HomeMy WebLinkAboutOUTBoard agenda 111815AGENDA
Orange Unified Transportation Board
November 18, 2015
7:00 p.m.
You can bring your laptops/tablets if you would like to use them.
Conference Room 004 (Lower Floor) Orange County West Campus
131 West Margaret Lane, Hillsborough
Time Item Title
7:00 1. Call to Order and Determination of Quorum
7:05
7:15
7:18
7:20
7:40
7:50
8:05
2.
3.
4.
5.
5.a.
5.b.
5.c.
5.d.
Introduction of New Board Members and Address from Outgoing Chair
Approval of Minutes from August 19 , 2015
Consideration of Additions to the Agenda
Transit Services/Orange Public Transportation (OPT)
This section of the agenda is addressed jointly by the OUTBoard and supplemental
staff from other County departments (Aging; DSS; Housing, Human Rights and
Community Development; Health; Child Support Enforcement; and the Library) to
address transit services.
Orange County Public Transportation Assessment Study – October 2015
(Peter Murphy) – Update on a recently released Orange Public Transit (OPT)
assessment funded by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
Public Transit Division (PTD) and prepared by KFH Group, Inc.
OUTBoard/Transit Services Action: Receive information.
OPT Operational Statistics (Peter Murphy)
i.Rural Operating Assistance Program (ROAP) Grant
ii.North Carolina Community Transportation Program (CTP) Grant
iii.Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) award from the North Carolina
Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Transportation Planning Branch.
OUTBoard/Transit Services Action: Receive and review information, provide
comments.
OPT Expansion Services Updates (Peter Murphy):
i.New buses for expansion services
ii.New employees for expansion services
iii.Start date for new expansion services/routes
iv.Hillsborough park n’ ride
OUTBoard/Transit Services Action: Receive and review information, provide
comments.
Transit Advisory Services (TAS) Comments/Questions (Peter Murphy) –
Opportunity for TSB members to offer transit related comments and ask questions.
OUTBoard/Transit Services Action:Provide comments and questions, receive
feedback.1
8:15
8:35
8:55
9:05
9:10
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Regular Agenda (Action Items)
OUTBoard Input for County Commissioners’ Annual Planning Retreat
Discussion and completion of the activities and emerging issues lists for 2016, to be
included in the BOCC Annual Planning Retreat Input Form.
OUTBoard Action: Review, comment and recommend the activities and emerging
issues lists for 2106, to be included in the BOCC Annual Planning Retreat Input
Form.
Staff Updates (Abigaile Pittman)
a.Highlights of the NCDOT/Orange County luncheon meeting (October 19,
2015)
b.State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) Development Process
c.Bicycle Safety Plan
d.Request for Qualifications & Proposals Conceptual Design – Train Station
Hillsborough, NC
e.Piedmont Triad Freight Study
OUTBoard Action: Receive information.
Yearly Election of Chair and Vice Chair
OUTBoard Action: Elect Chair; elect Vice Chair
Board Comments
Adjournment
Charge of the OUTBoard (from Section I, Part C of the adopted Rules and Procedures)
1.The OUT Board is charged with advising the Board of County Commissioners on the
planning and programming of transportation infrastructure improvements and other
County transportation planning initiatives, as directed by the Board.
2.From time to time the OUT Board may be directedto provide input on regulations on
which the Planning Board has primary statutory and local ordinance advisory duties. In
such instances, the OUT Board shall serve in an advisory capacity to the Planning
Board.
Meetings (from Section IV, Part C of the adopted Rules and Procedures)
C. Date, Time, and Location of Regular Meetings
3.Regular meetings of the OUT Board shall be held as needed to address items that
require Board action consistent with its Charge and Duties identified herein. Meetings are
held on the third Wednesday of the month. The start time and location of the meeting
shall be included on the agenda and shall typically be 7:00 p.m. at the Orange County
West Campus Office Building located at 131 West Margaret Lane, Hillsborough. The
OUT Board Chair, in consultation with staff,shall have the authority to change the start
time and location of a regular meeting to meet any special circumstances, provided the
information is included on the distributed agenda.
2
MINUTES1
ORANGE UNIFIED TRANSPORTATION BOARD2
AUGUST 19,2015 3
4
5
MEMBERS PRESENT: Paul Guthrie, Chair and Chapel Hill Township Representative; Alex Castro, Vice-Chair and 6
Bingham Township Representative; Heidi Perry, At-Large Representative; Art Menius, At-Large Representative;7
Ed Vaughn, Cedar Grove Township Representative; Gary Saunders, At-Large Representative; David Laudicina, 8
At-Large Representative; Amy Cole, At-Large Representative, Tom Magnuson, At-Large Representative 9
10
MEMBERS ABSENT:Eno Township Representative - Vacant; Brantley Wells, Hillsborough Township; Ted Triebel, 11
Little River Township Representative; Representative; John Rubin, At-Large Representative 12
13
PLANNING DEPARTMENT STAFF PRESENT: Abigaile Pittman, Transportation/Land Use Planner; Bret Martin, 14
Transportation Planner; Peter Murphy, OPT Transportation Administrator; Malcum Massenburg, OPT 15
Transportation Asst. Administrator. 16
17
TRANSIT SERVICES/OPTREPRESENTATIVES PRESENT:Janet Sparks (Child Support Services Dept.), Janice Tyler 18
(Aging Dept.), Anna Kenion (Health Dept.), Serena McPherson (Dept. of Social Services) 19
20
OTHERS PRESENT:Travis Myren, Deputy County Manager; Tamra Shaw, North Carolina Department of 21
Transportation22
23
AGENDA ITEM 1: CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL;INTRODUCTIONS24
25
26
AGENDA ITEM 2: APPROVAL OF MINUTES FOR MAY 20,2015 27
28
Two corrections were made to the list of those present. 29
30
MOTION made to approve May 20, 2015 minutes by Art Menius. Seconded by Alex Castro. 31
Vote: Unanimous 32
33
AGENDA ITEM 3: CONSIDERATION OF ADDITIONS OF THE AGENDA34
35
No additions to the Agenda were made. 36
37
38
AGENDA ITEM 4: TRANSIT SERVICES,ORANGE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION (OPT)-This section of the 39
agenda is addressed jointly by the OUTBoard and supplemental staff from other 40
County departments (Aging; DSS; Housing, Human Rights and Community 41
Development; Health; Child Support Enforcement; and the Library) to address transit 42
services.43
44
AGENDA ITEM4A: PROPOSED OPTFARE STRUCTURE (BRET MARTIN)–Public hearing for the review of 45
proposed fare structure for fixed-route services. 46
47
OUTBoard/Transit Services Action:Open the public hearing; receive any 48
comments from the public; close the public hearing; and forward and recommend for 49
adoption the proposed OPT fixed-route fare structure and any modifications to the 50
BOCC. 51
52
Bret Martin: Gave presentation on proposed fare structure for fixed-route services. 53
3
54
Paul Guthrie: What do you anticipate as an additional cost to collect this fare? 55
56
Bret Martin: It depends on your collection system. If we use credit cards it’s going to eat into to it quite a bit. 57
Right now all we are doing is collecting cash fares. The fare structure does have a proposal in it to pursue the 58
issuance of bus passes for distribution. 59
60
Peter Murphy: To answer the question, we really haven’t put a dollar value on it but certainly there is a cost with 61
counting the money and the time with that, and even printing bus passes to sell. 62
63
Paul Guthrie: I remember many years ago a public transit study out of the Washington dc metro area showed 64
that the fares charged by the DC transit were costing more to collect than the fares that were being collected. In 65
fact the collection of fares cost more than if they had no fares. If you have a small fare that doesn’t change the 66
percentage of cost very much, I was wondering what the benefit was of the fare system. 67
68
Bret Martin: Well to add to that, part of the reason to collect fares is not just to collect fares; it’s also to keep too 69
many people from getting on the bus. For our system that’s not going to be an issue. 70
71
Art Menius: Have you analyzed the net gain or loss on the current $2 and $1 fares on the hill to hill route? 72
73
Bret Martin: Not on that one. 74
75
David Laudicina: It says Medicare or Medicaid card; you might want to put in there Medicare advantage card. 76
77
Bret Martin: I’ll make a note of that. 78
79
Heidi Perry: Do you also offer an annual pass? 80
81
Bret Martin: It’s a consideration. It’s not something transit typically provides. 82
83
Paul Guthrie: The more process you have of issuing and reissuing cards, your management cost goes up. 84
85
Art Menius: What is the status of the daily, weekly, and monthly passes? Are you implementing them or not? 86
87
Bret Martin: It’s not something that we’re doing, it’s something we asking approval for. 88
89
Amy Cole: Have you done any surveys with the seniors to see what they think of the rate increase? 90
91
Bret Martin: We have not, but we have a public hearing tonight. 92
93
Heidi Perry: The notices probably didn’t say anything about rate increase. They probably just said new fare 94
structure. 95
96
Bret Martin: The notice has to be specific that it’s a rate increase because that’s the only thing that requires a 97
public hearing. 98
99
Amy Cole: Were the notices actually on the buses? 100
101
Peter Murphy: I can’t say I know that they got them up. 102
103
Janice Tyler: They should be posted where the people who are being served can see. 104
105
Peter Murphy: Does anyone have any questions? 106
4
107
Janet Sparks: It seems to me that for $11,400 it’s not worth the conversation. 108
109
Janice Tyler: I agree. 110
111
Bret Martin: You will need to open the public hearing, hear and receive public comments, and close the public 112
hearing. Staff has a strong recommendation on the deviated fixed routes. 113
114
Peter Murphy: If they want door-to-door service they would pay $2.00. 115
116
Bret Martin: The ADA service fare has already been set by the commissioners at $2.00. 117
118
Heidi Perry: What is the deviated service policy? 119
120
Peter Murphy: The route gives the basic structure and we will deviate off that route. There will be limitations with 121
that however. There is also a time allowance so that we will be able to get to the stops on time. 122
123
Heidi Perry: It’s not $2.00 on each end right? 124
125
Art Menius: Its $2.00 one way. 126
127
Janice Tyler: What is the policy for the deviation? 128
129
Peter Murphy: They are going to have pie shaped zones, and it is two days a week. 130
131
Amy Cole: Will it be income based? Will there be option for free fare for those who are below a certain income? 132
133
Bret Martin: It could be but that would be more administration cost. 134
135
Peter Murphy: It could be but that would not be through OPT. Another department may be able to provide 136
vouchers 137
138
Amy Cole: What is the ultimate goal here? 139
140
Bret Martin: The $11,400 annually year after year. If we are expanding service, the fare structure needs to be fair 141
for all riders. 142
143
Janice Tyler: Are there funds to provide vouchers to seniors? 144
145
Bret Martin: This is very loosely a fare increase since the services are new. 146
147
Heidi Perry: We want it to succeed. I think age 60 is not elderly, I think age 65 is when people think about 148
retirement and getting on Medicare. 149
150
Janice Tyler: We use 60 because that is what was established by the Federal government under the Older 151
Americans Act. 152
153
Peter Murphy: Triangle Transit and most of the other agencies are using 65 154
155
Bret Martin: The Federal Transit Administration has a definition for elderly and its 65. The reason we are using 156
60 with this is because that’s what we were using previously. 157
