REISSUED JANUARY 17, 2003

 

MEMORANDUM

 

TO:                  Mayor and Town Council

 

FROM:            W. Calvin Horton, Town Manager                     

 

SUBJECT:       Report on Council Goals

 

DATE:             November 11, 2002

                       

 

BACKGROUND

 

This report provides an update on our work to meet Council goals adopted for 2002-03.

 

On April 8, 2002, the Council adopted the goals listed below for 2002-03, following its planning sessions on January 18 and January 28.  The Council decided to retain certain goals from the previous year and to establish additional goals.  Altogether, 39 goals were selected for emphasis.

 

Section 1 lists goals previously adopted by the Council and marked for continuation.  Section 2 lists additional goals discussed by the Council, organized under the framework of goals from the Town’s Comprehensive Plan. 

 
SECTION 1
 
PREVIOUSLY ADOPTED GOALS

 

(1) Rewrite the Development Ordinance in a manner that:

 

a.      Promotes creation of housing in a range of prices through a system of incentives and requirements

b.      Fosters sustainable development

c.      Provides greater regulatory flexibility for the Council

d.      Focuses more attention on the impacts and effects of development proposals

 

November 11, 2002 Status: On September 18, the Council held a Public Hearing on the Third Draft of the Proposed Land Use Management Ordinance, which was formerly called the Development Ordinance and renamed at the Council’s request.  The Ordinance is being prepared as a key mechanism to implement the Town’s Comprehensive Plan, which was adopted in May 2000. 

 

Citizen comment and Council feedback has included concerns about:

 

At its October 21 meeting, the Council enacted an ordinance that would – until June 30 – restrict construction of new duplexes in districts zoned Residential-1, -2, or -3.  The ordinance change would also restrict conversion of single-family dwellings to duplexes.  The Council also enacted new nonconforming rules designed to minimize impact of changed regulations on existing structures.

 

Further discussion of the Land Use Management Ordinance was scheduled on these dates:

 

·  October 24, informal public information meeting

·  October 26, citizen workshop on the Impact of Proposed Regulations

·  October 28, Council Public Hearing

·  November 5, Council Work Session

·  November 25 Council Meeting

·  December 2 Council Meeting

·  December 9 Council Meeting

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  A Third Draft of the proposed new Ordinance will be delivered early in the week of August 26 for distribution to Council and Advisory Boards.  Copies will be made available for public review.  A Public Hearing has been scheduled for September 18 to present the draft to the Council and to hear community comments.  The hearing will be held open until Council action occurs.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The Council and the staff have been working with consultant Mark White to prepare a revised draft of the Development Ordinance.  Next steps in the process include: Council work sessions at the April and May public hearing dates, followed by a public comment session at the June 3 public hearing.  The Council will provide advice to the Development Ordinance consultant on June 10; and will hold a public hearing on the third draft of the Ordinance on September 18.

           

(2) Modify the development application review process to make it less adversarial while encouraging earlier and more effective citizen involvement.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: The Third Draft of the Land Use Management Ordinance proposes a process for earlier Council review and input on major development applications.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  The Third Draft will propose a process for earlier Council review and input on major development applications.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  This goal continues with the Development Ordinance work listed above in Goal #1.

 

(3) Explore the feasibility of constructing employer-employee housing through partnerships with Orange County and the Chapel Hill-Carrboro School System.  Complete the Downtown Design process and issue a request for proposals for development desired by the Council on Town property.

 

November 11, 2002 Status:  The Council Committee on Parking Lots 2 and 5 met on September 9, September 23, and October 9, 2002.  The Committee has reviewed and discussed materials relating to the feasibility of leasing versus selling the sites, downtown transit, and the process of a request for proposals or design contest.  In addition the Committee has begun developing principles and priorities for the sites.  A fourth meeting is scheduled for November 11.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  Council received a report on the Downtown Design Workshops on May 13, 2002.  The Council held a work session on June 10, 2002, and developed basic principles for proceeding.  The Council decided to establish a Council Committee to further define principles and objectives for the project, and to consider possible implementation steps.  The Committee’s first meeting is scheduled for September 9, 2002.

 

On July 24, 2002, the Mayor sponsored an evening panel discussion of employer-employee housing, chaired by Andrew Foster.  Subsequently, offers have been made for the Duke University and University of North Carolina law clinics to research affordable housing topics, including inclusionary zoning.  The Town is also expanding its notices to Town employees about homebuyer education programs and affordable housing opportunities of local nonprofit organizations. 

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The University has indicated that its properties in the downtown are not available for redevelopment as employer-employee housing.  Downtown Design Workshops were held in February and March.  The workshops offered participants an opportunity to shape a vision for developing selected publicly- and privately-owned downtown sites and to examine design guidelines.  Focus areas were West Rosemary Street sites and Town Parking Lots 2 and 5. The Council will receive a report from the workshops in May.

 

The Mayor has been authorized to explore with representatives of Orange County and the School System their potential interests in development of employer–employee housing.

 

(4) Continue efforts to preserve and enhance the Old Post Office Building.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: If the Council chooses to allocate Capital Improvements Program (CIP) funding for renovation of the Post Office Building this fiscal year, as proposed elsewhere in tonight’s agenda, development of specifications for repairs probably would begin in the fourth quarter.  The initial survey and cost projections will help us decide the length of financing term to pursue and the extent of renovation that will be possible.  We expect to use our consultant value engineers to complete the survey, specifications, and review of construction.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  In June, the Town Manager wrote the County Manager, informing him of the Council’s continued interest in the preservation and enhancement of the Old Post Office Building.  The County Manager reported that the County Commissioners appointed in May, 2001 to work with the Council’s Old Post Office Committee continued to be available; that funding for some court facilities has been delayed; and, that development of additional court projects would be contingent on the availability of future funding and priority for construction.   

 

We have notified the new Chapel Hill Postmaster that the Council is prepared to extend the Postal Service lease.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The Council Committee on the Old Post Office completed its work last year and a report on the Council’s desire for continued and expanded Court use was presented to the County Commissioners.  The US Postal Service, District Courts, Teen Center and Downtown Commission continue as tenants at the Old Post Office.  With plans for the Chapel Hill-Orange County Visitors Bureau to begin operation of a welcome center in store-front offices on West Franklin Street, there now is no need for development of a new welcome center for the Downtown Commission.  Major repairs to the exterior of the building have been deferred because of present financial constraints.  The Postal Service earlier expressed a desire to extend its lease and we will initiate discussions and bring a proposal for the Council’s consideration.  We will initiate a follow-up inquiry with Orange County to determine the status of their consideration of the future use of the court facilities.

 

(5) Make more effective use of Town funds allocated for purchase of open space.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: On September 23, the Council adopted a resolution accepting a donation of .77 acres of property adjacent to Morgan Creek from the Conservation Council of North Carolina Foundation.  The property is located on the south side of Morgan Creek, opposite the Merritt Pasture.  A separate item on tonight’s agenda discusses future directions for purchase of open space.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  On June 10, the Council adopted a resolution accepting a 1.9-acre donation of property from Duke Energy Company.  The donation will allow the Town to connect its properties along Morgan Creek to the Merritt Pasture, assuming that permission will be granted by NC DOT to cross under the Highway 15-501 bridge over Morgan Creek.  The purchase of 105 Dickerson Court has been completed and the residences on this site and on the adjoining three lots have been demolished.   Negotiations are ongoing with owners of land along two separate greenway corridors.  Survey and legal work regarding the 12.5 acre McCormick parcel on Morgan Creek has come close to clarifying issues that have delayed closing.

