HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-24-15 Board of Public Works Meeting AgendaDATE: August 24, 2015
BPW MTIME: 4:45 pm
m LOCATION: 311 Floor,
Board Of Public Works City Hall, Council Chambers
108 E. Green St., Ithaca
AGENDA ITEMS
B. Retaining Wall Inventory Project Yes Mykola Kyrychuk, 10 min.
Intern
Mykola has been working on the Retaining Wall Inventory Project and will provide the Board with
information on the conditions of existing retaining walls within the city.
7. Administration & Communications
A. July 27, 2015 Meeting Minutes Yes Mayor Myrick 5 min.
8. Buildings, Properties, Refuse & Transit
A. Appeal of Bill for Tree Clean Up at 612 Cliff Street Yes Asst. Supt. Benjamin 5 min.
— Resolution
The resolution reflects the Board's discussion on August 10, 2015.
9. Highways, Streets & Sidewalks
A. Recommendation that Common Council Approve Yes Traffic Engineer 5 min.
a New Bus Service in the City — Resolution Logue
The resolution reflects the Board's discussion on August 10, 2015.
B. Award of Professional Services Contract for West Yes Traffic Engineer 5 min.
Martin Luther King Jr. Street Corridor Logue
Enhancements — Resolution
The City is prepared to award a contract for professional services for the West Martin Luther
King Jr. Street Corridor Enhancements to C &S Engineers, Inc.
C. Resolution Authorizing Agreement with INHS for Yes City Attorney Lavine 10 min.
Future Improvements to Lake Avenue and Eastern
Portion of Adams Street
This topic was discussed at the Planning and Economic Development Committee meeting on
August 12, 2015, and is anticipated to be included on the Common Council agenda in
September.
10. Parking & Traffic
Topic
Voting?
Presenter(s)
Time
Allowed
1.
Call to Order /Agenda Review
No
Mayor Myrick
5 min.
2.
Mayor's Communications
No
Mayor Myrick
3.
Communications and Hearings from Persons
No
Public
5 -15
Before the Board
min.
4.
Response to the Public
No
Commissioners
5.
Reports
No
Various
10 min.
A. Special Committees of the Board
B. Council Liaison
C. Board Liaisons
D. Superintendent and Staff
6.
New Project Presentation
A. Pavement Management Project
Yes
David Picinich, Intern
10 min.
The Engineering Office has participated in the Cornell Local Roads Program Pavement
Management Project this year. David has worked hard on this
project; he will provide an
update.
B. Retaining Wall Inventory Project Yes Mykola Kyrychuk, 10 min.
Intern
Mykola has been working on the Retaining Wall Inventory Project and will provide the Board with
information on the conditions of existing retaining walls within the city.
7. Administration & Communications
A. July 27, 2015 Meeting Minutes Yes Mayor Myrick 5 min.
8. Buildings, Properties, Refuse & Transit
A. Appeal of Bill for Tree Clean Up at 612 Cliff Street Yes Asst. Supt. Benjamin 5 min.
— Resolution
The resolution reflects the Board's discussion on August 10, 2015.
9. Highways, Streets & Sidewalks
A. Recommendation that Common Council Approve Yes Traffic Engineer 5 min.
a New Bus Service in the City — Resolution Logue
The resolution reflects the Board's discussion on August 10, 2015.
B. Award of Professional Services Contract for West Yes Traffic Engineer 5 min.
Martin Luther King Jr. Street Corridor Logue
Enhancements — Resolution
The City is prepared to award a contract for professional services for the West Martin Luther
King Jr. Street Corridor Enhancements to C &S Engineers, Inc.
C. Resolution Authorizing Agreement with INHS for Yes City Attorney Lavine 10 min.
Future Improvements to Lake Avenue and Eastern
Portion of Adams Street
This topic was discussed at the Planning and Economic Development Committee meeting on
August 12, 2015, and is anticipated to be included on the Common Council agenda in
September.
10. Parking & Traffic
Time
Topic Voting? Presenter(s) Allowed
A. To Amend Vehicle and Traffic Schedules for Yes Traffic Engineer 5 min.
Bridge Street, Schedule XII, Parking Prohibited at Logue
All Times, and Schedule XV, Parking Prohibited
Certain Hours — Resolution
The resolution reflects the Board's discussion on August 10, 2015.
B. Authorization to begin a Merchant Parking Yes
Validation Program — Resolution
The resolution reflects the Board's discussion on August 10,
11. Creeks, Bridges & Parks
12. Water & Sewer
A. Appeal of Water Bill for Ithaca Children's Garden Yes
at 600 Block Taughannock Boulevard
The resolution reflects the Board's discussion on August 10,
13. Discussion Items
Dir. of Parking Nagy 5 min.
2015.
Asst. Supt. Whitney 5 min.
2015.
A. Approval of Locations in Cass Park for the Public No Megan Wilson 10 min.
Art Commissions Mural and Street Art Program
The Public Arts Commission would like support from the Board about potential locations within
Cass Park for murals.
B. Lake Street Public Park Enhancements — Design No Bridge Systems Eng. 10 min.
Alternatives — Proposed Resolution Addisu Gebre
After holding public information meetings, two design alternatives are provided for the Board's
consideration and guidance.
14. New Business
15. Adjournment
Page 2
No
Yes
8A. Appeal of Bill for Tree Clean Up at 612 Cliff Street — Resolution
WHEREAS, Barbra Jastran, owner of 612 Cliff Street, was billed for the cost of calling in City
crews to remove a portion of tree that fell into the roadway at 612 Cliff Street on October 15,
2014, and
WHEREAS, Ms. Jastran claimed the tree was in the City's right -of -way and showed evidence
that she had paid a tree service to remove the rest of the tree that fell outside of the roadway,
and
WHEREAS, Assistant Superintendent Benjamin's investigation of the tree's location revealed
that the tree was actually astride the right -of -way line, and
WHEREAS, the tree was partially on the City right -of -way and partially on Ms. Jastran's
property, and that Ms. Jastran already paid for the cleanup of the tree outside of the roadway,
staff recommends that the bill for the City's response to clear the roadway be expunged along
with any penalties associated with that bill, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works hereby expunges invoice #00019766, for
$686.75 and the penalty of $34.34 associated with that invoice.