158
David Laudicina: You can’t get a Medicare card until you’re 65. 159
5
160
Janice Tyler: You can get a Medicare card when you’re 62. 161
162
Gary Saunders: You can show your ID to show proof of age. 163
164
Paul Guthrie: Requested motion to open hearing for comments. 165
166
Art Menius: Motion to open public hearing. Seconded by Alex Castro.167
168
No comments from the public 169
170
Alex Castro: Motion to close public hearing. Seconded by Art Menius. 171
172
Discussion 173
174
Janice Tyler: So Medicare is age 65 but age 62 is when you can take early benefits. 175
176
David Laudicina: So you still have a problem with having to show proof of age? 177
178
Bret Martin: Do you have a government issued ID? 179
180
Gary Saunders: You’ll need one to vote with. 181
182
Art Menius: Motion only for new fare for fixed-route deviations. Motion seconded by Ed Vaughn. 183
184
Anna Kenion: If a disabled person has an aide with them on the bus, do they have to pay as well? 185
186
Bret Martin: If they are classified as disabled per the ADA plan, then no. 187
188
Alex Castro: The other fares are staying the same, is that correct? The only increase is in relation to the senior 189
services? 190
191
Bret Martin: The only increase is the new fare. 192
193
Motion withdrawn 194
195
Janet Sparks: Is the new fare only going to yield $11,400? 196
197
Bret Martin: That is the difference between collecting a fare from seniors rather than nothing at all. If you don’t 198
charge any fares then you will blow the financial plan out of the water. 199
200
Peter Murphy: Operationally, I would be concerned if we offered free taxi service out in the county because 201
essentially that’s what it would be. 202
203
Motion by Art Menius to recommend with exception. No one-way fare on the non-peak fixed routes for seniors 204
over 60, passengers with disabilities, and passengers with Medicare or Medicaid. And no fare for seniors over 205
60, passengers with disability, and passengers with Medicaid or Medicare for the peak fixed route. 206
207
Seconded by Alex Castro. 208
209
Amy Cole: If the majority of people riding think that it is a fair rate to pay then I would like to support them, but I 210
would also want to make sure that those who want access but do not have the money for the fare will still have 211
access. I think we should get a survey from the people riding the bus. 212
6
213
Janice Tyler: There was a good survey done by a student at UNC. 214
215
Alex Castro: Gave Abigaile Pittman a copy of the survey. 216
217
Heidi Perry made a motion to amend the motion: increase the 60-year age for elderly to 65 years. 218
219
Seconded by Gary Saunders. 220
221
Vote: 4-3 with Alex Castro, Amy Cole and Ed Vaughn in opposition to the proposed amendment to the motion. 222
223
Alex Castro: Asked if in the rural deviated fixed routes at fixed locations would still be a dollar for seniors. 224
225
Malcum Massenburg: To charge seniors for the transportation but not the meal is inconsistent. 226
227
Peter Murphy: If they are eligible for one for free then they are eligible for the other. 228
229
Vote on original motion: 6-2 – Heidi Perry and Gary Saunders voting in opposition. Motion carried. 230
231
AGENDA ITEM4B:STATUS REPORT (PETER MURPHY)232
I.New buses for expansion services233
II.New employees for expansion services 234
III.Start date for new expansion services/routes 235
236
OUTBoard/Transit Services Action:Receive and review information, provide 237
comments. 238
239
Peter Murphy: Provided update on expansion services. 240
241
Alex Castro: Are there signs as to where the bus is stopping and are the schedules are on the buses? 242
243
Peter Murphy: Yes we have a map with the stops on it. 244
245
David Laudicina: So this service is not very useful for those who commute to UNC? 246
247
Bret Martin: It is useful, connections can be made. 248
249
Amy Cole: What about any advertisement? 250
251
Heidi Perry: You should put this in a list serv. 252
253
Bret Martin: Up until last week we were unsure we would have all the necessary equipment so we haven’t 254
advertised it. 255
256
Alex Castro: How many seats will this service provide? 257
258
Bret Martin: The vehicles coming in now are 17 and 18 passenger buses which is midsized. 259
260
AGENDA ITEM4C:PRIORITIZATION OF TRANSIT RELATED TECHNOLOGIES (PETER MURPHY)–Prioritization of 261
transit related technologies reviewed at the May 20, 2015 OUTBoard/Transit Services meeting, for funding 262
purposes. 263
264
7
OUTBoard/Transit Services Action:Receive and review information, provide 265
comments, recommend prioritization of transit related technologies. 266
267
Peter Murphy: Gave presentation, which included a power point. 268
269
Gary Saunders: How long it will take to incorporate the last item (AVL and Route Prediction Software)? 270
271
Peter Murphy: Years down the road. 272
273
Motion made by Alex Castro to approve the prioritization suggested by Peter Murphy. Seconded by Gary 274
Saunders. Vote was unanimous. 275
276
AGENDA ITEM4D:TRANSIT SERVICES BOARD (TSB)COMMENTS/QUESTIONS (PETER MURPHY)–Opportunity for 277
TSB members to offer transit related comments and ask questions. 278
279
OUTBoard/Transit Services Action:Provide comments and questions, receive 280
feedback. 281
282
Janice Tyler: In the Department of Aging brochure it says it can take up to 21 days to process an application. 283
We shorten that time frame by possibly looking at adding OPT staff instead of adding automated systems. 284
285
Malcum Massenburg: Discussed the language on the brochure. 286
287
Bret Martin: We try to get the application processed quicker than 21 days. 288
289
Abigaile Pittman: Are there any plans for amenities that will be at the bus stops? 290
291
Paul Murphy: It depends on budgets. 292
293
Bret Martin: OPT is understaffed. 294
295
Janice Tyler: With the new technology there will be more hours freed up. This may help with staffing. 296
297
AGENDA ITEM 5: REGULAR AGENDA (ACTION ITEMS)298
299
No items. 300
301
AGENDA ITEM VI: STAFF UPDATES302
303
A.ORANGE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION PROJECT PRIORITY LIST (BRET MARTIN)–304
Ranking of the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) transportation projects 305
for the Burlington-Graham Metropolitan Planning Organization (BGMPO), 306
Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro (DCHC) MPO, and the Triangle Area Rural 307
Planning Organization (TARPO), to be submitted for consideration of inclusion in 308
the 1018-2027 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). The 309
unranked list was approved at the Board’s May 20 meeting and approved by the 310
BOCC at its June 2nd meeting. 311
312
B.ORANGE COUNTY RESURFACING PROGRAM (BRET MARTIN)-At its April 15th 313
meeting the OUTBoard reviewed the NCDOT 2016 Resurfacing 314
Schedule/Program and commented with regard to several roads that could have 315
sufficient right-of-way to accommodate wider shoulders for bicyclists. Following 316
that meeting Staff emailed the OUTBoard’s comments/prioritized list to NCDOT, 317
8
and then met with NCDOT representatives on July 21st to discuss the 318
resurfacing program and any opportunities that may exist, based on existing 319
adopted transportation plans, for implementing these plans through NCDOT’s 320
resurfacing program. NCDOT representatives explained that the funding 321
structure for resurfacing projects has changed and that the emphasis now is 322
solely maintenance and safety. It is no longer possible to divert funds to add 2-ft. 323
or 4-ft. wide shoulders on a resurfacing project. They will be on the lookout for 324
any other funding possibilities (from other resources). 325
326
C.DRAFT BICYCLE SAFETY PLAN (ABIGAILE PITTMAN)-The BOCC received the 327
OUTBoard’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Report, including recommendations 328
at its June 16th meeting. The BOCC accepted the Report and instructed staff to 329
a.Review the list of recommended actions in the Report with regard 330
to financial costs, staffing capabilities, and required coordination 331
with other agencies/entities; and 332
b.Return to the Commissioners in the fall with information relevant to 333
implementing the lists of actions suggested the Report. 334
335
Staff will keep the OUTBoard apprised. 336
337
OUTBoard Action:Receive information, provide comments. 338
339
AGENDA ITEM 7: BOARD COMMENTS340
341
AGENDA ITEM 8: ADJOURNMENT.THERE IS NO MEETING IN SEPTEMBER.342
343
344
MOTION was made by Alex Castro. Gary Saunders seconded. 345
346
VOTE: Unanimous 347
348
349
_________________________________________ 350
Alex Castro, Vice Chair 351
352
353
9
10
ORANGE COUNTY
ORANGE UNIFIED TRANSPORTATION BOARD (OUTBoard)
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:November 18, 2015
Action Agenda
Item No.5.a.
SUBJECT: Orange County Public Transportation Assessment Study – October 2015
DEPARTMENT: Planning and Inspections PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N)N
ATTACHMENT(S):
1.Orange County Public Transportation
Assessment Study – October 2015:
http://server3.co.orange.nc.us:8088/weblink
8/0/doc/39532/Page1.aspx
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Peter Murphy, Transportation Administrator,
2245-2002
PURPOSE:Update on a recently released Orange Public Transit (OPT) assessment funded by
the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Public Transit Division (PTD) and
prepared by KFH Group, Inc.
BACKGROUND: KFH Group, Inc., a consultant of NCDOT has completed a comprehensive
assessment of OPT. The study analyzed current conditions, service plans, and organization
and staffing and recommended near-term service improvements to provide improved service to
the citizens of Orange County.
SUMMARY OF STUDY RESULTS:
Overview of OPT
x Over the past several years there have been significant improvements in the
administration and management of OPT.
x OPT is now operating out of offices with sufficient space and appropriate conditions
managing the system.
x OPT operates a fleet of 14 vehicles, and the vehicle fleet is being updated to replace
overage vehicles and right-sized to address near-term expansion.
x Current fixed-route services include the Hillsborough Circulator and the Orange-Chapel
Hill Midday Connector.
x Demand-response service required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is
provided in the fixed-route service areas.
x Other demand-response services include service to the rural general public, seniors, and
persons with disabilities.
x Specialized demand-response service is also provided to the clients of several County
agencies and Orange Enterprises.
x The County has recently adopted a new fare policy with fares that vary by type of service
and the age of the rider.
,WHPD
11
Costs and Funding
x Based on FY 2014 data, the combined operating and administrative cost of OPT service
was $66.60 per service hour.
x The incremental operating cost of new services for FY 2014 was $44.28 per service hour.
x 50% of total operating and administrative costs were covered by federal or state grants,
fare revenue or contract income from human service agencies.
x There are capital costs primarily for vehicles, which vary year to year depending on the
number and type of vehicles.
x Orange County funds are subsidizing (to varying degrees) each of the programs utilizing
OPT services.
Performance
x OPT provided 63,519 trips in FY 2014, of which 73% were demand-response services,
and 27% were on fixed-route service.
x A comparison of OPT’s performance with similar systems in a peer group identified by
NCDOT provides a rating of “Superior” for trips per service hour, cost per trip,, and
percentage of non-contract riders per non-urban population.
x The subsidy per trip level was ranked as “Acceptable”. OPT has adopted performance
criteria, but should also be using some measures that use industry benchmarks.