 

April 8, 2000 Status:  In January, the Council formally accepted a gift of land from the Cates family, located north of and adjacent to property owned by the Town where the Southern Railroad line intersects with Interstate 40 near Millhouse Road.  Also in January, the Council authorized the acquisition of 105 Dickerson Court in order to create contiguous Town-owned open space for future construction of the trail system off of Dickerson Court.

 

During 2000, the Council considered its priorities for use of the funds remaining in the 1996 Open Space bonds, and authorized the Manager to continue pursuit of land that would meet the Council’s goals for preserving:

     Non-automotive community connectivity

     Entranceway corridors

     Scenic vistas

     Environmentally sensitive areas

     Resource Conservation District land

     Community open space and neighborhood open space

 

The Council also directed the Manager to pursue acquisition of the parcels included on a map showing undeveloped and sparsely developed land, with a concentration on the parcels along Wilson Creek and Morgan Creek.

 

Land acquired since 2000 includes:

     Donation of the 8.48-acre Craige parcel at the corner of Bennett and Mt. Carmel Roads, November 2001

     Acquisition of the 34.57-acre Springcrest parcel at the corner of Erwin Road and I-40, using 1996 Open Space bonds, December 2001

     Acquisition of the 9.2-acre Gattis-Whitfield parcel at the junction of Bolin, Booker and Little Creeks, using primarily HUD Disaster Recover grant funds, January 2001

     Donation of 6.9 acres at the apex of Southern Railroad and Millhouse Road, December 2001

   Acquisition of 106, 107, and 108/9 on Dickerson Court, bordering on Bolin Creek, using primarily Flood Mitigation Assistance grant funds, December 2001

     

Land in the process of acquisition includes:

     Acquisition of 105 Dickerson Court, using primarily Open Space bonds; closing anticipated this spring, after delay caused by removal of underground tank and testing of soil around it

     Acquisition of the 12.5-acre McCormick parcel on south side of Morgan Creek, across the creek from Frank Porter Graham School: closing delayed when our survey and deed research showed clouded title; owner is working on acquiring clear title that he could convey; no estimate if closing will be possible or, if so, when.

 

Land under negotiation includes:

     Two or three parcels along Dry Creek, north of I-40, near Erwin Road, to be acquired with a Clean Water Management Trust Fund grant, whose deadline has been extended until December 31, 2002

     Deed gap along border of Cedar Falls Park, which could add a 40’ strip to a portion of the park; would come to Council for action if negotiations succeed

     Access easement over Duke Power land for pedestrian access to Merritt Pasture

 

Other efforts include:

Multiple contacts with owners of every parcel identified on our September 2000 map along Wilson Creek south of Mt. Carmel Road and along Morgan Creek between Smith Level Road and US 15-501 South.

 

The Town staff worked with a staff person of the Triangle Land Conservancy on the Dry Creek land negotiations.  In addition, an experienced former member of the Conservancy’s board has been active in following up with contacts of the owners of all the parcels along Wilson and Morgan Creeks. She is willing to continue this work for the Town.  Several Town staff members have worked together to identify additional areas which meet the Council’s guidelines, and will present them to the Council for your consideration for focusing acquisition efforts.

 

(6) Enact a Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: On September 25, the Schools and Land Use Council met and finalized a “Decision Matrix” on the Memorandum of Understanding, which identified decision points that may require reconsideration by all parties.  The subject was also a topic of discussion at the October 30 Assembly of Governments meeting.         

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  The Chapel Hill Town Council approved the form of a Memorandum of Understanding.  Other parties to the Memorandum have taken action, with requests for adjustment to key sections and additional information about how the proposed ordinance would work.  The next step will be for the Schools and Land Use Council to recommend a revised version of the Memorandum of Understanding for common approval by all parties.  We expect that revised language to be ready to come before the Chapel Hill Town Council in October, 2002.

April 8, 2002 Status: In February, the Council held a public hearing on the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance for Schools.  The Council received a Memorandum of Understanding which, if approved and executed by all the appropriate elected boards, would establish a framework for an ordinance.  The Council also received a model ordinance that would be adapted to fit into the zoning regulations of Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Orange County.  The Council referred the documents and comments to the Planning Board for consideration and recommendation.  Consideration of this item is scheduled for tonight’s agenda.

 

(7)  Begin the process of developing a general adequate public facilities ordinance.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: No change in status since last report.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  No change in status since last report.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The Council has deferred work on a general Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance until work on a Schools Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance is completed.

 

(8) Enforce speeding laws in neighborhoods to increase pedestrian safety.

 

November 11, 2002 Status:  During this quarter, traffic enforcement focused on the return to school.  Neighborhood near schools and school zones were patrolled for speeding before and after schools.  Police also heavily patrolled areas near the high schools at lunchtime; main arteries also were targeted.  A “Driving While Impaired” checkpoint was held on September 28. 

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  During this quarter, officers focused efforts in residential neighborhoods.  High visibility patrols were provided during the summer and the hours before and after school.  Residential patrols included the neighborhoods of Glen Lennox, Chandler’s Green, and Southern Village.  During the year, Traffic Enforcement and Education Officers provided community education seminars concerning traffic, bicycle, and pedestrian safety, as well as child safety seats installation clinics.  In Fiscal Year 2001-2002, there were 24 collisions involving pedestrians, two of which occurred in residential neighborhoods.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  This goal will continue as directed by the Council.   During the third quarter, patrol officers focused efforts on residential traffic enforcement.  The following neighborhoods were targeted as evidenced by the number of citations issued:  Seawell School Road, Weaver Dairy Road, Southern Village, and Mason Farm.  Officers attended a Southern Village community meeting to gather information about residents’ traffic concerns.  Traffic enforcement officers met with Scroggs Elementary School students at the crosswalks to teach pedestrian safety.  We will provide reports in each quarter on measures taken to address this goal.

 

(9) Take follow-up actions recommended in the report by consultant Henry McKoy on Town work environment.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: We expect to return to the Council with a follow-up report on this item later in the Second Quarter.     

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  On June 10, the Council received a follow-up report on the McKoy study on equal opportunity and work environment for Town employees.  Consistent with the June report, work is in process to form an employee advisory committee to schedule and lead meetings as necessary in each department to discuss survey results and affirm Town commitments, and carry out other training and communications efforts.  A more detailed progress report will be presented in the next quarter.  Survey results already have been distributed and posted in all departments, as well as on the Town’s website.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The Town Council and 96% of the Town’s employees participated in diversity training provided by consultant Henry McKoy.  Mr. McKoy’s work also included conducting a confidential survey of employees regarding Town work environment.  On February 25, the Council received a report from Mr.  McKoy, an Assessment of Employee Input for Improving Equal Opportunity.  The report explained the comprehensive assessment of employee perceptions regarding fairness and equal opportunity which he conducted at the Council’s request during the summer and fall of 2001.  We will return to the Council in May with a report proposing follow-up actions on the recommendations of the report. 

 

(10)  Study timing of signals at intersections at peak hours.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: Town staff, with assistance from consultants, have developed and implemented new timing plans on the following corridors:

 

 

We are continuing to collect and analyze data for travel corridors throughout the Town, and we will develop and implement additional timing plan changes as necessary to balance intersection efficiency and safety.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  LSA Associates (a consulting firm hired by the Council to develop a Mobility Report Card for the Town) completed its work in late spring 2002.  We are using traffic data presented in the Mobility Report Card document, in addition to data collected by Town consultants as part of Traffic Impact Analyses for new developments, to model traffic conditions at intersections and along roadway corridors throughout the community.  Using the model and associated software, we are able to develop revised traffic signal timing plans intended to improve efficiency and reduce congestion at intersections and to improve progression to the extent possible along travel corridors.

