. Mary Bartlett, of Tamarack HOA, stated that her community has gone through the

pre-application process for the private streets dedication. She stated 86 percent of the community desires to convert their streets to public streets. Ms. Bartlett stated the cost to bring the community’s street up to City standards would be approximately $230,000. She explained the street is less than a mile in length, and it is used to access a school located in the area. She stated the community is very interested in completing the process and presenting the information to City Council for their approval.

Councilwoman Gallego asked if Tamarack was a gated community. Ms. Bartlett

stated that it was not a gated community. Councilwoman Gallego asked if the streets in the community were built as private

streets. Ms. Bartlett explained the streets were built in 1985, and she believes the developer thought private streets were a good idea at the time. Chairwoman Williams added that it used to be advantageous for developers to build private streets, because it reduced costs and made it easier to sell homes; however, streets deteriorated over time, resulting in some of challenges being discussed. Councilwoman Gallego asked for an estimate of the number of private streets within gated communities. Mr. Dovalina stated that he believes between 10 to 40 percent of private streets are within gated communities. Mr. Naimark stated a large majority of newer private streets are within gated communities. Councilwoman Gallego asked why developers choose to build private streets, and what costs are associated with this option. Mr. Dovalina stated that developers choose private streets, because they are trying to maximize smaller lot sizes. He stated private streets allow developers to build in infill areas and reduce costs as private streets do not have to be made to the same standard as public streets. Councilwoman Gallego asked staff to describe the disability requirements that are incorporated into public streets but are not included in private streets. Mr. Dovalina

11

stated the width of the road, thickness of the pavement, drainage and streetlights are all considered when developing a public street. Councilwoman Gallego asked if private streets have different drainage standards. Mr. Dovalina explained that private streets still need to meet certain standards. Councilwoman Gallego asked if the drainage for private streets is required to meet 100-year-flood standards. Mr. Dovalina stated the drainage for private streets is required to meet these standards. Mr. Naimark added the size of some private streets have required the City to purchase smaller garbage trucks because standard trucks cannot service those areas. Chairwoman Williams stated the Bel Air community, built in the county, participated in the dedication process several years ago. She also stated garbage trucks could not gain access to the neighborhood, and sidewalks were missing or did not meet standards. She asked if something was built in the county today, would it have different standards. Alan Stephenson, Planning and Development Services Director, stated development in the county is not frequently seen and private services, such as water and sewer, are not allowed. He also stated that county areas requiring services will need to be annexed by the City in order to receive services. He explained the annex process requires input from multiple departments to determine if service can be provided, and ultimately, the City Council needs to review and approve the annexation. Mr. Stephenson added City requirements are imposed on developers; however, developers have more flexibility on how they implement the requirements, because HOAs are required to maintain their infrastructure. Councilwoman Pastor asked what occurs if an HOA defaults. Mr. Stephenson stated the Neighborhood Services Department is dealing with two neighborhoods that dissolved their HOAs, because they felt they were no longer needed. He stated the neighborhoods began calling to complain about unmaintained areas in the neighborhood. He explained this situation prompted the Neighborhood Services, Planning and Development and Streets Transportation Departments to begin developing a comprehensive solution to address these situations. Councilwoman Pastor asked if she were to purchase a home in the Gold Key community, would a realtor notify her that the community is responsible for maintaining its streets. Mr. Naimark stated that information would be contained in the public report for the property. Mr. Seifert explained the public report for the Gold Key community contains language from 1976, which states there is an easement for the City to maintain the streets. Councilman Gates thanked the representatives from the Gold Key and Tamarack communities. He also stated the discussion of private streets maintenance has prompted the City to revisit the policy created in 1986. He added the American’s with Disability Act (ADA) did not exist in 1986, and it has changed how we accommodate those with disabilities. He stated ADA required changes provide a benefit for an entire neighborhood.

12

Councilman Gates asked what percentage of private street upgrades are related to ADA code. Mr. Dovalina stated between 20 to 30 percent of upgrades are associated with ADA code. Councilman Gates stated that following federal ADA law is imperative; however, he feels that communities should not be fully responsible for meeting ADA code. Councilman Gates stated the existence of streetlights are a requirement for the dedication process. He stated the Gold Key community is next to a preserve and due to the growth in the dark skies initiative, the community may choose not to have streetlights. Councilman Gates stated the dedication should have some flexibility regarding streetlights if they do not already exist. Councilman Gates also stated the issue of defaulting HOAs needs to be included in the private streets dedication policy. He stated the City needs to consider including – in very limited circumstances – HOAs that are defaulting. He also stated that it is important that the City has a policy that assists in unique situations such as the one in the Gold Key community. Mr. Naimark stated the current dedication policy only covers residential streets, and he asked the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee if they would like to also consider commercial streets where there is public access. He stated commercial streets have economic development implications, because employers do not want to develop where there are substandard streets. Councilman Gates stated that he would like to include commercial streets into the policy review process for private streets. Chairwoman Williams expressed the critical nature of reviewing this policy and asked if there can be a temporary injunction against approving residential and commercials streets, vying to become public streets, until the review is complete. Mr. Naimark stated he would recommend against putting a halt to any of the processes because of potential adverse economic impact. Chairwoman Williams asked if current developers are aware of the City’s requirements for streets development, and are they aware the City is currently reviewing the private streets policy established in 1986. Mr. Stephenson stated developers are fully aware of the City standards including the establishment of HOAs. He also explained that educating third or fourth generation buyers about the neighborhood requirements would limit some of the issues reported to the City regarding private streets. Chairwoman Gallego stated it is important for the City to encourage HOAs to maintain standards for maintaining their infrastructure. She stated that property maintenance does not always happen, which, in turn, places people in jeopardy. Mr. Stephenson stated the City is performing a drainage study, and there is a large focus on streets. He also stated the City wants to ensure that requirements are known to developers and information is properly disseminated to everyone involved in the development process.

13

Councilwoman Gallego asked if the City assumes that HOAs have access to all of the information they need. Mr. Stephenson stated yes. Chairwoman Williams stated, as part of the review of the private streets policy, the City needs to include landscaping and other elements of a housing development that the City might be responsible for maintaining in the future. Chairwoman Williams asked if staff can provide a report on the review of the private streets policy by the end of the year. Mr. Naimark stated staff can provide a report to the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee in December 2014.

6. Phoenix Bicycle Master Plan

Rick Naimark, Deputy City Manager, introduced Tom Godbee, Deputy Streets Department Director, Kerry Wilcoxon, Traffic Engineer III, with the Streets Transportation Department and Feliciano Rivera, Chair of the Ad Hoc Task Force. Mr. Godbee stated the purpose of the 20-year Bike Master Plan was to continue the progress made by City Council in 1987 when they first approved a bike master plan. He stated the 1987 master plan resulted in a $3 million bond program that funded approximately 380 miles of bike lanes throughout the City. Mr. Godbee also stated, in 1995, the City was recognized as the 9th best place to bicycle by “Bicycle Magazine.” Mr. Godbee stated the master plan needed to be compatible with the Complete Streets effort and take into consideration the downtown transportation study. He also stated the plan involved many departments throughout the City as well as other agencies, such as ADOT and Valley Metro. He also stated Lee Engineering, the lead consultant, utilized Charlier and Associates and Tool Design Group to assist in developing the plan. Mr. Godbee stated the goals of the bike plan are: • Promote a healthy lifestyle and transportation alternative • Identify barriers and solutions for bicycling • Plan for connectivity improvement throughout Phoenix and interconnecting cities • Proposes new policies for bike facilities • Improve Phoenix’s ability to compete for funding Mr. Godbee stated the master plan began with a series of public meetings and the development of two advisory groups – the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), which included representatives from 20 agencies and City departments, and the Pedestrian and Biking Ad Hoc Task Force, which included bicycle advocates, recreational and commuter cyclists and bike and pedestrian safety professionals. Mr. Godbee stated the Ad Hoc Task Force outlined several concerns regarding the Bike Master Plan including funding, enforcement to protect bicyclists, bike land maintenance, and discontinuous bike lanes.