Planned Services –
x Proposed services for which funding has been identified include:
o Expanded midday Hillsborough Circulator service
o The recently implemented Orange-Chapel Hill Midday Connector (fixed-route)
o An Orange-Alamance Connector (US 70 Midday Service, also fixed-route)
o An Efland-Hillsborough Commuter Loop (fixed-route)
o Rural route-deviation service two days per week in each of three rural zones
o Expanded Senior Center demand-response service
x Additional services proposed by OPT staff for which funding has not yet been identified
includes:
o An extension of the US 7-0 mid-day service to Durham
o Expanded hours and days of the other fixed-route services
x Based on the potential need for additional flexible services the Study proposes:
o Daily route-deviation service in the three rural zones
o An additional two full-time weekday demand-response vehicles
o Expanded marketing and information to increase awareness of the new services
o With expansion and normal growth, near term potential fleet size of 29 vehicles
Organizational Review
x The Study suggests that as the OPT system expands its operational aspects, the internal
reporting structure must also be reviewed and considered.
12
x It is recommended to increase coordination and joint activities (including Marketing) with
Area Transit Partners.
8SFRPLQJ%2&&:RUN6HVVLRQ1RYHPEHUWK6RXWKHUQ+XPDQ6HUYLFHVNEXT STEPS:
&HQWHU&KDSHO+LOO
RECOMMENDATIONS:7KHVWDIIUHFRPPHQGVWKDWWKH287%RDUGUHFHLYHWKHXSGDWH
13
14
ORANGE COUNTY
ORANGE UNIFIED TRANSPORTATION BOARD (OUTBoard)
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:November 18, 2015
Action Agenda
Item No.5.b.i
SUBJECT: Update on the North Carolina Department of Transportation Rural Operating
Assistance Program (ROAP) Grant Application for FY 2016
DEPARTMENT: Planning and Inspections PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N)N
ATTACHMENT(S):
None
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Peter Murphy, Transportation Administrator,
919-245-2002
PURPOSE: To receive an update on the annual FY 2016 ROAP grant application
BACKGROUND: The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Public
Transportation Division designates Rural Operating Assistance Program (ROAP) funds each
fiscal year to Orange County. ROAP consolidates the Elderly/Disabled Transportation
Assistance Program (EDTAP), the Employment Program (EMPL), and the Rural General Public
(RGP) Program into a single application package. These ROAP funds will allow Orange County
to continue providing these programs from July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016. The amounts
being made available for each respective program for FY 2016 are:
Program Amount
Elderly/Disabled Transportation Assistance Program (EDTAP) $73,755
Employment Transportation Assistance Program (EMPL) $31,620
Rural General Public Program (RGP) $63,558
TOTAL $168,933
The RGP segment of the ROAP funding allocation requires a 10% local match ($6,355.80),
which Orange Public Transit (OPT) has incorporated into its FY 2015-16 budget.
The ROAP grant application gives Orange County access to funding that supports valuable
transportation services specifically for elderly persons and persons with disabilities, populations
that tend to have fewer transportation options than other segments of the population. The
services provided that will make use of the funding will also provide an inexpensive alternative
to travel by personal vehicle that will help facilitate economic self-sufficiency by expanding
transportation options for populations exhibiting the greatest need.
OPT is the lead agency for public and human services transportation in central and rural Orange
County. The EDTAP allocation of $73,755 will allow OPT to continue to provide medical
appointment transportation for elderly (age 60+) and disabled residents of Orange County. To
,WHPEL
15
the extent possible, medical appointment trips are grouped by geographic area per weekday,
and the destination is the closest provider. All EDTAP service recipients are required to provide
a copay/fare of $3.00 per one-way trip. Copayments are utilized to fund additional eligible trips
beyond those that are supported by the State EDTAP grant.
The majority of the $31,620 allocation for the Employment Transportation Assistance program
will be made available for the Department of Social Services’ use in assisting former Work First
participants or other low-income persons certified for Medicaid or Food Stamps with
employment-related transportation. The funds may be used to fund transportation to a qualified
recipient’s workplace, job interviews, job fairs, job readiness activities, or GED classes. The
funds may also be used to transport the children of a qualified recipient to child care.
OPT has provided rural general public transportation on a seat-available basis for many years
on three (3) deviated fixed-routes (one Hillsborough area route and two transfer routes from the
Chapel Hill area) that are also designed to provide transportation to work opportunities and
programs for persons with developmental disabilities. RGP funds have also been used in the
past to fund the Route 420 midday service (Hillsborough to Chapel Hill shuttle); however, this
service, which is now known as the Orange-Chapel Hill Midday Connector, is no longer eligible
to make use of RGP funding due to the expansion of the Durham Urbanized Area (UZA)
boundary that encompasses stop locations associated with the service that were previously
located outside the UZA boundary. RGP funds are ineligible for use within UZAs. The RGP
Program funds transportation for persons living outside the urbanized area boundary. With the
increase in size of the UZA boundary and corresponding decrease in the area of the county
considered rural, the revised formula results in a ~9.5% reduction in RGP funding to Orange
County. The FY 2016 RGP allocation is $63,558.
RECOMMENDATIONS: Receive and review information, and provide comments.
16
ORANGE COUNTY
ORANGE UNIFIED TRANSPORTATION BOARD (OUTBoard)
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:November 18, 2015
Action Agenda
Item No.5.b.ii
SUBJECT: Update on the North Carolina Community Transportation Program (CTP)
Administrative and Capital Grant Applications for FY 2017
DEPARTMENT: Planning and Inspections PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N)N
ATTACHMENT(S):
None
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Peter Murphy, Transportation Administrator,
919-245-2002
PURPOSE: To receive an update on the North Carolina Community Transportation Program
(CTP) Administrative and Capital Grant Applications for FY 2017
BACKGROUND: Each year, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Public
Transportation Division accepts requests for administrative and capital needs for county-
operated community transportation programs. OPT is eligible to make application for both
administrative and capital funding. The current year FY 2016-approved application includes
$166,765 in administrative funding and $232,286 in capital funding for replacement vehicles with
total expenses equaling $399,051.
The total CTP funding request for FY 2017 is $166,765 for community transportation
administrative expenses and an additional $316,782 for capital expenses. This draft grant
application is made for expenses totaling $483,547. The NCDOT CTP FY 2017 grant requires a
15% local match ($25,015) for administrative expenses and a 10% local match ($31,678) for
capital expenses for a total of $56,693. The local match amounts must be committed from the
County general operating budget for FY 2017 (July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2017).
The CTP Administrative and Capital Grant provides Orange County access to funds to support
its rural transportation infrastructure that promotes economic self-sufficiency to a wide range of
residents and locations. The funds additionally support a system that enhances the access of
residents in the non-urbanized areas to health care, shopping, education, employment, public
services, and recreation.
Grant funds for administrative purposes are used to support overall transit systems
management and operations and promote general ridership. Grant funds for capital items
include the replacement of three (3) buses exceeding their useful life mileage thresholds in
OPT’s fleet. A public hearing was held on October 20 and November 5, 2015 to allow the
opportunity for public discussion and comment before the Board took action on a resolution that
,WHPELL
17
seeks permission to apply for the program funds, enter into an agreement with NCDOT, and
guarantees the required local match.
RECOMMENDATIONS: Receive and review information, and provide comments.
18
ORANGE COUNTY
ORANGE UNIFIED TRANSPORTATION BOARD (OUTBoard)
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:November 18, 2015
Action Agenda
Item No.5.b.iii
SUBJECT: Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) award from the North Carolina
Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Transportation Planning Branch
DEPARTMENT: Planning and Inspections PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N)N
ATTACHMENT(S):
1.CMAQ Award Letter
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Peter Murphy, Transportation Administrator,
919-245-2002
PURPOSE: To receive an update on a recent CMAQ award from the NCDOT Transportation
Planning Branch
BACKGROUND: The CMAQ program was implemented to support surface transportation
projects and other related efforts that contribute air quality improvements and provide
congestion relief. The program is jointly administered by Federal Highway Administration
(FHWA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), and funds are made available through
the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and applications are facilitated by
the Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs). Under theMoving Ahead for Progress in the
21st Century Act (MAP-21), funds are provided to areas in nonattainment or maintenance for
ozone, carbon monoxide, and/or particulate matter. Orange County is classified as an area in
Maintenance. CMAQ funds require a state or local match. The typical split between federal and
project sponsor is 80 percent Federal, 20 percent State and/or local match.For this grant,
Orange County contributed a 20 percent local match.
In July, Orange County Planning staff submitted an application for CMAQ funds through the
Burlington-Graham Metropolitan Planning Organization (BG MPO) for $164,129 to fund transit
service expansion along the U.S. 70 corridor between Mebane and Hillsborough. A local match
of $41,033 (20%) would be required, bringing the total cost to $205,162. Distribution of funds
would be in FY 2016 and FY 2017. BG MPO endorsed the application and it was submitted to
the NCDOT Transportation Planning Branch. The county was notified in mid-October that the
requested service expansion funds had been awarded.
The service expansion would introduce off-peak fixed-route transit service along U.S. 70
connecting Mebane, Efland and Hillsborough between 10am and 3pm, Monday - Friday
(approximately 5 hours daily). The service will be known as the Orange-Alamance Connector.
The service will complement GoTriangle's existing peak-period Orange-Durham Express (ODX)
service connecting Mebane, Efland, Hillsborough and Durham. The focus of the service is to
provide off-peak choice riders and transit-dependent populations (which are heavily
,WHPELLL
19
concentrated along the corridor) access to major retail establishments, healthcare facilities,
concentrations of employment, government facilities, and personal services in Mebane and
Hillsborough and to provide connections to additional transit services in Hillsborough and
Mebane that further connect to other destinations throughout the Triangle and Triad regions. It is
also the intent of the service to reduce congestion and associated emissions along the U.S.
70/I-85/I-40 corridor. The project request includes capital funding for one, 28', 22-passenger
diesel-powered expansion light transit vehicle (LTV) and operating assistance to support the
route.
When the CMAQ transit operations funding for the new service is exhausted, the 1/2% public
transportation sales tax will be used to cover the cost of the service. The service may also be
supported by Section 5307 funding made available for operating assistance.
RECOMMENDATIONS: Receive and review information, and provide comments.
20
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENTOF TRANSPORTATION
PAT MCCRORY 1501MAIL SERVICE CENTER,RALEIGH,N.C.27699-1501 NICHOLAS J.TENNYSON
GOVERNOR ACTING SECRETARY
PHONE 919-707-2800 FAX 919-733-9150
October19,2015
MEMORANDUM
To:MikeNunn
BurlingtonͲGrahamMPO
From:DerrySchmidt,PE
CMAQProgramEngineer
Subject:CMAQProjectAwardsforFFYs2016&2017
ThankyouforsubmittingaprojectproposalforfundingthroughtheNorthCarolinaCMAQ
Program.TransportationPlanningBranchispleasedtoinformyouthatthefollowingprojecthas
completedtherequiredinteragencyreviewandhasbeenawardedCMAQfunding:
STIP
NumberDescriptionPhaseCMAQ
Funding
Local
Match
Total
FundingFFY
CͲ5602A
Transit service expansion
along the U.S. 70
corridor between Mebane
and Hillsborough
OP
IMP
TOTAL
$80,400
$83,729
$164,129
$20,100
$20,933
$41,033
$100,500
$104,662
$205,162
2016
2017
Pleasenotifytherequestinglocalgovernmentagency(LGA)ofapprovedprojectwithintheir
jurisdictionsandinformtheLGAthattheyareresponsibleforinitiatingthelocalagreement
withtheNCDOTLocalProgramManagementOffice(LPMO)tobeginprojectimplementation.
