HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES Transportation Advisory Board 2021-07-21Town of Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado, July 21, 2021
Minutes of a Regular meeting of the Transportation Advisory Board of the
Town of Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado. Meeting held virtually on the
21st day of July 2021.
Committee: Belle Morris, Tom Street, Ann Finley, Larry Gamble, Linda
Hanick, Scott Moulton, Gordon Slack
Attending: Belle Morris, Tom Street, Larry Gamble, Scott Moulton, Public
Works Director Greg Muhonen, Engineering Mgr. David Hook,
Parking & Transit Mgr. Vanessa Solesbee, The Car Park Matt
Eisenberg, Town Board Trustee Carlie Bangs, Project
Manager Ryan Barr
Absent: Linda Hanick, Gordon Slack, Ann Finley
Chair Morris called the meeting to order at 12:06 p.m.
PUBLIC COMMENT
No electronic submissions of public comment were received prior to the deadline and no
public was in attendance.
Member Scott Moulton informed the TAB that he would need to leave the meeting at 1:00
p.m.
A quorum wasn’t present at today’s meeting therefore there no votes would occur. Those
items requiring a vote will be deferred to the August meeting.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The meeting minute approval was deferred to the August meeting due to lack of
quorum.
DOWNTOWN ESTES LOOP (DEL) 95% PLANS (Public Works Director Greg
Muhonen)
Muhonen sent files to the TAB prior to the meeting. While it isn’t reasonable to walk
through all design documents at the meeting, Muhonen hopes the members were able
to perform their review and bring to the meeting any errors or omissions found so he’s
able to pass the information along to the design team. It was made clear that this is not
the time in the process for changes as that occurred long before the 95% design, but if
something was missed from the earlier discussions it should be corrected.
Gamble conducted a thorough review of the design documents and wanted to mention
a few things. Gamble stated that in the section showing eastbound Moraine Ave.
approaching the new roundabout, that the pavement markings show a left turn as
though you’re making a left onto Moraine which is not the intent.
Gamble also wanted to confirm that there will no longer be an access to Picadilly
Square off Riverside Drive, which was confirmed by Muhonen.
Eastbound on Riverside Dr. approaching Elkhorn Ave. shows that set back from
intersection there is a sign that reflecting three lanes (turn right for two lanes, turn left on
one). He stated the drawings reflect a 4-lane and suggested the sign may need
upgraded. He stated he just wants to eliminate any confusion. Muhonen stated that due
to the sign’s placement it may not be an issue but will note the issue and pass it along.
Gamble stated that the plans show removal of pedestrian crossing signs on Moraine
Ave. at Wiest Dr. and asked if the pedestrian crossing itself is being removed. Muhonen
stated that it will remain and be refreshed. Gamble asked that the drawings be revisited
at that location and believes the treatment should be identical to the treatment at
Rockwell St. Gamble also wanted to advocate for another rapid flashing beacon at the
Transportation Advisory Board – July 21, 2021 – Page 2
pedestrian crossing at Wiest Dr. on Moraine Ave. Muhonen indicated the team may be
installing a mast arm, and if so, there would be no need for an added pedestrian
crossing warning sign, to which Gamble agreed.
Muhonen indicated that the DEL Project Manager is unsatisfied with the detailing in the
existing 95% plans and suggested an updated set would be forthcoming.
Member Moulton asked how the transition from bike path to bike trail would be handled
when heading south on Moraine Ave. Muhonen stated it would be a soft transition with
potential for one-inch lip.
Muhonen shared that construction is still anticipated for next year. Although FEMA
identified half a dozen things needing addressed in CLOMR there doesn’t appear to be
anything that should impact the schedule.
GRAVES AVE. 30% DESIGN DOCUMENTS (Manager Ryan Barr)
Manager Barr thanked the group for their input at the May TAB meeting, and for the
suggestion to hold in-person public meetings, as many good suggestions were
received.