Page 3
9A. Recommendation that Common Council Approve a New Bus Service in the City —
Resolution
WHEREAS, Section 346 -31 of the City Code states that no bus shall operate, stop on or stand
on any City street, nor shall such bus pick up or discharge passengers on any such City street
or curb, or any other public property, or at or within 200 feet of any City bus stop in the
corporate limits of the City of Ithaca, unless a permit is obtained therefor from the Common
Council or its designee, and
WHEREAS, the Department of Public Works has received an application from Big Red Bullet,
LLC to operate a transit service between Ithaca and New York City, including stops in the City,
and
WHEREAS, TCAT has expressed concerns about the two proposed bus stops, namely in front
of the Performing Arts Center and the East Seneca Street bus stop, and
WHEREAS, TCAT and staff have recommended use of the south curbline of East Green
Street, immediately east of the pedestrian signal, staff has discussed the option with the
representative of Big Red Bullet, who is in agreement with this location, and
WHEREAS, the applicant and staff have not yet found an acceptable alternate location in
Collegetown, but are both willing to continue working on a possible location, now therefore be
it
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works hereby recommends to Common Council
approval of the use of the East Green Street location and the related proposed City streets,
and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Board recommends that Common Council delegate the authority to
approve a second location for passenger pick up and discharge to the Board of Public Works,
should the applicant and staff find an acceptable alternate location in Collegetown, after
consultation with TCAT.
Page 4
9B. Award of Professional Services Contract for West Martin Luther King Jr. Street
Corridor Enhancements — Resolution
WHEREAS, professional services proposals were received on January 20, 2015 for the West
Martin Luther King Jr. Street Corridor Enhancements (CP 790, PIN 395050) project, and
WHEREAS, staff has reviewed the nine proposals received and made recommendations for
award, and
WHEREAS, engineering studies and designs are a Type II action requiring no further review
under the State Environmental Quality Review Act and the City Environmental Quality Review
Ordinance, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Board of Public Works hereby awards the professional
services contract for West Martin Luther King Jr. Street Corridor Enhancements (CP 790, PIN
395050) to C &S Engineers, Inc., of Syracuse, New York, for an amount not to exceed
$130,000, and be it further,
RESOLVED, That the Superintendent of Public Works of the City of Ithaca be hereby
authorized to enter into said contract under the usual terms and conditions.
Page 5
To:
From:
Date:
Re:
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street, Suite 202 Ithaca, New York 14850 -5690
OFFICE OF THE CITY ENGINEER
Telephone: 607 /274 -6530 Fax: 607/274 -6587
Board of Public Works
Tim Logue, Transportation Engineer
August 14, 2015
Contract Award for Professional Services for
W. Martin Luther King Jr Street Corridor Enhancements (CP# 790)
Please find enclosed a proposed resolution to award a professional services
contract to C &S Engineers, Inc., in association with Popli Design Group and
Trowbridge Wolf Michaels Landscape Architects, LLP, for the West Martin
Luther King Jr. Street Corridor Enhancements project (PIN 395050, CP 790). The
project is a federal -aid project with 80% of project costs reimbursed by federal
funds and 20% of project costs covered by the City of Ithaca. The project was
advertised to 15 firms and we received 9 proposals. A four person staff group
(Addisu Gebre, Kent Johnson, Jessica Buckley, and myself) selected C &S
Engineers based on their expression of interest and the advertised selection
criteria. I have worked with C &S to define a task list (scope of services) and a fee
for the project that fits within budget. I am therefore ready to recommend that
you award the contract to C &S Engineers in an amount not to exceed $130,000.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about the contract or
about the consultant selection process. You can reach me directly at 274 -6535 or
tlo ug e @cityofithca.org. Thank you.
'An Equal Opportunity Employer with it commitment to workforce diversification."
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9C. Resolution Authorizing Agreement with INHS for Future Improvements to Lake
Avenue and Eastern Portion of Adams Street
WHEREAS, Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc. (INNS) in 2014 purchased the parcel
known as 210 Hancock Street and began seeking community and Planning Board input; and
WHEREAS, based on this input, INHS has proposed a development plan of the 210 Hancock
parcel that includes improvements to Lake Avenue for a pedestrian and bicycle pathway and
incorporation of a playground structure in the eastern section of Adams Street; and
WHEREAS, City staff is generally supportive of the development plans proposed by INHS, and
INHS is in the process of obtaining site plan approval; and
WHEREAS, INHS has agreed to construct and maintain such improvements at its cost in
accordance with City specifications affording City vehicles the ability to continue to access the
creek through the improved site as needed for public works or safety purposes; and
WHEREAS, the improvements and land underneath such improvements shall be the property
of the City, and will be open to the public; and
WHEREAS, INHS has agreed to be responsible for maintenance and liabilities resulting from
use of the improved site, except for any liabilities which are caused by the City's negligence or
willful misconduct, which shall be the City's responsibility; and
WHEREAS, in consideration for these agreements, the City has agreed to seek
discontinuance of Lake Avenue and the eastern portion of Adams Street; and
WHEREAS, the discontinuance process will require environmental review, public comment,
and discretionary approval (or denial) by the Board of Public Works; and
WHEREAS, INHS has asked for an agreement from the City that it commits to seek
discontinuance in order to satisfy certain requirements related to the Low Income Housing Tax
Credits that INHS is seeking; and
WHEREAS, the Common Council is considering a resolution to this same effect; now,
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Mayor is authorized execute an agreement with INHS substantially
similar to that included herewith, and for a term not to exceed fifty (50) years, concerning the
use of Lake Avenue and the eastern portion of Adams Street.