 

We have developed and are presently in the process of implementing new timing plans on segments of the US15-501 Bypass (Fordham Boulevard), NC 86, and Columbia Street corridors.  We intend to develop and implement in the next six months traffic signal timing plan revisions for additional segments of the US15-501 Bypass (Fordham Boulevard) corridor, segments of East and West Franklin Street, the South Columbia/US15-501/NC 54 interchange area, and US15-501 South.

 

Some of the timing plan designs are being done by Town traffic engineering staff, and some are being done by consultants using funds collected from developments having impacts on certain intersections.  Traffic signal timing plans system-wide are reviewed regularly and revisions are implemented on a continuing basis.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  We continue to work with LSA Associates (a consulting firm hired by the Council to develop a Mobility Report Card for the Town) to model traffic conditions at intersections and along roadway corridors throughout the community at different times of day.  We will develop revised timing plans to improve efficiency and reduce congestion at intersections, and to improve progression along identified travel corridors to the extent possible.

Some of the timing plan designs will be done by Town traffic engineering staff, and some will be done by consultants using funds collected from developments having impacts on certain intersections.  We expect to have new timing plans in place at most intersections by late spring 2002.  A report from LSA Associates will be presented in May.

 

(11) Establish better design criteria for parking lots, to improve pedestrian safety.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: No change in status since last report.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  No change in status since last report.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The Development Ordinance Revision project is one mechanism for addressing this goal and will be considered as the 3rd Draft is prepared.  This goal may be better addressed in the Town’s Design Manual, with specific and detailed requirements.  We expect that the Chapel Hill Design Manual will need to be updated once the Development Ordinance has been revised.

 

(12)  Review minimum parking requirements specified in the Development Ordinance for reasonableness and consistency with Council goals.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: The Council determined at its November 5 meeting that present parking rules should be retained, while more specifically-tailored rules are developed by a consultant for the Council’s consideration.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  Discussion Paper on this topic will accompany the Third Draft of the proposed new Development Ordinance.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  This goal will be addressed by the Council as the Development Ordinance is revised.

 

(13) Expedite renovations at the Hargraves Community Center and A.D. Clark Bath House and Swimming Pool.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: Construction continues on this project. We believe that the project remains on schedule to be completed by the end of January 2003 and is within the approved budget. The contractor will provide a more specific timeline for project completion within the next few weeks.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  Construction began on this project during April 2002 and has generally proceeded on schedule with a few exceptions.  The original HVAC contractor went out of business unexpectedly and there was a delay of several weeks associated with finding another contractor for the HVAC work.  Other work on the center, the bath house and the pool house has been proceeding.  There have also been some delays on the work at the A.D. Clark Pool.  This situation is complicated by the ongoing drought and associated water use restrictions.  Under Phase II water restrictions, we will not be able to fill the swimming pool with OWASA water.  The curing process for the material used to line the interior of the pool requires that the pool be filled with water.  This portion of the work will be delayed until water restrictions are lifted or until an alternate source of water can be identified.  We expect that work on the community center building and the pool bathhouse will remain on schedule with the projected completion date during January 2003.     

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The Council at its meeting on March 25, 2002 awarded a bid for the construction of improvements at the Hargraves Community Center and A.D. Clark Bath House and Swimming Pool.

 

SECTION 2

 

ADDITIONAL COUNCIL GOALS:

 

We believe that the Comprehensive Plan provides a useful structure for organizing the list of goals that the Council indicated at its planning sessions that it wishes to address in the coming year; and we include excerpts from it in the following sections.  Subsequent Council goals are presented in the general order in which the Council conducted its discussion.

 

Goals already listed above are not repeated here. We also have kept the general issues framework that the Council identified in its sessions:

 

 

Transportation Issues

**

Comprehensive Plan Goal:  Develop a balanced, multi-modal transportation system that will enhance mobility for all citizens, reduce automobile dependence, and preserve/enhance the character of Chapel Hill.

Comprehensive Plan General Objective:  Minimize roadway improvements that increase automobile capacity.  Proposed automobile capacity improvements should not negatively impact the level of service of any alternative mode of travel.

Comprehensive Plan Multi-Modal Streets and Highway System Objective:  Develop and maintain a comprehensive network of streets and highways that support safe automobile, transit, bicycle, and pedestrian mobility within Town.

 

(14) Reconsider the proposed configuration of Weaver Dairy Road improvements.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: On September 23, the Council adopted a resolution endorsing an enhanced three-lane concept plan for Weaver Dairy Road, as proposed by the Mayor’s Committee on Weaver Dairy Road Improvements.  The design includes a three-lane cross section consisting of one travel lane in each direction, with left and right turn lanes and bus pull-offs as necessary, lane widening to accommodate bicycles, and curb and gutter and sidewalk along both sides of the roadway. The resolution also states the Council’s understanding that, if the State agrees to construct the Weaver Dairy Road improvement project as proposed by the Committee and as described in the resolution, it would be unlikely that additional State funding would be available for future improvements.  We have forwarded the resolution to the State, where it is currently under consideration.  A Public Hearing has been set by the State for November 14, during which the Mayor will formally place the resolution into the Hearing record. 

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  The Council will receive a report from the Mayor’s Committee on Weaver Dairy Road Improvements at tonight’s meeting, including a proposed three-lane concept plan for consideration and a resolution scheduling a Public Forum on the concept plan during the September 9 regular Council meeting.

   

April 8, 2002 Status:  The Council has scheduled a work session at tonight’s meeting to discuss the configuration of Weaver Dairy Road improvements.  The Council will hold a public forum on this subject at its regular meeting of April 22.

 

(15) Reconsider the proposed configuration of Estes Drive and Homestead Road improvements.

 

November 11, 2002 Status:  The Estes Drive project has been put on hold temporarily until final funding decisions are reached regarding the State Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP).  The current draft of the TIP has eliminated funding for right-of-way acquisition and construction of the Estes Drive Improvement Project.  Town representatives are discussing this with the State through the Metropolitan Planning Organization and are attempting to get the funding reinstated.

 

The Homestead Drive project continues to move through the State process.  We have been advised that the State is favorably considering the three-lane alternative, including one or more roundabouts for traffic control, depending on further analysis of current and projected vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic data. A citizens’ workshop and a public hearing on the Homestead Road project will be scheduled by the State sometime in the spring of 2003.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  Town and State staff met over the summer to discuss the proposed improvement projects for Homestead Road and Estes Drive.  The State has agreed to evaluate several options for each project and to present those options at Public Information meetings later this year to receive comments.  Consistent with our understanding of the Council’s objectives, Town staff is currently pursuing three-lane facilities with bike lanes, curb-and-gutter, and sidewalks for both the Homestead Road and Estes Drive improvement projects.  Both projects are moving slowly through the State Development process, and we will keep the Council advised of progress as it occurs.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:   At its February 11 meeting, the Council adopted a resolution providing comments to the Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Transportation Advisory Committee on the Draft 2004-2010 Regional Transportation Priority List.  As part of that resolution, the Council also requested that the Manager study: (1) the status of the Homestead Road configuration; (2) the status of the Estes Drive configuration; and (3) the impact of Homestead Road on Town parks and Carrboro parks.  We expect to report on these issues during the fourth quarter of this year.

