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HomeMy WebLinkAboutOUTBoard Nov 17, 2025 ORANGE TRANSPORTATION COUNTY GOVERNMENT TRANSPORTATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT COUNTY NoKaL CALIQLLNA PUBLIC TRANSIT OrangeCounty AGENDA ORANGE UNIFIED TRANSPORTATION BOARD November 17th, 2025, 6:30 pm 131 W Margaret Ln, Hillsborough, NC 27278 OUTBoard meetings are held in person and open to the public. Any member of the general public who wishes to make a public comment can email transportationinput@orangecountync.gov. All comments will be read to the OUTBoard during the public comment portion of the meeting. 1. Call to Order 2. Consideration of Additions or Changes to Agenda 3. Public Comments 4. Minutes—October 20th, 2025 5. Regular OUTBoard Agenda a. Bike Fed Plan i. Action: Information & Feedback 6. Staff Report/Updates a. Staff updates Fare Free i. Action: Information b. MPO, RRO, and NCDOT 7. Adjournment-The next meeting— December 22, 2025 It is the policy of Orange County Transportation Services to ensure that no person shall, on the ground of race, color, sex, age, national origin, or disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987. 600 Hwy 86 N - Hillsborough, North Carolina 27278 Phone (919)245-2008 - Fax (919) 732-2137 orangecountync.gov/transportation ORANGE UNIFIED TRANSPORTATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES Monday, October 20th, 2025 131 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278 1 The Orange Unified Transportation Board Meeting was held on Monday, October 20th, 2025, at 6:30 PM in 2 the West Campus Office Building.The following members and guests attended: 3 4 Jamie Crandell Eno Township 5 Erik Legg Cedar Grove Township 6 Art Menius Little River Township 7 Gregory Woloszczuk At Large 8 Heidi Perry Bingham Township 9 Sherry Appel At Large 10 Roy Schonberg Chapel Hill Township 11 Sarah Williamson Orange County Staff 12 Darlene Weaver Orange County Staff 13 EmmaLea Ange Orange County Staff 14 15 AGENDA ITEM 1: CALL TO ORDER 16 The meeting was called to order at 6:33 pm, and the roll was taken. 17 18 AGENDA ITEM 2: CONSIDERATIONS OF ADDITIONS TO AGENDA 19 20 AGENDA ITEM 3. PUBLIC COMMENTS 21 No public comments- No members of the public were present. 22 23 AGENDA ITEM 4. MINUTES-August 201h, 2025 24 Motion: Greg Woloszczuk 25 Second: Roy Schonberg 26 One abstention: Heidi Perry was not present 27 Approved:with majority vote 28 AGENDA ITEM 5. REGULAR AGENDA 29 30 a. OUTboard Orientation Material Update 31 Sarah Williamson emphasized the importance of ensuring that everyone had the opportunity to share 32 their comments. We reviewed the updates provided and noted additional feedback. Art Menius 33 suggested that members send any corrections to Darlene Weaver via email. We also received several 34 handwritten notes from Heidi Perry and Sherry Appel.Sherry Appel raised concerns about the numerous 35 governmental orders issued since January 2025 and inquired whether any projects had been delayed, 36 canceled, or modified as a result. We agreed to update the orientation packet annually. Additionally, 37 there was a discussion on how to improve processes within the township by collaborating with the 38 Clerk's office. 39 40 Motion: Sherry Appel moved to approve the orientation materials dated October 20, 2025, with 41 amendments and revisions related to typos and relevant conservation shared. 42 Second: Gregory Woloszczuk 43 Approved: Unanimously 44 45 b. Non-STIP PMP Draft 46 Sherry Appel inquired about the available funding. Sarah Williamson responded by explaining that 47 funding sources include the State Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP). The amount of funding we 48 receive is not fixed; it depends on the highest needs across the state. This dollar amount can vary from 49 year to year and from one district to another. Our focus is on identifying needs and setting priorities. 50 Sherry Appel also noted that Orange County Transit options are not effectively reaching the public. She 51 suggested collaborating with Orange County public affairs and GoTriangle for ideas. In response, Sarah 52 Williamson indicated that a representative from the Transportation Department would lead the effort to 53 ensure that the public is informed. 54 55 Motion: Sherry Appel to approve the Non-STIP PMP date October 20, 2025, with amendments and 56 revisions related to typos and relevant conversations shared. 57 Second: ?????? 58 Approved: Unanimous 59 AGENDA ITEM 6.STAFF REPORT/UPDATES/EVENTS 60 a. The staff is collaborating with the Clerk's office to ensure that our boards operate according to best 61 practices.The name cards you see are part of these changes, and all guests will now be seated in the 62 audience.We also want to ensure that we have the packets and materials prepared in advance. If you 63 have questions about receiving notifications when the update packet is ready,you are now part of our 64 newsletter group and will receive updates each month when we hold a meeting.The newsletter will 65 include the agenda, updates, and engagement activities within the department.As we work on 66 expanding this list,we will also share information about what this board is doing to keep the public 67 informed. Regarding the federal impacts,we are currently monitoring the situation.We are aware that 68 the federal government is shut down, but so far,there have not been any direct impacts on the services 69 we offer. However,we did receive one directive from the state:we have been instructed to remove 70 language related to Minority,Women, and Disadvantaged Enterprises(MWDE) contractors and 71 subcontractors from our contracts. 