Page 6
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
BETWEEN
THE CITY OF ITHACA
AND
ITHACA NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSING SERVICES, INC.
THIS AGREEMENT, entered into the day of , 2015, between the CITY OF
ITHACA ( "City ") and ITHACA NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSING SERVICES, INC. ( "INHS ").
WHEREAS,
a. INNS has acquired the property known as 210 Hancock Street and 423 First Street, City of Ithaca
(the "INNS Property ") and intends to redevelop the INNS Property into a mixed use residential
project (the "Redevelopment Project ");
b. INNS has proposed certain improvements to City -owned land as a part of the Redevelopment
Project, and the City is supportive of such improvements;
c. As a condition of site plan approval for the Redevelopment Project, INHS will commit to
construct and maintain pedestrian and bicycle paths and a play structure on a portion of Lake
Avenue and Adams Street (collectively the "Street Parcel ") as shown on the attached survey map,
and to uphold all other obligations under this Agreement;
d. The City owns the Street Parcel and has agreed to seek the discontinuance of those portions of
Lake Avenue and Adams Street for vehicular traffic so that the Street Parcel can be used in the
Redevelopment Project as described herein and subject to the terms and conditions of this
Agreement; and
e. In consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements in connection with the Redevelopment
Project, the Parties agree to the terms and conditions set forth herein.
NOW THEREFORE IT IS HEREBY AGREED THAT:
Term
1. This Agreement shall be for a term of fifty (50) years commencing on the date upon which all of the
following conditions have been fulfilled:
a. Site Plan Approval,
b. Receipt of Notice of Award of Low Income Housing Tax Credits for the Redevelopment
Project, and closing on all financing necessary to construct the same,
c. Satisfactory completion of the discontinuance process for the Street Parcel.
2. In the event that the conditions stated in paragraph 1 have not been fulfilled within three years of
execution of this Agreement, this Agreement shall terminate.
3. Upon termination, INHS shall be relieved of further responsibility for maintenance and repair of the
Street Parcel, and shall have no rights to the same as distinct from members of the public.
INNS Obligation � s
4. INNS shall timely apply for site plan review approval pursuant to City requirements for the
Redevelopment Project. The proposed site plan shall include community paths for public use on the
Street Parcel and a community play structure on the former Adams Street parcel. The design and
layout of the paths and the play structure, including landscajhping and trash receptacles and the items
set out at Section 7, shall be presented and approved as part of the site plan for the Redevelopment
Project. INNS acknowledges that the adherence to the terms and conditions of this Agreement shall
be a condition of site plan approval by the Planning Board of the City.
5. The community paths and play structure may be used by the public during the hours between 5:00
a.m. and one -half hour after sunset, and by the City, for municipal purposes, at any time.
6. The construction and maintenance of the community paths and play structure shall be the sole
responsibility of INNS. Without limitation of the foregoing, but as clarification and in addition
a. INHS will maintain at its own expense the improvements approved of in the site plan on the
Street Parcel, including but not limited to the paths and play structure, in a safe, sound, clean
and serviceable condition, in accordance with all applicable ordinances of the City, such that
no hazard is posed to the public from the public's use of or proximity to the same, and will
repair damage and defects in such improvements, as provided in this Agreement.
b. INNS will provide custodial and landscaping services to maintain the appearance of the
improvements, including trash removal and routine care of vegetation in the improved area as
described by the site plan and in accordance with City exterior property maintenance
ordinance.
c. INNS will plow the paths clear of snow to the City's reasonable standard and in compliance
with the City's exterior property maintenance ordinance, or will contract for the same.
d. INNS shall maintain all improvements and all land within the Street Parcel. INNS shall not
be responsible for maintaining land outside the surveyed boundary of the Street Parcel.
e. INNS will not have a duty to repair damages and defects caused by the City's use of the
Street Parcel. For purposes of this clause, the public's use shall not constitute the City's use.
7. The design of the community paths and play structure shall be subject to the approval of the
Superintendent of Public Works to assure that City emergency and maintenance vehicles have access
to the adjoining creek. Final details shall be as set forth in the site plan approval, but shall include the
following:
a. The main path on the former Lake Avenue parcel shall be 10 feet wide, so as to allow use and
access by City vehicles as part of the City's maintenance duties. It shall be made of materials
strong enough to support the stress of City maintenance vehicles.
b. The site plan shall delineate the turning radius for a snow plow at the intersection of Adams
Street and Alice Miller Way. This radius shall set the boundary of property maintenance
responsibilities between the City and INNS in that area. This radius will set the boundary for
the portion of Adams Street that the City will seek to discontinue. These boundary lines are
shown on the attached survey.
c. A fence, hedgerow or other demarcation as approved in the site plan shall be installed along
the property line between the INHS Property and the Street Parcel.
8. INNS shall obtain at its expense a survey to show the location of all improvements and the lines
delineating the property which is under INHS maintenance and that which is under City maintenance
duties.
City Obligations
2
9. The City will remain the owner of record for the Street Parcel. In the unlikely event that the Street
Parcel is classified by Tompkins County as taxable, any amounts due for taxes or assessments shall be
paid by the City.
10. The City is responsible for the creek bank. INHS shall not be responsible for maintenance of trees or
other vegetation on the bank, or otherwise outside the surveyed boundary of the Street Parcel. The
City shall maintain lighting, likely comprised of pre - existing on -site fixtures, and the utility cost of
lighting along the property.
11. The City has the right to use the Street Parcel to access the creek, canal, embankments and walls, or
for any other reason, including by any vehicular or mechanical means selected by the City.
12. The City will provide timely notice to INNS of any damage or defects to the Street Parcel and its
improvements. INHS further agrees to repair or remove any such damage or defect, as directed by the
City. In the event of MS's failure to effect such repair or removal, after notice from City to do so,
the City may carry out the same and charge INHS for such cost, plus a 25% administrative charge.