Inordertoimplementanapprovedproject,theLGAwillneedtorequestalocalproject
agreementthroughtheNCDOTLocalProjectsManagementToolnolaterthanJanuary15,2016
forprojectstobegininFFY2016.Pleaseprovidetheattacheddocumentcontaining
instructionsforthisrequesttoeachLGAwhohasbeenawardedaCMAQproject.Pleasenote
thatprojectsthatarenotimplementedaccordingtotheapprovedschedulemaybesubjectto
cancellation.
TransitprojectscanbeflexedtotheFederalTransitAdministrationundertheprovisionsof
Section5307fundeligibilityandrequirements.Inordertoflexthefunds,theprojectneedsto
beincludedintheMTIPandSTIPasatransitproject.Thismayrequiremodifyingoraddinga
projecttotheMTIPandSTIP.OncetheprojectisincludedintheMTIPandSTIP,aletter
requestingtheflexofthefundsfromFHWAtoFTAwillbepreparedbyNCDOT.FHWAwillthen
reviewandflexthefundstoFTA.ItisnecessarytocontactTamraShawattheNCDOTPublic
,WHPELLL$WWDFKPHQW
21
TransportationDivisiontoinitiatetheprocessofamendingtheMTIP/STIP(ifnecessary)andto
requestNCDOTprepareaflexletter.Shecanbereachedat(919)707Ͳ4679orbyeͲmailat
tshaw@ncdot.gov.
IfyouhaveanyquestionsabouttheCMAQProgramortheprojectsthathavebeenawarded
funding,pleasecontactmebytelephoneat919Ͳ707Ͳ0965orbyemailatdaschmidt@ncdot.gov.
Attachment
cc:TamraShaw,PublicTransportationDivision
JimmyTravis,DirectoroftheTransportationProgramManagementUnit
PatrickNorman,PE,Manager,TransportationPlanningBranch
SheilaGibbs,LocalProgramsManagementOffice
DanThomas,PE,TransportationPlanningBranch
TerryArellano,PE,TransportationPlanningBranch
22
RequestingLocalAgreementsforCMAQProjects
TheLocalProgramsManagementOffice(LPMO)hasawebͲbasedsystemforrequesting
agreementsforlocallyͲadministeredprojects.AsaLocalGovernmentAgency(LGA)withan
upcomingCMAQprojecttoadministerwithNCDOT,youwillberesponsibleforrequestingan
agreementthroughtheLocalProjectsManagementTool.InordertoaccesstheProjectTool,
youwillneedauseridandpassword,issuedbyNCDOT.
PleasevisittheLPMOwebsiteat
https://connect.ncdot.gov/municipalities/Funding/Pages/default.aspxanddownloadtheLPMO
SecurityForm,complete,signandeͲmailtothecontactaddressintheform.Onceyouhavea
useridandpasswordassigned,youmaylogintothePartnerConnectSiteat
https://partner.ncdot.gov,accesstheLocalProjectsToolfromthereandsubmitarequestfora
newagreement.
Ifyouhaveanyquestions,pleasecontacttheLPMOofficeatLPMO@ncdot.gov.Youcanalso
accessHelpGuidanceforthenewProjectManagementToolattheLPMOwebsite.
Pleasenotethefollowing:
AtthistimetheProjectManagementToolcanonlybeusedtomanagenewprojectsthatdo
notcurrentlyhaveanexecutedmunicipalagreement.Ifyouhavebeenapprovedfor
additionalfundingonanexistingCMAQproject,pleasecoordinatewithDerrySchmidt,
CMAQProgramEngineer,torequestalocalagreement.
CMAQtransitprojectsthatarebeingflexedtoFederalTransitAdministrationdonotrequire
alocalagreement.PleasecontactDerrySchmidt,CMAQProgramEngineer,todetermine
thestepsforimplementingtheseprojects.
Contactinformation:
DerrySchmidt,PE
CMAQProgramEngineer
Telephone:919Ͳ707Ͳ0965
Email:daschmidt@ncdot.gov
23
24
ORANGE COUNTY
ORANGE UNIFIED TRANSPORTATION BOARD (OUTBoard)
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:November 18, 2015
Action Agenda
Item No.5.c.
SUBJECT: OPT Expansion Services Status Report
DEPARTMENT: Planning and Inspections PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N)N
ATTACHMENT(S):
None
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Peter Murphy, Transportation
Administrator, OPT, 245-2002
PURPOSE:To review and provide feedback
BACKGROUND: OPT has been planning and preparing for the implementation of new
expanded services. Preparation includes the receipt of new buses, hiring and training bus
operators and identifying potential route starting dates.
Park and Ride
x North Hills Park and Ride lease ended. Park and Ride users were redirected to Durham
Tech Hillsborough Campus. Routes ODX, 420, Orange-Chapel Hill Connector and
Hillsborough Circulator were revised to reflect the change.
Buses
x The last five (5) of seven (7) buses were received September 2015 and placed in service
October 5, 2015.
Employees
x Six (6) of seven (7) new bus operators (3 full-time, 3 part-time) successfully completed
the full 120 hours of training.
Route Start Dates
x Orange County Chapel Hill Connector (expanded service to Cedar Grove and hourly
service - 9:45am to 3:45 pm) began August 17, 2015.
The following route revisions and start dates are being reviewed:
x Efland-Hillsborough Commuter Loop (fixed-route) – requires revision with Park & Ride
change.
x Orange-Alamance Connector (US 70 Midday Service, fixed-route) – minor revision
required with Park & Ride change.
x Rural route-deviation service two days per week in each of three rural zones.
x Expanded Senior Center service.
.
,WHPF
25
RECOMMENDATIONS: The Staff recommends the OUTBoard and any additional County staff
representatives:
1. Receive the information.
2. Provide feedback.
26
ORANGE COUNTY
ORANGE UNIFIED TRANSPORATION BOARD (OUTBoard)
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:November 18, 2015
Action Agenda
Item No. 6
SUBJECT: Discussion and completion of the activities and emerging issues lists for 2016
DEPARTMENT: Planning and Inspections PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N)N
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
1.OUTBoard Input for County
Commissioners’ Annual Planning
Retreat for 2016
2.BOCC Goals and Priorities
Abigaile Pittman, Transportation/Land Use
Planner, 919-245-2567
PURPOSE:To discuss and complete the 2016 Activities and Emerging Issues lists of the
OUTBoard Input form, to be included in the BOCC Annual Planning Retreat Input Form.
BACKGROUND:
The Board of Commissioners annually welcomes input from various advisory boards, including
the OUTBoard, in preparation for its annual planning retreat early the following year. This input
is used:
x To review progress on Orange County’s goals and priorities;
x For relationship building between Commissioners and staff; and
x To initiate a discussion about BOCC actions related to petitions,
boards and commissions.
The OUTBoard Input form (Attachment 1) submitted to the Commissioners is divided into a
number of sections, with the following sections being completed by staff:
x Administrative information about OUTBoard Chair and staff contacts, meeting times, and
OUTBoard assigned charge and responsibilities;
x A review of the OUTBoard’s most important accomplishments for the current year;
x A list of specific tasks, events or functions performed annually;
x A description of the OUTBoard’s activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC
goal(s)/priorities where applicable; and
x How the OUTBoard’s activities/accomplishments relate to the Orange County
Comprehensive Plan’s goals or objectives.
The following final two sections of the input form are developed by staff for discussion and
completion by the board:
x Identification of any activities the OUTBoardexpects to carry out in 2016 as related to
established BOCC goals and priorities (Attachment 2); and
x Identification of concerns or emerging issues the OUTBoard has identified for the
upcoming year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners’
attention.
RECOMMENDATION(S): Staff recommends the OUTBoard discuss and complete the 2016
Activities and Emerging Issues lists of the OUTBoard Input form, for inclusion in the BOCC
Annual Planning Retreat Input Form.
,WHP
27
1
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
INPUT FOR COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ ANNUAL PLANNING
RETREAT
The Board of Commissioners welcomes input from various advisory boards and
commissions in preparation for its annual planning retreat. Please complete the
following information, limited to the front and back of this form. Other
background materials may be provided as a supplement to, but not as a
substitute for, this form.
NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION: Orange Unified Transportation Board
(OUTBoard)
Report Period: 2015
Person to address the BOCC at Retreat (if requested by BOCC) and contact
information:
Paul Guthrie, Chair. Telephone 919-933-2931
E-mail: PGuthrie2@nc.rr.com
Primary County Staff Contacts:
Primary Administrative and Professional Support for General Agenda Topics, and
Burlington-Graham Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) – Abigaile Pittman,
Transportation/Land Use Planner
Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro MPO and Triangle Area Rural Planning
Organization (RPO) – Tom Altieri, Comprehensive Planning Supervisor, and
(currently vacant), Transportation Planner
Transportation Services/OPT – Peter Murphy, Transportation Administrator, OPT
Secondary Administrative – Meredith Pucci, Administrative Assistant (Provided
for distribution/website posting of agenda packets, quorum polling, room set-up,
recording of meetings, note taking and preparation of detailed minutes, and
coordination with the Clerk’s office regarding Member appointments and
attendance records.)
Management – Craig Benedict, Planning Director; Tom Altieri, Comprehensive
Planning Supervisor; and Peter Murphy, Transportation Administrator, OPT
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including
any special meetings and sub-committee meetings?
The OUTBoard meets as needed per its BOCC adopted Rules of Procedure
(03/03/2015), generally 6 to 8 times per year. When held, meetings take place
on the third Wednesday of the month. The Board met 6 times in 2015, as needed
to address Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) priorities. At four of these
meetings the Transit Advisory Services/OPT Group, including supplemental staff
from other County departments (Aging; DSS; Housing, Human Rights and
Will revise after OUTBoard
elections on 11-18-2015
,WHP$WWDFKPHQW
28
2
Community Development; health; Child Support Enforcement; and the Library)
jointly addressed transit services agenda items with the OUTBoard. Additionally,
several members of the OUTBoard developed subcommittee and participated
with members of the public in the development of a Bicycle and Pedestrian
Safety Report.
Brief Statement of Board/Commission’s Assigned Charge and
Responsibilities:
1.The OUTBoard is charged with advising with Board of County Commissioners
on the planning and programming of transportation infrastructure
improvements and other County transportation planning initiatives, as
directed by the Board
2.From time to time the OUTBoard may be directed to provide input on
regulations on which the Planning Board has primary statutory and local
ordinance advisory duties. In such instances, the OUTBoard shall serve in an
advisory capacity to the Planning Board.
What are your Board/Commission’s most important accomplishments?
In 2015, the OUTBoard has:
1.Reviewed the Orange Public Transportation Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) Plan, and endorsed the BOCC’s action of March 17, 2015 to
approve the Plan.
2.Reviewed the Orange Public Transportation Title VI Plan and endorsed
the BOCC’s action of March 17, 2015 to approve the Plan.
3.Reviewed and recommended the Orange County Transportation Project
Priority Lists of transportation projects for the BG MPO, DCHC MPO, and
the TARPO, to be submitted for consideration of inclusion in the 2018-
2027 Statewide transportation Improvement Program (STIP).
4.Held a public hearing for the review of the OPT proposed fare structure for
fixed-route services, and forwarded recommendations to the BOCC.
5.Participated in the development of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety
Report with representation on the Bicycle Safety subcommittee that was
formed in response to a petition brought forth by two Commissioners; then
subsequently reviewed the Report and forwarded it to the BOCC.
6.Reviewed and recommended prioritization of OPT transit related
technologies.
