HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-21-04 Planning & Economic Develoment Committee Meeting Agenda MEETING NOTICE
City of Ithaca
Planning,Neighborhoods & Economic Development Committee
Wednesday,July 21,2004
Common Council Chambers
City Hall-- 108 East Green Street
7:30 p.m.
Agenda
A. Agenda Review
B. Public Comment and Response
C. Announcements and Reports
1. Geographic Information System (GIS) Plan--Conceptual System Design 15 minutes
(materials enclosed)
D. Action Items
1. Children's Garden -Resolution of Endorsement(materials enclosed) 15 minutes
2. Waterfront Trail Phase 3 Feasibility Study -Resolution of Endorsement
(materials enclosed) 15 minutes
3. Neighborhood Improvement Incentive Fund-Resolutions (materials enclosed) 10 minutes
4. Planned Unit Development- Resolution (materials enclosed) 20 minutes
E. Other Items
1. Ul District Zoning Amendment-Discussion (materials enclosed) 30 minutes
2. Transfer of Surplus City-Owned Land to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency for
Future Development-324-346 Floral Avenue -Discussion (materials enclosed) 15 minutes
3. Request to Remove Bump-Outs on the South Side of the College and Dryden
Intersection -Discussion (materials enclosed) 15 minutes
F. Approval of Minutes -May 19,2004 and June 16,2004 (may be emailed) 10 minutes
G. Adjournment
Questions about the agenda should be directed to Mary Tomlan,Chairperson(272-9481)or to the appropriate staff
person at the Department of Planning&Development(274-6550). Back-up material is available in the office of the
Department of Planning&Development. Please note that the order of agenda items is tentative and subject to
change.
If you have a disability and require accommodations in order to fully participate,please contact
the City Clerk at 274-6570 by 12:00 noon on Tuesday, July 20, 2004.
'�� CITY OF ITHACA C 1
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DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
H. MATTHYS VAN CORT, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
JOANN CORNISH, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development - 607-274-6550 Community Development/IURA - 607-274-6559
Email: planning @cityofithaca.org Email: iura@cityofithaca.org
Fax: 607-274-6558 Fax: 607-274-6558
MEMORANDUM
To: Members, Planning, Neighborhoods and Economic Development Committee
From:Ruth Aslanis, Planning Systems Manager Pc-
Date: July 16, 2004
Re: City-wide Geographic Information System (GIS) Plan
I am pleased to provide you with the final Conceptual System Design report for city-wide
GIS. This completes Phase II of the City's GIS Needs Assessment and Plan project. I will
be reporting on this project at the Committee's meeting on the 20
Information is the life blood of most governmental organizations. In municipal government,
much of the data we need and use is geographic, that is, locational in nature. GIS is a
technology that combines software, hardware, methodologies and trained personnel to deal
effectively with the storage, display and analysis of locational data, whether it be the
location of our roads or a proposed project or the location of all buildings with commercial
uses.
While we have accomplished much in GIS at the City we are now faced with an increasing
demand for GIS data and the capacity to use it. While many departments want this capacity,
few can actually develop it given the need for on-going management, specialized knowledge
and dedicated staff time. The City's GIS Needs Assessment and Plan project was designed
to assess the City's needs for GIS as a whole and to design a system that serves the many
departments of the City while reducing the number who have to acquire the technical and
management expertise needed to develop it. This approach delivers the needed capacity
both more economically and efficiently than other approaches.
This three phase project began with a comprehensive city-wide GIS needs assessment. All
departments who use or need location-based data were participants in a thorough study of
the tasks they do which require locational data. The Needs Assessment Report describes
those tasks and the data and applications needed to support them. The report is available in
the Dept of Planning &Development.
In the second phase, a draft report recommending a system design for city-wide GIS
capacity, written by the City's GIS consultant AppliedGIS and based on the needs
assessment, was presented to participating departments. During those meetings early this
year, consensus was reached about the three elements of the system design described in the
attached report.
"An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification." 0
The third and final phase, the implementation plan, is now underway. In this phase, the
consultant and I detail the steps, time frame and costs of building an Enterprise GIS, one
system to serve the many departments and users of the City as well as the public. A
preliminary estimate has already been prepared and a capital project request has been
submitted to the Capital Program Committee.
Since the report is lengthy, I would like to draw your attention to two sections, which
highlight what is being proposed and why:
1. The Introduction and Considerations section (page 1).
2. The Recommended System Design section (page 9).
For a sample of web deployed GIS see http://165.166.39.5/giswebsite/default.htm,
http://maps.terraverge.com/chatham or our own http://www.ithacamaps.org
I am available to answer questions you may have prior to the meeting. My number is 274-
6556; email is rutha @cityofithaca.org.