13. The City shall be the sole owner of the improvements, and may in its sole discretion alter, remove, or
destroy the improvements, at its own expense. If the City alters the improvements, including all paths,
INHS obligations under this Agreement shall continue to such extent as those obligations are
substantially similar in substance and scope to the obligations herein agreed, provided that the public
use of the paths continues to be solely for pedestrian and bicycle access. The City shall provide INHS
with notice at least ninety (90) days prior to substantially and intentionally altering, removing or
destroying the improvements, permitting INHS to provide comment on such plans.
14. Notwithstanding the foregoing paragraph, the City may not during the term of this Agreement alter
remove or destroy the play structure. Any damage to the play structure caused by the City shall be
promptly repaired at the City's expense.
15. The City may close public access to the Street Parcel and improvements as necessary to work on the
creek, canal, embankments or walls or for safety hazards posed, or on any other safety hazards posed
on the Street Parcel. This restriction may limit the access of residents living in the INNS- constructed
townhomes.
16. Except in the case of emergencies, the City will give notice to INHS and, as feasible, the residents of
the Redevelopment Project of any substantial closures, repairs, and maintenance that it plans to
perform.
17. Contingent upon the execution of this Agreement and the site plan approval for the Redevelopment
Project, the City shall diligently and in good faith pursue the discontinuance process for the Street
Parcel, with ultimate discretion to complete or not complete the discontinuance vested solely in the
City.
18. Notwithstanding any other provisions herein, the Agreement contained herein may be revoked or
modified by the City (a) upon such notice as is practical, in the event of an emergency that threatens
property or the public safety or welfare, or (b) upon at least one month's notice that the
Superintendent of Public Works has determined that INNS has failed to comply with any substantive
term herein, and that INNS has not cured such breach within the notice period.
Indemnification, Liability, and Insurance
19. INHS shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City from any claims, damages, costs, and
expenses arising from or in connection with physical injury (up to and including death) sustained on
the Street Parcel, unless caused by defects in the property that are (a) caused by any negligence or
willful misconduct on the part of the City, or (b) as to which the City received prior written notice, as
defined in Section C -107 of the City of Ithaca Charter, but then failed to so inform INNS within one
week of receipt thereof.
20. The City shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless INNS from any claims, damages, costs and
expenses arising out of defects in the property (a) to the extent solely caused by negligence or willful
misconduct of the City.
21. When INNS and the City have both contributed to liabilities incurred by the Parties, each will
indemnify the other in proportion to its respective responsibility for the act or omission that gave rise
to such liability, except that the City's responsibility under this paragraph shall extend only to its
negligence or willful misconduct.
22. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, in no event shall the City be required to
defend, hold harmless, or indemnify INNS or any other party from suits, actions, damages, liability,
or expense which, had it been asserted against the City directly, would not have necessitated the City
either to defend on the merits or to incur the resulting liability under applicable law.
23. At all times that the Agreement is in effect, including during construction of the improvements, INHS
shall provide proof of commercial general liability coverage in the amount of $1,000,000 per
occurrence, $2,000,000 in the aggregate, and umbrella coverage of $5,000,000, and as revised by the
City from time to time. The insurance policies shall include the City of Ithaca as an additional
insured. INNS shall also provide proof of compliance with statutory Worker's Compensation and
Disability coverage requirements.
Miscellaneous
24. The City may add any unpaid fees, reimbursements, penalties or other amounts INNS owes the City
by virtue of INNS' obligations and responsibilities under this Agreement to the tax bill of the INNS
Property.
25. Except as otherwise set forth in this Agreement, the Parties shall bear their own costs and expenses,
including engineering fees, legal accounting, and fees incurred in connection with the negotiation and
preparation of this Agreement and any subsequent exercising of rights or performance of obligations
set forth in this Agreement. In the event that a party is determined by a court of competent
jurisdiction to be in breach of any of the substantive terms of this Agreement, the party found to be in
breach shall be liable for the costs and reasonable attorneys' fees of the party that asserted and
prevailed upon such claim.
26. The use by INHS of the above - described property of the City does not constitute and shall never ripen
into or become a right to use any portion of such property without the consent of the City, but is and
shall continue to be only a use by sufferance of said property of the City, as evidenced by a duly
executed and current Agreement.
27. This Agreement supersedes all prior Agreements, understandings, and communications between the
Parties, whether oral or in writing, concerning the subject matter of this Agreement. This Agreement
may not be modified or amended except by a writing signed by all Parties. The waiver by a party of
0
its rights under this Agreement or of a breach by any other party shall not constitute a waiver of any
other rights under this Agreement or of any future breaches by any party.
28. If any part, paragraph, or portion of this Agreement is held to be void, invalid, inoperative, or
unenforceable for any reason, such provision shall be deemed severed and the remainder of this
Agreement shall not be impacted and shall continue in full force and effect, unless to do so would
fundamentally contravene the present valid and legal intent and purpose of the Parties. The Parties
agree that each and every provision that is deemed by a court of competent jurisdiction to have been
required by law to be included in this Agreement shall be deemed to be inserted herein and shall have
the same force and effect as if it were actually inserted.
29. This Agreement may not be assigned by either party without the express written consent of the other
party, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. Notwithstanding the foregoing,
INNS may assign the Agreement to any entity in which it holds a controlling interest or serves as the
managing member of and which becomes the owner of the INNS Property. This Agreement is not
intended to benefit any third -party, and no person or entity who is not a party shall be entitled to
enforce any of the rights, interests, or obligations of a party to this Agreement.
30. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York. Any action or proceeding
relating to this Agreement shall be venued in a court of competent jurisdiction that is located in the
County of Tompkins.
31. All notices required by this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be sent by certified mail, return
receipt requested, personal delivery, or facsimile at the following addresses:
To the City:
To INNS:
Mayor
City of Ithaca
108 East Green Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
City Attorney
City of Ithaca
108 East Green Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
Executive Director
119 East Green Street
Ithaca New York, 14850
32. The terms and provisions of this Agreement shall be binding upon the heirsn successors, distributees
and assigns of the parties hereto.