7.Received an update on the Orange County Public Transportation
Assessment Study which analyzed current conditions, service plans, and
organization and staffing, and near-term service improvements to provide
improved service.
29
3
8.Reviewed the NCDOT Orange County Resurfacing Schedule/Program
2016 and made recommendations regarding opportunities for widened
shoulders and bike lane construction to be forwarded to NCDOT.
9.Received an update on BOCC revisions to Advisory Board Policies and
the OUTBoard Rules and Procedures.
10. Reviewed and commented on the status of OPT expansion services.
11. Received an update on the Eno Mountain Road Relocation Feasibility
Study, a joint project between Orange County and the Town of
Hillsborough.
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored
Annually.
1.The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is typically a recurring
two-year process:
First year: Develops priority list of projects to request in
TIP for BOCC approval.
Second year: Recommends comments regarding draft TIP
for BOCC approval to submit to NCDOT during
the public comment period.
The OUTBoard assists with the identification and prioritization of NCDOT
projects for rural (TARPO) and metropolitan (DCHC MPO and BG MPO)
planning areas.
2.Reviews active NCDOT projects in the County, including various paving,
construction and CMAQ projects.
3.Receives updates and reviews the progress of NCDOT transportation
projects within rural Orange County.
4.Receives updates and reviews the progress of Orange County
transportation planning efforts.
5.Receives updates and reviewsOPT Operational Statistics for federal and
state program transportation grants including the North Carolina
Department of Transportation Rural Operating Assistance Program
(ROAP) Grant, NC Community Transportation Program (CTP) Grant, and
the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) Grant.
6.Receives updates on TARPO, BG MPO and DCHC MPO transportation
planning activities.
7.Receives updates from the Planning staff on the NCDOT quarterly
luncheon topics of discussion.
8.Submits comments and questions for discussion with OPT staff during
Transit/OPT Advisory Services Group meetings.
9.Reviews and discusses current Board vacancies.
10. Other items as assigned by the BOCC.
30
4
Describe this board/commission’s activities/accomplishments in carrying
out BOCC goal(s)/priorities, if applicable. The following pertains to the
2009BOCC Goals set:
Accomplishments 1 and 2 (Review of the Orange Public Transportation ADA
Plan and the Title VI Plan) relate to BOCC Goal One (Ensure a community
network of basic human services and infrastructure that maintains, protects and
promotes the well-being of all County residents).
Accomplishments 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10 and 11) (Review and recommendation of
TARPO, BGMPO and DCHC MPO transportation projects for consideration of
inclusion in the 2018-2027 STIP; public hearing, review and recommendation of
the OPT proposed fare structure for fixed-route services; developed the Bicycle
and Pedestrian Safety Report and forwarded it to the BOCC; received update on
an OPT assessment study which analyzed current conditions, service plans, and
or organization and staffing; reviewed NCDOT 2016 resurfacing
schedule/program and made recommendations; received update on revisions to
county advisory board policies and OUTBoard rules and procedures; reviewed
and commented on OPT expansion services; and received update on the joint
County/Hillsborough Eno Mountain Road Relocation Feasibility Study) relate to
BOCC Goal Three (Implement planning and economic development policies
which create a balanced, dynamic local economy, and which promote diversity,
sustainable growth and enhanced revenue while embracing community values),
and Priority 20 of Goal Three (Support transit, pedestrian, and bicycle facilities
and other alternatives to the single passenger automobile).
Accomplishments 10 and 11 (Received update on revisions to county advisory
board policies and OUTBoard rules and procedures; and received update on the
joint County/Hillsborough Eno Mountain Road Relocation Feasibility Study) relate
to BOCC Goal Two (Promote an interactive and transparent system of
governance that reflects community values), and Priority 7 of Goal Two (Improve
intra- and intergovernmental coordination, cooperation and collaboration), and
Priority 8 of Goal Two (Examine advisory boards and commissions to: (a) Ensure
they are meeting their missions; (b) Determine how boards relate to each other
and how their work can best be integrated with the BOCC; (c) Ensure
sustainability goals; (d) Ensure fit with overall County vision; and (e) Recognize
and be sensitive to consistencies represented by boards, commissions when
framing this review).
Accomplishment 6 (Review and recommend prioritization of OPT transportation
related technologies) relates to BOCC Goal Four (Invest in quality County
facilities, a diverse work force, and technology to achieve a high performing
County government), and Priority 11 of Goal Four (Invest in technology to
increase work efficiencies).
31
5
If your board/commission played the role of an Element Lead Advisory
Board involved in the 2030 Comprehensive Plan preparation process,
please indicate your board’s activities/accomplishments as they may relate
to the Comprehensive Plan’s goals or objectives.
(The Element Lead Advisory Boards include: Planning Board, EDC, OUTBoard,
Commission for the Environment, Historic Preservation Commission, Agriculture
Preservation Board, Affordable Housing Board, Recreation and Parks Advisory
Council)
Accomplishments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 10 (review and endorse the ADA Plan;
review and endorse the Title VI Plan; review and recommend the transportation
project priority lists for BG MPO, DCHC MPO and TARPOfor consideration of
inclusion in the 2018-2027 STIP; public hearing, review and recommendation of
the OPT proposed fare structure for fixed-route services; development of the
Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Report and forwarding to the BOCC;review and
recommend prioritization of OPT transportation related technologies; received
update on an OPT assessment study which analyzed current conditions, service
plans, and or organization and staffing; review and made recommendations on
the NCDOT Orange County resurfacing schedule/program for 2016; and review
and commenting on the status of OPT expansion services, all relate to
Comprehensive Plan Transportation Goal 1: An efficient and integrated multi-
modal transportation system that protects the natural environment and
community character, Objective T-1.1: Increase the occupancy of automobiles
through ridesharing and other means, and expand the use of public transit
(including bus and rail), walking, and biking as primary modes of travel, Objective
T-1.6: Expand the availability and use of public transportation (including bus and
rail) throughout the County to provide better connections between employment
centers, shopping and service locations, and other key points of interest in both
urban and rural areas, particularly for the County’s senior and disabled
populations and others without access to automobiles; Comprehensive Plan
Transportation Goal 2: A multi-modal transportation system that is affordable,
available, and accessible to all users and that promotes public health and safety,
Objective T-2.4: Improve the provision of public transit facilities and services,
Objective T-2.5: Improve public education and advertising of existing transit
services, and Objective T-2.6: Increase safety awareness between car drivers
and bicycle riders, and increase safety for pedestrians; Comprehensive Plan
Transportation Element Goal 4: A countywide and regionally-integrated, multi-
modal transportation planning process that is comprehensive, creative and
effective, Objective T-4.1: Work with nearby jurisdictions to integrate the County’s
transportation plans with those of other transportation planning agencies and
service providers in Orange County and the Triangle region. The resulting
intermodal transportation system should reflect regional goals and objectives to
meet projected travel demand and to reduce congestion and reliance on single
occupancy vehicles.
Accomplishment 11 (received update on the joint County/Hillsborough Eno
Mountain Road Relocation Feasibility Study) relates to Comprehensive Plan
Transportation Element Goal 3: Integrated land use planning and transportation
32
6
planning that serves existing development, supports future development, and is
consistent with the County’s land use plans which include provisions for
preserving the natural environment and community character.
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2016
as they relate to established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is
there a fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff time, other resources) associated
with these proposed activities (please list).
1.Review and comment on amendment to UDO and revise Efland-
Buckhorn-Mebane and Eno EDD access management plans (BOCC Goal
3, Priority 2).
2.Continue to work with staff and the BOCC to recommend and monitor
Orange County Transportation Improvement Projects (TIP) projects
(BOCC Goal 3, Priority 20).
3.Continue to coordinate with the Orange County Department of Aging
Mobility Manager on implementation efforts of the Master Aging Plan
Transportation Goals (BOCC Goal 3, Priority 20).
4.Continue quarterly Transit Advisory Services/OPT meetings to discuss
unmet needs in the service area, service design and scheduling, billing
rates and fares, resolve complaints; and to monitor compliance with
federal regulations and the status of any deficiencies noted in any official
federal, state or local review or report (BOCC Goal 2, Priority 8; and
BOCC Goal 3, Priority 20).
5.If referred by the BOCC:
a.Review and comment on revised Access Management Plan with an
emphasis on Economic Development areas, to establish
appropriate linkages with, and complement the state CTP/MTP
documents of the BG MPO and DCHC MPO for the purpose of
addressing the dedication of right-of-way under local ordinances
(BOCC Goal 3, Priority 9).
b.Review UDO Section 7.8 Access and Roadways text amendment,
with respect to the goals and objectives of the Transportation
Element of the Comprehensive Plan to determine consistency
(BOCC Goal 3, Priority 2).
c.Review and comment on options for addressing protection
strategies for the Old NC Hwy 10 corridor for the purpose of
addressing the historic character of the road corridor and adjacent
rural residential land uses from the impact of planned future
nonresidential development (BOCC Goal 3, Priority 9).
d.Implementation efforts related to the Safe Routes to School (SRTS)
Action Plan, to serve as a subcommittee in an advisory capacity,
supplemented by additional staff from other agencies/jurisdictions
as needed (BOCC Goal 3, Priority 20.
e.Provide input on high speed rail corridor through the County and
proposed rail crossing closings (BOCC Goal 3, Priority 20).
33
7
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the
upcoming year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the
Commissioners’ attention?
1.Implementation efforts for the Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Report, as
directed by the BOCC.
2.Enhanced dispatching technologies for transit/OPT services.
3.Identify and recommend major route stops requiring bus stop amenities,
(signage, shelters and/or benches, platforms, sidewalks).
4.Enhanced regional transportation planning and operational efforts
including rural services as noted in the Orange County Bus and Rail
Investment Plan (OCBRIP).
5.Pursuit of funding sources for prioritized transportation projects and track
status of project implementation.
6.Review and recommend better coordination of infrastructural changes
effecting bicycle routes, and other alternate forms of transportation (e.g.,
electric bikes).
7.Promote development of new regional/division prioritization criteria for
highway modernization projects.