Based on the conceptual design open house survey results, the majority of individuals
showed support for Option #1, which includes installation of a sidewalk on the north side
of Graves Ave. connecting to the existing sidewalk. However, there were also many
survey responses, comments, and discussions about the benefit and need to include a
path on the south side of Graves as well, while potentially maintaining all existing
parking spaces. Public Works prepared a sketch of the proposed design to guide the
consultant, and the design includes a 5’ sidewalk on the north side of Graves and a 10’
wide multiuse path on the south side, while narrowing lane widths and maintaining on-
street parking. As much as possible, this project will re-use existing sidewalks within the
plan for cost-effectiveness. Barr shared a full rendering including both Phase 1 and
Phase 2 work combined. Due to the cost estimates received, a phased approach is
necessary.
In Phase 1 the northern sidewalk will be constructed and will connect to the existing
sidewalk. Phase 1 will also include the Brodie Avenue trail extension which will provide
connectivity to the School District sidewalk. In Phase 2 the south sidewalk will be
added. In order to optimize existing grant funding, the team is looking at Phase 2 items
that may be included in the Phase 1 work timeframe and scope. Barr stated that the
work will require an easement but believes it to be achievable.
The Graves Ave. roadway width will be decreased with this work, narrowing the travel
lanes which will act as a form of traffic calming. Barr shared, via screenshare, a visual of
how the lanes would change.
Barr shared that the consultant website is available to provide feedback, but TAB
members are welcome to email him as well. He then opened the topic for questions.
Chair Morris stated that there was a social trail on the north side of Graves Ave.
connecting to the area apartments (east of cluster boxes) and asked if the new retaining
wall would be in place of that trail. Barr stated the retaining wall should not impact the
trail and will ensure that with the consultants.
Member Gamble indicated his disagreement with the cluster boxes being located on
sidewalk and asked if the sidewalk could be installed behind the cluster boxes for safety
reasons and understands there is a 5’ utility easement. Barr stated that he had the
consultant look into it and it would require a very large retaining wall and acquisition of
an easement. All Phase 1 work, which this is in, was for work that could be done without
the need to acquire easements. It will remain as is for the time being.
Transportation Advisory Board – July 21, 2021 – Page 3
Member Moulton asked if the sidewalk, as it reaches S. Saint Vrain, would be ramped.
Barr stated the it appears that way in the drawing but added that the Town is not
interested in adding curb and gutter within the state highway.
Morris asked why there was no paved extension from Brodie Ave. to the school. Barr
stated that due to the steep grade, the expense increased significantly as it would
require switchbacks, retaining walls, rails, etc. Barr has discussed additional options
with the school and they’ve settled on a location with 6’ sidewalk – requiring a revisit of
retaining walls. While the addition seems small scale it goes a long way in getting the
children safely to school.
Barr stated there would be a review and comment period for the 30% design beginning
next week and lasting for two weeks. Once the consultant receives and compiles all
comments, updated plan sets will be provided to include drainage design and
environmental surveys. The next round of public comments will be at the 90% design
completion point, anticipated in September. At that time Barr will bring the design back
to the TAB and will make it available to the public. At that point, comment will be only to
identify fatal flaws and not to collect requested changes.
Morris asked about whether the signage for the improvements will indicate that it is a
multiuse trail with aggressive markings. Barr indicated signage will be ironed out as they
approach 90% design completion. Barr has spoken to CDOT and are referencing the
Trails Master Plan.
BYLAW TEMPLATE & POLICY 102 DISCUSSION (Chair Belle Morris)
Due to the lack of quorum, this discussion will be moved to the August TAB meeting
agenda.
PARKING & TRANSIT UPDATES (Parking & Transit Mgr. Vanessa Solesbee, The Car
Park Mgr. Matt Eisenberg)
Parking:
Manager Eisenberg shared an update regarding the tracked Key Performance
Indicators. A mid-year updated on the paid parking season will occur at a Town Board
Study Session on August 10, 2021. While keeping the presentation brief and concise,
the update is intended to remind the Trustees of the program goals and measurable
performance. Additionally, the update will provide what we’ve learned related to
signage, internet connectivity, payments over the network, and staffing.