CITY OF ITHACA
By: _
Name:
Title:
Date:
Svante Myrick
Mayor
ITHACA NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSING SERVICES, INC.
By: _
Name
Title:
Date:
Paul Mazzarella
Executive Director
LIST OF EXHIBITS: Appendix A — Survey Map
5
CITY OF ITHACA
108 E. Green St. — Third Floor Ithaca, NY 14850 -5690
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING, BUILDING, ZONING, & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Division of Planning & Economic Development
JOANN CORNISH, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
PHYLLISA DESARNO, DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development - 607 - 274 -6550 Community Development/IURA - 607 - 274 -6559
Email: dgrunder @cityofithaca.org Email: iura @cityofithaca.org
TO: Board of Public Works
Common Council
FROM: Megan Wilson, Senior Planner
DATE: July 22, 2015
RE: Parks Commission Recommendation on Proposed Playground and Creek Walk as
Part of the 210 Hancock Street Project.
Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services (INHS) presented its proposed I development at 210
Hancock Street to the Parks Commission at its meeting on May 12, 2015. The Commission's
discussion focused on the creation of a new playground and green space along a walkway adjacent
to Cascadilla Creek. The playground will be located in the northeast corner of the site, along Adams
Street and across from Conley Park. INHS will build and maintain the playground, but it will be
open to the public. The creek walk is proposed for construction in the current Lake Street right -of-
way along the east side of the project site. It will be primarily a pedestrian walkway but will be open
to City and emergency vehicles. After discussion the project, the Parks Commission voted
unanimously to support the development of a creek walk within the Lake Street right -of -way and the
construction of a playground as part of the proposed development at 210 Hancock Street, noting
that both features will be positive additions to the Northside neighborhood. The Commission also
noted the importance of creating a visual connection between the new playground and Conley Park
so that the new playground feels open to the public.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at 274 -6560 or mwilson e,cityofithaca.org.
10A. To Amend Vehicle and Traffic Schedules for Bridge Street
Schedule XII, Parking Prohibited at All Times, and Schedule XV, Parking
Prohibited Certain Hours
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Works is authorized by Section 346 -4 of the City Code to
adopt and to amend a system of Schedules in order to administer the Vehicle and Traffic Law,
and
WHEREAS, residents of Bridge Street have petitioned to change the on- street parking
regulations for the east side of the street to be No Parking, Noon to 9 P.M., from May 1St to
September 30th, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Works is in agreement with this proposal, and
WHEREAS, staff has noticed that Bridge Street is not currently listed in the parking related
Schedules and therefore the Schedules do not reflect the No Parking Anytime signage as
currently posted on the west side of the street , now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the west side of Bridge Street, from East State /MLK Jr Street to Giles
Street, be listed in Schedule XII, Parking Prohibited at All Times, to reflect the existing, posted
signs, and be it further
RESOLVED, That the east side of Bridge Street be listed in Schedule XV, Parking Prohibited
Certain Hours, as shown below:
Name of Street
Side
Time Limit; Hours/Days
Location
Bridge Street
East
12pm to 9pm /All Days
From East
May 1 st — September 30th
State /MLK Jr. St. to
Giles Street
Page 7
1013. Authorization to begin a Merchant Parking Validation Program — Resolution
WHEREAS, a validation program was established in October 2014 to assist customers to the
downtown merchants by allowing up to two hours of free parking in the city -owned parking
garages, and
WHEREAS, the validation program was funded by the Commons Project and the Downtown
Ithaca Alliance, and
WHEREAS, the program ended on July 31, 2015, to coincide with the opening of the
Commons to the public, and
WHEREAS, merchants are interested in establishing a new validation program through the use
of the new parking pay stations which allow single -use discount codes, and
WHEREAS, Tracer Tickets are already available for anyone to purchase at $.65 per hour for
use in the parking garages, and
WHEREAS, staff would recommend a discount parking program for merchants of the city to
provide parking to their customers at a rate of $.75 per hour for on- street parking and $.50 per
hour for garage parking, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works approves the establishment of a Merchant
Validation Program for merchants to purchase discount codes for on- street parking at $.75 per
hour and /or Tracer Tickets for garage parking at $.50 per hour to be given to customers for up
to two hours of free parking. These codes and tracer tickets should be used to promote future
visits to their businesses.
Page 8
12A. Appeal of Water Bill for Ithaca Children's Garden at 600 Block Taughannock
Boulevard — Resolution
WHEREAS, in 2004 the City of Ithaca DPW Water & Sewer Division installed a water service
line in the Ithaca Children's Garden. DPW installed roughly 300 -LF of 2 -inch diameter K
Copper water service line along with a curb valve, 8 unions, and a tee fitting for a yard hydrant,
and
WHEREAS, subsequent to the installation of ICG's water service it was discovered that the 2-
inch K copper tubing we had purchased was flawed, in that the outside diameter (OD) did not
meet industry specifications because it was slightly smaller. This smaller OD is a problem
where the pipe is coupled (joined) using compression fittings which are all designed for
standard OD tubing. We have encountered leaks from loose fittings in one other locations
where this pipe had also been used, and
WHEREAS, DPW W &S Div. has repaired leaks on at least two compression connections at
the ICG since 2004, and we recognize that there are at least 8 more locations where this run of
copper tubing is joined with compression couplings where potential leaks are a high
probability, and
WHEREAS, DPW plans to locate existing leaks and schedule repairs for the current leaks on
this service line in the Fall of 2015, and
WHEREAS, the ICG is requesting relief for the years 2013 -2015 where the water billing is
above a previous annual average of 168 -HCF, and
WHEREAS, the difference between the previous annual average and the billing for 2013 of
177 -HCF is 9 -HCF and for the 2104 billing of 805 -HCF is 637 -HCF, and
WHEREAS, 9 -HCF at the 2013 water rate of $4.73 /HCF totals $42.57, and 637 -HCF at the
2014 water rate of $5.11 /HCF totals $3,255.07, and 2015 readings to date have not yet
exceeded the 168 -HCF, and
WHEREAS, the ICG has been paying the bill all along, and
WHEREAS, Water Department Staff recommends to the Board of Public Works based upon
the forgoing that actual metered consumption above an annual 168 -HCF will not be billed until
the DPW completes repairs on the water service line we originally installed in 2004, and all
consumption above 168 -HCF over the last two years be refunded, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That a refund of $42.57 be made for 2013, a refund of $3,255.07 be made for
2014, and future use above 168 -HCF in 2015 not be billed to the Ithaca Children's Garden
account #7717306400.