Conceptual System Design
City of Ithaca Geographic Information System (GIS) Plan
2004
Submitted To:
City of Ithaca
Department of Planning and Development
108 E. Green Street
Ithaca,New York 14850
Submitted By:
Applied GIS,Inc.
137 Jay Street
Schenectady,New York 12305
July 14, 2004
Table of Contents
Introduction 1
Design Considerations 1
Deployment Options 2
Standalone Desktop Systems 3
Desktop Systems With Shared Resources 5
Web-Based Deployment 6
Recommended System 9
System Overview 10
GIS Resource Center 10
Non-GIS Data Storage 11
Web-Based Applications 11
Web-GIS Users 12
High-End Capabilities in the Water& Sewer Division 12
Technical Specifications for Hardware and Software 12
ArcInfo 12
Extensions for ArcInfo 13
GIS Workstations 13
ArcSDE 13
Data Server 13
ArcIMS 14
ArcIMS Server 14
ArcIMS End-User Computer 14
Conceptual Database Design 15
Data Layer Descriptions 15
Data Storage and Organization 23
Data Layer Naming 24
Coordinate Systems 24
Metadata 24
Backup 24
Personnel 25
Functional Roles 25
Number of GIS Staff Required 27
Essential Prerequisites 27
Summary 27
City of Ithaca GIS Plan - Conceptual System Design
Introduction
The Conceptual System Design is the framework on which Geographic Information Systems
(GIS)can be implemented within the City of Ithaca. It includes a recommended configuration
of GIS software, hardware, and data, along with the functional staffing roles needed to
support the proposed system.
A system design should address all four components of a GIS (i.e., hardware, software, data,
and personnel). Given the extensive range of options available for each of these components,
many different configurations can be used to structure a GIS within the City. By using
different combinations of components systems can be designed that vary widely in terms of
complexity, capability, administration requirements, and cost.
This document begins with a discussion of considerations used for establishing the proposed
system design, followed by an overview of three general deployment schemes, and concludes
with a description of the recommended conceptual system design.
Design Considerations
Given the wide range of options for configuring a GIS, guidelines need to be established to
evaluate these different approaches and determine a design well suited to meet the City's
requirements. Taking into consideration the findings of the Needs Assessment,the following
criteria have been used to develop the recommended conceptual system design:
Application Support—The system design must be capable of supporting the high
priority GIS applications identified in the Needs Assessment in terms of functional
capability of the software, user access, and system administration. Other requirements
include:
• broad access throughout the organization;
• user-friendly interface whenever possible to minimize the required level of
expertise to use GIS;
• data development and ongoing maintenance to support many department
requirements for current data layers; and
• shared data access with controls to ensure data integrity and security.
Organizational Fit—One of the keys to successful GIS implementation is to design a
system well suited to the organizational environment in which it will be used. This
includes compatibility with existing computer infrastructure, staff resources, and
organizational structure and priorities.
Cost—System costs must be within a reasonable range based on potential funding
sources both within the City and through grants and other opportunities. Initial startup
costs as well as ongoing maintenance, support, and expansion costs should be
considered.
Applied GIS, Inc. 1
City of Ithaca GIS Plan - Conceptual System Design
Expansion —The system should allow for future expansion in terms of increased
system capabilities, addition of new GIS applications, and an increase in the number
of users.
A system design based on these guidelines will provide the City of Ithaca with a realistic
approach to implementing GIS technology in a timely manner and within the anticipated
budget. The proposed system is also intended to provide tangible short-term benefits while
supporting continued expansion in the future.
Deployment Options
An extensive range of options are available that can be used to structure a municipal-wide
GIS. By using different combinations of these GIS components, systems can be designed that
vary widely in terms of complexity, capability, and cost. There are advantages and
disadvantages of each of these approaches.
While it is not practical to evaluate all possible options, the following three general
approaches are presented as a means of illustrating the relative advantages and disadvantages
of different design options:
• Standalone Desktop Systems
• Desktop Systems with Shared Resources
• Web-Based Deployment
These 3 deployment options are meant to provide an overview of different general approaches
that can be taken and are presented in terms of the City's specific circumstance. One of these
general deployment schemes will be selected as the general model from which to structure the
City's GIS.