72 b. Staff is working on mission and vision statements;the team is enjoying collaborating to create synergy. 73 Our next steps are to develop our core values and update policies. 74 c. We are collaborating with the Burlington Graham MPO and Triangle West Transportation Planning to 75 enhance pedestrian areas, such as sidewalks and crosswalks. 76 d. Darlene Weaver has been appointed as the lead for the Engagements. Members of the Outboard have 77 volunteered to assist as needed.We recently participated in the Orange County Road Show,which took 78 place at the Cedar Grove Community Center on Sunday, October 12, 2025,from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. 79 e. Moving forward,Sarah Williamson explained that she had agreed to serve as the Interim Director of the 80 Department. 81 f. Heidi Perry announced that the 2025 Triangle Bicycle and Pedestrian Workshop will take place on 82 Friday, November 7th,from 8 AM to 12 PM in Holly Springs 83 g. Sarah Williamson announced that a representative from the Triangle West Transportation Planning 84 Organization will attend our next meeting to provide an overview of the draft BikePed Plan. 85 86 Transportation Planning Update 87 NCDOT, Project Status; Department Updates 88 Sherry Appel has questions about U-5845 and BR-0091: 89 a. BR-0091 the replacement bridge 332 over US70 and the Eno River.Will NCDOT replace the bridge 90 that was already replaced? 91 b. U-5845 widening of S. Churton Street to multi-lanes from 1-40 to Eno River.Why was the LET date so 92 far out, considering the PE was approved on May 14, 2015? 93 AGENDA ITEM 7:ADJOURNMENT 94 The OUTBoard meeting was adjourned at 7:38 pm.The next meeting is scheduled for December 22nd, 95 2025. ���E ORANGE COUNTY GOVERNMENT ORANGE ORL TRANSPORTATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT ri ,� NoKrH CARQLLNA Ora"g;„8�,�,u„5nt Item 5.a. Subject: Orange County Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan PURPOSE: Provide comments on the County's Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. BACKGROUND: Orange County is growing and changing, and so are the ways people get around. This Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan is about helping people get where they need to go safely, comfortably, and affordably, whether they drive or not. It focuses on practical improvements, like better sidewalks, safer street crossings, and more connected bike routes —that can make a real difference in everyday life. This plan,the first of its kind for Orange County, builds on the 2024 Orange County Transportation Multimodal Plan, which looked at big-picture transportation needs for the whole county, in alignment with the Orange County trails plan that is currently being developed. While that plan included biking and walking, it didn't dig into the details of where bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure are missing or what needs to be built first, especially in unincorporated parts of the county that are outside the main towns. It provides the County and its partners with clear lists of: - where sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes are needed - what projects should come first based on safety, benefit, and need - how to connect to walking and biking routes to schools, parks, and transit; and - how local policies and funding can support these projects moving forward. Advancing the projects in this Plan depends on supportive policies and programs that make walking and biking part of everyday planning and development decisions. Together, these strategies help translate the Plan's three goals into action: 1. Make walking and biking safer 2. Build a more connected network 3. Improve access for everyone This plan would not be possible without our partners at Triangle West Transportation Planning Organization, and Central Pines Regional Council. Together with our partners, Orange County selected Stantec as the lead consultant on this project. Stantec exercised best planning practices for analysis, public engagement, recommendations, and potential implementation. RECOMMENDATIONS: Provide comments on the County's Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, and recommended adoption by the Orange County Board of Commissioners, with feedback incorporated. 600 Hwy 86 N - Hillsborough, North Carolina 27278 Phone (919)245-2008 - Fax (919) 732-2137 orangecountync.gov/transportation Oran unty Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan OUT Board Meeting November 2025 ® Stantec ORANGE COUNTY TRIANGLE WEST WithersRavenel NORTH CAROLINA Transpo a}ion PlanningOryaniza}ion Our People,Your Success. Z PROJECT TEAM Q J IL Z Q H w w ORANGE COUNTY Stantec NORTH CAROLINA a o LU Katy Shackelford, Project Manager Q Sarah Williamson-Baker, Interim Katy.Shackleford@stantec.com Transportation DirectorLU 540.835.7542 swilliamson-baker@orangecountync.gov } 919.245.20102 Johnna Burkett, Transportation Planner Johnna.Burkett@stantec.com stantec.com 919.865.7378 Z P4 TRIANGLE WEST hanspo a}ion PlanningO ganixallon :: W i t h e rs Rave n e t U Our People.Your 5uccess. w Madeline Galliano, Project Administrator < mqalliano@dchcmpo.org Daniel Rauh, Engagement Lead of 0 919.503.4120 drauh@withersravenel.com withersravenel.com 919.238.0416 2 ' c�u PROJEr-T PROCESSAND TIMELINE Z LISTENING TESTING a Winter 2024 - 2025 spring 2025 Z adds* ,....+.._- ......... 12+ Month timeframe W�L Imp, Kickoff � October 2024 to Fall 2025 rjC ions riirn r1e� wwrr W 0 W s....rrrrr r............