Page 9
13A. Approval of Locations in Cass Park for the Public Art Commission's Mural and
Street Art Program — Proposed Resolution
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Public Art Commission (PAC) has been established to, among
other duties, review and advise Common Council on proposals for the exhibition and display of
public art in City spaces — buildings, facilities, and infrastructure — and to review development
proposals for decorative elements in the city's public spaces, and
WHEREAS, in 2010, the PAC created a mural and street art program to beautify blank walls
within the city while providing local artists from all sections of the community an opportunity to
showcase their work, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Works approved several City -owned sites for inclusion on the
list of potential sites in City of Ithaca Public Art Commission's Mural and Street Art Program by
resolution on May 19, 2010 and approved additional sites for inclusion in the program since that
time, and
WHEREAS, as a result of this approval, the PAC has worked with more than 50 artists to install
murals on City -owned property throughout the city, and the response to the new murals has
been overwhelmingly positive, and
WHEREAS, the PAC would like to consider all five outbuildings and the exterior of the main
building in Cass Park as locations for future murals, and
WHEREAS, the Parks Commission has discussed these sites as locations for future murals and
is supportive of murals in Cass Park, provided that the murals are appropriate for a family park
setting; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Board of Public Works approves the five outbuildings and the exterior of
the main building in Cass Park for inclusion on the list of potential sites for the PAC's Mural and
Street Art Program; and be it further
RESOLVED, that the PAC will continue to work with Planning Department staff to conduct a
mutually acceptable public input procedure for engaging nearby businesses, residences, and /or
business and neighborhood associations for each specific project, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the PAC will work with the City Attorney to ensure that any art mural RFP or
contract with a participating artist reflects and accommodates the needs and constraints of the
City.
Page 10
I
rA
Lake Street Public Park Enhancements - Design Alternatives - Resolution
WHEREAS, Currently, the City of Ithaca Department of Public Works and Project Consultant
(Trowbridge & Wolf Landscape Architects LLP) are working on Lake Street Public Park
Enhancement Project ( "Enhancement "), and
WHEREAS, the Enhancement proposes safety improvement and aesthetic enhancement to the
existing public park located at the southeast corner of Lake Street Bridge over Fall Creek, and
WHEREAS, On December 1St, 2014, the Board of Public Works unanimously authorized Staff
to undertake said Enhancement as part of Lake Street Bridge Rehabilitation Project (CP #791),
and
WHEREAS, On February 5, 2015, Common Council approved an increase of CP #791 by an
amount not to exceed $30,000 for a total project authorization of $1,494,250,and
WHEREAS, multiple design alternatives are being considered for the project, and
WHEREAS, after consulting with the public and advisory groups ,City of Ithaca Engineering
Department together with project consultant has recommended a design alternative which
includes pedestrian safety rail design (wood handrail, galvanized steel posts with wider
galvanized mesh - Alternative 2B),chip seal pavement (Alternative 1) and chain with sign as an
alternative to a gate (Alternative 1), and
WHEREAS, the estimated total cost to implement the recommended alternative is $199,400,
and
WHEREAS, total funding of $199,500 for the Enhancement is derived from $30,000 in IURA
block grant, $97,500 from Regional Economic Development Council, up to $11,000 from City of
Ithaca Sidewalk Program, $20,000 from Tompkins County Tourism Capital Grant Program and
$30,000 from the issuance of Serial Bonds; and therefore be it further
RESOLVED, that, the Board of Public Works here by approves the implementation of the
recommended design alternative; and be it further
RESOLVED, that, the Board of Public Works here by authorize the Superintendent of Public
Works to proceed with the recommended design.
LAKE STREET PARK ENHANCEMENTS
DESIGN ALTERNATIVES
AUGUST 19, 2015
PEDESTRIAN SAFETY RAIL DESIGN
ITHACA NAC
WHERE NECESSARY,
INSTALL SOMETHING MORE
TRANSPARENT SUCH AS A
CHAIN LINK FENCE
PAVEMENT DESIGN
ITHACA NAC
INSTALL A SINGLE PATH OF
STONE DUST THAT CONNECT
TO THE TRAIL AND THE
OVERLOOKS
GATE DESIGN
ITHACA NAC
USE A PERMEABLE 'SYMBOLIC'
BARRIER WITH A SIGN TO
WARN OF HAZARDOUS
CONDITIONS SUCH AS A CHAIN
PARKS COMMISSION WOOD RAILING GALVANIZED STEEL
USE MORE TRANSPARENT STAINLESS STEEL CARBON STEEL WIDER MESH
MATERIALS WIDER MESH FULL INFILL
PARKS COMMISSION
POSSIBLY REDUCE THE
AMOUNT OF PAVEMENT
(NO CONCENSUS)
CONCRETE CHIP SEAL OR NARROW
WALKWAY POROUS ASPHALT WIDTH TO 4'
1
PARKS COMMISSION
SIGN ADDED TO GATE TO 3 POSITION
WARNING USERS TO BE GATE W/ SIGN
MINDFUL OF CONDITIONS EVEN
WHEN GATE IS OPEN
CHAIN W/ SIGN
PEDESTRIAN SAFTEY RAIL
DESIGN ALTERNATIVES
AUGUST 19, 2015
CURRENT DESIGN
STAINLESS STEEL
ALTERNATE 1
CARBON STEEL
POWDER COATED BLACK /
GALVANIZED
WI IPE WOOD RAIL
ALTERNATE 2
CARBON STEEL
GALVANIZED
1.5` STAINLESS STEEL TUBE
STAINLESS STEEL INFILL -
1.5" MESH
1.5" STAINLESS STEEL POSTS
1" STAINLESS STEEL BAR -
1.5' IPE WOOD RAIL
CARBON STEEL INF
2.25' MESH (BLACK)
1.5" CARBON STEEL
(BLACK)
1" CARBON STEEL B
(BLACK)
OPTION A
1.5" CARBON STEEL RAI
(GALVANIZED)
CARBON STEEL INFILL
2.25" MESH (GALVANIZE
1.5" CARBON STEEL PO
(GALVANIZED)
OPTION B
OPTION A OPTION B
1.5" IPE WOOD RAIL
CARBON STEEL INFILL
2.25" MESH (GALVANIZED)
1.5" CARBON STEEL POSTS
(GALVANIZED)
1" CARBON STEEL BAR
(GALVANIZED)
1.5" IPE WOOD RAIL
CARBON STEEL INFILL
2.25' MESH (GALVANIZED)
1.5" CARBON STEEL POSTS
rGALVANIZED)
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Lake Street Public Park Enhancement Project- Budget Summary
Prepared by- Addisu Gebre
Date - August 19,2015.