Applied GIS, Inc. 2
City of Ithaca GIS Plan - Conceptual System Design
Standalone Desktop Systems
Using this approach, full-functioned desktop GIS software would be installed on at least one
computer in each of the departments requiring access to this technology. These departments
would have access to a GIS, but each system would be independent of one another.
Department staff would access GIS directly from the computer on which this software is
located. Data sets and any custom programs would be duplicated on each of the GIS
computers to support specific department applications. All system administration duties, such
as backup and archiving, would be the responsibility of the individual departments.
This model is a viable option in situations where there is no organization-wide computer
network, although some departments may use small local area networks. The following page
contains an illustration of this deployment scheme.
Planning Department Water& Sewer Division
IN [El ( I 0
[One designated GIS workstation [One designated GIS workstation
with software,data,and a trained with software,data,and a trained
user.] user.]
Fire Department Streets & Facilities Division
[El _
[One designated GIS workstation [One designated GIS workstation
with software,data,and a trained with software,data,and a trained
user.] user.]
Police Department Engineering Department
El
-
[One designated GIS workstation [One designated GIS workstation
with software,data,and a trained with software,data,and a trained
user.] user.]
Other City Departments
t Q ` _
[One designated GIS workstation
with software,data,and a trained
user.]
Applied GIS, Inc. 3
City of Ithaca GIS Plan - Conceptual System Design
The primary advantages of this approach are that it would require little change to an
organization's existing computer configuration, the relative ease in which it can be
implemented, and the high degree of functionality it will support. However, there are many
disadvantages to this approach including: the level of technical expertise required in each
department; the required redundancy of data and custom software; and significant data
sharing and maintenance limitations. The following is a more detailed listing of advantages
and disadvantages of this deployment option.
Advantages
Level of Functionality - A high level of GIS functionality would be supported.
Compatible with Current Computer Configuration - Requires little or no change to an
organization's current computer systems configuration.
Data Access and Control -Easy access to data and a high level of departmental
control. Each department can edit their own specialized data sets.
Greater Expertise Present at the Department Level—A greater level of technical expertise
is required to effectively operate desktop GIS software. As a result, departments will have
staff with a higher degree of GIS capability and understanding. This can also be viewed
as a disadvantage given the higher degree of expertise demanded of department staff.
Disadvantages
Data Redundancy — Duplicate copies of GIS data layers will be required within each
department.
Data Management - Managing data updates and ensuring all departments have access
to the latest versions of data will be difficult.
Multiple Copies of Local Software—Software and custom applications will need to be
installed and maintained on each department PC using the GIS.
Software Management—New versions of GIS software, bug fixes, utilities, etc. will
have to be installed separately on the GIS workstations in each department.
Computer Processing Power - Requires moderate to high computer resources in terms
of processor speed, memory, disk space, etc.
Training and Technical Expertise Requirements — A higher level of training and
expertise will be required to operate the GIS system in each department.
Higher Cost Per Seat — Software licenses and custom applications will need to be
purchased and maintained on each department PC using a GIS.
Redundant Peripherals - Each department may need to purchase additional peripheral
equipment (e.g., scanners, digitizers).
Redundant Backup - Backup procedures will be needed for each department.
Applied GIS, Inc. 4
City of Ithaca GIS Plan - Conceptual System Design
Desktop Systems With Shared Resources
As with the previous approach, desktop GIS software would be installed on at least one
computer in each department requiring access to this technology. However, GIS data layers
would be stored on a centralized file server rather than locally on each user's PC. GIS users
would then have shared access to these data via the organization's LAN. Some peripheral
equipment such as printers could also be shared and accessed by users over the computer
network. Staff resources would also be dedicated to supporting some of the organization's
GIS functions (e.g., data development, technical support, special projects, etc.).
This model is a viable option in situations where a high performance LAN is in place and an
organization has technical staff resources available to support GIS in this environment. The
following page contains an illustration of this deployment scheme.
Department GIS Workstation
LAN
Centralized GIS Resources
LAN ®� Dedicated GIS Staff LAN
I PC Workstation With 147-_ .
Department GIS Workstation Desktop GIS Software Department GIS Workstation
r
Master
Repository of
GIS
Data Layers
LAN LAN-
14 7:-I ` Lam' I•
Department GIS Workstation Large Format Color Printer Department GIS Workstation
LAN
Department GIS Workstation
Applied GIS, Inc. 5
City of Ithaca GIS Plan - Conceptual System Design
This is a much more efficient approach to GIS deployment than having multiple standalone
systems with redundant data sets, custom applications, etc. This deployment addresses in part
many of the disadvantages noted with the previously described"Standalone Desktop
Systems" deployment configuration.