 

**

Comprehensive Plan General Objective:  Emphasize transit and pedestrian/bicycle mobility in the vicinity of the downtown and the University campus.

Comprehensive Plan General Objective:  Integrate all transportation modes within existing and future developments with appropriate land uses, design standards, and infrastructure.  A priority should be to connect residential areas to nearby commercial centers, schools, parks, and other neighborhoods with sidewalks and bike lanes and/or paths. 

Comprehensive Plan General Objective:  Develop strategic transportation linkages between neighborhoods, transit stops, and activity areas.

Comprehensive Plan Pedestrians Objective:  Develop and maintain a pedestrian circulation system, including sidewalks and greenway trails, which provides direct, continuous, and safe movement within and between districts of Town.  Link neighborhoods to activity centers, transit stops, schools, parks, and other neighborhoods.

Comprehensive Plan Bikeways Objective:  Develop and maintain a system of safe and efficient bikeways…designed to contribute to Town-wide mobility, connecting neighborhoods with activity centers, schools, parks, and other neighborhoods. 

Comprehensive Plan Strategy:  Develop a comprehensive pedestrian and bicycle network.

 

 (16) Improve the process for setting priorities for funding sidewalk and bicycle system improvement projects by taking into account  connectivity, links to bus stops, probability of increasing bicycle commuting, benefit to downtown improvement objectives, and benefit of collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: On October 21, the Council held a Public Forum to receive public input on the development of a proposed Sidewalk and Bicycle Facilities Construction Plan for 2002-2003.  The report included recommendations for an improved evaluation process. The Manager’s follow-up report in response to citizen and Council inquiries is scheduled for November 25.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  The Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board is scheduled to consider this Council request on August 27, 2002, in preparation for developing the annual sidewalk/bicycle plan.  We will provide the Council a status report on anticipated sidewalk funding available for 2002-03 and propose a schedule for the annual sidewalk plan on September 9, 2002.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  We recommend that this goal statement be referred to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board and the Manager for consideration in revising the project priority ranking system.

 

 (17) Increase funding for sidewalk and bicycle system improvements.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: As of this writing, we estimate approximately $60,000 will be available from residual Capital Improvements Program funds for new sidewalk and bicycle facilities projects in 2002-03.  Additional funds have recently become available.  Another item on tonight’s agenda discusses options for their use.

 

Over the last few years, new sidewalks and bicycle facilities have been funded from the 1996 sidewalks bond and from the Capital Improvements Program (CIP).  Last year, the Council allocated $100,000 of remaining 1996 bond funds and $150,000 in CIP funds for sidewalk projects.  Because of the budget situation, however, this year no new CIP funds were allocated for new sidewalks.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  We believe that this goal is not likely to be satisfied until improvement of fiscal conditions.  We expect to report on September 9th that a balance of funds is potentially available from the implementation of the current year’s projects; in addition, federal Direct Allocation funds will be available regionally for the first time from the Durham-Chapel Hill Transportation Advisory Committee.  The Town would need to apply for the Direct Allocation funds and provide a 20% local match.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  Present financial constraints make it unlikely that this goal can be immediately achieved.   However, the goal will provide guidance for the Council and the staff as the budget is developed and opportunities arise in the coming year.

 

 (18) Consider sidewalk needs in the Northside and Sykes Street neighborhoods.

 

November 11, 2002 Status:  Installing a sidewalk on South Graham Street is one of the top 11 projects under consideration for funding in the 2002-03 Sidewalk and Bicycle Facilities Construction Plan scheduled for Council consideration on November 25.  In addition, a summer intern completed work on a sidewalk survey of the Northside and Sykes Street area.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  Sidewalks in Northside listed in a recent Sykes Street Strategy Area report have been placed on the list of sidewalk projects for annual consideration.  In addition, the Town’s Community Development plan for FY 2002-03 calls for additional analysis of these potential sidewalks to determine feasibility.  Funding from the Town’s Community Development Neighborhood Revitalization activity is a possibility.  The Sykes Street Committee is also discussing this issue, and an intern assisting the Committee is scheduled to do field work to gather additional information by August 30th.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  We recommend that this goal be referred to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board, the Housing and Community Development Board, the Sykes Street Committee, and the Manager for consideration and a report to the Council.

 

 (19) Eliminate minimum parking requirements in the Development Ordinance.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: Consultant Mark White presented a paper on this topic at the Council’s September 18 meeting.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  Discussion Paper on this topic will accompany the Third Draft of the proposed new Development Ordinance. 

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  This goal will be addressed by the Council in the process of revising the Development Ordinance.

**

Comprehensive Plan General Objective:  Increase emphasis on transit, bicycle, and pedestrian mobility townwide.  Achieve an increase in the percentage of total trips within Chapel Hill by alternative transportation modes and a corresponding reduction in the percentage of trips by automobiles.

Comprehensive Plan Public Transportation Objective:  Maintain a public transportation system that enhances the mobility and safety of Town residents, employees, and students.  Increase per capita readership with provision of increased service to an expanded park-ride lot system that complements regional transit.

Comprehensive Plan Transportation Demand Management Objective:  Develop and implement programs that reduce the percentage of trips made by single occupancy vehicles, and encourage transportation by alternate modes.

 

 (20) Conduct a policy discussion on the I-40 Congestion Management Study and the NC54/I40 Transit Corridor Study.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: The I-40 study is still awaiting completion as the State studies an additional alternative of "decking" I-40.  The NC 54/I-40 committee continues to meet and is on schedule for completing the first phase by December.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  The I-40 Study completion has been deferred until October, to enable the State to study an additional alternative of “decking” I-40.  The NC 54/I-40 committee has begun meeting, with the first phase expected to be completed by December.  Chapel Hill is represented by Mayor Kevin Foy; Council member Bill Strom also serves as a Triangle Transit Authority Board representative.  Opportunity for comment is anticipated at the conclusion of the first phase of work.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The Council considered the I-40 Congestion Management Study at its January 14 and February 25, 2002 meetings.  The Council provided comments to the I-40 Congestion Management Study consultant at the February 25 meeting.  The consultant expects to submit a final draft in May.

 

The Council received a report and discussed the NC54/I40 Transit Corridor Study at its February 11, 2002 meeting and adopted a resolution offering comments to the Transportation Advisory Committee.

Planning Issues

**

Comprehensive Plan Goal:  Provide an environment where the Town of Chapel Hill, UNC, and the UNC Health Care System can collaborate to maximize mutual benefits.

Comprehensive Plan University-Hospital-Town Coordination Objective:  Enhance on-going joint planning processes between the Town, UNC, and UNC Health Care to address issues of mutual concern.

Comprehensive Plan Neighborhood Impacts:  Address the effects of UNC and UNC Health Care activities on Chapel Hill’s neighborhoods as part of joint planning with those entities.

Comprehensive Plan Regional Context Goal:  Establish effective regional cooperation that promotes sustainable growth patterns, recognizing that economic development, land use, transportation, environmental, natural area linkages, and other planning issues transcend the boundaries of Chapel Hill.

Comprehensive Plan Regional Planning Objective:  Support multi-jurisdictional planning initiatives to address regional issues.

Comprehensive Plan Recommended Action:  Continue the Town’s involvement in planning for the future development of the Horace Williams property.