14

Mr. Godbee explained the 20-year Bike Master Plan is divided into three tiers: short-term, medium-term and long-term priorities and goals. Mr. Godbee explained the approximate cost to complete all of the items in the Bike Master Plan is $52.7 million dollars over 20 years. He stated the current Capital Improvement Project funds are limited, so it would be difficult to pay for the infrastructure needs in the plan. However, small scale bike projects, such as stripping of bike lanes and bicycle detection at signalized intersections, can be completed with current funding. He stated the City can attempt to seek funds from sources, such as the Transportation Tax initiative, and federal and state programs. He also stated it may be possible to collaborate with other cities and develop public-private partnerships with organizations and businesses. Mr. Godbee asked for the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee to recommend City Council adoption of the 20-year Bike Master Plan. Councilwoman Gallego stated the master plan needs to be a multi-departmental effort and public safety needs to be a key component of the plan. She stated bicyclists do not always feel safe on city streets. She added major corridors pose a risk to bicyclists, because traffic is moving very fast and there are visibility concerns. Hailey Ritter spoke in favor of the Bike Master Plan. She stated she would like to see the bicycle lanes between 22nd and 19th Avenue and Indian School extended eastbound. She also stated the City needs to consider placing more bike lanes on arterial streets as well as additional bike racks for bicyclists. Howard May stated he would like to share some ideas with staff on how to make bike lanes along canals more ADA friendly. He also expressed concern about a bike tunnel on 16th Street and Glendale Avenue that does not have an ADA-friendly off ramp. Councilman Gates thanked Feliciano Rivera for chairing the Ad Hock Task Force for the Bike Master Plan. He also stated that he wanted to ensure the plan includes low cost ways to encourage connectivity. He also asked how the tiers of the bike plan are structured. Mr. Felicano stated the tier structure is based on cost efficiency and maximization of impact. He added the Ad Hoc Task Force evaluated all the items in the master plan and came to a consensus on the tier priorities. Councilman Gates stated funding has been allocated for a project on 32nd Street that is focused on connectivity. He stated the project will not connect to the preserve, so he would like to see a part of the Bike Master Plan dedicated to completing the connection to the preserve. Councilwoman Gallego motioned to approve staff’s recommendation. Councilwoman Pastor seconded the motion.

Chairwoman Williams asked staff if anything else needs to be included in the Bike Master Plan, since it is a guiding document for the future of the City’s bicycle system. Mr. Naimark stated there is enough flexibility within the document to make

15

changes where needed. Chairwoman Williams asked for the verbiage in the Bike Master Plan, regarding the implementation of the tiers, be amended to state “generally recommend as follows,” rather than “are as follows.” Councilwoman Gallego motioned to accept the amendment. Coucilwoman Pastor seconded the motion, which passed 4-0.

7. Update on Infill Development/Utility Coordination Continued 8. Customer Care and Billing System Upgrade

Continued

9. National Association of Clean Water Agencies – 23rd Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant Platinum Award

Continued

10. Call to the Public: Howard May asked staff to review the colors being used on the new bus tickets, because the color choices may be pose issues for those who are colorblind. He also asked if transit station staff can be better informed about route changes being implemented.

11. Request for Future Agenda Items No request for items.

12. Adjournment Chairwoman Williams adjourned the meeting at 3:15 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Gabriel Morales Management Intern

16

THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

17


CITY COUNCIL REPORT

TO: Rick Naimark Deputy City Manager

FROM: Albert Santana Light Rail Project Administrator

SUBJECT: METRO, REGIONAL PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY, AND MARICOPA ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS MEETINGS

This report provides the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee with copies of past and/or upcoming meeting agendas/summaries for METRO light rail, Valley Metro/Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA), and the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG). This item is for information only. THE ISSUE Within Maricopa County, there are several agencies with different charges relating to public transit and transportation planning. Valley Metro/RPTA: In 1993, the Regional Public Transportation Authority Board adopted the name Valley Metro as the identity for the regional transit system in metropolitan Phoenix. Under the “Valley Metro” brand, local governments fund the Valley-wide transit system which the public sees on the streets today. Valley Metro Board member agencies include Avondale, Buckeye, Chandler, El Mirage, Gilbert, Glendale, Goodyear, Maricopa County, Mesa, Peoria, Phoenix, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, Surprise, and Tempe. Councilwoman Thelda Williams serves as Phoenix’s representative on the RPTA Board of Directors. METRO: METRO is the brand name for Valley Metro Rail Inc., a nonprofit, public corporation charged with the design, construction, and operation of the Valley’s light rail system. The cities that participate financially in the light rail system each have a representative on the METRO Board of Directors. Cities on the board include Chandler, Glendale, Mesa, Phoenix, and Tempe. METRO is structured on a “pay-to-play basis” with voting power allocated based on investment in the system. Councilwoman Thelda Williams serves as Phoenix’s representative and is the current chair of the METRO Board of Directors. The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG): MAG is a Council of Governments that serves as the regional agency for the metropolitan Phoenix area. When MAG was formed in 1967, elected officials recognized the need for long-range planning and policy development on a regional scale. Issues such as transportation, air quality, and human services affect residents beyond the borders of individual jurisdictions. MAG is the designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for transportation planning in the Maricopa County region. Mayor Stanton serves as Phoenix’s representative.

18

OTHER INFORMATION The goal of staff is to provide the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee with agendas for future meetings of these bodies. Meeting dates do not coincide and agendas are not available until close to the meeting date. However, prior to reaching each Board of Directors meeting, most agenda items are reviewed by staff committees which include City of Phoenix members. An attachment to the Subcommittee packet will provide meeting agendas and/or additional information for previous and upcoming METRO, RPTA and MAG meetings. RECOMMENDATION This item is for discussion only. No Council action is required. Attachments

19


CITY COUNCIL REPORT


FROM: Maria Hyatt Public Transit Director

SUBJECT:

APRIL 2015 PROPOSED BUS SERVICE CHANGES – PUBLIC OUTREACH

This report provides information to the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on proposed bus service changes for April 2015 and the associated public outreach process. THE ISSUE The Public Transit Department is focused on improving the efficiency of Phoenix’s transit service to best serve passengers’ needs. The Department reviews routes semiannually to determine if improvements can be made while at the same time offsetting the costs of enhancing transit service. The proposed April 2015 bus service changes and public outreach process include: Route 7 (7th Street) Align the route to the grid arterial street (7th Street) by eliminating the loop that serves the Ed Pastor Transit Center and the loop that serves Central Station. Modifying the route will allow for increasing frequency from 20 minutes to 15 minutes in the higher ridership segments and decreasing frequency at the ends of the route from 20 minutes to 30 minutes. This method of adjusting route schedules has proven successful with other routes. Route 13 (Buckeye Road) The City of Phoenix Aviation Department is expanding the Sky Train from its current terminus at Terminal 4 with the completion of the Sky Train to between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. Staff recommends modifying Route 13, which currently serves Terminals 3 and 4 to end at Terminal 2 and the new Sky Train connection. This aligns with the Aviation Department’s plans to reduce vehicle traffic through the airport and provides improved connectivity to the Sky Train system. Route 108 (Elliot Road and 48th Street - Ahwatukee) Modify the route to eliminate the morning and afternoon trips from 48th Street and Chandler Boulevard to the Pecos Road and 48th Street Park-and-Ride. This specialized service has seen limited ridership, and residents along the route have expressed their dissatisfaction with bus traffic along Frye Road. Route 108 is operated by Valley Metro/RPTA and partially funded by Phoenix.

20

Central South Mountain RAPID – East (new RAPID commuter route) The City of Phoenix is constructing a new park-and-ride at 24th Street and Baseline Road. The new park-and-ride will be completed in early 2015 and complements the park-and-ride at 27th Avenue and Baseline Road. These park-and-rides have been developed to provide a RAPID commuter service to downtown Phoenix for the South Mountain, Laveen, and Central City areas. The new RAPID service would start in April 2015 and is proposed to operate five trips each in the morning and afternoon to/from downtown Phoenix. The route will travel on Baseline Road and Central Avenue. Public Outreach Process In November and December, staff will solicit public comment on service changes through several public outreach events located near the proposed service change areas. Outreach will include: on-board bus announcements encouraging passengers to provide their feedback on the proposed changes, in-person discussions with passengers at affected areas, and notices on the Valley Metro website. In addition, a formal public hearing will be scheduled to collect public feedback on the proposed service changes. Advertisements for the public meetings will be placed in local newspapers, information will be posted to the City’s and regional transit websites, and staff will send media releases and contact local reporters.

After the conclusion of the public outreach process, staff will return to the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee with a formal recommendation on these proposed changes. OTHER INFORMATION The proposed April 2015 bus service changes are funded through Transit 2000, the dedicated Phoenix transit tax, and Proposition 400, the regional transportation tax. Staff will also present the results of the public input process to the Citizens Transit Commission. RECOMMENDATION This report is provided for information only.