Source of Fund
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency- Community Development Block Grant $
Reegional Economic Council- Empire State Development Program $
City of Ithaca - Sidewalk Program $
Tompkins County- Tourism Capital Grant Program $
City of Ithaca- Issunace of Serial Bonds $
Lake St Bridge Project- Shared Cost of Restoration Acess $
Estimated Enhancement Cost
Construction
Inspection and Construction Support
Design
Total Fund $
Total Cost $
Amount
30,000
97,500
11,000
20,000
30,000
11,000
199,500
Amount
154,000
15,400
30,000
199,400
CITY OF ITHACA
108 E. Green St. — Third Floor Ithaca, NY 14850 -5690
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING, BUILDING, ZONING, & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Division of Planning & Economic Development
JOANN CORNISH, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
PHYLLISA DESARNO, DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development — 607 - 274 -6550 Community Development/IURA — 607 - 274 -6559
Email: dgrunder @cityofithaca.org Email: iura @cityofthaca.org
TO: Addisu Gebre, Bridge System Engineer
FROM: Megan Wilson, Senior Planner
DATE: July 28, 2015
RE: Parks Commission Comments on Enhancements to Ithaca Falls
At its meeting on July 14, 2015, the Parks Commission reviewed the proposed enhancements to the
park area at Ithaca Falls. Below is a summary of comments and questions from the Commission.
• The Commission believes that the walkway is critical to allowing seniors, people with
strollers, and people with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy the park. The group discussed
the concern that the enhancements would include too much paving/ concrete, but there was
not a consensus among the members on this issue. If the amount of paving/concrete
remains a concern, it was suggested that a portion of the loop could be removed, which
would reduce cost and the amount of concrete while still allowing access to the area.
• The Commission had mixed reactions to the proposed gate. They liked the idea of being
able to close off access to the water when conditions are unsafe, but they then felt that an
open gate inherently indicates to the public that conditions are safe. While the Commission
generally prefers to avoid additional signage in parks, it was suggested that a sign could be
added to the gate, noting that people should be mindful of conditions.
• While the Commission believes a railing will greatly improve safety, several members noted
that the design showing a guardrail and a fence with vegetation in between seems to be a bit
much. Is it necessary to have both the guardrail and the fence? Will the guardrail and /or
fence obstruct views? Is it possible to use materials that allow people to see through these
barriers?
• The Commission expressed concern that the project was trying to change the name of the
park from Ithaca Falls to the Lake Street Park. They would like to be clear that it is Ithaca
Falls.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at 274 -6560 or
m -,vilson @cityofithaca.org.
►I my",
/ ! "/ / /
TO: Addisu Grebe, Engineer - Dept of Public Works
CC: Common Council & Mayor, Board of Public Works, Supt of Public Works,
Director of Planning, NAC members and liaisons
FROM: Joe McMahon, NAC Chairperson
DATE: August 12, 2015
RE: NAC Comments & Recommendations on Ithaca Falls Entrance Project
Thank you, Addisu, for attending the July and August meetings of the Natural Areas
Commission to share information and receive feedback in regards to the upcoming
project at the Lake Street entranceway to the Ithaca Falls Natural Area. This is the stated
purpose of the existence of the commission in the City Code, and for a project of this
scope at Ithaca Falls Natural Area, or any natural area of the City, the NAC should be
included in the process to the fullest possible extent.
You indicated that the current design for this project already received site plan approval
from the City Planning Board. However, in light of reactions and comments from the
public and the NAC, you said the plan was to formulate several alternative designs
(incorporating suggestions you have received), seek feedback on those designs, then ask
for Planning Board approval of an amended site plan (as well as approval of any
additional funding needed for the project, from Common Council).
The NAC supports the idea of developing and airing alternative designs, and hopes that
its suggestions will be incorporated into one or more of those designs.
Included with this document are the results of votes the NAC took on August 4th, after
looking at several specific components of the currently proposed plan for the area
between Lake Street and the gorge leading to Ithaca Falls. I think it's important to point
out that, as you witnessed, there was much input on and endorsement of many of these
positions by non - voting NAC liaisons and others in attendance, including Josephine
Martell and Cynthia Brock of Common Council, Jeanne Grace from DPW, Todd Bittner
from Cornell Natural Areas, and others.