 

 (21) Prepare for discussions with the University about their forthcoming proposals to develop the Horace Williams tract.  Include public forums conducted by the Council in any process for considering the University’s Horace Williams development proposals.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: The Council Committee made its report to the Town Council on October 7, and the Council adopted a resolution establishing a charge, composition, and schedule of work for a citizen's committee on the Horace Williams tract.  We are currently advertising for applicants, and the Council is scheduled to consider nominations tonight, with appointments on November 25.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  The Council appointed Council Members Verkerk, Ward, and Wiggins as a committee to prepare a recommended charge, composition, and schedule of work for a Horace Williams Development Citizen Committee.  The Council Committee has begun work.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The Council has named two Council Members to serve on the Chancellor’s Horace Williams Planning Advisory Committee and will consider tonight the appointment of two citizens to the Committee.  In its planning session discussions, the Council indicated a desire to have a committee, similar to the Mayor’s Committee on Town-University Discussions, begin work to prepare for discussions with the University about any proposed development on the Horace Williams tract.  We believe that the work of the previous committee was of substantial value to the Council and the community and recommend that the Mayor appoint a similar committee for the Horace Williams discussions.  As discussed by the Council, the first task of the Committee would be gathering background information.

 

 (22)  Re-Issue the collection of previous reports on impact fees and impact taxes as background information for future discussions

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  These reports have been re-issued.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  If this goal is adopted, we will re-issue these reports as directed by the Council.

 

 (23)  Appoint an Energy, Environment and Sustainability Committee.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: The Council Committee is currently working to complete its recommendations regarding the charge for the Energy, Environment and Sustainability Committee.  The Committee expects to report its recommendations at a future Council meeting.

 

At its meeting on September 23, the Council adopted a motion to expand the Energy, Environment and Sustainability Committee to include a member of the Million Solar Roofs Committee.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  The Council appointed a committee of the Council to discuss the charge for an Energy, Environment, and Sustainability Committee.  The Committee consists of Council Members Strom, Verkerk, and Ward.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  We recommend that the Council appoint a committee of the Council to discuss a charge for such an Energy, Environment and Sustainability Committee and to bring forward a proposal for consideration by the Council.  If this goal is adopted, we would schedule appointment of the Council committee for consideration at a future Council meeting.

 

**

Comprehensive Plan Strategy:  Seek opportunities for formal and informal communication with other Triangle Area jurisdictions on regional planning issues.

 

 (24)  Establish joint planning procedures with Durham County and Chatham County.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: On August 26, the Council adopted a more formal joint planning process with the City of Durham and Durham County.  Joint planning will enhance the process of consultation among the Town, City, and County in a geographic area of mutual planning interest, for both long-range planning and current development proposals.

 

The Town of Chapel Hill, Durham City, and Durham County developed a cooperative agreement in the early 1990s to establish the Durham-Chapel Hill Work Group.  The group, composed of elected officials from each governing board and a representative from each jurisdiction’s Planning Board, has met regularly since that time to share information related to current development and long-range planning projects affecting areas along each other’s borders.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  At the request of the Town Council, the Durham-Chapel Hill Work Group has proposed a joint planning process for consideration by the Town of Chapel Hill, Durham County, and the City of Durham.  This consideration is scheduled for August 26, 2002.   There has been no action to date in regard to Chatham County.  A joint Chatham-Orange committee has met in the past, and could be reconvened, at Council’s request to Chatham County.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  After reviewing the minutes of the planning session and staff notes, we are unclear as to what the Council desired in regard to this topic and would appreciation receiving further guidance from the Council.  We will schedule a short discussion of this matter at a future Council meeting.

 

*(25)  Review the design manual to make it consistent with the revised Development Ordinance.

 

November 11, 2002 Status:  We expect to convene a staff work group in November 2002 to identify tasks and assign responsibilities for revising the Design Manual.  Although some revision work can begin once the work group is established, the bulk of the work will await adoption of the Land Use Management Ordinance by the Council.  We believe that the Design Manual will require at least six months of work.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  Work on this will begin immediately after a revised Development Ordinance has been adopted by the Council.   We believe this project will require about six months of work.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  We recommend that work on this goal be deferred until such time as a revised Development Ordinance has been adopted by the Council.

 

**

Comprehensive Plan Strategy:  Maintain coordination with Shaping Orange County’s Future Task Force to ensure coordination of planning and community building strategies.

 

* (26)  React to the Shaping Orange County’s Future Report.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  This goal is accomplished. 

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The Council adopted a Resolution on February 25, 2002 authorizing the Manager to transmit “Comments on Recommendations from the Shaping Orange County’s Future Task Force Report” to the County manager.  We have done so.

 

**

Comprehensive Plan Community Character Goal:  Conserve and enhance those elements that define Chapel Hill’s special community character and the heritage of Chapel Hill’s historic neighborhoods.

Comprehensive Plan Neighborhoods Objective:  Protect the physical and social fabric of Chapel Hill’s neighborhoods.

 

* (27)  Continue work to halt the transition of the Northside neighborhood into a student/rental enclave.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: This goal has been discussed with the Council’s recent actions regarding the Land Use Management Ordinance.  At its October 21 meeting, the Council enacted an ordinance that would – until June 30 – prohibit construction of new duplexes in districts zoned Residential-1, -2, or -3.  The ordinance change would also restrict conversion of single-family dwellings to duplexes.  We will develop options for the Council to consider in the spring.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  The Council established a Revolving Acquisition Fund that can be used to purchase houses and provide for their repurchase for owner occupancy as a supplement to other resources (Community Development/Housing Loan Trust Fund).  Currently, the Town is assisting EmPOWERment, Inc. in acquiring and renovating three homes in the Sykes Street Strategy Area with Community Development funds.  In addition, on April 8, 2002, the Council established a Rental Licensing Program for implementation in FY 2002-03.  This program will assist in increased staff efforts to improve enforcement of occupancy limits, sanitation, parking, noise, and property maintenance.  In addition, the main focus of our community oriented policing program is in the Sykes Street and Northside neighborhoods.  Each of these actions is recommended in the Comprehensive Plan as part of the strategy to preserve and protect the Northside neighborhood, as well as others.  The Comprehensive Plan also calls for initiating at least one residential area plan no later than December 31, 2004.  After work on the Development Ordinance is completed, the Council could consider designating Northside as the neighborhood asked to join with the Council in developing the first residential area planning process.

 

On June 24, 2002, Council received a report on a petition presented at the May 13, 2002 Town Council meeting regarding construction of large structures in the Northside neighborhood.  At that time, Council authorized initiating discussions with a property owner of 308 McMasters Street concerning acquisition.  The adoption of a new Development Ordinance might also result in new tools available, such as the application of a residential Neighborhood Conservation District, additional restrictions on duplex development and floor area limits for residential lots.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The Council has established a Revolving Acquisition Fund that can be used to purchase houses and provide for their repurchase for owner occupancy.  At tonight’s meeting, the Council is considering establishment of a Rental Licensing program.  The main focus of our community oriented policing program is in the Sykes Street and Northside neighborhoods.   As the Council has directed, we are coordinating staff efforts to improve enforcement of occupancy limits, sanitation, parking, noise, and property maintenance ordinances.  Each of these actions is recommended in the Comprehensive Plan as part of the strategy to preserve and protect the Northside neighborhood, as well as others.   The Comprehensive plan also calls for initiating at least one residential area plan no later than December 31, 2004.   After work on the Development Ordinance is completed, the Council could consider designating Northside as the neighborhood asked to join with the Council in developing the first residential area planning process.