21


CITY COUNCIL REPORT TO: Rick Naimark, Deputy City Manager

Paul Blue, Deputy City Manager

FROM: Neal Young, Finance Director John Trujillo, Public Works Director Kathryn Sorensen, Water Services Director Debbie Cotton, Chief Information Officer

SUBJECT: CUSTOMER INFORMATION SYSTEM UPGRADE PROJECT

This report provides information to the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee regarding the City of Phoenix Customer Information System hardware and software upgrade project. THE ISSUE The Water Services, Public Works, Finance, and Information Technology Departments have initiated a project to upgrade the Customer Care & Billing (CC&B) Application, which is the software used for utility billing and tax collection on the City Services Bill. This upgrade will improve customer self-service options, streamline utility billing processes in a manner that improves customer service, and enhance system security and stability. The date for the system to start operating fully is December 2016. Various contracts and purchases relating to this effort will be recommended for City Council approval over the next two years. Up to this point, $2.6 million has been spent to purchase some of the hardware and software. An additional $15.1 million is expected to be spent in the future. The source of funds for this project is Water, Wastewater, and Solid Waste utility revenue funds. No general funds will be expended. OTHER INFORMATION The Customer Information System software used for the City Services Bill is critical to the City, as it provides a direct billing interface for all water, wastewater, and solid waste customers (approximately 430,000 customers). Approximately $750 million in annual revenue for the utilities as well as for various City taxes is currently collected through the City Services Bill. This upgrade is recommended to enhance self-service options for customers and to upgrade software that will not be supported beyond May 2015. The new server and network infrastructure associated with the upgrade will also provide increased stability for revenue collection. Additionally, the project will entail a significant effort in mapping and streamlining existing billing processes to improve efficiencies and customer service. The system upgrade will also offer significant benefits to customers including:

• The customer self-service module will offer customers the ability to start or stop service under some conditions, manage account information, establish

22

communication preferences, view bills including graphical usage and payment history, and make and manage payments. The self-service module can be accessed through mobile devices and tablets.

• The engineered hardware solution will significantly improve application response, system maintenance, and reporting performance. This will result in reduced hardware maintenance costs, improved customer service response times, and improved employee efficiency.

• A large-account management portal will improve customer service in the management of large customer accounts such as industrial users and hospitals.

• A more flexible system configuration will more easily accommodate regulatory

and business changes to billing processes as they occur.

• Staff efficiencies will be gained through new features, including electronic bill presentment, enhancements to payment arrangements, the ability to execute a business process on a group of records, and the ability to add attachments to specific records.

• Bill presentment will be significantly enhanced allowing bill formatting to be tailored to customer needs. This will help customers better understand their bill through graphs showing consumption variances.

The project schedule is as follows: Fiscal Year 13/14 (Complete)

• Installation of the new database platform for CC&B version 2.4 software application.

Fiscal Year 14/15

• Installation of new servers and increased database platform storage.

• Completion of a fit gap analysis, through which the features and functions of the new software are analyzed for potential gaps with the needs of the City’s billing requirements.

• Integration of Water, Public Works, and Finance applications into CC&B 2.4. Fiscal Year 15/16

• Re-design of relevant business processes for Water and Public Works Customer Service Divisions to better fit the new software and avoid customizations.

Fiscal Year 16/17

• Implementation of business re-engineering recommendations. • Training. • Launch (planned for December 2016).

23

To ensure a successful implementation, a project management plan was developed to manage project risks, review and approve changes to the project, and oversee scope, schedule, and budget. The project team is comprised of staff from Finance, Information Technology Services (ITS), Public Works, and Water Services departments. The ITS Project Management Group will oversee the upgrade, providing direct management of vendors, the project implementation plan, and staff resources. Because of the complex nature of the project, staff recommends hiring firms with experience in upgrading Oracle Customer Information Systems to assist with the fit gap analysis, the integration of applications, testing, the re-design of business processes, and training. A request for proposals is under development and a recommendation to City Council is expected in December 2014. RECOMMENDATION This report was provided to the Finance, Efficiency, Economy and Sustainability Subcommittee on September 17, 2014. This report is for information only.

24


25


CITY COUNCIL REPORT


FROM: Kathryn Sorensen Water Services Director

SUBJECT: NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CLEAN WATER AGENCIES - 23RD AVENUE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT PLATINUM AWARD

This report provides the Transportation & Infrastructure Subcommittee with a summary of the 23rd Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant’s (WWTP) award for outstanding performance by the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA). THE ISSUE NACWA’s Peak Performance Awards recognize facilities for outstanding compliance with their National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit limits. The Silver Awards are presented to agency facilities that have had five or fewer permit violations during a calendar year. Gold awards are presented to those agencies with no reporting or permit limit exceedances for the year. A platinum award is given to an agency with 5 consecutive gold awards. Permit violations can range from missed samples to sample results that exceed specified permit limits. The 23rd Avenue WWTP achieved five consecutive years with no reporting or permit limit exceedances and received a platinum award for the 2013 calendar year. This is the first time a City of Phoenix facility has received this prestigious award. The 23rd Avenue WWTP treats an average of 36 million gallons of wastewater every day. This is approximately 13 billion gallons per year. Over the past 5 years, there have been more than 14,500 samples collected and analyzed and more than 65 billion gallons of wastewater treated at the 23rd Avenue WWTP equal to filling 55 Olympic-size pools every day over the past five years. Over 75 operations, laboratory, and maintenance staff have worked diligently at this facility to ensure regulations are met and water is treated properly. The 91st Avenue WWTP plant received a gold award for 2013. The 91st Avenue WWTP treats an average of 135 million gallons per day. Plant staff at 91st Avenue WWTP collected more than 6,900 samples and treated more than 49,000 million gallons in 2013. OTHER INFORMATION The main role of wastewater treatment plants is the treatment of wastewater before it enters local rivers and water bodies to make the water safe for plants and animals. In Phoenix, wastewater treatment plants also reclaim wastewater so it can be reused. All of these efforts must be accomplished under very strict regulatory requirements to protect humans and the ecosystem. The treatment and reclamation of wastewater is

26

one of the most important ways the City of Phoenix protects the environment and ensures sustainable management of water supplies. RECOMMENDATION This report is for information only.

27


CITY COUNCIL REPORT


FROM:

Kathryn Sorensen Water Services Director

SUBJECT: WATER ADVISORY PANEL UPDATE

This report provides the Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Subcommittee an overview of the history of the Water/Wastewater Rate Advisory Committee (Committee) and Water Advisory Panels, and outlines future efforts to re-establish the Committee. THE ISSUE The Committee was formally created with the development of the City Water Code (1988, amended 1990) and Wastewater Code in 1990 to advise the City Council on water/wastewater rates by reviewing and evaluating revenue requirements, rates, fees, and financial policies relating to the Phoenix water/wastewater system. Historically, the Committee was directly involved with the rate setting process. Over time, member interest waned and the Committee ceased meeting. In early 2011, the City Council asked the Water Services Department to convene an ad hoc public advisory group to review the Department’s budget and a proposed water and wastewater rate increase. After several meetings, this diverse group of 27 members recommended a proposed rate increase. At the conclusion of this process, the group disbanded. Since that time, various panels have operated on an ad hoc basis, primarily tasked with reviewing the Department’s progress in implementing efficiency study recommendations. Although meetings are scheduled quarterly, it is rare that more than a few members are in attendance. While staff continues to find ways to save money and trim costs, a rate increase may be necessary in the next several years as the cost of raw water supplies, chemicals, and infrastructure continue to rise. To maintain public transparency, staff will work with the Mayor’s office to re-establish the Water/Wastewater Rate Advisory Committee. Staff will ask the Mayor and Council to nominate citizens for City Council approval in January 2015. OTHER INFORMATION Per City Code, the Committee consists of nine citizens who are Phoenix water users, nominated by the Mayor and appointed by City Council. Members serve for up to three years. The primary charge of the Committee will be to annually review the

28

Department’s Capital Improvement Program, revenue requirements, and the Operations and Maintenance budget as they impact future water and wastewater rates. The Committee will also recommend water and wastewater rate and fee adjustments through the City Manager to the City Council. RECOMMENDATION This item is for information only.