� ■...f�ii�■■r�s ■ff�� i • • ■ * ■ i#�■ ■ i ■ i • z i ce + Col Focus GrOW Pudic Issues EL Vision Q � Pop-up Events Discussions 1Awadahop w J U } U DEFINING DOCUMENTING co Summer 2025 Fall 2025 } UUNatwcwk 7 Pr Irnpjempma#iah nw fun re=. ndalip � plan ta$Y w ry - -.. WE ARE HERE! ry prose" Public prkwftin& Integration —— _ W rkshop Projects with parh-wrs Dew # Adoption Figure 1-A:Study Area Mop --•` r�l 1 — ------ ,r------..-----�.— Study Area + Municipalities not 1 rr } ! PURPOSE OF THIS PLAN ® planning effort + I 1 ± fffrrl � e _� J Railroad Track a- 1)�� , _ ! z ! — Y rorg3 the + ! Q 1 l I • Formalize a cohesive and actionable .. , w 1 �-�- � ! strategy for multimodal design _Ar� r ��} �}Rv Mate MEBAN E" H€LL564ROUGH ! CF development, and implementation for z GRAHAM w the unincorporated areas of Orange u 0.�AMAPJCE p g a , County 1 ! co 1 + • Align and integrate into regional ;; f + DURHAM LU transportation plans ;��� �f.CHAPELHiLL "y 1 f 4 ! z • MTP update — DCHC MPO ,veF ,�' �CAitRBOR41 — 71 ° • MTP update — BC MPO • CTP update — TARPO EMI€es CHATHAM c 4 Source.(Orange County,20251 Z OUTCOMES' Q J Z ry Cn • Public involvement (two rounds) LU • Data collection and plan review Z • Multimodal access network LU • Prioritization of network gaps U m • Implementation strategy z Z Policy recommendations (land use w and development) z • Funding strategy Q 0 CONTENTS �~������� �^ U��7����U�K8��K���� PLAN CHAPTERS CHAPTER .. ... . ..~~~~~~~~ . .~~.. ^^ A BOUT THIS STUDY..............................................................................................PAGE u _j peouscraoAco................................................................................................. pmGs1* � pnncsnowvoTnwmLImm..................................................................................... PAGE n � �� chapters �� �° U N �� � � N �-� N �~� � � m UNDERSTANDING TRAVEL NEEDS...................................................................... pAGEm `u o Nm Graphic-based �� 0r� �~� TmEnoAowsz�/oaK—'_--_---_---'_----_'------.pmsszu m �� U N ��u vvALmwo.BIKING,AND SAFETY TODAY......................................................... pwsE 30 o �~� u_� �� to 0~���u�� m~� wEYlAKs4vwwm--.---_.—.—.-------.-----.-----PAGE 36 zc ����� �.� �� read 0 < ^° m _j ovsxv/swvopsmsw�swswr�aoce$g *Ass4z u ----_-'--'____'---_---- ' ENGAGEMENT/xT/vnnss ...............................................................................mmss*s co— xcYTnswss...........--. ..........— ................... .............................................p*Gcu* � CHAPTER 4: NETWORK RECOMMENDATIONS z Z) APPROACH ro NETWORK DsysuOnMsmr .......................................................pAss5m o » mcoorSTxmoAnoS AND crp CATEGORIES..................................................... pAssuo ~ PROJECT escowMswoxrxOms..........................................................................p*ssr* zc cowccpTocSIsmS.--.-----.------.-----.----- pm;Eoo � � o CHAPTERS: IMPLEMENTATION POLICY AND PROGRAMMING.............................................................................pAss92 FUNDING STRATEGIES......................................................................................mAscnzo PRIORITIZATION FRAMEWORK.......................................................................... pAGcn* mExT STEPS....................................................................................................... PvGs1m CHAPTER i Project Goals INTRODUCTION I G Goal#2 Goal #3 Orange County is growing and changing,and so are the ways peopleMake Walking Build a More Im prove Access z Whether ,• ■ park,or ■ and Biking Safer Connected Network for Everyone a people are . .king for safer and more convenient ways totravel without J Everyone should be able to move Asidewalk orbike ion aisn't much use Not all residents of Orange County on ■ car. a parts of - county, . • • - missing,roadsfeel araundsafe9y,whether walking, if it starts and stops without warning. have hard the sameilevelof investment zunsafe for biking,andbus stopsreach •a biking,or falling.But many streets in People need continuous,reliable routes in infrastructure-In some places,the Q the County are stil I designed with cars that connect homes,jobs.schools, only way to get around is by car-if in mind.not people.This plan works parks,and transit- you have one.Others deal with unsafe ~ to reduce crashes and create safe, conditions that make walking or baking �^ lam are;I'douS people-first streets. feel out of reach. w 0 Za People need c anti n uo us, Q About • Study re I iable routes w IF ■ _ VProject 4 > Goals ff rF co 0 Process and Timeline A.8 H Z _ __ � h 1 ■ L D r 1 1 w (D I 7 Q WOW p 5 1 •.ry, I �t�. 1 Everyone should be able to ` In some places,the only way to get t move around safely ' , around is by car-if you have one i I 4 I t I Ati ' c�u Current Conditions 2 EXISTING Outside of tltiese i..i-;corporated areas outside town limits, CONDITIONS infrastructure t is often limited or Z distannected.ed.Sidewalks are rare .Q along rural and suburban roads. J and marked bikeways are sparse_ Even where routes ore designated —" z as"bikeable'"high speeds,narrow This Chapter Covers: shoulders,and rumble strips rnoke many of them feel unscfe_ w Understanding Travel Needs Certain sect ions ofNC845 and NC p 54 are classified as bikeways,bui w • Who lives here? they lc�ck sign"cl,la r,e markings, or cornfortable space for riders. • Where are people going? Many County roads have no Q sidewalk or safe place to walk. • + w 0 The Road Network for cing poop leioIroueIa long the J U shoulder ar on the edge of the } N C D OT