 

Town Organization

 

Comprehensive Plan Goal:  Town government that maximizes citizen participation, is representative of and responsive to the population, and that serves and governs the population in an honest, efficient, and equitable manner.

 

* (28)  Improve construction management.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: The Buildings Mechanic Supervisor position was created with the transfer of funds from a Fleet Maintenance mechanic position and has been filled with an experienced person, thereby  freeing up time of the Buildings Program Supervisor and Internal Services Superintendent for direct construction management activities.  The capital program is still being managed by an Assistant Town Manager. Stantec Consulting Service, Inc., has been hired on an open-ended contract to provide value engineering, specification-writing, and other engineering services.  Their first task is preparing specifications for the roof on the Inter-Faith Council Shelter.  Work is ongoing on the Hargraves Center/A.D. Clark Pool Extraordinary Maintenance Project, preparing for the roof replacement at the Chapel Hill Museum, completing work on the Jones Ferry Road Park/Ride Lot, as well as other projects listed in Attachment 1 to this report. 

August 26, 2002 Status:  We have taken the following actions, consistent with our report to the Council:

During July 2002 we hired a new employee to fill the Buildings Program Mechanic Supervisor position.  This new position will take over many of the routine administrative duties of the Buildings Program Supervisor and allow him to spend more time on project management issues such as the Hargraves/A.D. Clark Pool Renovation, the Museum Roof Replacement, and capital repairs to the IFC Shelter.

 

During May 2002 we advertised a Request For Statement Of Qualifications for general engineering services to be provided by indefinite delivery engineering services contract.  We received several responses to this solicitation.  We expect to complete our evaluation of the candidate firms and award a contract for general engineering services during September 2002. 

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  As discussed with  the Council, we propose to use an existing position to lead work and supervise building mechanics, freeing the Buildings Program Supervisor and Internal Services Superintendent to spend more time on construction management.  We also will seek proposals from construction management and value engineering firms for services such as: development of construction standards and specifications; phase scheduling; value engineering; cost control and cost estimating; bid evaluation; construction administration and construction inspection.  The Council will receive a further report on this topic on April 22.

 

* (29)  Improve the efficiency and timeliness of communications with the Council and citizens by making greater use of electronic media.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: We continue to expand our use of electronic communications, particularly by continually updating our citizen email database and translating hard copy materials into electronic form for distribution.  When materials are requested by citizens, we offer the opportunity for receipt of the materials electronically, and have found that many prefer this method.  For those that choose to receive hard copies of materials, we include a stamped, self-addressed postcard, requesting an email address for future requests.

 

We are currently compiling a mailing list of homeowners’ associations, using several different methods including Council meeting sign-up sheets, correspondence from citizens, and Planning Department and Clerk’s Office files.  We are finding that many of these associations have officers that can be reached electronically, and we will make every effort to do so.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  We have increased the use of the Town’s electronic database to distribute information to citizens.  We now request e-mail addresses on the Council meeting sign-up sheets, and those addresses are transferred to the database under the subject heading that the citizen has signed up to speak about.  When the item returns for further Council discussion, the citizen is automatically e-mailed a copy of the follow-up report along with the meeting agenda.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  In accordance with the Council’s request, we have instituted a number of changes to increase the use of e-mail and the Internet in Town communications, including:

 

We have asked department heads and other employees to seek to minimize the use of paper documents in communications with citizens and the Council and find new means of contributing to this goal.

 

* (30)  Improve the marketing of Town Services.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: We have made an inquiry with the University’s School of Government, where faculty and staff have worked with other local governments regarding citizen surveys of municipal services.  We will report our findings to the Council during the next quarter.  We also anticipate increased use of the government cable channel to run “billboarding” information about various Town services, and we will continue to improve and expand on our use of the Town’s web site to distribute information.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  The half-time marketing position was approved with the adoption of the 2002-03 budget.  We are in the process of writing the job description and job duties and soon will begin recruitment to fill the position.    

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The proposed Transportation Fund budget includes an allocation for establishing a half-time marketing position to begin this work.  We also will attempt to improve marketing of general Town services and have started to explore development of a marketing plan.

 

* (31)  Provide the Council with a background report and briefing on the Town’s Community Policing Program.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: The Police Chief presented a report to the Council on this and other issues at the work session on November 4.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  No change in status since last report.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  Given the Council’s heavy workload this spring, we will schedule this work for the second quarter of fiscal 2002-2003.

 

* (32)  Increase the number of minorities in supervisory position.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: A report on the number of minorities in supervisory positions is scheduled for the December 9 meeting.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  As noted in April, we will present a report on this process in the fall.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  We will prepare a report for the Council about the make-up of the Town’s workforce over the past several years, including information about the number of minority employees occupying supervisory positions, as the beginning point for addressing this goal.  We will provide this report in the second quarter of fiscal 2002-2003.

 

* (33)  Improve communications with applicants for advisory boards regarding their interests, notice of nomination, notice of appointments, and related matters.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: A report is scheduled on this item for November 25.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  As noted in April, we will present a report on this process in the fall.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  We will prepare a process description that outlines the steps in communications with applicants from inquiry about the application process through appointment or expiration of application and seek feedback from the Council.  This work will be presented to the Council in the fall.  In the meantime, we have used specific feedback from Council Members to address particular problems.

 

* (34)  Consider alternate methods of managing the Halloween event that occurs each year in downtown Chapel Hill.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: We instituted a new approach to management of the Halloween event this year, following guidance from the Council.  Shuttle buses ran between the venue and four park-ride lots, providing more than 10,000 passenger trips.  The crowd peaked at about 69,000 people.  Approximately 300 officers and more than 50 civilians worked the event.  There were 18 people arrested.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  The Council received a report on March 25, 2002 on options for managing the Halloween event.  A public forum was held on April 22, 2002.  The Council opted for Halloween to be managed as it was in 2000, with the possible addition of shuttle buses to the venue.  Planning for the 2002 event is underway.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The Council received a report on options for managing the Halloween event at its meeting on March 25, 2002 and will conduct a public forum on this issue on April 22. 

 

* (35)  Consider combining the Transportation Board and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board, or modifying the charges of these boards (and perhaps the Greenways Commission) so that there is less overlap in their assigned duties.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: The Committee will report at a future date.

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  On June 24, the Council appointed Council Members Harrison, Strom, and Ward to represent the Council on this committee.   The Council also requested that the Transportation Board, Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board, and Greenways Commission appoint two members each to serve with the Council members on the committee.    

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  We recommend that the Council appoint a committee composed of two Council Members and two members from each of the respective boards to develop a proposal for revised charges for each of these boards.  If the Council adopts this goal, we will schedule consideration of appointing such a committee at a future Council meeting.

 

Downtown

**

Comprehensive Plan Community Character Goal:  Conserve and enhance those elements that define Chapel Hill’s special community character and the heritage of Chapel Hill’s historic neighborhoods.

Comprehensive Plan Downtown Objective:  Implement and fund policies and programs to maintain and enhance the downtown’s role as the center of the Chapel Hill community, with a pedestrian orientation and human scale.

Comprehensive Plan Parking Objective:  Develop a parking system within downtown that recognizes the need for adequate short-term parking while encouraging policies and practices that minimize the long-term parking supply.

 

* (36)  Focus on improving downtown Chapel Hill.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: The Council Committee on Parking Lots 2 and 5 has met three times to discuss options for these properties (see also number 3 above).