29


CITY COUNCIL REPORT TO: Rick Naimark

Deputy City Manager

THRU: Maria Hyatt Public Transit Director


SUBJECT: NORTHWEST PHASE II LIGHT RAIL EXTENSION

This report requests that the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee recommend City Council approval to amend the Locally-Preferred Alternative (LPA) for the Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension project, including a long-term financing strategy for construction and operations, and a project definition recommendation. THE ISSUE In 2005, the Phoenix City Council approved the Northwest Extension LPA, modifying it in 2007. The Phase II segment of the Northwest Extension LPA begins at Dunlap Avenue/19th Avenue, and travels west to 25th Avenue, north to Mountain View Road, and then west on Mountain View Road to a terminus east of the I-17 freeway. The LPA included stations at Dunlap Avenue/25th Avenue and a station along Mountain View Road east of the I-17 freeway. In 2013, the City of Phoenix and Valley Metro completed a project definition study to evaluate options to extend the Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension across I-17 to Metrocenter Mall. After a series of outreach efforts, including internal concept design workshops with staff in August and December 2013 and community outreach meetings in January and October 2014, a leading alternative for crossing I-17 near Mountain View Road has been identified. The result is a revised Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension alignment that follows Dunlap Avenue between 19th and 25th Avenues, heads north on 25th Avenue, turns west on Mountain View Road and crosses I-17 to end a short distance west of the freeway. Station locations are recommended at Dunlap Avenue/25th Avenue, 25th Avenue between the Arizona Canal and Mountain View Road, and the southbound I-17 access road near Cheryl Drive, adjacent to Metro Center. The next step in the project planning phase is to complete the environmental review process in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act and complete preliminary engineering. Upon receiving City Council approval, staff will coordinate with Valley Metro and the Maricopa Association of Governments to update the recommended alignment of the Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension project in the Regional Transportation Plan

30

(RTP), and commence work on the environmental review and preliminary engineering documents. OTHER INFORMATION The Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension is included in the RTP, but the recommended change in the alignment to extend west of I-17 will require an update to the RTP. The update requires the demonstration of a reasonably assured financial plan. In this case, the extension of T2000 is assumed to provide the local funding for construction and operating expenses. Although the details of an extension of T2000 are not known now, there should be adequate revenue available to support this project if the tax is maintained and the revenue is apportioned similar to the current tax. RECOMMENDATION This report requests the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee recommend that the City Council approve the following:

1. A modification to the Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension LPA to follow Dunlap Avenue between 19th and 25th avenues, extend north on 25th Avenue, turn west on Mountain View Road and cross I-17 to end a short distance west of the freeway.

2. Coordination with Valley Metro and the Maricopa Association of Governments to initiate the update of the RTP to include Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension alignment modification.

3. Inclusion of Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension in any proposed extension of T2000 to provide the local funding for construction and operating expenses.

Attachment

31

Northwest Phase II Light Rail Extension Recommendation

32


33


CITY COUNCIL REPORT TO: Rick Naimark

Deputy City Manager

THRU: Maria Hyatt Public Transit Director


SUBJECT: SOUTH CENTRAL LIGHT RAIL EXTENSION

This report requests the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee recommend City Council approval to refine the approved Locally Preferred Alternative (LPA) to include lane configuration and station locations and to initiate the Federal environmental reviews and preliminary engineering phase for the South Central Light Rail project. THE ISSUE In 2012, the City of Phoenix and Valley Metro received a Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grant to conduct an Alternatives Analysis in the South Central Avenue Corridor. In 2013, the Phoenix City Council approved an LPA that defined light rail transit as the preferred transit mode and Central Avenue as the preferred alignment; however, the LPA did not define the roadway configuration or passenger station locations. It is important that these elements be defined as part of the LPA prior to initiating the environmental review and conceptual engineering phase of the project. Following the City Council adoption of the LPA, a subsequent study identified a two-lane roadway configuration (one through traffic lane in each direction) with intersection flares at four locations (Baseline Road, Southern Avenue, Broadway Road, and Buckeye Road) as the recommended roadway configuration for the South Central Avenue Light Rail Extension. This configuration minimizes private property impacts while maintaining existing automobile capacity at four arterial intersections. The subsequent study effort also identified passenger station locations at Baseline Road, Southern Avenue, Roeser Road, Broadway Road, Audubon Center (south of the Rio Salado), Buckeye Road, and Lincoln Street. These stations are recommended based on ridership potential, community access, connectivity to other transit services, and future development potential. The next step in the project planning phase is to complete the environmental review process in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act and complete preliminary engineering.

34

OTHER INFORMATION During the past two years, the City of Phoenix and Valley Metro conducted an extensive community outreach and public engagement campaign for the South Central Light Rail Corridor Study. Nine public meetings provided stakeholders an opportunity to offer input throughout various stages of the study. An additional five meetings specifically targeted the business community along the corridor. In addition to community meetings, City of Phoenix and Valley Metro staff attended over 90 community meetings and events, and received feedback forms/comment cards from over 250 stakeholders. In 2014, the City Council approved the initiation of amending the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) to include the South Central Light Rail Extension and this project in any proposed extension of T2000. The RTP amendment process is currently underway and has been approved by the State Transportation Board and Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. In 2014, the City of Phoenix received a U.S. Department of Transportation TIGER grant to complete the environmental review process and conceptual engineering. The grant award is $1.6 million with a local match of $1.6 million totaling $3.2 million to complete this phase of the project. RECOMMENDATION This report requests the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee recommend that the City Council approve the following:

1. A two-lane roadway configuration along South Central Avenue between approximately Baseline Road and Buckeye Road with intersection flares at Baseline Road, Southern Avenue, Broadway Road, and Buckeye Road for evaluation as part of the South Central environmental review process.

2. Station locations along South Central Avenue at Baseline Road, Southern Avenue, Roeser Road, Broadway Road, Audubon Center (south of the Rio Salado), Buckeye Road, and Lincoln Street for evaluation as part of the South Central environmental review process.

3. Work to commence on the environmental review and preliminary engineering documents for the South Central Light Rail project.

Attachment

35

South Central Project Recommendation

36


37


CITY COUNCIL REPORT


FROM: Ray Dovalina Acting Street Transportation Director

SUBJECT:

REVIEW OF STORM SEWER AND RETENTION BASIN INFRASTRUCTURE ISSUES

This report provides information to the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee about capital infrastructure needs related to the City of Phoenix’s storm sewer and retention basin system and requests the Subcommittee recommend City Council approval to enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with the Flood Control District of Maricopa County (FCDMC) to jointly conduct a study to evaluate the South Phoenix/Laveen watershed area to update the existing flood mitigation plans for the area, and to identify any additional infrastructure improvements needed for the area. THE ISSUE Recent historic storm events in the metropolitan Phoenix area caused significant flooding, which resulted in extensive damage to both private property and public infrastructure. The City has a long-standing partnership with the FCDMC to identify, fund, and complete flood mitigation projects (e.g., detention/retention basins, open channels, storm drains, and more). Additionally, the City and the FCDMC have worked with commercial and residential developers to build portions of the stormwater system in the past. These facilities have performed as designed, providing flood protection to a large portion of the city. However, there are key elements of the City’s storm sewer and retention basin system that have not been completed. The recent storm events highlighted the need to complete planned, but unfunded flood mitigation projects, especially in the Laveen area in south Phoenix and along the Interstate 17 corridor in north Phoenix. OTHER INFORMATION Flood Mitigation Infrastructure Funding The responsibility for planning, construction and maintenance of the City’s storm sewer and retention basin system resides with the Street Transportation Department, and flood mitigation projects are programmed in the department’s capital improvement program budget as funding is identified and available. The Street Transportation Department has historically relied on General Obligation (GO) Bonds and Capital Construction Funds to complete flood mitigation projects. Operations and maintenance funding has been provided through annual General Fund

