HomeMy WebLinkAboutPWC Minutes 2013-09-17
TOWN OF ITHACA
PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE
September 17, 2013 9:00 a.m.
Public Works Facility
Board and Staff Present: Herb Engman, Rich DePaolo, Rod Howe, Mike Smith,
Jim Weber, Creig Hebdon, and Guest Sarah Rich from 103 Kendall Avenue
1. Approval of Minutes:
The minutes were approved.
2. Member Comments / Concerns:
No member comments or concerns.
3. Kendall / Pennsylvania Avenue Intersection Restoration Discussion:
Mr. Weber updated the group about the issue and explained that the Town Board
approved the “no parking” local law at its last meeting. Being a unique situation with no
legal background, he asked why the pavement was left the way it was and if it should be
cleaned up. Sarah Rich explained her account of the history of conversations with
previous personnel. Mr. Weber explained that we own the ROW, but do not maintain the
spur. Options were discussed. Mr. Weber will provide detailed plans to present to the
Committee and Ms. Rich. Mr. Engman suggested running it by Susan Brock or Guy
Krogh. Ms. Rich indicated that she is around until the first of November then will be in and
out of the area.
4. Referral from ERC on Truck Scale Installation:
Mr. Weber explained that a suggestion was put in the box to add a truck scale at the
Public Works facility in order for driver’s to know the weight of their load before leaving the
facility. Mr. Weber surmised that the suggestion is likely based on an isolated incident
that required increased situation awareness. After discussion, it was decided that it is not
cost feasible to add a scale.
5. Discuss Comp Plan Comment Relative to “Snow Plow Policy”:
Mr. Weber continued discussion regarding the comp plan on how we deal with winter
activities and road conditions for possible changes. He stated that we can look at policies
as to when we get the crew to go out. He explained the current practice which included
cross-coverage from the County and neighboring Towns. There was discussion about the
effect of salt and additives on the environment and the amount of salt used per season. It
is the intent to use as little salt as possible, but still maintain safe standards for travel.
Mr. Engman questioned how we would be maintaining the Forest Home Bridge area while
it is being reconstructed. Mr. Weber stated that we would be backing in and out, but could
look into building a hammerhead for turning around. The limited access will also impact
mail delivery and garbage and recycling pickup.
6. Elm Street Extension Storm Damage and Repair Options:
Mr. Weber explained that the project is very unique and difficult. We had 5 inches of rain
in a three-hour period which caused exposure of a rotted storm water pipe and failure of
the slope. The creek bed is a conservation area that is 30 feet below the road centerline.
A proposal was presented which is considered a permanent fix to the damage, however,
other options can be considered. An access road will need to be constructed and we will
need to maintain driveway access to a nearby residence. Mr. Hebdon contributed to the
details of the proposed repair using a steel plate arch to open up the culvert. He also
explained that the project will be bid out. Mr. Solvig informed the group that the project
would have to be bonded unless we explore the possibility of moving some 2014
budgeted projects out to future years. Mr. Weber added that the possibility exists to
acquire emergency funds for slope repair, but cannot be counted on. Mr. Weber will
reach out the DEC to start a conversation to get their feedback on how to proceed. Mr.
Hebdon stated that he feels a permanent fix is needed as future storms will continue to
erode the area that is already very close to the edge of pavement. It was agreed that the
discussion will go the Budget Committee and we will look at other alternatives. Mr. Weber
took those that could attend out to see the damage.
7. Project Updates:
Project Updates were deferred in order for the group to tour the Elm Street damage and
the progress on the new salt barn. Item G was addressed, however.
G. Speed Indicator Grant: Mr. Weber explained that the original grant request was for
placing speed indicators on Warren Road. Now DOT is saying that engineering reports
are required resulting in approximately 100 hours of engineering time. We could
purchase the speed indicators for $12,000 - $15,000 without the grant. Mr. Engman
stated that it makes more cost sense to decline the grant and purchase them. The
original grant application was for two indicators but, two more were added to make the
grant viable. Indications from DOT staff originally suggested limited Design Reports were
required since the work was in the limits of the last “SRTS” project.
Meeting adjourned at 10:15 a.m.
The next meeting is scheduled for: October 15, 2013 at 9:00 a.m.
Future Agenda Items:
Forest Home Wall / Sidewalk Work
Coddington Road Sewer Line Extension
Grant for Inlet Valley Cemetery
Bluegrass Lane Trail after Hanshaw Road Walkway is complete
Parks and Trails (Michigan Hill Park, South Hill Trail, Forest Home)
Water and Wastewater Master Plan
South Hill Trail Extension
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