Eisenberg, working with the Chamber of Commerce, has been going door-to-door to
each downtown business. The Farmers Market will be another venue used to solicit
feedback. Eisenberg stated that the end of year data will be brought back to the TAB
prior to presenting to the Town Board.
Solesbee asked Chair Morris if it was permissible to send email to TAB members
sharing opportunities for participation in outreach efforts, and Morris agreed. Morris then
requested the Town rename the parking structure from ‘Badger’ to something more
pleasant. Solesbee will note the request and consider.
Eisenberg reminded the TAB that the Key Performance Indicator (KPI) Report is
published on the Town’s webpage at www.estes.org/paidparking and proceeded to
review the data with the group. He indicated that according to the data, the free lots are,
on average, much fuller than in years prior: Davis lot, Performance Park lot, MacGregor
Ave. on-street, and averaged over 50% occupancy in parking structure.
Eisenberg then went over the revenue figures. He stated that in June, the revenue was
approximately $174,000 averaging $8.62 per space per day. He went on to state that,
related to parking space turnover, most people are not staying in a space for over two
hours. Over 3,000 Residential 30-Min. Parking Permits have been provided this year,
and over 470 Employee Convenience Permits were sold.
Transportation Advisory Board – July 21, 2021 – Page 4
Eisenberg will dig further into the data to provide the percentage of total permit holders
that have used their permit. Director Muhonen and Chair Morris agreed it would be
interesting to see those figures.
Vice Chair Street asked how to answer questions regarding peak occupancy differences
between 2019 and 2021 when the peak remains the same, and it is claimed that driver
behavior is changing. Eisenberg discussed how it can be shown with the different
datapoints contained in the KPI Reports. Solesbee reminded the group that a primary
goal of the paid parking program is to churn the spaces, which is occurring based on the
data and traffic analysis.
Transit:
Solesbee stated that the trolley began service on Memorial Day and they’ve since seen
a steady return to transit. There were a total of 8,800 riders in the last week of May and
the month of June and on July 4th there were approximately 4,000 visitors. The Town
has been more proactive this year related to transit awareness, providing brochures at
any and all locations in town.
The new electric trolley has been running longer this season, but not yet the full 12
hours. The second electric trolley will not arrive this transit season but it anticipated to
arrive in time for the 2022 season. Hometown Trolley will provide the Town with a
standard trolley to fulfill the need for the 2021 season.
Solesbee shared that new lines of communication have been established with the
YMCA of the Rockies allowing an opportunity to revisit transit service to that location.
Other lodging facilities are also incredibly interested in transit connectivity. The
discussions occurring are at a high level at this point. Solesbee asked the TAB if there
is interest in being involved with future transit route discussions, which Morris
confirmed. Solesbee will also bring the Shuttle Committee to a future TAB meeting for
this discussion as well.
CDOT’s Bustang lauched Saturday, July 3. There have been a wide variety of users:
50% going to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), and 50% coming to visit Estes
Park. CDOT sees the increase in ridership and is already discussing next year’s
service. Once CDOT’s ridership numbers are available, Solesbee will share with the
TAB.
Following shows the variety of different grant agreements assisting with the Town’s
transit program:
1. Bus Facility (FTA 5339b)
a. Charging Station, Design, Construction
2. Second Electric Trolley (FTA 5339c)
a. Delayed: loaner trolley for Green
3. Federal Stimulus – Part 2 (CRRSAA)
a. Agreement received ($361k)
4. Rural Admin/Operating (FTA 5311)
a. Application submitted July 16 ($70k)
5. Visitor Ctr. Parking Lot Redesign (SB267)
a. Pending CDOT – likely 2022
ENGINEERING UPDATES (Engineering Mgr. David Hook)
Manager Hook provided project updates since the last meeting.