38

support. Due to economic conditions of the past six years and the expenditure of programmed projects from the 2006 GO Bond Program, capital fund support available for additional flood protection projects has significantly decreased. Funding identified in the 2006 GO Bond program provided approximately $75 million for flood mitigation projects, of which more than 98% have been expended. There is less than $1.5 million remaining to complete identified projects in the 2006 GO Bond program, and these funds are not available until at least FY18-19. Impact fees can be used for improvements to the storm sewer and retention basin system, but can only be used in certain growth areas. The Street Transportation Department receives its largest source of revenue from the Arizona Highway User Revenue (AHUR) gas tax fund. Although the City receives approximately $100 million annually in AHUR revenue, its use is restricted to roadway specific projects. AHUR cannot be used for flood mitigation projects. The FCDMC has experienced similar budgetary reductions over the past six years. As a result, the FCDMC has focused the majority of its annual funding on ongoing maintenance and operation of its facilities, leaving only a small amount (approximately $5 to $10 million annually) to contribute to new flood mitigation projects throughout the region. The City has historically relied on a 50/50 funding split with the FCDMC for the completion of its flood mitigation projects. Infrastructure Needs The City’s capital infrastructure needs to support its storm sewer and retention basin system far exceeds any available funding. The Street Transportation Department has identified more than $1.08 billion in infrastructure projects citywide to provide protection from major flooding events. Options to Address Infrastructure Needs Review of System Assessment and Planned Projects – City staff will continue to work closely with the FCDMC to review, update, and prioritize current assessments of needed improvements to the storm sewer and retention basin system. Currently, City and FCDMC staff is reviewing the most seriously flood-damaged areas in Laveen and South Phoenix. A study to be conducted jointly with FCDMC, will evaluate the South Phoenix/Laveen watershed area to update the existing flood mitigation plans for the area, and to identify any additional infrastructure improvements needed for the area. . The FCDMC will fund 70% of the study costs, with 30% funded by the City in an amount not to exceed $195,000. Implementation of Storm Water Fee – Given the limitations of GO bond funding and the inability to use AHUR funding for flood mitigation projects, City staff could research options to implement a fee to finance capital infrastructure improvements to the City’s storm sewer and retention basin system. As an example, a $2.50 monthly fee on the City services bill could generate $12.5 million annually to execute planned, but currently unfunded, flood mitigation projects. This new revenue could be utilized as an annual funding resource for infrastructure projects, or leveraged to fund larger projects through issuing revenue bonds or by procuring privately-financed infrastructure contracts.

39

Coordination with FCDMC – If the City can identify additional local funding to make improvements to the storm sewer and retention basin system, the City could leverage FCDMC funding to deliver projects subject to the 50/50 cost sharing described above. RECOMMENDATION Staff requests the Subcommittee recommend City Council approval to enter into an IGA with the FCDMC to jointly conduct a study to evaluate the South Phoenix/Laveen watershed area to update the existing flood mitigation plans for the area, and to identify any additional infrastructure improvements needed for the area. The City’s 30 percent share of the study costs will not exceed $195,000. Funds for the study are available through Laveen area impact fees. .

40


41


CITY COUNCIL REPORT


FROM: Alan Stephenson Planning and Development Director

SUBJECT: UPDATE ON INFILL DEVELOPMENT/UTILITY COORDINATION

This report provides an update on infill development and Reinvent PHX planning efforts related to utility conflicts. This is the first of a two-phase study and discussion item. It provides an overview of current infill development modification efforts and will solicit feedback for the on-going study that will make recommendations regarding utility corridor conflicts that could potentially inhibit walkable infill development. The first phase provides an overview and evaluates the 2013 Infill Advisory Board technical recommendations. The second phase will provide the results. Staff anticipates presenting the second phase to the Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Subcommittee at the December meeting. THE ISSUE The establishment of the initial segment of the light-rail line combined with the City focus on infill development and adaptive reuse has created the need to evaluate development regulations that were created to facilitate new growth on the suburban fringe where regulations are not constrained by an established development pattern or established neighborhood concerns. Infill development that builds upon the existing character and development patterns is necessary to achieve City planning goals and utilization of the light-rail line as a public transportation amenity. These efforts have led staff to modify codes to allow for a more urban style of development. In early 2013, the Planning and Development Department (PDD) began a two-year project, working with an Infill Advisory Group to address barriers to infill development and incorporate flexibility in standard development requirements. The group’s goal was to promote growth and development in areas served by light rail and existing public infrastructure. This process began with public meetings with more than 200 residents, design professionals, builders and business owners in attendance. Staff solicited input on attendees’ experience with infill development, how it has affected neighborhoods, and how the City’s process could be improved. Over 150 comments and suggestions were gathered and categorized into a work plan. Comments from the public meetings led to the creation of two advisory groups. The first group was assigned the more technical issues related to the interpretation and application of City Code and Building Code requirements including utility conflicts. The group consisted of design professionals, builders, zoning professionals, and City staff. The technical group met over a period of four months and formulated a number of technical recommendations ranging from reducing fire access and trash collection

42

requirements to eliminating plant salvage plans for downtown vacant lots (Attachment A). Included in those recommendations were two utility related items:

1. Allow the use of master meters for Single-Family Attached type subdivisions within the Infill Development District

2. New coordinated minimum standards for street and private driveway/accessway widths to cover requirements of both water/sewer demands, and traffic/pedestrian circulation demands

These were the primary utility issues identified by the technical group as negatively affecting infill development. The new standards were coordinated with the Water, Street Transportation, Fire, and Public Works Departments. These recommendations were approved by the Development Advisory Board and City Council and were implemented on January 1, 2014. Since then, PDD has applied these new standards to more than 40 projects currently in the development process within the Infill Development District (see Attachment B). More recent public concerns have arisen about a challenge with implementing some provisions within the existing Downtown Code and the proposed Walkable Urban (WU) Code because of utility conflicts. Most significant are conflicts between utility easements and minimal building setbacks with mandatory shade requirements. Upon plat of a parcel, City Code requires an eight foot public utility easement (PUE) along all right-of-way adjacent to the property to accommodate both public and private utilities. Since no permanent structures can be built in a PUE, the additional eight feet of setback can be in conflict with the maximum setback requirements of the draft WU Code. The development applicant can petition the utilities for relief from the PUE, but many times the public and private utilities are unwilling to forego the easement due to existing or potential future needs to deliver services. Staff is currently working on options for developers to comply with both the PUE requirement and the WU Code in a manner that provides desired shade and urban amenities while also accommodating the utilities. These options will be further discussed in upcoming WU Code public hearings and presentations. Staff will also report other options at the T&I Subcommittee meeting in December. There is potential for additional conflicts with the WU Code mandatory shade requirements and the City Code-required ten foot minimum distance for construction footings or tree roots adjacent to a water or sewer line. These distances were set for two purposes: (1) to prevent property damage of footings if the water or sewer line were to break; and (2) to prevent root invasion into water and sewer lines, which has the potential to result in serious disruptions to service, damage to streets, and increased costs to rate payers. It is important to note that the water and sewer lines located in PUEs downtown are likely to be lines that provide service to some of the City’s densest development, and disruption of service has the potential to impact a large number of businesses and families. With regard to trees, the Water Services Department is currently reviewing whether root barriers or other measures could be used to allow trees within six to ten feet of a water or sewer line, and has engaged a landscape architect to design root barriers, if

43

appropriate. In addition, the landscape architect will identify appropriate trees that have less invasive roots. If revised guidelines are possible, these guidelines will be referenced in the WU Code to potentially enable planting of shade trees closer to water and sewer lines and sidewalks in the right-of-way. With regard to construction footings, PDD is working on providing flexibility in the WU Code for alternative shade structures for which construction footings would not be allowed in the PUE. These alternatives could include cantilevered shade structures, removable shade canopies, false footings, and a reduction in mandatory shade depth when in conflict with a PUE. These options will also be further discussed in upcoming WU Code public hearings and presentations. RECOMMENDATION This report is for information and discussion only. Staff will report and make recommendations on utility corridor issues regarding shade structures and trees at the T&I Subcommittee meeting in December. In addition, staff will also report on some of the preliminary information regarding infrastructure capacity issues within the eastern portion of the Reinvent PHX project boundaries. Attachment A – Infill Advisory Group Technical Recommendations Attachment B – Infill Development District Map

44

Attachment A

Infill Advisory Group Technical Recommendations Streamline Technical Appeals Remove need for the following commonly approved technical appeals

• Parcels included in the Infill Development District allowed pre versus post or first flush retention

• (Citywide) No automatic PUEs on Plat when applicant provides approval letters from utilities – will document utility approval in permitting system

• (Citywide) Low slope sewer taps allowed with appropriate engineering calculations

• (Citywide) Minimum fire line sizing allowed Speed up technical appeal and Building Code Modification Processes

• (Citywide) Hold weekly Technical Appeal meeting, invite applicant to meeting, and render a decision at the meeting with written notification in 48 hours

• (Citywide) Hold bi-weekly Code Modification meetings, invite applicant to meeting, and render a decision at the meeting with written notification in 48 hours

Ongoing Improvement

• (Citywide) Track appeals for regular review of commonly approved items and determine if policies can be revised to eliminate the requirement for appeal