roodw° . U coDespite these conditions,people �$ • Speeds are walking and biking all over the } County--for errands,for recreation, z and for getting to work or school • Walking, Biking, and Safety Today These trips are already happening, 0 U even in plies where infrasiructure is w • Crashes minimal or absent. z What We've Learned • Key Takeaways _ ' c�u KeyTakeaways ROCds Serve C RTM Z a ses ti • ■ J SL 0 Z 6. Q i ~ r U) W w Most roads were built for cars but marry now carry other users too-In rural areas,this includes people walking n or biking along high-speed roads with no dedicated spare_In town centers,sidewalks and bikeways are more p * common.DItfemnt places nerd dif-L%mnt toolsto improve safety and comfort_ Q JPPIP w r J Travel AreAlready Patterns U CO Multimodal dbstr-*MIrrin signs c listW&r11ir5si9ns } A dk" z pmarTr, th s7rollar hill Z) FF"Sa I I U Risks Are U Real • • U Preventable z 4b L O Between 2007 and 2022.41 people were killed and bl severely injured while walking or biking in Clmnge County- Pao*In Orange County are aFapdywalling and hiking forerronds,school,work,recreation,and hemith.These N@arly half of these crashes happened outside the towns.This plan focuses on identifying the most important tripe happen on both w bansldawalksand rural shoulders.Plan ning should start by recognizing how people nwve today and where undl dwnges could make those trips safer. locations for improvennents;places where b-efter infrmtruciwe can prevent harm and support everyday travel. pDt oDNrr FA A,° ^Ctp E2 v •EDesTs SEPTEMBER 2025 MAY 16,2025 PUBLIC WORKSHOP#2- • COCTOBER2024 NCDOTLISTENING DRAFT PLAN REVIEW ONLINE SURVEY SESSION OPENS 7 9 • . • . ' • - 2 • - - 3 OCTOBER 2024 INTERACTIVE • MAP OPENS • • S • • • • • 6 RARCH 27- JULY 2025 1 OCT'OE ER 2024 APRIL 4,2025 SURREY AND • • • PROJECT WESSrM STAKEHOLDER MAP TOOLS LAUNCH LISTENING CLOSE SESSFONS DECEMBER 7,2024 # COMMUNITY POP-UP#1 - 5 HILLSBOROUGH LIBRARY MARCH 13,2025 PUBLIC WORKSHOP 91- DRAKEFORD LIBRARY COMPLY IN CARRBORO Most residents who walk or bike today do so for recreation or exercise.But many said People KeyThemes they s mo use These modes more often * ` ` k. for errands,work,or �ancl • 're— school if it were safe • * + l`+}! f ■t and convenient to do so- . . .ily Con nedivity to everyday destinations is key_ z Q J d z Participants repeatedly pointed to lower-cast Speeding,aggressive driving,and Q fixes that could be implemented quickly— failure to yield were major concerns * things like better lighting,curb ramps, across all e n gage m ent activities. _ * crossings,signage,and repaved shoulders- People want to see education,policy w higgest p These types of changes are highly visible and enforcement,and troffie-calming a ` *rrier build community trust in the process, strategies that make streets feel more respectful for Driver p z everyone. • • r Q Residents described near-misses, rpp'small _ ` ` * f ` J �i unsQfe crossings,and roads where are major U � they simply refuse to walk OF bike. 4 Many said they want to travel ` ` ' rvements more lay foot or bike,but don't feel Make ' ' ig m protected,especially along rural impact ' corridors with high speeds and no z sepa ration fromtrafFc_ O V w l7 Sidewalks end abruptly.Trails Residents described Orange County z are isolated.Shoulders are as one connected place_They want Far row o r b locked.Peo pl a to be able to travel safely betvreen 00, O emphasized the need for a ? HiIIsborough,Carrbora,Chapel 10, connected network of - Hill,and beyond.This requires *~ sidewalks,greenways, IF coordinated infrastructure and and bike facilities that Infrastructure a broader vision oFf what a link homestoschools, walkable,bikeable County * * stares,and transit— limited * looks like_ not,just parks, disconnected 4 L thinking is �f �important ' c�u 4 NETWORK RECOMMENDATIONS Z Q J 0- F F : � • ■ �■ � • F , • ■ Z This chapter covers: 2. 4 . U Approach to Network _ -'� Y.: w FMult Plan Development :; -- `k. 1 NCDOT Standards and CTP Categories g �� }x } Project Recommendations Concept Designs } z Data Inputs Refine Facility Types Final Bicycle and U Tr-a n por i a h ion Multin-odal Remove Gr�eenw�ay and Pedestrian Network U w P la r7(2024) Project List Trail proj-ects Focil its+ types specified AADT Yolurn�s } Upgrade or downgmde r rridlar a _ _ f-oeilifi2s basLA on public Informed by design o � Spud I imi is and st a k-ehold" input kildarce and Land use ondior nearby st-okeholder review '` destinations i_-i.+i a-i i!! 1 Proposed Bicycle Network • F `` a# r J Im. --- Bike Lanes ' ; r P. ♦ , '•t Proposed Bicycle ... ����¢Shoutders � � ,:•, ; o Bicycle cede Arian Network Bridge Z i� Study Area low lip■..: r,■- + +. } ■.a ■.i t� 1, r. ® Municipalities not I . ♦'r included � �in this . # a r�s; ■ `+. #� ► z planning effort � + � * *• . i. '' # y Q Park&Ride • ■ r r rf w .fi• 41 FcicII tyTypo Frojecft T�fnI MilC-oge - a •,.• { HILLSBDkOl1GH ' * + o Paged Shoulder bl Projects15.4 mils RAHA.h9 :�© .lam '+ ,�01 z Bike Lone 22 Projects 50-7 miles ,+# � �` � � u,19 * ■ ■ aqu r . LU Bi-cycle-Pedestrian Bridge 1 Proj t -c1 ml 1 R� • ; } - k. U • M• a ♦ r •a 1PCO r ' • * { Y , *•4, d I r a 0 r C ? �.