Capital Project(s):
Parking Wayfinding: Phase 1 (destination signage) is now limited to a short punch list.
Phase 2 (directional signage) is complete. The most significant unfinished item is the
new mast arm signs. There will be no lane closures during the summer traffic, deferring
work to October 2021.
Transportation Advisory Board – July 21, 2021 – Page 5
Development Review:
The Stanley Carriage House Restaurant is now open for business. The technical review
committee required additional pedestrian facilities be installed. There will now be a new
sidewalk from Steamer Dr. to the main parking lot in front of the building. A related
sidewalk on the west side of the facility’s swimming pool, is now being deferred. The
developer made a proposal to combine that sidewalk in a larger analysis considering
historical significance and ensuring identified areas are left undisturbed. There will be
future conversations regarding a “Grand Lawn”.
Manager Barr provided updates on the projects he’s actively involved with:
Fall River Trail Improvements: Barr said a portion of the 2020 project scope had carried
over and was primarily located in RMNP. This has been completed and the Town is
working toward closeout. For 2021, there are two associated projects. One is the
Colorado the Beautiful grant portion which will continue the trail along Fish Hatchery Rd.
The design documents for this portion have been received and the cost estimate came
up short of expected. Barr is adding work to the scope in order to maximize grant
dollars. The second project is CDOT’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) /
Multimodal Options Fund (MMOF) grant-supported project which, from the current trail
work endpoint, works the other direction and to the north. A Design Scoping Review
meeting with CDOT was held two weeks ago and flushed out good details. The
consultant was present to gather information for the requirements of their final design
effort. Barr is currently working to schedule work alongside RMNP entrance station work
beginning next year. That will take advantage of the lower volume of traffic as a lane
closure will be necessary.
2021 Street Improvement Program (STIP): Crack seal work was completed in May, chip
seal work was completed last week, and currently taking place is the striping and
thermoplastic work. Overlay and patching work will begin in August and will involve
patching and repaving some local roads. In addition to those roads, Performance Park
parking lot will be repaved but will not begin until October after Elkfest. Member
Gamble observed that with the recent chip seal work, there are chips being left on other
roadways and asked if part of the contract addresses cleanup. Barr stated that cleanup
is part of the contract and he would speak with contractor to address this concern.
PROJECT / ADMINISTRATION UPDATES (Public Works Director Greg Muhonen)
Director Muhonen encouraged TAB members to take a bicycle ride along the newly
striped US 34 trail. All side streets now have crossbar and markings. The Town also
installed parallel edge lines to delineate the parking lot from the trail. There doesn’t
seem to be an issue with cars parking across the trail any longer. All was done in an
effort to protect the trail users and define both a bicycle and pedestrian space.
Muhonen stated that with the rollout of paid parking, internal discussions are occurring
regarding traffic congestion reduction. In 2015 intersection counts and data analysis
was performed as a result of consideration of the Barnes Dance. Adverse impact was
documented as a result of taking green time from vehicles and giving it to pedestrians.
During the same timeframe in 2016, a follow-up study occurred and the same study has
occurred again in 2021. The analysis includes pedestrian counts, vehicular counts, and
travel time. A simple summary is that intersection counts have gone up, pedestrian
counts have gone up and travel time went down in 2021. There could be a variety of
reasons for this notable change. Public Works concludes that paid parking did not make
it slower to drive through downtown, and would argue that it makes traffic move faster
going through downtown.
Member Gamble stated it would be very interesting to look at the data alongside the
entrance station statistics with their reservation system this year. Gamble will reach out
to RMNP to request entrance station data.
OTHER BUSINESS (Chair, Belle Morris)
There being no further business, Chair Morris adjourned the meeting at 2:06 p.m.
Transportation Advisory Board – July 21, 2021 – Page 6
Megan Van Hoozer, Recording Secretary