Reduced Inventory/Salvage/Landscape Requirements

• Eliminate inventory salvage requirement on properties in the Infill Development District (unless property has specific zoning stipulations regarding existing trees or plants and as long as there are no trees in the right-of-way that will be removed)

• (Citywide) Allow site plan to include landscaping information for lots less than two net acres

• (Citywide) Allow landscape/inventory/salvage combination plan review for sites less than five net acres in size

Reduced Fire Access requirements (new Fire Infill Development Policy)

• Allow 16-foot fire access road for all projects within the Infill Development District

• Allow alley access, if alley is paved per city standard, for all projects within the Infill Development District

45

Water/Sewer/Utilities

• Allow the use of master meters for Single-Family Attached type subdivisions within the Infill Development District

Reduced Grading & Drainage and Retention Requirements

• Allow pre versus post or first flush in the Infill Development District • (Citywide) Grading and Drainage plan not required where sum of the

additional impervious surfaces are no greater than 2,000 square feet • Zero lot line buildings in the Downtown Code Area allowed first flush

retention Reduced Site Requirements

• (Citywide) Allow existing driveway widths to remain when traffic is not significantly increased due to a change of use

• (Citywide) Allow existing parking lots to remain as long as minimal parking lot changes are proposed

• (Citywide) New parking spaces can match existing spaces as long as less than 50 spaces are being added

• (Citywide) If less than 2,000 square feet of building is being added: - Waive requirement for driveway retrofits - Waive requirement for right of way and sidewalk dedications - Waive requirement for street improvements • (Citywide) If a more intense use is not proposed, waive requirements

to bring number of spaces up to code for sites short of parking Solid Waste Turn Around Relief

• Allow for specialized collection in smaller truck reducing turnaround requirements within the Infill Development District (smaller 30-foot clearance)

Encourage pedestrian and bike friendly development in the Infill Development District

• Include pedestrian and bike connectivity in traffic studies for downtown/Infill Development District

Dedicated, expert assistance for projects within the downtown/infill area map

• Create an Infill Development Team to facilitate infill projects through the development process. Six new positions needed for this team are a Planning & Development Team Leader, Structural Plans Engineer, Electrical Plans Engineer, Mechanical Plans Engineer, Engineering Technician, and a Secretary II.

46

Facilitate Single Family Attached Subdivisions In conjunction with a Text Amendment recommendation to facilitate new residential single-family attached subdivisions from the Phase II group: Traffic

• New coordinated minimum standards for street and private driveway/accessway widths to cover requirements of both water/sewer demands, and traffic/pedestrian circulation demands

Solid Waste Collection

• Provide flexible options for centralized collection or street service depending on project configuration

47

48


49


CITY COUNCIL REPORT

TO: Lisa Takata Deputy City Manager

FROM: Thomas Remes Government Relations Director

SUBJECT: 2015 FEDERAL AGENDA – TRANSPORTATION, WATER, ENVIRONMENT

This report seeks input from the Transportation & Infrastructure subcommittee on the city’s federal legislative priorities in the areas of transportation, water and environment for the 2015 Federal Agenda. It is anticipated that the complete Federal Agenda will be presented to the Mayor and Council at the December Policy meeting. THE ISSUE Each year, the Office of Government Relations requests that city departments submit federal requests and issues for the city’s Federal Agenda. Once input is received from the Mayor and Council, the 2015 Federal Agenda will define the city’s legislative priorities and guide the city’s lobbying activities during the First Session of the 114th Congress. In order to prioritize and guide lobbying efforts at the federal level, staff recommends that the Mayor and Council endorse two guiding principles as the city’s highest priorities: promote fiscal sustainability and protect local authority. To promote fiscal sustainability, the city would, for example, support efforts to achieve parity in federal funding for Phoenix with other cities of equivalent population. Staff would also oppose federal actions imposing unfunded mandates on cities or reducing funding available for important programs or infrastructure needs. To protect local authority, staff would support federal action that empowers local communities and oppose efforts to preempt local decisions. Part I: Transportation In the area of transportation, staff recommends the following federal legislative priorities for inclusion in the 2015 Federal Agenda: Surface Transportation Reauthorization

Long-term reauthorization of surface transportation legislation is needed. Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21), a two-year transportation authorization bill, was initially set to expire on September 30, 2014, but was extended through May 2015. Reliable long-term transportation authorization is needed to help ensure long-term financial planning for both street transportation and public transit.

50

Street and transit planning are long-term issues and a two-year surface transportation reauthorization such as MAP-21 does not provide a consistent funding stream that allows for long-term planning for activities such as facility construction, fleet replacement and light rail construction. Without the ability to conduct long-term planning, there is a real potential for delayed projects, which can cost cities more money as time goes on. The short-term nature of MAP-21 places local governments and transit agencies at a great disadvantage for long-term planning needs.

The following are items of importance to the city:

• Significantly increase federal transportation infrastructure investment. • Place program emphasis on transit oriented development and sustainability. • Dramatically streamline and simplify the federal aid process and increase funding

to cities and Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs). • Longer-term (four to six years) authorization upon expiration of MAP-21, to allow

for better planning. • Support an urban focus that heightens the federal commitment to complete

streets and multi-modal improvements backed by more federal dollars. • Support planning and construction funding to implement strategic efforts for the

Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) region to address freight transportation.

Staff recommends the city support long-term surface transportation reauthorization legislation that reflects the city’s priorities. Highway Trust Fund

The Highway Trust Fund (HTF) finances construction of the nation’s surface transportation and mass transit systems. Every time a driver purchases fuel, they pay an excise tax per gallon, with each fuel source having a distinct tax rate. It is the primary source of funding for state projects that improve and maintain transportation. The HTF was set up under the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 at three cents per gallon. The gas tax was last increased in 1993 and remains at 18.4 cents per gallon today. Motor fuel taxes, which are the primary funding source for the HTF, are declining, while transportation infrastructure needs are increasing. This has resulted in demand for federal transportation funding outpacing the funds flowing into the HTF, which has been kept solvent by periodic one-time cash infusions. This approach is not sustainable and a viable long-term solution to funding the nation’s transportation infrastructure is needed. Insolvency of the HTF is a very real possibility unless a long-term funding solution is found.

If the HTF became insolvent, public transit funding for the city would be drastically reduced, affecting the vital transit services that more than 76 million passengers rely on each year. The city, as the designated recipient of Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funds for the region, receives approximately $80 million annually from the FTA. This funding is used for critical public transit projects and services and insolvency of the HTF would jeopardize public transit for the city and the region.

51

Staff recommends support for legislation that resolves the insolvency issues with the HTF and provides stable funding sources for transit.

Congestion Mitigation Air Quality (CMAQ)

The city would like to support the local MPO, the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), and request that the federal government recognize the need to allow state and regional agencies more flexibility to make their own determination about allocation based on regional needs for CMAQ funding, particularly when it deals with Particulate Matter (PM)-2.5 nonattainment areas. Whereas MAP-21 specified MPOs use a 1.2 weighted factor to distribute CMAQ dollars to PM-2.5 non-attainment areas, a new proposed rulemaking recommends changing that to five. This would limit the region’s flexibility to use more funding in the PM-10 non-attainment areas, where more is generally needed in the southwest region, as opposed to reserving a mandated allocation for one or two cities in Arizona that may not necessarily require as much. Keeping the 1.2 weighted factor as specified in MAP- 21 ensures some monies are going to PM-2.5 non-attainment areas and thus allows the MPOs to determine what makes the most sense for their constituents with the remaining CMAQ dollars.

Staff recommends supporting MAG in requesting that the federal government grant state and regional agencies more flexibility with respect to regional needs for CMAQ funding.

Buy America

Since first adopted by Congress in 1978 as part of the Surface Transportation Assistance Act (STAA), Buy America was intended to promote U.S. manufacturers by establishing a preference for products produced or manufactured in the U.S. It has been amended several times since first being adopted and generally requires that all steel, iron and manufactured end products be produced in the U.S., unless a public interest or non-availability waiver is granted by FTA or by regulation. Further, rolling stock must contain 60 percent domestic content and be assembled in the U.S. The city is concerned that Buy America regulations will delay highway and transit projects. Staff recommends advocating to harmonize FTA and FHWA’s Buy America process for multimodal projects. Alternative Fuel Tax Credit

The Alternative Fuel Tax Credit was an incentive for alternative fuel sold or used as a fuel to operate a motor vehicle. Under the Alternative Fuel Tax Credit, state and local governments (among others) that dispense qualified fuel from an on-site fueling station for use in vehicles qualified for a tax credit of $0.50 per gallon for compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, P-Series fuel, liquid fuel derived from coal through the Fischer-Tropsch process and compressed or liquefied gas derived from biomass. This tax credit expired on December 31, 2013.