• C ' � r , CaD ( H. '• ' CHAPEL HILL z w ,©•+'►+ '- ..CAR RdORO # Q — m r 5{i r - -- +f numbersdo The ■ or MMES the map correspond to each■ • ect's unique ID. 7,1 Full C HA7 HAM • • details• - Source: PedBikelmages.org http://www.pedbikeimages.org/ L_provided in Table 4-G. Proposed Pedestrian •� Network �* } --- Up Proposed Pedestriano - � Bicycle-pedestrian • • • Bridge Facilities - i z �� Study Area w r • • Municipalities not � '. �r� +• � a ® includad in this • a z planning ef#oit r Q Park$ Pide M�BAIVE' $ w Fad T Project-, Tot M ui l es I p t 9 a 1 _,y + S r H�LSBGROUGH LU -Sidewalk 28 Projects 23_2 miles aaHaM Z -Shared-Use Path 21 Projects 62.9miles ALAMANCE Q ' W W /# +•+ +tR -J Q` � t CARRBCRG Y DURH - CHAPEL HILL LU (D z f i16 � + - numbers shown or +� f ■ 1 1111= MMS the rnapcorrespond r each 0 1 2 • • -■ ■ CHA I HAHi Fullproject details pro ■-■ - Source: PedBikelmages.org http://www.pedbikeimages.org/ PFRSi,N Conce t D e s i n S PrioriFy Pedestrian Projects 1 � p g .... Lis 1 1 r ••�• Sidewalk 1 z Priority Bicycle Projects 1 s �I a ---- Bike Lanes a 1 zrLM •••• Paved Shoulders Q Figure# Pro777 From To Length r�I Study Area 1 j � See Figure 4-J BP- Morgan Rd to Old NC 86 Orange Grove Rd to 0.98 mi 1 cn Turner End Dr MLrnicipalitics rink L„ included in this ME gANE o See Figure 4-K BP-345 US 70 Alt 5 Churton 5t Marelanda Dr 0.68 mi planning effortLU 1 1 a See Appendix RP-429 Orange Middle Orange Middle School Orange High School Rd 0.15 mi Park&Ride ro •- r in School entrance T HILLSBOROUGH 1 z See Figure4-L BP-410 Orange High H a rold Latta Dr U570 0.70rni GRAHAM 1 4 • ,* a 5cn6alRdLU ALAMANCE See Figure 4-M SP-301 Erwin Rd 1-40 Durhorn/orange 1.97 mi u County line See Appendix BP-438 New Grady Brown Dimmocks Mill Rd Grady Brown School 0.54 mi i + m Schaal Emrarce } See Appendix A BP 437 US70 Redman Xing AshwickDr 0.95mi �; � z 1 See Appendix BP 336 Janes Ferry Rd Chatharn(Orange County Old Fayetteville Rd 4.73 mi =o line 1 `s 1 See Appendix BP-322 NC 86 Hillsborough northern town South of New Hope 3.42 mi ouBH Lu limit Church Rd 1 CHAPEL HILL + 1 + z See Figure 4-N RP-341 Did NC 86 1-40 North ofCFak Ridge Rd 0.82 mi 1 CARR64R4 a "arfr ot+gur s sysrol of flies s rs!`cammefrded t acfRFles are iocaFed wllhfra a raosnnabla dlsrtH,ce from Ffyh fir ury rYet• + O wexki'NfN)corridors,rxNmaffhem&pc%cj caffyover1apped,-fherekwp,liINdeaignafanism9irxivdedir7fhefeasibhrity 75 kf numbers shown on O Hies the a 1 x •• each. . unique I D. CHAIHAM. Full • • - details ' c�u Agiwkl Concept I �:1. 5"Biike lane Z 22'Existing Pavement 10'Shared Use Path - Q t �,� 5'Bike lane d 5'Concrete Sidewalk 5'Bike Lane 5'Bike Lane 5'Concrete Sidewalk z Y � � - 22'Existing Pavement H N W 9 Hollow Rock Net..Park W Verge(varies) J Cl- �I Z LU Q Old NC 86 US 70 Alternate Erwin Road U } V co ,-Orange High School lRd., } NOW•. - I• H Z O V W (D Z ��P Q �LJ O Paved Paved SW Verge Shoulder Travel Lane Travel Lane Shoulder Verge j SW 5' ,, 4'* 11' 11' 4'* Existing Pavement * SW Verge Travel Lane Travel Lane Verge SW 22' S' 4' 11' 11' 4' 5' Existing Pavement •Rumble strips are added along the edge of the paved shoulder to alert drivers who drift out of the travel 22 lane and provide additional separation from people biking. Orange High School Road Oakdale Drive c�u Table 5-E.-Implernentatioin Action Plan by Time Hlarimn and Load Role Time Action ResponsiblePorty Example ToolslNotes Horizon 5 IMPLEMENTATION Pursue small,quick- County staff with TAP,Safe Routes to turnaround gnafrts tobufid municipal partners School,AARP Community momentum Challenge.America Walks z BundItbicyc4and County staff with Combine with resurfacing, Q J pedestrfa n projects into NCDOT Division and Safe Streets for All,or a larger roadway,sa",or rnunicipalities PARTFprojects z Short-term Park fnvestnwrkts This chapter covers: (0-2 Yea rs) Pflot a public-private County planning staff+ Sidewalk delivery In ry partnersNpon a high- developers/businesses development agreements, ~ vfsibflity corridor corridor sponsorships • Policy and Programming w Krckoff WOld N£86 Multi- County staff with MPO, Advance to 30%design- 0 w Funding Strategies Use Trail initfative(planrting NCDDT,consultanis, handle withroadwaY and early design) de,relopw!; Improvements;pursue cornpeti five grants z • Prioritization Framework Develop astaridardited County planningand Irnpact fees,special Q funding tool kit for local finance staff assessment distrfcfs,cost- w Next Steps match sharepalrcies J U Med;wfi- 5freogtherrcoordinnfion County+MPO&(DCHC, Joint applications,shared } fe,rm with MPOsand neighboring Mebane,etc.) mctchstrategies.regional U m (2-5 years) counties ellgfbility } Embed bike/ped priorities County planning,finance, Treat hleycle and in the C I P and development and legal staff pedestrian projects as z code core Infrastructure D p Advocate for STI reform County elected officials, Lobby to adjust STI U and expandod MPO stbtewide coalitions law;pursue regional W ellgrbui y representatlon CD z I nsfitutronalize value County finance and Transportation utility Q capture-and recurring planning staff foes,special assessment ry Long-term revenue tools districts O !k OWN t5+ytLars) Scale public-private County+private sector Rail Trail model;corridor y partnerships and naming partners branding and sponsorships rights Secure ongoing funding County public works+ Maintenance funds, for operations and partners developer cast-sharing, PcFved shoulderr are an eligible.cAml-affectiveimproyerrent under many oute and fe-deralfurAng progri3rns.Source: . . maintenance utility fees ' c�u Happy F *Ield A •/ Pk*WithersRavenel ORANGE COUNTY TRIANGLE WEST ® Stantec Transportation Planning Organization „ our People.Your success. NORTH CAROLINA ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: December 9, 2025 Action Agenda Item No. SUBJECT: Implementation of Fare Free Fixed Route Transportation Service DEPARTMENT: Transportation Services ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: 1. Budget Amendment Sarah Williamson, Interim