34
$33529('
25$1*(&2817<%2$5'2)&2817<&200,66,21(56
*2$/6$1'35,25,7,(6
)LVFDO<HDU
*RDO2QH (QVXUHDFRPPXQLW\QHWZRUNRIEDVLFKXPDQVHUYLFHVDQG
LQIUDVWUXFWXUHWKDWPDLQWDLQVSURWHFWVDQGSURPRWHVWKHZHOO
EHLQJRIDOO&RXQW\UHVLGHQWV
3ULRULW\ 5HYLHZVHUYLFHVWRLGHQWLI\DQGSURWHFWµVDIHW\QHW¶SURJUDPV
DQGVHUYLFHV
3ULRULW\ (QFRXUDJHIRUSURILWLQYHVWPHQWVLQDIIRUGDEOHKRXVLQJDQG
UHYLHZDYDLODEOHWRROV
*RDO7ZR 3URPRWHDQLQWHUDFWLYHDQGWUDQVSDUHQWV\VWHPRIJRYHUQDQFH
WKDWUHIOHFWVFRPPXQLW\YDOXHV
3ULRULW\ 'HYHORSSODQDQGWRROVWRLPSURYHKRZ&RXQW\DQGFLWL]HQV
FRPPXQLFDWHZLWKHDFKRWKHU IRVWHUWZRZD\H[FKDQJH
3ULRULW\ ,PSURYHLQWUDDQGLQWHUJRYHUQPHQWDOFRRUGLQDWLRQFRRSHUDWLRQ
DQGFROODERUDWLRQ D :RUNZLWK7RZQRI+LOOVERURXJKRQ
-RLQWODQGXVHSODQQLQJDSSURDFKHVSROLFLHVRUGLQDQFHVDQGDQQH[DWLRQ
DQG(FRQRPLF'HYHORSPHQW'LVWULFWV E :RUNZLWK&LW\RI'XUKDPRQ
(FRQRPLF'HYHORSPHQW'LVWULFWV
3ULRULW\ ([DPLQHDGYLVRU\ERDUGVDQGFRPPLVVLRQVWR D (QVXUHWKH\
DUHPHHWLQJWKHLUPLVVLRQV E 'HWHUPLQHKRZERDUGVUHODWHWRHDFKRWKHU
DQGKRZWKHLUZRUNFDQEHVWEHLQWHJUDWHGZLWKWKH%2&& F (QVXUH
VXVWDLQDELOLW\JRDOV G (QVXUHILWZLWKRYHUDOO&RXQW\YLVLRQ DQG H
5HFRJQL]H DQGEHVHQVLWLYHWR FRQVLVWHQFLHVUHSUHVHQWHGE\ERDUGV
FRPPLVVLRQVZKHQIUDPLQJWKLVUHYLHZ
3ULRULW\ &ODULI\DQGFRPPXQLFDWHWRSXEOLFKRZDQGZK\&RXQW\
IXQGLQJLVDOORFDWHGWKHZD\LWLV
*RDO7KUHH ,PSOHPHQWSODQQLQJDQGHFRQRPLFGHYHORSPHQWSROLFLHV
ZKLFKFUHDWHDEDODQFHGG\QDPLFORFDOHFRQRP\DQGZKLFK
SURPRWHGLYHUVLW\VXVWDLQDEOHJURZWKDQGHQKDQFHGUHYHQXH
ZKLOHHPEUDFLQJFRPPXQLW\YDOXHV
3ULRULW\ ,PSOHPHQW&RPSUHKHQVLYH3ODQ D 5HZULWH]RQLQJDQG
VXEGLYLVLRQUHJXODWLRQV 8QLILHG'HYHORSPHQW2UGLQDQFH
3ULRULW\ 'HYHORSHFRQRPLFSODQVIRUWKUHH GLVWULFWV
,WHP$WWDFKPHQW
35
3ULRULW\ 8SGDWHHFRQRPLFGHYHORSPHQWSODQIRU&RXQW\ D &ODULI\
HFRQRPLFGHYHORSPHQWSODQIRUHDFKGLVWULFW E ,GHQWLI\VSHFWUXPRIWRROV
F ,GHQWLI\RWKHUVWDNHKROGHUV DQG G ,GHQWLI\ZKDWWKH&RXQW\ZDQWVWR
VHHKDSSHQ
3ULRULW\ 'HYHORSDQHQHUJ\SODQWKDWLQFOXGHVHFRQRPLFGHYHORSPHQW
VWUDWHJLHVWRDWWUDFWUHWDLQDQGJURZQµJUHHQ¶EXVLQHVV
3ULRULW\ %HDFWLYHO\LQYROYHGDQGLQIRUPHGDERXW81&&+GHFLVLRQV
DQGLQWHQWLRQV
3ULRULW\ 6XSSRUWWUDQVLWSHGHVWULDQDQGELF\FOHIDFLOLWLHVDQGRWKHU
DOWHUQDWLYHVWRWKHVLQJOHSDVVHQJHUDXWRPRELOH
3ULRULW\ $PHQG&RXQW\]RQLQJWRDGGUHVVDQGPRGHUQL]HDLUSRUWDQG
UHODWHGLVVXHV
*RDO)RXU ,QYHVWLQTXDOLW\&RXQW\IDFLOLWLHVDGLYHUVHZRUNIRUFHDQG
WHFKQRORJ\WRDFKLHYHDKLJKSHUIRUPLQJ&RXQW\JRYHUQPHQW
3ULRULW\ ,QYHVWLQWHFKQRORJ\WRLQFUHDVHZRUNHIILFLHQFLHV HJZHE
VWUHDPLQJSDSHUOHVVDJHQGDVLQWHJUDWHGWUDFNLQJV\VWHPVEHWZHHQILHOG
DQGRIILFH
3ULRULW\ 5HYLHZDQGXSGDWH&RXQW\SHUVRQQHODQGRSHUDWLRQDO
SROLFLHVDQGSURFHGXUHV
3ULRULW\ 'HVLJQDQGIXQGVSDFHIRU&RXQW\$WWRUQH\2IILFHV0DQDJHU
DQG%2&&WRGLVFXVVFRQFHSWDQGVWDIILQJ
*RDO)LYH &UHDWHSUHVHUYHDQGSURWHFWDQDWXUDOHQYLURQPHQWWKDW
LQFOXGHVFOHDQZDWHUFOHDQDLUZLOGOLIHLPSRUWDQWQDWXUDO
ODQGVDQGVXVWDLQDEOHHQHUJ\IRUSUHVHQWDQGIXWXUH
JHQHUDWLRQV
3ULRULW\ &RQVHUYHKLJKSULRULW\QDWXUDODUHDVZLOGOLIHKDELWDWDQGSULPH
IRUHVWV
3ULRULW\ ,PSOHPHQW&RXQW\¶V(QYLURQPHQWDO5HVSRQVLELOLW\JRDOV
3ULRULW\ &RPSOHWHVWHZDUGVKLSDQGPDQDJHPHQWSODQVIRU/DQGV
/HJDF\
3ULRULW\ 'HYHORSDQDFFRXQWLQJDQGDVVHVVPHQWV\VWHPRIZDWHUDQG
DLUSROOXWLRQ D ,QFRQMXQFWLRQZLWK,&/(, 6HWHPLVVLRQVUHGXFWLRQWDUJHW
36
IRU &RQGXFWSXEOLFHGXFDWLRQFDPSDLJQ DQG/LQNSXEOLFZLWK
RSSRUWXQLWLHVWRLPSURYHHQHUJ\HIILFLHQF\DQGXVHVXVWDLQDEOHHQHUJ\
VRXUFHV E %HJLQPXOWL\HDULPSOHPHQWDWLRQRI2EVHUYDEOH:HOO1HWZRUN
3ULRULW\ 3ODQWRDFTXLUHODQGEDQNIRUIXWXUHSDUNGHYHORSPHQW
3ULRULW\ 'HYHORSDSROLF\XSGDWHFXUUHQWSODQDERXWKRZSDUNVZLOOEH
GHYHORSHGDSSURSULDWHUDWLRRISDUNVWRSRSXODWLRQOHQJWKRIWLPHWR
GHYHORSDQGLQFRUSRUDWLRQRIVXFKLQWRWKH&DSLWDO,QYHVWPHQW3ODQ &,3
*RDO6L[ (QVXUHDKLJKTXDOLW\RIOLIHDQGOLIHORQJOHDUQLQJWKDW
FKDPSLRQVGLYHUVLW\HGXFDWLRQDWDOOOHYHOVOLEUDULHVSDUNV
UHFUHDWLRQDQGDQLPDOZHOIDUH
3ULRULW\ 3ODQWRSURYLGHµHTXLWDEOH¶OLEUDU\VHUYLFHVIRU2UDQJH&RXQW\
UHVLGHQWV
3ULRULW\ )XOILOOUHPDLQGHURIERQGLVVXDQFHDSSURYHGE\YRWHUVLQ
IRUVRFFHUDQG7ZLQ&UHHNV
3ULRULW\ 5HYLHZWKH6FKRROVDQG$GHTXDWH3XEOLF)DFLOLWLHV
2UGLQDQFH D ,VLWGRLQJZKDWLWZDVRULJLQDOO\LQWHQGHGWRGR" E 'RHVLW
KDYHDSSOLFDWLRQIRU'XUKDPDQG0HEDQH"
3ULRULW\ $GGUHVVLQHTXLWLHVEHWZHHQROGDQGQHZVFKRROV2OGHU
VFKRROVDUHLQQHHGRIFDSLWDOLPSURYHPHQWV%XLOGLQJQHZVFKRROVKDV
EHHQWKHIXQGLQJSULRULW\
37
38
ORANGE COUNTY
ORANGE UNIFIED TRANSPORATION BOARD (OUTBoard)
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:November 18, 2015
Action Agenda
Item No. 7b
SUBJECT: Orange County & North Carolina Department of Transportation Highway Division
Meeting – Division 7, District 1
DEPARTMENT: Planning and Inspections PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N)N
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
1.Orange County & NCDOT
Highway Meeting Notes
Abigaile Pittman, Transportation/Land Use
Planner, 919-245-2567
PURPOSE:Receive an update on the Orange County & North Carolina Department of
Transportation (NCDOT) Highway Division 7, District 1 Meeting held on October 19, 2015
BACKGROUND:Several times a year, the Chair of the Orange County Board of County
Commissioners (BOCC), the County Manager, and identified staff members meet with
representatives of NCDOT Division 7, District 1 to discuss transportation issues of interest
and/or concern. The most recent meeting was held on October 19th. Summary notes of
discussions from this meeting are provided as Attachment 1.
RECOMMENDATION(S): Staff recommends the OUTBoard receive the update on the Orange
County & NCDOT Highway Division 7, District 1 Meeting held on October 19, 2015. Since this
item has not been referred by the County Commissioners for review, no further action is
required.
,WHPD
39
Orange County & NCDOT Highway Luncheon
Division 7 and District 1
October 19, 2015 12:00 p.m.
1
John M. Link, Jr. Government Services Center
Lower Level Meeting Room, 200 South Cameron Street, Hillsborough
MEETINGNOTES
I. INTRODUCTIONS
Present: Earl McKee, Orange County Commissioner’s Chair; Bernadette Pelissier,
Orange County Commissioner’s Vice-Chair; Chuck Edwards, NCDOT District 7
Engineer; Mike Mills, NCDOT Division Engineer; Pat Wilson, NCDOT Division 7
Operations Engineer; John Howell, NCDOT Highway Maintenance Engineer; Bonnie
Hammersley, Orange County Manager; Travis Myren, Orange County Assistant
Manager; Tom Altieri, Orange County Comprehensive Planning Supervisor; Abigaile
Pittman, Orange County Land Use/Transportation Planner; Margaret Hauth, Town of
Hillsborough Planning Director; Eric Hallman, Town of Hillsborough Commissioner;
and Jen Weaver, Town of Hillsborough Commissioner.
Chair McKee welcomed all and introductions were made by everyone present.
II.DISCUSSIONS/UPDATES
a)TIP project updates (Chuck Edwards, NCDOT District 7 Engineer)
Updates were provided on the North Carolina Department of Transportation
(NCDOT) Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) Division 7 projects located
within Orange County.
Rail Crossing Closures:
x Efland area/Ben Lloyd’s property – completed this past summer. New
access provided to the I-40/85 access road.
x Gordon Thomas Drive (private road) – estimated completion date 12-2016.
x Greenbriar Drive (private road) – estimated completion date 12-2016.
x Byrdsville Road (private road) – estimated completion date late summer,
early fall, 2017.