The Alternative Fuel Tax Credit provided about $3.2 million per year for the city’s bus operations. Due to the tax credit’s expiration, the city must utilize other funding sources

52

for bus operations, or potentially reduce service. The city’s residents are impacted by the loss of the Alternative Fuel Tax Credit because less funding is available for transit service and passenger amenities. Staff recommends support for legislation that restores the Alternative Fuel Tax Credit retroactive to January 1, 2014. Local Surface Transportation Funding Priorities

• Design and construct storm drainage facilities citywide including storm drains, retention basins, channels and outfalls.

• Design and construct the 67th Avenue Salt River Crossing between Southern Avenue and Broadway Road.

• Design and construct dry crossings (bridges) for all major arterials in the northeast region of the Phoenix metropolitan area.

• Design and construct Avenida Rio Salado/Broadway Road (ARS), located between 67th Avenue and 51st Avenue.

• Design and construct bridge crossings for all major arterials in the northwest region of the Phoenix metropolitan area.

• Design and construction bikeway infrastructure to support the city’s bicycle master plan and complete streets policy.

• construct additional general purpose lanes, provide for High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes, and extend the existing HOV lane system on the segment of I-17 from I-10 East to Loop 101 (Agua Fria/Pima).

Staff recommends looking for opportunities and advocating for federal funding for the above capital projects.

Part II: Water and Environment In the areas of water and environment, staff recommends the following federal legislative priorities for inclusion in the 2015 Federal Agenda: Tres Rios Environmental Restoration Project

The Tres Rios Environmental Restoration Project (Tres Rios) is a 500-acre constructed wetlands, flood control and environmental restoration project with water quality benefits and recreation opportunities along the Salt, Gila and Agua Fria rivers located downstream from 83rd Avenue, west of Phoenix. Water for wetlands and river restoration will be supplied by the 91st Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). The wetlands are critical to expansion of the WWTP and provide a more economical alternative than others for meeting water quality standards. Tres Rios also will provide flood control to more than 600 structures in the project area.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) has completed the project’s levee from 105th Avenue to 123rd Avenue. The flow-regulating wetlands and over-bank wetlands were completed in November 2010. The pump station for a continuous water supply to the constructed wetlands was completed in July 2012. Phases III A & B, the in-river features, from 105th Avenue to El Mirage Road, were completed in May 2012. The

53

remaining phase, Phase III C, has yet to be designed or constructed and will complete the final reach of the environmental restoration of the Salt and Gila Rivers, from El Mirage Road to the confluence with the Agua Fria River. The recreational component of the project is scheduled to be constructed and partially completed by May 2015 using the city’s matching funds and arts/betterment funding. This partial project will include public access to the constructed wetlands for passive recreation and bird watching. The city is required to remove the surrounding community from the flood plain. The city also needs to compete the recreational component to allow safe access to the public area of the constructed wetlands. The final environmental restoration portion of the project (Phase III C) will not only improve the river channel environment, but provide better flows of flood waters and assist in the flood control efforts/design of the project. Staff recommends asking Congress to:

• Provide Corps funding for continued construction of Tres Rios. • Include reauthorization of Tres Rios in the Water Resources Development Act

(WRDA). • Re-introduce language to waive 902 limits, allowing the Corps to include Tres

Rios in its work plan or budget to complete the final stage of the project. Rio Salado Oeste Ecosystem Restoration Project Completion of the $100 million Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area from 24th Street to 19th Avenue is an important accomplishment for the city in collaboration with the Corps. Rio Salado provides a needed habitat for Arizona wildlife, regional trails and economic development benefits beyond the banks of the riverbed. The next segment of the plan is the Rio Salado Oeste ecosystem restoration project. Rio Salado Oeste will restore an eight-mile reach of the Salt River between 19th Avenue and 83rd Avenue. The project is currently in the first phase of design from 19th Avenue to 51st Avenue. Since 2008, the project has received appropriations of over $3.4 million.

Staff recommends seeking funding of $1.5 million to the Corps for Rio Salado Oeste pre-engineering and design.

Waters of the U.S.

Phoenix’s size and complexity provide the city with an important perspective on the definition of the Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS). Staff is supportive of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) stated goal to provide clarity to the definition of WOTUS. However, staff has identified several items in the proposed rule that may adversely impact the city’s operations and merit further attention.

The limits of Clean Water Act jurisdiction have changed over the past decade or so, primarily due to Supreme Court decisions, leading to inconsistencies and confusion in Clean Water Act permitting requirements. With its proposed rule, the EPA intends to clarify the definition of WOTUS. While the proposed rule does provide more clarity, it appears to substantially increase the areas subject to Clean Water Act jurisdiction. There could be a tremendous fiscal impact to the city if water transfers are not excluded from the proposed rule. There would also be a significant fiscal impact if the overly

54

broad definition of WOTUS is adopted, because the city would need to obtain substantially more Clean Water Act permits for a variety of construction and maintenance activities.

Staff recommends that the city continue to monitor and participate in the rulemaking process to represent the city’s concerns. Colorado River Resiliency

Phoenix’s Colorado River entitlements, delivered via the Central Arizona Project, make up nearly half of the water supply delivered by the city to its residents and customers. Significant reductions in the availability of the city’s Colorado River water supplies would impact water rates and result in negative impacts on the quality of life for Phoenix residents. Reduced availability of Colorado River supplies would result in a reduction in revenues from water sales and/or increased costs to secure replacement supplies. In either case, the city’s ability to maintain low water rates would be challenged.

The Colorado River system has been in drought since 2000, the worst drought on record. As a result, water storage on the system is at less than 50 percent of capacity. Current projections show a 36 percent probability of a shortage declaration on the Colorado River in 2016 and a 58 percent probability of shortage in 2017. There has never been a shortage declaration on the Colorado River, but without one or more years of significantly higher-than-normal snow fall on the basin, the threat of shortage will continue to increase until a shortage must actually be declared. As the possibility of a Colorado River shortage looms larger and larger with each passing year, Arizona will be faced with a level of uncertainty that has never been dealt with before.

Although the probability that Phoenix will see any reduction in its Colorado River supplies in the foreseeable future remains extremely low, this broader uncertainty in water supplies could itself be disruptive and generate fears that result in negative impacts to the entire region. Should the drought last for another decade or more, Phoenix could see reductions in its Colorado River water supplies. Therefore, it is imperative that efforts be initiated to reduce the probability of catastrophic shortages of Colorado River water in the future and promote the resiliency of the system to droughts. At its October 21, 2014 Policy meeting, the City Council approved a Colorado River Resiliency section of the Water Services Department’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and discussed potential state legislation on Enhanced Aquifer Management. For the purposes of the federal agenda, staff recommends working with stakeholders in support of federal legislation and/or funding that would increase the resiliency of the river.

Staff recommends that the city work with stakeholders, including the Central Arizona Project, Arizona Department of Water Resources, Basin States, other Colorado River water users and the U.S. Department of the Interior, to pursue federal legislative and/or funding solutions to promote Colorado River resiliency.

55

Forest Health and Restoration

Unhealthy forests increase the likelihood and magnitude of wildfires. A majority of the city’s water supplies comes from snow that falls on forested lands in the watersheds located north and east of Phoenix. Catastrophic wildfires in these watersheds reduce the quality and reliability of Phoenix’s water supplies and increase costs for the city and its residents. In recent years, catastrophic wildfires have destroyed hundreds of thousands of acres of forested lands in Arizona and other southwestern states. In addition to the obvious tragedy of losing long-standing forests and corresponding ecosystems, these wildfires have severe impacts on the watersheds that serve the city. Subsequent precipitation in the burned areas results in excessive erosion, carrying soot, debris and soils downstream and into the reservoirs that capture streamflow from the watershed. The negative impacts on water quality and reservoir storage capacity below the damaged watersheds result in increased costs and reduced water supply reliability for the city and its residents.

The FLAME Act Amendments Act of 2014 and other legislation would allow for the full funding of wildland firefighting budgets for the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Department of the Interior, as well dramatically increase resources for forest restoration programs. The bill would establish a streamlined environmental review process to expedite forest treatment projects across 7.5 million acres of federal land and promote the use of private industry under forest stewardship contracts.