 

On October 21, the Manager submitted a report on sidewalk and street lighting options for downtown (to be resubmitted at tonight’s meeting).

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  On June 10, the Council began identifying principles for developing  parking lots #2 and #5 and appointed a Council Committee to discuss options and develop specific goals for any proposed development of the properties.

 

In April, the Council authorized construction of another Streetscape segment, between Porthole Alley and The Gap on East Franklin Street.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The central goal of the Downtown Small Area Plan is to “maintain and enhance the existing downtown as the social, cultural, and spiritual center of Chapel Hill.”  To achieve this goal, the plan recommends a series of implementation strategies that are designed specifically to preserve and enhance the downtown’s special character and vitality, including:

 

 

We believe a key next step in continuing to focus on the downtown will come with consideration by the Council of requesting proposals from developers for development of Parking Lots #5 and #2.

 

* (37)   Carry out a rodent control program in the downtown.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: Town staff inspected the downtown area with Dr. Barry Engber, a Medical Entomologist with the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, along with representatives of the Chapel Hill Downtown Commission, Public Works Department, and Manager’s Office.  Dr. Engber will make written recommendations regarding rodent control.  We will provide a follow-up report to the Council that will include information about measures that the Town can take to control the rodent population.  

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  The Manager’s Office has researched a potential rodent control program.  We have worked with the Downtown Commission to identify areas of reported infestation, including areas around the compactors and alleys.  We believe that there are methods available that may help curb the problems, such as preventing stagnant water to collect due to poor drainage.   We have also researched methods and strategies used by other municipalities in dealing with rodent infestation.  We have contacted area health departments and await additional information from the N.C. Assistant Chief of Entomology and Pest Control.  

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  We will seek advice and assistance from the County Health Department and will work with the Downtown Commission, property owners, and merchants to develop a rodent control program and will report to the Council quarterly.

 

* (38)  Consider the arts as a downtown “engine.”

 

November 11, 2002 Status:  On October 7, the University presented its plans for the Arts Common, which is envisioned as the central location on campus for a mix of public and academic facilities for the fine and performing arts.  These related facilities are proposed to be organized around new open spaces to promote the arts at the University.  The area on campus is bounded to the north by Franklin Street, to the west by South Columbia Street, to the south by Cameron Avenue, and to the east by McCorkle Place, extending east on Cameron Avenue to include Gerrard Hall and Playmakers. 

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  The University’s Arts Commons Committee, which includes Council Members, has been working on the development in and adjacent to downtown.  Public meetings are planned for the first quarter of 2002-03.  The Council approved public art in the budget for the streetscape segment being implemented this summer.  The work between the Porthole Alley and the Gap will include four art benches to be installed in the fall.  Public art was also included in the Capital Improvements Program, adopted July 26, 2002, with the renovation of the IFC Community House renovation.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  The Council has appointed representatives to the University’s Arts Commons Committee which will be working on development in and abutting the downtown.  The Council recently adopted a Percent for Art program that will result in opportunities for art in the downtown.  The Public Arts Commission continues to work on events in the downtown, such as the sculpture show in connection with Apple Chill.  The Council will consider a streetscape project this evening which includes a provision for public art as a part of the project.

 

Other

 

* (39)  Provide opportunities for Internet communications and research training at sites other than the Chapel Hill Public Library.

 

November 11, 2002 Status: We plan to install public access computers at the Hargraves Community Center after construction at this site is finalized, likely in February 2003.  We will use the results of this experiment to determine other possible actions

 

August 26, 2002 Status:  No change in status since last report.

 

April 8, 2002 Status:  We will investigate possibilities and will report to the Council in the fall of 2002.

 

ATTACHMENT

 

  1. Quarterly Report: Status of Capital Projects (p. 25).

ATTACHMENT 1

 

 

Quarterly Report

Status of Capital Projects

First Quarter 2002/2003

 

Aquatics Center

Project:  Construction of an aquatic facility and possibly a community center, on a site in Homestead Park.  Council-approved conceptual plan includes competitive pool, warm water pool, locker rooms, office, classroom and reception area.

 

Budget:  Total of $4,700,000, including $1,200,000 from 1996 Town Park bonds and $3,500,000 from 1997 and 2001 Orange County Park and Recreation bonds.

 

Status:  Council adopted conceptual Plan and requested that Board of County Commissioners release remaining $855,000 in 1997 bonds.  Commissioners’ draft bond sale schedule includes the sale of $3.5m in 2003/04 for this project.  Committee of elected officials from both jurisdictions appeared to be close to agreement in July on process for joint development of Southern Community Park, and this process may be adaptable to situation with aquatic center.

 

Booker Creek Greenway

Project:  Construction of a park and trail along Booker Creek from East Franklin Street to US 15-501 Bypass, between Eastgate and Village Plaza commercial areas.

 

Budget:   $437,133, including $349,707 from NCDOT and the local match of $87,426

 

Status:  Rose Engineering completed the study needed for the No Rise Certificate from FEMA, and found that the original concept plan was not feasible.  Council approved relocation of the pedestrian bridge in June 2002 and plans have been revised.  Drawings of easements needed are now available and are being discussed with owners; one easement has been granted.

 

Chapel Hill Museum Roof Replacement

Project:  Replacement of roof, which has reached the end of its useful life.

 

Budget:  $60,000 to be financed over 10 years.

Status:  First step of financing was taken by Council September 9.  Plan to try to complete roof work before Christmas.  Town staff is hiring roofing contractor.

 

Dry Creek Trail

Project:  Land acquisition north of I-40 and construction of a trail from East Chapel Hill High School to Providence Road.  Another branch of the trail is proposed to connect Chapel Hill and Durham’s trail systems on land north of I-40.

 

Budget:  $270,800, including a $200,000 grant from the Clean Water Management Trust Fund and 1996 Open Space bonds.

 

Status:  Sterling Ridge Apartments completed a trail segment from Providence Road to Erwin Ridge subdivision.  Eagle Scouts have cleared a trail corridor from East Chapel Hill School to Perry Creek Road. An Eagle Scout candidate has agreed to do the additional work required from the school to San Juan Road.  Stairs and boardwalk have been constructed between San Juan Road and Perry Creek Road using a National Trails Program grant.

 

All necessary properties south of I-40 have been acquired. Negotiations with owners of two parcels north of I-40 were unsuccessful, but proposal for acquisition of another parcel is before the Council in closed session tonight. If this acquisition is successful, owners of the other two parcels will be approached again.

 

Fire Station #5

Project:  Construction of a building to house a fire pumper truck and a fire crew on part of a 9-acre parcel on the southeast corner of the intersection of US 15-501 South and Bennett Road, across from Southern Village.

 

Budget:  $1,278,254, including $1,000,000 from 1996 Public Safety Bonds

 

Status:  Building occupied the first of 2002, trailer returned and lease with Hillsong Church closed out.  All punch list items completed except replacement of dead plants which will be done when water restrictions have been lifted.  The  completion of the transition to the street awaits reconstruction of Bennett Road by DOT’s contractor.

 

Hargraves Center/A.D. Clark Bath House Renovations

Project:  Perform extraordinary maintenance outlined as necessary in 2000 Facilities Assessment Study, including, in the Center, replacement of interior surfaces, of electrical, heating and air conditioning systems, and plumbing fixtures; adding ADA accessible entrance and restroom facilities, and repairing the roof; and at the bath house, raising the roof, adding daylighting, adding ADA accessible entrances and restroom facilities and replacement of all surfaces and mechanical equipment; and replacement of mechanical equipment and repouring the floor of the pump house.