Resurfacing and Assorted Safety Improvements:
x Four-way stop installation at intersection of SR 1005 (Old Greensboro
Road) at White Cross Road – Flasher work, roadway construction and
utility relocation; completed Fall, 2015.
x Radius and sight distance improvements at the intersection of Pleasant
Green Road and Cole Mill Road – utility coordination, septic evaluations,
and right-of-way; estimated completion Spring 2016.
x Intersection improvements which include sidewalks, traffic signal, median
construction with bike lanes, and grading and paving on Jones Ferry Road
at Davie Street (in Carrboro) – estimated completion Spring 2016.
,WHPD$WWDFKPHQW
40
Orange County & NCDOT Highway Luncheon
Division 7 and District 1
October 19, 2015 12:00 p.m.
2
x Efland-Cedar Grove Road Safety Improvements – flatten curve to improve
sight distance, and project required coordination with Town of
Hillsborough regarding reservoir expansion due to impacts of project;
estimated completion Spring to Summer, 2016.
x SR 1919 (Smith Level Road) from Rock Haven Road to Bridge over
Morgan Creek – widening, grading, drainage, paving, and signals;
estimated completion November, 2015.
x Portion of Red Marshall Road and Jones Ferry Road (from NC 49 to NC
86 in Caswell County) resurfacing; to be completed Spring 2016.
x NC 57 and NC 157 resurfacing this Fall..
x NC 54 west of Carrboro resurfacing this Fall.
x Old NC Hwy 86 south of Hillsborough resurfacing Spring 2016.
x Ben Wilson Road in Mebane resurfacing – recently completed in October.
Bridge Replacements:
x Sneed Road
x Mebane-Oaks Road
x Mt. Willing Road
x Pearson Road
x St. Mary’s Road
x Mincy Road
x Wagner Dairy Road
x Cobalt Ridge Road
x Oakwood Ext. Road
x New Hope Church Road
x Allison Road
Chuck Edwards stated that the bridge replacement contracts are clustered in
groups of 5-7 bridges, and that each contract takes 3-5 months to complete.
Therefore, estimated completion dates are difficult to estimate at this time.
Bernadette Pelissier requested staff to put detour information for the bridge
projects on the County’s website. Chuck Edwards noted that press releases are
currently being sent to Planning staff and Carla Banks from NCDOT, and that the
notices include a link to NCDOT project updates. Bonnie Hammersley also
suggested that these press releases be included in the Orange County weekly e-
newsletters.
Earl McKee inquired about the schedule for replacing the bridge on Buckhorn
Road where it ties into Orange Grove Road. Chuck Edward replied that it would
be replaced in 2017-2018 as part of design/build contract.
b)TARPO Update – NCDOT Prioritization 4.0 and NC 54 (Tom Altieri)
An update on the NC 54 TIP project was provided in context of activities
underway by the Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) and Rural
Planning Organizations (RPOs) with regard to NCDOT prioritization of
transportation projects under Strategic Prioritization Office of Transportation
(SPOT) 4.0:
41
Orange County & NCDOT Highway Luncheon
Division 7 and District 1
October 19, 2015 12:00 p.m.
3
x The widening of NC 54 to a four-lane boulevard from Orange Grove Road
to Old Fayetteville Road is in the County’s Comprehensive Transportation
Plan (CTP) (2013).
x Orange County learned of Carrboro’s opposition to the NC 54 widening
towards the end of the SPOT 3.0 process when TARPO/DCHC were
looking at assignment of local priority points.
x The NC 54 project will be submitted again as part of the SPOT 4.0 but
through coordination among parties (NCDOT, DCHC MPO, Orange
County, and Carrboro). This will allow consideration of both widening and
improvement options, and to see how they score.
x The NC 54 project will be modified in SPOT 4.0. The corridor will be split
into multiple segments which include widenings and operational/
intersection improvements:
o Widening from Old Fayetteville Road to Orange Grove Road
o Operational improvements from Old Fayetteville Road to Orange
Grove Road
o Intersection improvements at NC 54 and Orange Grove Road
o Intersection improvements at NC 54 and Dodson’s Crossroad
o Intersection improvements at NC 54 and Neville Road
o Intersection improvements at NC 54 and Old Fayetteville Road
x DCHC MPO is also looking at the concept of a corridor study that if
completed could help shape future improvements to the corridor.
x At this stage of SPOT 4.0, organizations are determining which projects
move forward for NCDOT scoring. Assigning local points comes later in
April 2016; and a year from now final SPOT 4.0 scores will be released.
Earl McKee inquired about the point assignments and what happens when there
isn’t uniform agreement. Mike Mills responded that intersection improvements
have scored really high in SPOT 3.0 and could probably be funded based on
data alone.
Earl McKee asked if the vehicle count on NC 54 is known, and how close it was
to capacity. Tom Altieri responded that it is known and could be provided.
Erik Hallman asked Mike Mills about the status of the TIP project for the widening
of I-85. Mike Mills responded that they are also going to split the I-85 project in
Orange County into multiple segments, breaking out I-85 from NC Hwy 70 E
towards Durham and look at the NC Hwy 86/Old I-85 interchange to see how
they score as separate projects at the regional and state levels, respectively.
c)Access management work in the Buckhorn/Mebane EDD area (Abigaile
Pittman)
An update on the County’s work on access management plans in the
Buckhorn/Mebane economic development area was given:
42
Orange County & NCDOT Highway Luncheon
Division 7 and District 1
October 19, 2015 12:00 p.m.
4
x The County’s transportation Consultant is continuing work that will allow
the County to update its access management plans in the economic
development areas.
x Planning staff has also been working with NCDOT staff to complete
revisions to the roadway element of the CTP/MTP of the BG MPO and the
DCHC MPO that would allow locally adopted transportation plans to be
linked with and complement the state CTP/MTP documents. NCGS 136-
66.2 authorizes the CTP/MTP and the locally approved collector street
plan(s) work together to identify the future transportation system. The
CTP/MTP revisions allow locally approved transportation plans, such as
the county’s access management plan(s), to collectively function as the
collector street plan for the MPO. The street and highway elements of the
plans address the dedication of right-of-way under local ordinances.
Earl McKee inquired about the status of the future proposed Mattress Factory Road
interchange project. Mike Mills responded that the project had scored low when
submitted in SPOT 3.0 and will again in SPOT 4.0. Earl McKee asked how the
SPOT score might be improved. Mike Mills replied that outside participation with
financial cost could help (but this would be multi-millions).
d) Construction schedule update for the downtown Hillsborough
improvements (bus pull-off and sidewalk/crosswalk changes) (Margaret
Hauth)
An update on the Churton Street Access Improvements was given:
x The scope of the project includes the following improvements:
o Traffic signal at Churton Street and King Street, and Churton Street
and Margaret Street.
o Curb ramp revisions on the east side of Churton Street at King
Street and Churton Street and Margaret Street.
o Grading, curb and gutter, crosswalks and signal modifications on
the west side of Churton Street from Tryon Street to just south of
Margaret Street.
o Grading, curb and gutter, crosswalk and bus pull-out on Churton
Street from south of Margaret Street to just south of Nash and
Kollack Street.
x The underground storage tank (UST) remediation has been completed; seven
underground tanks were found and removed; no contamination found.
x Wells were monitored in August.
x Right-of-way certification is pending.
x Design process is 90 percent complete.
x Bid out at the end of the year; notice to proceed in January-March,
weather allowing; construction to take place in the Spring 2016.
x Many funding sources are involved.
43
Orange County & NCDOT Highway Luncheon
Division 7 and District 1
October 19, 2015 12:00 p.m.
5
Eric Hallman inquired about the status of the crosswalk at Nash and Kollack
Street. Margaret Hauth responded that the bus pullout and everything on the
east side will be completed first, followed by Tryon St. and everything on the west
side. The project is being staged in this manner because of stormwater issues
and the need to coordinate with local business owners along Churton Street.
Earl McKee asked about how another Hillsborough Circulator running the other
way would impact the planned location of the bus pull-out. Margaret Hauth
replied that it wouldn’t really matter because there will be a north-bound pull-out
and a south-bound pull-out along Churton Street (total of two).
Eric Hallman stated that he would like to see a shuttle route between the
community college and Churton St. Bernadette Pelissier said that this had been
discussed before and that it could eventually happen with ½ cent sales tax funds.
e)Discussion of possible enhanced stop signage at Sawmill Road and NC
Hwy 86 (Earl McKee)
Earl McKee inquired about the possibility of having improved safety signage,
rumble strips, and/or a blinking light. Pat Wilson is currently looking at the
situation and will get back to the county. They are considering increasing the
size of the stop sign and using red reflective tape, and relocating it or having a
second stop sign in the island in the middle of the road. They could also put a
stop sign on the left side of the road. He thought that some access issues may
be caused by traffic associated with the convenience store located on the corner.
f)Update/status of Pleasant Green Road/Cole Mill Road 4-way stop (Earl McKee)
Earl McKee noted that this is a skewed intersection and inquired about the status
of the proposed four-way stop sign. Chuck Edwards responded that this is an
ongoing project involving intersection radii improvements and above ground
utilities to be relocated; no four-way stop is planned however. NCDOT is
currently acquiring right-of-way, and construction is scheduled for Spring 2016.
Earl encouraged NCDOT to consider a four-way stop at the intersection since it
is a blind curve coming from the west.
g)Update on options and available funding sources for Oakdale Road/Orange
Grove Road intersection (Chuck Edwards)
Chuck Edwards explained that an experiment was performed on the Oakdale
Road/Orange Grove Road intersection and they discovered that a three-way stop
won’t work because there is too much congestion on the approaches. It was
suggested that perhaps a traffic signal would work if the warrants could be met.
Tom Altieri suggested that perhaps another option for consideration would be
reducing the speed limit from 45 to 35 mph.
44
Orange County & NCDOT Highway Luncheon
Division 7 and District 1
October 19, 2015 12:00 p.m.
6
h)Summary of the recent meeting between Efland residents, County staff,
NCDOT District and Rail Division staff and a NCRR representative
regarding development interest and related rail issues (Chuck Edwards,
Abigaile Pittman)
A summary was provided for a meeting held on August 8, 2015 between Efland
residents accompanied by Bonnie Hauser, Mark Moshier, County staff, NCDOT
District and Rail Division staff, and a NCRR representative regarding
development interest and related rail issues:
x Discussion regarding a level of expressed interest in investing in the
Efland community,.
x Efland representatives stated that the locations of the rail crossings are
greatly influencing development potential, and there is interest in
relocating one or more of the crossings to enhance connectivity and
safety, particularly the one on Mt. Willing Road.
x Interest was also expressed in the future plans for the railroad tracks
through the Efland area, and how these plans could impact development.
x An existing crossing is a project that would have to be programmed in the
State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP).
x NCRR is trying to develop plans for future additional tracks for 10 year out.
Commuter rail will require double-tracking or passing side tracks, and
would need to accommodate 50 mph curves.
x NCDOT staff stated that they would review options for relocating or
revising the Mt. Willing Road rail crossing:
Additionally, in early July Planning staff had related earlier communication with
two local residents regarding safety concerns about the intersection of Mt. Willing
Road (Exit 160 off I-40) and Forrest Avenue at the rail crossing.
i)Bicycle Safety Next Steps (Abigaile Pittman)
An update was provided regarding next steps for a recent project involving
bicycle safety:
x At its June 16, 2015 meeting the Commissioners accepted the OUTBoard
Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Report and directed staff to return in the fall
with information relevant to next steps.
x At its November 5th meeting the Commissioners will be asked to consider
a resolution supporting public and private efforts to increase safety
awareness between motorists and bicyclists, roadway safety
improvements for bicyclists, and to authorize recommended next steps.
x The Report asks the County to embrace, promote, and in some cases
fund programs to further its goal to further address the safety of all users
of county roads.
x Considering the limitations in County regulatory authority, OUTBoard
charge, and staffing and financial costs, many of the recommendations
45
Orange County & NCDOT Highway Luncheon
Division 7 and District 1
October 19, 2015 12:00 p.m.