The most significant disadvantage to this approach is the cost associated with a dedicated staff
resource, purchasing and installing equipment (e.g., a GIS server and peripheral equipment),
and the level of expertise required to use and administer the system. The following is a more
detailed listing of advantages and disadvantages of this deployment option.
Advantages
Centralized Data Storage — Data sets can be stored in one location (on a network
drive) allowing for easy and consistent access for all department users. Most or all
data can be stored on the GIS server and not on department computers.
Data Updates—Upgrades to data can be made in one central location.
Shared Peripheral Equipment—Costs can be reduced by sharing peripheral equipment
located in the GIS Unit.
Greater Flexibility for Software Selection - The local departments will not require
editing and data creation capability, allowing selection of less expensive desktop
software.
Centralized Backup—Data and software can be backed-up from one location (i.e., the
GIS server).
Increased Technical Expertise—Staff dedicated to working with GIS would be able to
developed a greater level of technical expertise than the more"casual" GIS users
within a department.
Lower Technical Requirements for End-Users—Having staff dedicated to supporting
an organization's GIS would reduce the level of expertise required by the end-user to
perform tasks such as data development and advanced analysis.
Disadvantages
Cost—There are higher costs associated with the equipment and staff resources called
for with this deployment option.
Multiple Copies of Local Software—Software and custom applications will need to be
installed and maintained on each department PC using GIS.
Dependency on Network Connection - Access to data terminates if the network fails,
and system performance may be impacted by the speed of the network connection.
Computer Processing Power—End-users within each department require moderate to
high computer resources in terms of processor speed, memory, disk space, etc.
Web-Based Deployment
This approach uses the Internet or a local intranet as a means of centralizing GIS resources
and distributing GIS technology to designated end-users. GIS software, data, and custom
applications would reside on a web server. GIS capabilities would then be available to any
user with a standard web browser(e.g., Netscape or Internet Explorer) who is able to connect
Applied GIS, Inc. 6
City of Ithaca GIS Plan - Conceptual System Design
to the Internet or local intranet. No local GIS software or data would need to be installed on
the users' computers.
If implemented using the Internet, the organization's GIS could be made available to anyone
on the Worldwide Web (WWW). If implemented via a local intranet, access would be limited
to only those computers physically connected to the organization's computer network (e.g.,
department staff). In both of these environments, tools are available to control access to the
GIS application and/or specific data layers.
This model is well suited for organizations needing to provide broad access to GIS technology
and that have high speed Internet access, even if they do not have a LAN in place. The
following page contains an illustration of this deployment scheme.
Desktop PC (Desktop PC
With Web Browser Software With Web Browser Software
Desktop C e+
With Web Browser Software GIS Web Server
-� Internet or Local Intranet
GIs
Data Layers
RI
Desktop PC
With Web Browser Software
Q Q
I
Desktop PC Desktop PC
With Web Browser Software With Web Browser Software
Applied GIS, Inc. 7
City of Ithaca GIS Plan - Conceptual System Design
The primary benefits of this deployment strategy are: centralized management of GIS
resources,reduced technical demands on the end-users, and very low per-user costs. The
main disadvantages of this approach are greater technical demands for system administration,
and limitations regarding currently supported GIS functionality and system performance. The
following is a more detailed listing of advantages and disadvantages of this deployment
option.
Advantages
Broad Deployment Potential—GIS technology can be provided to a virtually
unlimited number of users. Access can also be limited with password protection and
other techniques.
Very Cost Effective for a Large Number of Users—This is by far the least expensive
option for deploying GIS to a large user base (e.g., over 20 users).
Centralized Administration—Data and software are centrally stored, facilitating the
ongoing administrative processes such as updates, backup, etc.
Access and Expansion Flexibility —Allows for access from any site with Internet
access, and can be easily expanded to support additional users.
User Friendly Interface -Web browsers offer a relatively easy and user-friendly
interface with GIS.
No Local Installation of GIS Software Required—Only a standard web browser and
Internet connect are required for access.
Minimal End-User Computer Requirements—Computer processing power, RAM, and
disk space requirements are minimal.
Technology Direction—This type of internet-based model is emerging as a clear trend
for deploying GIS as well as other software.
Disadvantages
Evolving Technology - GIS technology on the Internet is somewhat complex and
changing rapidly.
Required Expertise—A higher level of expertise (as compared with the other
deployment options)is required to administer the GIS web server in terms of data
maintenance, application development, and internet GIS software maintenance.
