Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2019-158 authorizing the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement with Urban Engineers Group to survey, design and develop construction documents for trail improvements relating to sidewalk connectivity and expansion; and take appropriate action
Body
BACKGROUND:
In November 2017 voters passed a $7 million dollar bond to improve trails, sidewalks and the John F. Burke Nature Preserve. Passage would allow improved City infrastructure and would improve connections for pedestrians between destinations within the City such as schools, parks and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit light rail station.
The intent is to follow recommendations made in the 2015 Trail Master Plan (TMP). The plan focuses on improving the availability and quality of sidewalks in the central part of the City. The TMP identifies and recommends the creation of a more connected City with safer, walkable streets. Sidewalk improvements identified in the plan include replacing 4 foot wide sidewalks with 6-8 foot wide sidewalks in the central part of the City, and where feasible and connecting or infilling sidewalks as it relates to the TMP.
After reviewing the recommendations of the TMP, staff selected assessed the recommendations to determine which projects to address. The next step is to hire an engineering firm for the survey, design, and production of construction documents that will be used during the construction bidding process.
DISCUSSION:
In October 2018 staff requested submittals for Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Sidewalk Connectivity and Expansion based on the staff assessment of the recommendations of the TMP. Four firms responded and all were interviewed. Staff is recommending Urban Engineers Group (UEG) as the engineering partner for this project. UEG is a Dallas-based consulting and engineering firm. As a small, yet experienced firm UEG has provided quality and responsive professional engineering services while workin...
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