7
included in the report are more appropriate for private sector
implementation.
x A Resolution has been prepared for consideration as a means of
recognizing its support of efforts to improve safety on County roads and
moving forward with items for implementation. There are
recommendations for County implementation in the Resolution:
o Forward the Resolution and associated report to NCDOT, the
Orange County Sheriff for consideration of pertinent items, as well
as Orange County municipalities for information and partnership in
bicycle safety communications;
o Begin placing pertinent report items on agendas for quarterly
meetings with NCDOT for discussion and guidance; and
o Create a section of the Planning Department’s website specifically
for bicycling and begin placing key maps, plans, safety guidelines,
and links to other pertinent information.
x The Report suggests that the County create a task force for implementing
the Report; this has not been recommended by staff. However, staff could
be available for consultation as any private sector implementation occurs.
Bonnie Hammersley confirmed that the County has limits on its authority
regarding bicycle safety on state system roads.
Mike Mills stated that NCDOT’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Division is accepting
applications for its 2016 Bicycle Helmet Initiative. Agencies can apply for free
bicycle helmets to distribute to children from low-income families. The initiative is
open to both government and non-government agencies. Applications are due
on December 11, 2015. Bonnie Hammersley requested that Planning staff get
the details of this program and have it sent out as a press release, and work to
see if we can get some of these helmets for Orange County children.
j)Update on Collins Ridge development (1,000+ units) (Margaret Hauth, Tom
Altieri)
An update on the proposed Collins Ridge development was provided:
x Located on a 125-acre+ tract between I-85 and the railroad corridor on the
east side of Churton Street.
x Development proposal includes annexation, zoning, special use permit,
and a master plan.
x The master plan calls for the development of multiple residential ‘pods’
including multi-family townhomes/apartment and single-family residences.
x A traffic impact study has already been completed.
x A first public hearing was held October 15th, which was continued to
November 19th.
46
Orange County & NCDOT Highway Luncheon
Division 7 and District 1
October 19, 2015 12:00 p.m.
8
x The developer has committed to a $75,000 connectivity study which will
include looking at access to Orange Grove Road, and the possibility of
crossing I-85 (with bike and pedestrian, and perhaps with a road.
x Related projects impacting this proposal are planned improvements at the
I-85 interchange, along Churton Street, and the Hillsborough train station..
x The County received a copy of the master plan and made courtesy
comments to the Town of Hillsborough.
Eric Hallman asked for clarification on how the different STIP projects along
Churton Street would be aligned with this project.Margaret Hauth responded
that there is a scoping meeting coming up for the National Environmental Policy
Act (NEPA) study for the project which will look at this issue. NCDOT is doing
the work on the study, and the Town and Go Triangle are funding the study.
k)Additional Items Not on the Agenda
x Earl McKee discussed the recent proposed Legislative cap of $500,000 on
Division funds for light rail (still under discussion by the House). Earl
McKee wanted to know what would happen to the funds in excess of
$500,000. Mike Mills responded that if the cap holds the additional funds
would be reallocated. Erik Hallman noted that the Transportation
Secretary spoke with the MPOs last week.
x Mike Mills stated that NCDOT Division 7 recently received notice that they
will be getting an additional $36 million for project funding. They will review
the list of unfunded projects in November. In December there will be a 30-
day review period and the MPOs will have to approve the revised
Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). In January the
Board of Transportation (BOT) will approve the revised STIP programming
the additional funds.
The meeting was adjourned.
47
48
ORANGE COUNTY
ORANGE UNIFIED TRANSPORATION BOARD (OUTBoard)
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:November 18, 2015
Action Agenda
Item No. 7b
SUBJECT: State Transportation Improvement Program Development
DEPARTMENT: Planning and Inspections PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N)N
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
1.STIP Development Flow Chart and
Summary
Abigaile Pittman, Transportation/Land Use
Planner, 919-245-2567
PURPOSE:Receive an update on the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)
development process for transportation projects.
BACKGROUND:The STIP is the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s (NCDOT) ten-
year construction schedule for projects. The schedule is updated every two years based on a
data-driven process called ‘prioritization’, as well as the latest state and federal financial
situation and the status of preconstruction activities. Schedule development must adhere to the
Strategic Transportation Investments (STI) law which mandates ongoing evaluation and
improvement to ensure the process continues to be response to diverse transportation project
needs. Developing the STIP is accomplished through ongoing collaboration with regional
metropolitan and rural planning organizations, and public input. For Orange County, these
regional partners are the Triad Regional Planning Organization (TARPO), the Durham Chapel
Hill Carrboro Metropolitan Planning Organization (DCHC MPO), and the Burlington Graham
Metropolitan Planning Organization (BG MPO). The STIP Development Flow Chart and
Summary has been provided as Attachment 1.
The Strategic Mobility Formula ranks and funds project in three categories/levels:
1.Statewide Mobility – 40% of revenue distribution
2.Regional Impact – 30% of revenue distribution
3.Division Needs – 30% of revenue distribution
During the winter of 2015/2016 the NCDOT Strategic Planning Office of Transportation (SPOT)
(responsible for coordinating the project coordination process and development of the STIP)
reviews and calculates quantitative scores for new and existing transportation projects
submitted by local jurisdictions through member MPOs and RPOs. NCDOT Transportation
Improvement Program (TIP) staff then programs Statewide Mobility projects for the draft STIP,
and NCDOT releases the draft STIP for these statewide level projects in late winter/ early 2016.
In the Spring of 2016 the MPOs and RPOs rank projects on the Regional Impact level, which
can include projects that were not funded at the Statewide Mobility level. NCDOT SPOT then
finalizes the Regional Impact project scores. In the Summer 2016 NCDOT TIP staff identifies
Regional Impact project for the draft STIP incorporating these regional level projects.
,WHPE
49
Following this, the MPOs and RPOs rank projects at the Division Needs level, which can include
projects that were not funded at the Statewide or Regional levels. NCDOT SPOT then finalizes
Division Needs project scores, and the TIP staff identifies Division Needs projects for the draft
STIP incorporating these division level projects.
NCDOT releases the draft STIP reflecting successfully scored Statewide Mobility, Regional
Impact, and Division Needs transportation projects in the Winter of 2016. Following this the
North Carolina Board of Transportation (NC BOT) approves the final 2018-2027 STIP (with all
three levels of projects) in the Summer of 2017. The next cycle then starts over again in the Fall
of 2017.
RECOMMENDATION(S): Staff recommends the OUTBoard receive the update on the STIP
development process. Since this item has not been referred by the County Commissioners for
review, no further action is required.
50
,WHPE$WWDFKPHQW
51
52
ORANGE COUNTY
ORANGE UNIFIED TRANSPORATION BOARD (OUTBoard)
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:November 18, 2015
Action Agenda
Item No. 7b
SUBJECT: Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Plan
DEPARTMENT: Planning and Inspections PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N)N
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
None Abigaile Pittman, Transportation/Land Use
Planner, 919-245-2567
PURPOSE:Receive an update on the Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Plan.
BACKGROUND:At its June 16, 2015 meeting the Board of County Commissioners’ (BOCC)
accepted the Orange Unified Transportation Board (OUTBoard) Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety
Report and directed staff to return in the fall with information relevant to next steps. Additional
background information from the June 16 meeting, including the full Report and draft OUTBoard
minutes of discussion, may be reviewed online at the following link:
http://server3.co.orange.nc.us:8088/weblink8/0/doc/38097/Page1.aspx .
At its November 5, 2015 meeting the BOCC considered a resolution supporting public and
private efforts to increase safety awareness between motorists and bicyclists, roadway safety
improvements for bicyclists, and authorizing next steps. Agenda materials for this meeting may
be viewed online at the following link:
http://server3.co.orange.nc.us:8088/weblink8/0/doc/39675/Page1.aspx
Minutes for this meeting are not yet available; however, there was a good amount of public input
and discussion among the Commissioners. The BOCC did not approve the resolution, and
requested that the staff revise the resolution and return after the holiday break with more
detailed recommendations regarding a potential County role in the implementation of Safety
Plan recommendations. Such a recommendation could include the OUTBoard.
RECOMMENDATION(S): Staff recommends the OUTBoard receive the update on the Bicycle
and Pedestrian Safety Plan. Since this item has not been referred by the County
Commissioners for review at this time, no further action is required.
,WHPF
53
54
ORANGE COUNTY
ORANGE UNIFIED TRANSPORATION BOARD (OUTBoard)
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:November 18, 2015
Action Agenda
Item No. 7d
SUBJECT: Request for Qualifications & Proposals for Conceptual Design of Train Station,
Hillsborough, NC
DEPARTMENT: Planning and Inspections PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N)N
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
1.RFQ & Proposals for Conceptual
Design – Train Station,
Hillsborough, NC and selected
excerpts from Hillsborough Rail
Station Small Area Plan 2010
Abigaile Pittman, Transportation/Land Use
Planner, 919-245-2567
PURPOSE:Receive an update on a recently released Request for Qualification & Proposals for
Conceptual Design for the Hillsborough Train Station
BACKGROUND:
Planning for the Hillsborough Train Station has been ongoing since 2008. A Hillsborough Rail
Station Small Area Plan was prepared in 2010, and later the project was adopted as part of the
Orange County Bus and Rail Investment Plan (OCBRIP). The project will be submitted as a
new transit/rail project by GOTriangle (previously named Triangle Transit) for consideration of
inclusion in the Durham Chapel Hill Carrboro Metropolitan Planning Organization (DCHC MPO)
regional project priority list and Metropolitan Transportation Improvement Program (MTIP) as
well as the 2016-2022 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP).
The Town of Hillsborough is currently seeking Requests for Qualifications (RFQ) from design
firms or teams to develop a concept plan for the train station. The RFQ was released on
October 19th, and proposals are due on November 18th. This work is needed to initiate the
environmental review needed. The station is proposed to be located adjacent to and within the
North Carolina Railroad Corridor in Hillsborough on a 20-acre site owned by the Town of
Hillsborough. The concept plan must include the building footprint (located outside the NCRR
corridor), 100 parking spaces, and site access. Elements within the NCRR corridor include the
boarding platform location and concept plan. The selected firm will coordinate with the NCDOT
Rail Division and its consultant which is responsible for completing a NEPA document for the
Hillsborough Train Station.
The RFQ with selected excerpts for the Hillsborough Rail Station Small Area Plan 2010 has
been provided for informational purposes (Attachment 1). The complete announcement and a
complete copy of the Small Area Plan is available in the bid section of the Town of
Hillsborough’s website (www.ci.hillsborough.nc.us ).
,WHPG
55
RECOMMENDATION(S): Staff recommends the OUTBoard receive the update on the RFQ for
the Hillsborough Train Station. Since the train station is outside unincorporated Orange
County’s jurisdiction, no further action is required.
56
,WHPG$WWDFKPHQW
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64