 

Budget:  $1,200,000 to be financed over 10 years included in CIP from 2001- 2010.

 

Status:  Work began in April and is proceeding well.  Change orders adding such work as replacement of vinyl siding and roofing will add some time to original mid-January completion date, but completion expected in February and on budget

.

IFC Shelter

Project:  Extraordinary and deferred maintenance as defined in 2000 Facilities Assessment Study, with emphasis on exterior repairs necessary to protect the structure.

 

Budget:   $340,000 to be financed over 10 years included in CIP from 2002/3 – 2011/12.

 

Status:  First step of financing taken by Council September 9.  Plan to complete roof work before Christmas.  Contract engineers will write specifications as necessary and Town staff will hire individual contractors.

 

Lower Booker Creek Greenway Phase II

Phase II: Construction of a 10’-wide concrete trail from East Franklin Street near Eastgate north along the west side of Booker Creek to Tadley Drive.  The trail then continues from Daley Road on the east side of the creek to Booker Creek Road.

 

Budget:  $635,178 including DOT grant and Town funds.

 

Status:  Complete, within budget. Dedication held October.7.

 

Park/Ride Lot: Jones Ferry Road

Project:  Construction of a 450-space park/ride lot with access from Old Fayetteville Road to Jones Ferry Road.

 

Budget:  $710,000, including $568,000 from Federal Transit Administration, $71,000 from the State and $71,000 from the Town’s Transportation Fund.

 

Status:  Substantially complete on October 21 when public use began, with minor punchlist items remaining.  No large outstanding issues with the contractor.

 

Police Headquarters Renovations

Project:  Repair of the leaks and the damage caused by them, and any other work needed to preserve the public’s asset.

 

Budget:  $700,000 of 1996 Public Safety Bonds

 

Status:  $600,000 spent on repair and renovation, completing the waterproofing of all underground walls, replacement of the roof, replacement of the air conditioning units on the roof and repair of floor and wall surfaces. Of the remaining $100,000, $25,000 was spent to replace the telephone system and a building security system is being priced. 

 

Post Office/Court Building Renovations

Project:  Extraordinary and deferred maintenance as defined in 2000 Facilities Assessment Study

 

Budget:  $1,196,000 to be financed

Status:  Project was not funded this year due to budget constraints.   However, if the Council approves additional funding tonight, design work could begin in the fourth quarter. With completion of design work and estimation of amount of capital needed, financing term will be considered.

 

Pritchard Park

Project:  Construction of a primarily passive park on the 34 acres of Town-owned land surrounding the library, including trails, small playground and a sculpture garden.

 

Budget:  $164,000, including a $100,000 gift from the Pritchard family.

 

Status:  A committee consisting of representatives of the Library Board, Public Arts Commission, and Parks and Recreation Commission worked with Town and Hotel Siena staff, and all agreed on a recommendation to Council, based on conceptual plan adopted by Council in November 2000.  The Council is scheduled to act on a proposed financial agreement with the Siena in closed session on November 25.  If that is approved, the parking area for the Siena will be redesigned, based on the anticipated new RCD regulations. Once the redesign is approved by the committee and the Council, planning and permitting can proceed.    In the meantime, trails are being built by Eagle Scout candidates, and the Audubon Road stub-out roadbed has been removed and seeded and will be replanted later this fall.

 

Pritchard Park Renovations

Project:  Comprehensive renovations of 15-unit public housing neighborhood on Pritchard Drive Extension.

 

Budget:  $960,700, including HUD’s Capital Grant and Community Development Block Grant funds

 

Status:   Site work, including concrete work and removal of some plant material, and rehabilitation work in the first phase of 6 units began in June on an accelerated schedule.  However, progress has been delayed due to long fabrication time for windows and delivery of other components.  The contractor still appears able to meet original completion date in May 2003 now that materials and supplies have been received for all phases.

 

Public Works/Transit Operations Facility

Project:  Acquisition of land for and design and development of operations facilities for the Public Work Department, Transportation Department, the Police Vehicle Impoundment Lot, and the Housing Maintenance Facility.

 

Budget:   Unknown

 

Status:   Fifty –four acres north of Eubanks Road, west of I-40 and east of Millhouse Road, acquired and financed for a total capital cost of $876,000 in 2001.  Additional 7 acres north of this parcel acquired by gift in 2001. Closing being arranged on additional 13-acre parcel to the south.  Negotiations on-going for additional adjacent land in Chapel Hill’s Transition Area.  Sixteen proposals were received from potential consultants to prepare initial needs assessment, conceptual plans and cost projections; after interviews with three teams, two candidates remain. Once the contract is negotiated with the selected team, a report with budget recommendation will be presented to the Council.

 

 

 

 

 

Sidewalks

Fordham Boulevard:  Contract project on west side of roadway, from Days Inn to Willow Drive.  Design completed by Engineering Department after lengthy informal negotiations with DOT, but DOT personnel changes have cause plans to be revised; they are being close to completion now. Budget of $100,000 of 1996 Street bond funds.

 

West Rosemary Street:  In-house design and in-house crews will build sidewalk from IFC Community House to Church Street on north side of the street, with $7000 of CIP sidewalk funds. Crew will proceed with segment from IFC to Pritchard Avenue in November, but work on block from Pritchard Ave. to Church Street must await acquisition of easements on 2 properties. 

 

Weaver Dairy Road:  Sidewalk from Cedar Fork Trail to Kingston Drive, along the south side of Weaver Dairy Road. Budget includes $180,000 of 1996 Street Bond funds. Funds being held until resolution with DOT of cross-section of the road improvement.

 

Southern Community Park

Project: Community park to include soccer fields, woods and trails, paved paths, play areas, dog park, parking and eventually a community center.

 

Budget:  $895,000 of 1997 Orange County Bond funds; $2 million of 2001 Orange County bond funds

 

Status:  Conceptual plan approved by Town Council in January 2002. Board of County Commissioners considering this plan and a process for the planning and construction of projects that include County bond funds.  Answers on both expected in December or January.  Latest schedule for sale of County bonds includes $1m in 2004/05 and $1m in 2005/06 for this park.

 

Streetscape
Project:  Improve sidewalks, street trees, street furniture and street lighting along town center streets, including Franklin and Rosemary Streets, from east of Henderson Street to Merritt Mill Road, and the connecting side streets.  Intention is to implement in increments the plan adopted by the Council in 1993, some of it being done by developers of adjacent land and some by Town forces.

 

Budget:  $1,000,000 in 1996 Street Bond proceeds allocated, with $500,000 sold to date and $500,000 scheduled to be sold in early 2002.  Approximately $400,000 has been expended or allocated to date, including $102,000 budgeted for the 2002 segment.

 

Status:  Segments completed on the north side of West Franklin Street from Carolina Cleaners to Ham’s, from the former Fowler’s building to Franklin Street Cycles, and from Bruegger’s Bagels to Columbia Street; on both sides of North Columbia Street from Franklin Street to Rosemary Street; on both sides of East Franklin Street from Columbia Street to Henderson Street. 

 

Developers completed the south side of East Franklin Street from the Gap around the corner of South Columbia Street to the edge of the campus.            The County’s contractor has recently completed the sidewalk in front of Orange County’s Skills Development Center; the Council had approved $60,000 of bond funds for this project.

 

Work on the south side of East Franklin Street, between Porthole Alley and the Gap was recently completed.  The Percent for Art Program included installation of four benches in October.