Transportation 2. Fee Change Sheet Director, 919-245-2102 PURPOSE: To: 1. Approve Fee Changes to Make OCPT Fixed Routes Fare Free BACKGROUND: Orange County Public Transportation (OCPT) operates fixed-route transit services that connect thousands of residents to key destinations in the community each year. Currently, riders who do not qualify for a reduced or fare-free program pay a nominal fare to use the service. The Transportation Department proposes transitioning to a fare-free fixed-route model effective January 2, 2026, making public transit more equitable, efficient, and accessible countywide. National and regional transit data show that fare-free systems result in increased ridership, attracting new passengers while enabling existing riders to travel more frequently. Agencies that have implemented fare-free fixed routes have reported ridership growth of up to 30%, particularly among low-income residents who are the most sensitive to cost barriers. By removing fares, OCPT can reduce financial obstacles to mobility and support greater access to employment, education, medical care, and essential services across Orange County. In addition to expanding public access, transitioning to fare-free fixed routes offers significant operational benefits. • Eliminating fare transactions streamlines the boarding process, improving stop efficiency and reducing delays that impact schedule reliability. • Removes the need for staff to verify eligibility for reduced or fare-free programs on fixed routes, allowing transit personnel to focus solely on safety and service delivery. • OCPT would eliminate the costs associated with purchasing, maintaining, and servicing fare collection equipment, reducing long-term operational and capital expenses. A fare-free fixed-route system positions OCPT to better serve the community, invest in service quality, and remove barriers to transportation. This initiative represents a strategic opportunity to increase ridership, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen transit equity for all Orange County residents. FINANCIAL IMPACT: The action will have a net positive impact on the County's general fund in FY26. ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports: • GOAL 2: HEALTHY COMMUNITY OBJECTIVE 2. Expand access to quality, affordable healthcare services. (e.g., Crisis Diversion facility, Medicaid expansion, crisis response, healthy living campaign). OBJECTIVE 7. Invest in services and programs that improve the health and quality of life of the community (e.g., recreation and public open spaces, arts, etc.) • GOAL 4: MULTI-MODAL TRANSPORTATION OBJECTIVE 2. Increase community awareness of all modes of transportation including transit, bike and pedestrian, vehicle, and all other modes. OBJECTIVE 3. Support road projects that address congestion and reduce commute time using the County' s Complete Streets policy. OBJECTIVE 4. Coordinate transit investments with municipal and county land use planning to reduce vehicle miles travelled and to provide more equitable access to shopping, employment, medical centers, college campuses, etc. OBJECTIVE 6. Update transportation related plans to provide more multi- modal options including rural Orange County. • GOAL 6: DIVERSE AND VIBRANT ECONOMY OBJECTIVE 2. Review and revise County policies and regulations to support business investment in Orange County. OBJECTIVE 5. Increase access to and awareness of resources and assistance available to residents and businesses. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board: 1. Approve the implementation of fare free fixed route transportation service effective January 2, 2026. +� L fi I IL IN Jam+ Fd * y r rt *M.W iy Y f y 1 '• � �a I i _ r Y ` ervi y }} L L L 1 L•" 4¢ +L M1� Fa re Free Fixed Route Service ��' � fP�� Orange and Blue Loops: currently free Hill-to-Hill and Orange Alamance: Currently $1 for elderly or disabled Currently $2 for all other riders 1 �pQi r 1 Save Time , Save Money Simplified Boarding No Need to Qualify Riders Eliminates Fee Collection Equipment C ■ ■Net Positive Impact Operating $55,800 for 5 years / $11,160 per year Plus, $2,150 monthly fee Equipment it 9-245-2008' $30,000 upgrade every 3-5 years User fees <$10,000 per year NCDOT DIV 7 PROJECTS LOCATED IN TWTPO - UNDER DEVELOPMENT TIP/WBS# Description LET/Start Completion Cost Status Project Lead Date Date SS-6207T Portions of Twenty-One (21) Routes. Curve Warning Sign 9/20/2023 11/15/25 $200,000 Planning and design activities underway. Dawn McPherson 51112 Installation. Construction started.A few more Signs left to install. SS-6207A NC 54 Pedestrian improvements between SR 1902 2/15/2024 11/15/2025 $171,000 Planning and design activities underway. Dawn McPherson 50337 (Manning Drive)and SR 1937 (Old Fayetteville Road)in Materials have arrived and work been Chapel Hill and Carrboro. Improvements will include completed. Final inspection pending. refuge islands, crosswalks and pedestrian signals. Improvements to be completed by state forces. SS-6207BA 1-40EB/1-85 NB Ramps at SR 1226; 1-40WB/1-85SB Ramps 10/1/2025 10/1/2026 $400,000 Multiple signing and pavement marking Dawn McPherson 52040 at SR 1226; 1-40EB/1-85 NB Ramps at SR 1158; 1-40WB/1- upgrades recommended by the Wrong 85SB Ramps at SR 1158; 1-40EB/1-85 NB Ramps at NC Way Driver Road Safety Review. See 62; 1-40WB/1-85SB Ramps at NC 62; 1-40EB/1-85 NB spreadsheet included in the project Ramps at NC 49; 1-40WB/1-85SB Ramps at NC 49; 1- submittal package describing the signing 40EB/1-85 NB Ramps at NC 87; 1-40WB/1-85SB Ramps at and pavement marking