Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2017-017 in support of the on street bicycle network by authorizing the City to submit an application with the North Central Texas Council of Governments for funding in the 2017 Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program and take appropriate action.
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BACKGROUND:
As City staff continues to implement segments of the Citywide Trail Master Plan, an opportunity to fund completion of the on street bicycle network has come to the attention of City Administration. The on street portion of the Trail Master Plan is being implemented with sharrows and related signage.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has pledged $23 million as part of the Transportation Alternative Set-Aside Program (Program). The Program provides for 80/20 reimbursement funding for future projects that focus on alternative methods of transportation that make non-motorized transportation safe, convenient, and appealing. To be in compliance with federal guidelines the project must be principally for transportation rather than purely recreation.
Projects selected to be part of the Program have to be fully funded and paid for completely. After payment, the City is reimbursed 80% of the cost.
DISCUSSION:
Since the Program is designed for alternative methods of transportation, sharrows for on street bicycle usage presents the best opportunity for selection as part of the Program. Further, the Program is an opportunity to complete a portion of the Trail Master Plan with a substantial cost savings.
Selection to be part of the Program will require that total project funding of $384,000 be included in the 2017/18 fiscal year budget. Upon completion of the project and reimbursement the city's cost will be $76,800. If the application is approved an agreement with TxDot will be executed within one year and the project will advance to construction within three years.
To be considered for the Program an application and approved resolution must b...
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