No one in the room (not counting you) was in favor of the extensive and elaborate plan as
presented, with the consensus being that while the area in question is both parkland and a
City - designated natural area, it should not be altered in a way such that it contrasts or
clashes with the primarily naturalistic area immediately to the east of the entrance area,
leading to the creek and the falls. This has also been the overwhelming consensus from
members of the public who have added to the discussion as well. Paraphrasing the words
of various people who have spoken on this project, including Common Council member
George McGonigal, the beauty and even the culture of the Finger Lakes has been to allow
natural features to speak for themselves. We believe it's necessary to achieve a
reasonable balance — between making the area "safe" and retaining /protecting its
undisturbed natural character — without diminishing the wondrous experience of being
there. The fenced in, overbuilt, urbanistic design that has been presented does not
achieve this balance for a location that serves as an introduction and brief transition to
one of our City's iconic destinations — a wild and spectacular natural treasure tucked
away just a few steps from the contrasting urban environment.
NAC Recommendations for Ithaca Falls /Lake St Park Re- design Project
4 August, 2015
5 voting members present
1. Gate:
- Install as presented — 4 opposed, 1 vote in support;
- Provide some kind of "permeable "/symbolic barrier with a warning sign
that can be put in place temporarily when conditions are atypically hazardous
(such as a chain across the path) - 4 in support, 1 opposed
Pedestrian Guardrail (fence):
- Install as presented - 5 opposed (to a fence that acts as a substantial
visual barrier or intrusion, including the proposed blue stone columns, and that
extends beyond what is necessary to warn of dangerous drop -off);
- Where needed (to warn of drop -off, on North and part of East sides),
install something less intrusive, more transparent, similar to what Cornell built
along Cascadilla Gorge trail, i.e., minimalist metal posts with metal link chains —
5 in support
3. Sidewalk:
- Horseshoe - shaped sidewalk, as presented — 5 opposed;
- Inclusion of single path where existing "goat path" is, that connects to
park features (ramp down to creek, overlook bench) — 5 in support;
- Use of concrete as material for interior path — 5 opposed;
- Use of stone dust as material for interior path — 5 in support
4. Concrete blocks (a /k/a "Jersey barriers ") that were "temporarily" placed atop old
stone wall along east side of entrance area, many years ago:
- Include removal of these blocks as part of project - 5 in support
To expand further on these items (and an additional one), we'd like to add:
1. We concur that having some type of removable barrier at the ramp down to the
creek area (a suggestion made by the Fire Dept), with a warning sign, can serve to
bring to the public's attention that dangerous conditions exist beyond that point,
without attempting to "cage" people in or lock them out. (Those who are not
averse to risk - taking will undoubtedly find a way to get past any barrier, anyway
— possibly causing more damage to themselves and/or the site, in the process.)
While we did not have consensus on the specific design for this, we were in
agreement that less is adequate. Moveable wooden sawhorses have served this
purpose, but they are unsightly, and due to staffing constraints in the Public
Works Dept, they aren't always removed once the higher level of risk is passed,
or they eventually get tossed aside by the public.
2. We are told that the proposed "pedestrian guardrail" was designed with the
intention of "matching" the one along the recently- created Six Mile Creek
walkway, between Clinton and Green Streets (and beyond, to the east). We
believe the different context and character of these two places does not warrant
this congruency. Six Mile Creek is bordered by multi- storied buildings on each
side with a wide sidewalk adjacent, while the Lake Street location has a small
grassy area with a stream on one side and solid stone gorge wall or ruins, and
wooded area on two other sides.
To the extent fencing is necessary for ongoing safety purposes (to warn of
a significant drop -off), we would much prefer to see something similar to what
Cornell has done in Cascadilla Gorge (installation of a minimalist iron post -and-
chain fence along the gorge trail), that can decrease the risk from falls (which
currently exists due to lack of a barrier, but thankfully has not resulted in actual
falls or serious injuries), over the ledge on the north side and a portion of the east
side. We see no need to continue such a barrier beyond the ramp to the creek, or
along the south side. To the extent that the old masonry walls on the north and
east sides could be built up somewhat with attractively -laid stone (and topped
with a shorter fence), that would match the historic character of the site even
more.
3. The sidewalk "loop" as proposed takes up roughly 25% of the surface area of
what is now a mostly grassy entrance area. This is not appropriate for either a
park or natural area. Since the premier viewing area for the falls - from outside
the creek bed or bank - is from the Lake Street bridge, and a bump -out for
viewing is included in that design, there is no reason to design and re- purpose the
entrance area as a falls viewing point. While the creek itself can be viewed from
this site, due to the contours of the gorge walls, very little of the falls is visible
from anywhere south of the bridge. A stone dust path can still be ADA compliant
and be done for less money.
4. Quite a few years ago, the City "temporarily" deposited several large concrete
blocks on top of the old stone wall at the east side of the entrance area. The NAC
objects to their appearance and inclusion in a natural area (or park), and believes
they should be removed as part of this project. They are unsightly and serve no
compelling purpose. A fence along that side (and/or a built -up stone wall) will
provide a better warning of the existing drop -off.
5. While no vote was taken regarding this, NAC members noted that the City's
Guidelines for Work in Natural Areas require the submission of a written plan for
the restoration of any area affected by such work, to be reviewed by the NAC.
You have said that the contractor(s) for this project (and the bridge project) will
understand the need for restoration and will include the cost of that in their bids,
and that restoration means "putting the area back in the condition it was
previously." We don't expect that to be feasible in all respects, and we ask that
prospective bidders be asked to describe impacts such as tree removal, and to
provide a specific, written plan for restoration, including proposed plantings,
grading, etc.
As you know, time was short at the August NAC meeting, to formulate the NAC's
position and comments on this project and its various elements. You requested a written
report as soon as possible, so this summary of major points is being provided. The NAC
will continue to discuss this project, and, as time allows in the future, may submit
additional comments and/or elaborate on the concerns summarized here.
Again, thank you for taking the time to include the NAC and the public in this very
important endeavor. We hope our input will be useful and lead to a pleasing end result of
this important project at an iconic Ithaca and Finger Lakes location. j