improvements to NC 87; 1-40EB/1-85 NB Ramps at NC 54; 1-40WB/1-85SB be included in the project. State funds EB-5721 Upgrade existing off-road path and construct new section 12/1/2025 FY2026 $2,700,000 Bids opened 7/17/23-Bids rejected. Alex Stankovic of path of Bicycle Route#1 from Cleland Drive to Willow Project on Hold. Chapel Hill has secured Drive in Chapel Hill additional funding to relet at a future date. Final Plan comments addresses however due to tropical storm damage needs HL-0045 Repair Bridge#241 on Exchange Park Lane over Eno 3/19/2026 FY2028 $153,800 Agreement executed, Hillsborough to Alex Stankovic River from South Churton Street to Faribult Lane in prepare environmental documents and Hillsborough plans. Review of final plans complete. CE submitted.Waiting to secure funding from Town. C-5181 Jones Creek Greenway Project- Fill Gap between the 3/26/2026 FY2027 $910,000 Environmental document approved Alex Stankovic Carrboro Upper Bolin Trail and Twin Creeks Greenway and 8/14/23. NCDOT has approved Final also implement program to support on-vehicle trips to Plans. Morris Grove Elementary School HS-2007H SR 1009 (Old NC 86)at SR 1727 (Eubanks Road) near 4/2/2026 FY2028 $153,000 Planning and deisgn activities underway. Trung Nguyen 49317.1.9 Chapel Hill. Right Turn Lane Modifications. Currently finalizing ROW plans. 49317.2.9 49317.2.10 49317.3.9 HO-0013 Chapel Hill from Franklin Street and Rosemary Street, and 5/12/2026 FY28 $2,100,000 Project approved by BOT and assigned. Alex Stankovic 51177.1.1 the streets in between from Merritt Mill Road to Henderson Municipal agreement executed. 51177.2.1 Street in downtown Chapel Hill. Install new mast arm and 51177.2.2 51177.3.1 curb and sidewalk improvements. Page 1 TWTPO November 2025 NCDOT DIV 7 PROJECTS LOCATED IN TWTPO - UNDER DEVELOPMENT TIP/WBS# Description LET/Start Completion Cost Status Project Lead Date Date EL-4828A Construct Morgan Creek Greenway Phase 1 in Carrboro 6/25/2026 FY2028 $1,568,000 Review comments provided to Carrboro Alex Stankovic in June 2023 for revisions and resubmittal. CE under review. Final plans pending approval. Fed End Date Sept 26th and won't be extended! Town SS-6207AY SR 1341 (Harmony Church Road)at SR 1343 (Mill Creek 7/1/2026 1/1/2027 $40,000 Convert intersection to all way stop Dawn McPherson 51799 Road), northeast of Mebane. operation without flashers. SS-6207AX NC 157 (Guess Road)at SR 1538(New Sharon Church 7/1/2026 1/1/2027 $35,000 Convert intersection to all way stop Dawn McPherson 51780 Road), northeast of Hillsborough. operation without flashers. SS-6207BC SR 1177 (Dairyland Road)at SR 1102 (Dodsons 7/1/2026 1/1/2027 $30,000 Install all way stop traffic control. Dawn McPherson 52042 Crossroads),west of Chapel Hill. SS-6207AZ SR 1004 (Efland-Cedar Grove Road/Carr Store Road)at 7/1/2026 1/1/2027 $40,000 Convert intersection to all way stop Dawn McPherson 51999 SR 1357 (Efland-Cedar Grove Road)/SR 1352 (Carr Store operation. Change existing overhead Road), north of Hillsborough. flasher 07-0072 to all red displays. SS-6207BB NC 49 at SR 1004 (Corbett Ridge Road/Carr Store Road) 7/1/2026 1/1/2027 $40,000 Convert intersection to all way stop Dawn McPherson 52041 near Hillsborough. operation with new overhead flasher. SS-6207AU SR 1006 (Orange Grove Road)at SR 1115 (Arthur Minnus 7/1/2026 1/1/2027 $30,000 Convert intersection to all way stop traffic Dawn McPherson 51733 Road/Bradshaw Quarry Road)southwest of Hillsborough. control. BR-0092 Replace Bridge#37 on NC 86 over New Hope Creek 8/18/2026 FY2029 $6,400,000 Planning and design activities underway Alexander Foster Page 2 TWTPO November 2025 NCDOT DIV 7 PROJECTS LOCATED IN TWTPO - UNDER DEVELOPMENT TIP/WBS# Description LET/Start Completion Cost Status Project Lead Date Date BP7-R009 Replace Bridge#11 on SR 1336(Halls Mill Road) 911712026 FY2029 $2,900,000 Planning and design activities underway Daniel Dagenhart ROW acquisisition complete. 1-5958 Pavement Rehabilitation on 1-40/1-85 from West of SR 11/17/2026 FY2028 $9,500,000 Planning and design activities pending Trung Nguyen 45910.1.1 1114(Buckhorn Road)to West of SR 1006 (Orange Grove 45910.3.1 Road) 1-3306AC 1-40 at NC 86- Upgrade to superstreet from Northwood 1/19/2027 FY2029 $10,970,000 Planning and design activities underway Radha Attaluri Drive to Ramp C/D at 1-40 interchange HS-2407H 61 signalized intersections. Upgrade traffic signals and 3/18/2027 9/18/2028 $350,000 Planning and design activities to begin Dawn McPherson intersections with pedestrian accommodations. (Chapel soon. Project will be let for bidding. Hill) Signal Programming changes only. No construction. C-5650 Construct sidewalk on one side of SR 1919(Smith Level 4/8/2027 FY2029 $2,749,000 Carrboro approved to incorporate water Alex Stankovic Road/S. Greensboro St.)from Public Works Drive to the line work into design. Env doc returned w northern end of Old Pittsboro Road in Carrboro comments on 12/10/21. Document to be updated to include additional limits for resurfacing. NCDOT waiting on revised BP7-R013 Replace Bridge#90 on SR 1940(Damascus Church Road) 4/23/2027 FY2030 $2,220,000 Planning and design activities underway Daniel Dagenhart Plans at 25% P-5701 B Construct Platform, Passenger Rail Station Building at 6/30/2027 FY2028 $7,200,000 Planning and design activities underway. Matthew Simmons 46395.1.1 Milepost 41.7 Norfolk Southern H-line in Hillsborough 46395.3.3 HS-2407 G 18 signalized intersections. Upgrade traffic signals and 9/16/2027 3/16/2029 $1,610,000 Planning and design activities to begin Dawn McPherson intersections with pedestrian