Staff recommends that the city monitor and advocate for legislation such as the FLAME Act Amendments Act of 2014 that promotes forest health and restoration, particularly in watersheds that serve the city. New Stormwater Regulations

The EPA released a draft strategy that outlined plans for new rules and initiatives for a number of water quality issues, including expansion of coverage for municipal stormwater permits. Among other things, the EPA wants to ensure that storm sewer systems use green infrastructure approaches, including long-term control plans for sewer overflows and green infrastructure alternatives in enforcement orders and consent decrees. The EPA also plans to develop wastewater treatment requirements that minimize the effects of sanitary sewer overflows, expand stormwater permitting to currently unregulated areas and establish performance standards for stormwater discharges. New regulations often are drafted on a “one size fits all” model that is ill-suited for the arid southwest and that may create implementation problems for Phoenix and other southwestern cities.

Staff recommends that the city continue to participate in the national discussion to represent the city’s concerns.

56

Drinking Water Standards

Recent EPA decisions indicate an effort to promulgate additional drinking water standards. The drinking water industry expects to see several new or revised standards proposed in the next year or two, likely including perchlorate, nitrosamines, several volatile organic chemicals, chromium and revisions to the lead copper rule. Regulation of hexavalent chromium and perchlorate are controversial, with some members of Congress lobbying heavily to set new rules. The EPA previously released health assessments on both, but new information suggests plans to announce a decision regarding the need to regulate them.

Staff recommends that the city continue to monitor and participate in this discussion.

Lacey Act

In 2013, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) announced it was considering categorical exclusion for several organisms, including quagga mussels. Categorical exclusion under the Lacey Act prohibits any interstate transfer of a listed species for any reason. Categorical exclusion would greatly shorten the listing process and one of the first species in line would be quagga mussels, which have recently been found in the Colorado River and several Arizona lakes and canals. Water supply in the arid southwest cannot function without the transfer of water over state borders, which would be impacted by these changes.

Staff recommends that the city continue to monitor and participate in this discussion.

Water Quality Standards

The EPA recently released a proposed rule outlining a number of possible revisions to water quality standards. These regulations directly impact states and how they establish and implement their water quality programs. The proposed water quality standards serve as a guide to states in implementing their permitting programs and each state subsequently determines discharge permit conditions, including monitoring requirements and discharge limits for pollutants. Many of the proposed changes would ultimately impact permitted discharges under the Clean Water Act's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits. The city holds several of these permits as issued by the EPA and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).

Staff recommends that the city continue to monitor and participate in this discussion. Air Quality Issues The local air quality agencies and cities and towns are in a continual cycle of response to ever- changing and more stringent National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and revisions currently can occur every 5 years. A 10-year review cycle of review of the NAAQS by a change in the Clean Air Act is preferred. The current EPA rule on exception event dust storms needs clarification on several provisions, especially to ensure that States and local entities are not penalized for dust storms beyond their control with respect to Clean Air Act provisions.

57

Staff recommends the city support legislation that would: clarify EPA Clean Air Act requirements to address dust storm exceptional events and provide for a 10-year (instead of the current five-year) review cycle of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for federal air quality standards. Endangered Species Act The presence of endangered species and/or their habitats can impact city projects. The city’s water supply areas are particularly vulnerable to endangered species impacts. The city has worked with Salt River Project (SRP) and Central Arizona Project (CAP) to put provisions in place to protect water supply areas, but future changes to the Endangered Species Act need to be monitored. For example, the Western Yellow-billed Cuckoo (cuckoo) will be listed on the Endangered Species List in November 2014. The cuckoo inhabits areas along the Colorado, Salt, Verde, and Gila rivers. There have been cuckoos living in the Tres Rios area for many years. If provisions such as Habitat Conservation Plans and Safe Harbor Agreements are not in place, any impacts to cuckoos or their habitat will need to undergo consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. While unlikely to occur, if cuckoo critical habitat were to be designated in the area of the SRP reservoirs, the fiscal impact to the city’s water supply could be in the millions of dollars. City staff has worked with SRP and CAP to ensure that Habitat Conservation Plans are in place for those respective water supply areas. City staff has also worked directly with U.S. Fish and Wildlife staff to ensure that Safe Harbor Agreements are in place for the Rio Salado and Tres Rios areas. However, changes to the Endangered Species Act, as well as new listings and critical habitat designations, need to be continuously monitored. The city was successful in keeping Southwestern Willow Flycatcher critical habitat designations off of the Tres Rios and Rio Salado areas and has submitted a comment letter for the same result for the proposed cuckoo critical habitat designation (which currently does include the Tres Rios area).

Staff recommends continuing to monitor any proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act, any proposed listings and any proposed critical habitat designations. Brownfields Brownfields are real estate that are overlooked for development because of the presence or potential presence of hazardous substances and petroleum products. Examples include former gas stations, closed landfills and former manufacturing facilities. These properties are often abandoned, vacant and pose potential health concerns and blighted conditions. The cleanup and redevelopment of brownfields brings many economic development benefits to the city. Redevelopment creates jobs, increases property values, reduces potential health risks and revitalizes neighborhoods. Obtaining federal funding for the cleanup and redevelopment of brownfields has a positive fiscal impact on the city.

Since 1998, more than $293 million in private investment has restored approximately 275 acres of previously contaminated land and created or maintained over 3,300 jobs in

58

the city. In addition, 21 sites have been redeveloped for public uses, such as parks. This work was accomplished through a number of funding sources, including from the EPA. Brownfields grants are the foundation of EPA's brownfields program. Phoenix has utilized the EPA’s brownfields assessment, revolving loan fund, job training and area-wide planning grants to transform brownfields into thriving assets for the community. It is critical that funding from this federal resource continues.

Staff recommends support for legislation that would provide federal funding for environmental assessment, clean-up and redevelopment of brownfields.

Diesel Emission Reductions Act

On an annual basis, the city is notified that grant funding associated with the Diesel Emission Reductions Act (DERA) is available for municipalities. Under the Energy Policy Act of 2005, this grant provides the resources to reduce diesel emissions. This would allow for installing emission-reducing equipment on the city’s current fleet or the replacement of older equipment that pollutes more than new equipment. The city is interested in utilizing grant funding to upgrade equipment, but stipulations under DERA require existing equipment replacement to occur three years before the scheduled replacement date. With current budget restraints, early retirement is not a financially sustainable option for the city. The city is requesting a change in the structure of DERA/Energy Policy Act of 2005 to target specific engines that emit diesel emissions well over the current emission requirements, regardless of when the equipment is due for replacement. According to the EPA, Phoenix residents would benefit from equipment that produces fewer emissions because “Emissions from diesel exhaust can lead to serious health conditions like asthma and allergies, and can worsen heart and lung disease, especially in vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.” Implementing this measure would align with the city’s commitment to preserve the quality of life for Phoenix residents. Furthermore, federal funding for older diesel equipment will provide relief to the city’s general fund budget. Staff recommends pursuing changes to DERA to assist with reducing costs and diesel emissions. Federal Performance Measures Performance measures continue to be an important component of the city’s Federal Agenda. Performance measures are included in the Federal Agenda to help ensure that the city’s federal legislative priorities are being advanced in a quantifiable and results-oriented manner To this end, staff recommends the inclusion of the following milestones in the city’s 2015 Federal Agenda: Transportation Milestones:

• Monitor proposed federal surface transportation legislation and develop and implement a strategy to educate Arizona’s congressional delegation on the city’s transportation priorities.

59

• Meet at least four times with key members of Congress or staff on surface transportation reauthorization, emphasizing the need for a long-term bill that includes the city’s priorities.

• Meet at least four times with key members of Congress or staff on continuation of the Alternative Fuel Tax Credit.

• Prepare briefing material, as needed, on key issues such as identifying alternative reliable federal sources to fund surface transportation.

Water and Environment Milestones:

• Develop and implement a strategy to gain support for funding to continue construction of Tres Rios and allow the Corps to complete the final stage of the project.

• Prepare briefing material, as necessary, on key issues such as Tres Rios, Waters of the U.S. and Colorado River Resiliency.

• Monitor proposed federal legislation and the Federal Register for notices, proposed and final rules for regional air quality issues, stormwater, endangered species and brownfields that could impact city operations and provide updates on any meeting with pertinent federal agencies and the Arizona congressional delegation and staff.

RECOMMENDATION This report is for information and discussion.

Date post:	18-Jul-2020
Category:	Documents
Upload:	others
View:	3 times
Download:	0 times

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING PHOENIX CITY COUNCIL ... · Metro, Regional Public Transportation...

Documents