accommodations. (Chapel soon.This project entails actual Hill, Carrboro) construciton not just re-programming. Page 3 TWTPO November 2025 NCDOT DIV 7 PROJECTS LOCATED IN TWTPO - UNDER DEVELOPMENT TIP/WBS# Description LET/Start Completion Cost Status Project Lead Date Date B-6037 Replace Bridge#49 over Norfolk Southern Railway on NC 6/20/2028 FY2032 $14,080,000 Planning and design activities underway. Brandon Green 86 25% Plans complete. EB-5890 Construct sidewalk on Barnes Street from King Street to 9/7/2028 FY2030 $740,000 Municipal agreement needs to be Alex Stankovic SR 1005 (Jones Ferry Road) in Carrboro requested and executed to begin work. EB-5880 Construct sidewalk on the north side of SR 1005 (Jones 9/13/2028 FY2030 $950,000 Municipal agreement needs to be Alex Stankovic Ferry Road)from Davie Road to SR 1010(West Main St.) requested and executed to begin work. in Carrboro BP7-R015 Replace Bridge#86 on SR 1942 (Jones Ferry Road) 9/6/2029 FY2031 $1,730,000 Planning and design activities underway. Daniel Dagenhart Detour needs improvements so will need to see if resurfacing funds available or switch to TIP project.TBD BR-0091 Replace Bridge#32 on US 70 over the Eno River 10/16/2029 FY2033 $11,000,000 Planning and design activities underway Jon Gaillard BR-0247 Replace Bridge#29 on US 70 Business/NC 86 over Cates 11/20/2029 FY2031 TBD Preliminary activities pending Bryan Key Creek BP7-R007 Replace Bridge#63 on Pleasant Green Road 9/5/2030 FY2033 $2,550,000 Planning and design activities underway Daniel Dagenhart EB-5886B Construct sidewalk/MUP/bike lanes on Estes Drive from 10/3/2030 FY2032 TBD Municipal agreement executed and Alex Stankovic south of Norfolk Southern Railroad to NC 86 (MLK Jr. project development underway. Blvd.) in Chapel Hill Page 4 TWTPO November 2025 NCDOT DIV 7 PROJECTS LOCATED IN TWTPO - UNDER DEVELOPMENT TIP/WBS# Description LET/Start Completion Cost Status Project Lead Date Date EB-5998 Construct MUP on US 15/501 from Willow Drive to SR 12/5/2030 FY2032 $10,580,000 Municipal agreement needs to be Alex Stankovic 1741/SR 1838(Old Durham Chapel Hill Road)in Chapel requested and executed to begin work. Hill U-5845 Widen SR 1009(South Churton Street)to multi-lanes from 7/19/2033 FY2036 $77,400,000 PE funding approved 5/14/15, Planning Radha Attaluri 50235.1.1 1-40 to Eno River in Hillsborough and Design activities underway, 50235.2.1 Coordinate with 1-0305B which was 50235.3.1 formerly 1-5967. EB-5886A Construct sidewalk/MUP/bike lanes on Estes Drive from 9/1/2033 FY2036 $13,980,000 Municipal agreement needs to be Alex Stankovic SR 1772 (North Greensboro Street)to south of Norfolk requested and executed to begin work. Southern Railroad Tracks in the Town of Carrboro 1-0305B Interchange improvements at 1-85 and SR 1009 (South 10/18/2033 FY2036 $164,500,000 PE funding approved 9/8/17, Planning Colin Mellor 34142.1.5 Churton Street)in Hillsborough and Design activities underway, 34142.3.3 Coordinate with 1-0305 and U-5845. (I- 34142.3.4 0305B was formerly 1-5967) 34142.2.4 1-0305(A) Widening of 1-85 from west of SR1006 (Orange Grove 1/1/2040 post years $132,000,000 Project not currently funded. (project I- Colin Mellor 34142.1.2 Road)in Orange Co. to west of SR 1400 (Sparger Road)in 5983 to be done under 1-0305A) 34142.2.2 Orange Co. 34142.3.2 1-0305C Interchange improvements at 1-85 and NC 86 in 1/1/2040 post years $20,900,000 Project not currently funded. (project I- Colin Mellor 34142.1.6 Hillsborough 5984 to be done under 1-0305C) SS-6207AM Curve warning sign improvements as recommended by TBD TBD $225,000 Planning and design activities to begin Dawn McPherson HNTB through systemic curve signing investigations. soon. (Alamance, Guilford, Orange) Page 5 TWTPO November 2025 North Carolina Department of Transportation 10/28/2025 Active Projects Under Construction-Orange Co. Contract TIP Location Description Contractor Name Resident Contract Bid Availability Completion Work Start Estimated Progress Completion Number Number Engineer Amount Date Date Date Completion Schedule Percent Date Percent C204632 1-3306A WIDENING 1-40 FROM 1-85 IN ORANGE COUNTY TO THE DURHAM THE LANE Crews,PE,Jacob$236,457,869.00 9/27/2021 9/1/2025 10/28/2021 6/17/2026 84.2 67.61 COUNTY LINE AND 1-40 WESTBOUND IN DURHAM COUNTY NEAR CONSTRUCTION T US-15/501. CORPORATION DG00595 FIFTY ONE SECONDARY ROADS RILEY PAVING INC Howell,Bobby J $2,494,634.93 4/8/2024 10/8/2025 3/17/2025 11/30/2025 93.08 92.15 DG00626 TWENTY THREE SECONDARY ROADS IN ORANGE COUNTY67 SUNROCK Howell,Bobby J $2,190,853.75 4/17/2024 10/17/2025 4/3/2025 12/31/2025 39 39.23 INDUSTRIES LLC DBA CAROLINA SUNROCK LLCI DG00631 R-5787FA INTERSECTIONS OF VARIOUS US,NC AND SR ROUTES. EASTERN Howell,Bobby J $919,609.00 3/18/2024 3/18/2026 5/21/2024 10/24/2025 100 100 UPGRADING OF NON-COMPLIANT ADA CURB RAMPS EARTHSCAPRES AND CONSTRUCTION LLC DG00639 FIFTEEN SECONDARY ROADS IN ORANGE COUNTY SUNROCK Howell,Bobby J $1,616,170.70 9/11/2024 3/11/2026 6/30/2025 3/11/2026 6.4 3.57 INDUSTRIES LLC DBA CAROLINA SUNROCK DG00640 TWENTY EIGHT SECONDARY ROADS CAROLINA SUNROCK Howell,Bobby J $1,393,782.02 9/11/2024 33/11/26 6/30/2025 3/11/2026 61.97 89.91 SOLUTIONS LLC DG00652 HS-2007J ADD MID-BLOCK PEDESTRIAN CROSSING ON NC 86 AND CRITZ ATLANTIC Howell,Bobby J $437,772.00 3/5/2025 3/23/2026 7/16/2025 3/23/2026 50.78 71.48 DRIVE IN CHAPEL HILL CONTRACTING COMPANY INC DG00660 BO-2407A VARIOUS LOCATIONS IN DIVISION 7 WITH POPULATIONS UNDER LITTLE MOUNTAIN Howell,Bobby J $222,636.34 7/16/2025 4/30/2026 8/18/2025 4/30/2026 80 73.09 5K BUILDERS OF CATAWBA COUNTY LLC Page 1 of 1