Performance—If deployed over the Internet, system performance will be limited by a
number of factors including the Internet connection speed. Data transfer speed on a
typical Internet connection is much lower than that of a typical LAN (local area
network). Although slower, the performance of Internet GIS is generally acceptable
for most user applications.
Limited Functionality—Web-based GIS does not currently support the full range of
capabilities standard to desktop GIS. Specific functional limitations include data
development and output.
Cost of Initial System Setup - Significant costs (approximately$15,000— $25,000) for
purchasing a web server and web-based GIS software.
Dependency on Internet Connection - Access to software and data terminates if the
Internet connection is not available.
Applied GIS, Inc. 8
City of Ithaca GIS Plan - Conceptual System Design
Recommended System
After evaluating these options, the City of Ithaca intends to pursue a deployment scheme
based on a combination of web-enabled and desktop GIS technology. This deployment
scheme is illustrated below followed by a description of the major system components.
STS kesource center t
rii ..._____ I
1 GIS Workstations L -"D GIS Staff
Desktop GIS Software ArcSDE
Large Format (Arclnfo w/extensions) 1.771 I
Color Potter
SQL
MaL:1-- Sr ter IS b:; L:
Large Format
Flatbed Scanner 0 tizo Data ION
Repository triM,til raoar000--_,
GPs
Dig Bing raoe '.------------' Data Server GIS Web Server
System Backup (ArcIMS)
ti C.
IthacaMaps V2 1
s? " ______
3 y v. Internal Access Only Via
w Other Ci
aN off' thelntranet I51
\\// Connection to
Data Data
Repository Via
I ArcSDE
SQL
City Departments Water&Sewer Division Servers
0 0
r r IthacaMaps V2
Low-End PCs CrniEt Public Access via the
With Web Browsers GIS Workstations Internet
Desktop GIS Software
(Arclnfo w/extensions) GIS Staff
irli
t r The General Public
Large Format �I�Ig'TaCle GPS Scanner
Color Plotter ❑ Q
r=I MLA
Low-End PCs
With Web Browsers
l r
Field Access
Uand/or 2
PDA or GPS wlArcPad Laptop or Pen•Based Computer
mlArcView or Custom App
Applied GIS, Inc. 9
City of Ithaca GIS Plan - Conceptual System Design
System Overview
The recommended system uses web-enabled GIS as the primary means of deploying
this technology to city staff and the general public. City staff would access one or
more custom applications over the local intranet while the general public would access
a separate application via the Internet. More advanced desktop GIS software would be
used in the Water& Sewer Division of the Department and Public Works and in the
GIS Resource Center. The function of GIS Resource Center will be to provide
citywide support and coordination services for GIS. The final major aspect of the
recommended system is a master data repository providing for the centralized storage,
access, and management of the City's GIS data layers.
Additional details on each of these elements are provided below.
GIS Resource Center
The recommended deployment scheme is based on the concept of a GIS Resource
Center. The Resource Center can be viewed as a virtual GIS department serving as the
focal point of the City's GIS. The primary mission of the Resource Center will be to
provide GIS support and coordination functions for the city as a whole. Specific areas
of responsibility for Resource Center staff will include:
• Serving as the primary point of contact for the City's GIS.
• Coordinating citywide GIS initiatives such as development and enhancement
of web-based GIS applications.
• Development and maintenance of all GIS data layers other than those
developed and maintained by the Water& Sewer Division.
• Administration of the City's web-based GIS applications.
• Providing technical support for web-based GIS applications.
• Providing and/or coordinating all required GIS training.
• Serving as a GIS service bureau to provide ad hoc and project specific
support to city departments on an as-needed basis.
• Recommending system expansion and enhancement initiatives.
The four main components of the GIS Resource Center are as follows:
Dedicated Staff
At least one full-time individual must be assigned to the management and
operation of the Resource Center. This individual should have a significant
degree of technical expertise as needed to work with ArcGIS or Info, ArcIMS,
and ArcSDE along with non-technical skills (e.g., project management) in
support of the Resource Center's other areas of responsibility. A second full
time staff person is required to provide the level of service and data
development required to complete this plan (see Personnel section).
Master Data Repository
A Master Data Repository of the City's GIS data layers will be stored within a
relational database management system (SQL Server) using ESRI'S ArcSDE
Applied GIS, Inc. 10
City of Ithaca GIS Plan - Conceptual System Design
product. ArcSDE is middleware that allows for the storage of spatial data in a
RDBMS. ArcSDE manages the interaction between the ESRI GIS software
products (e.g., ArcView, ArcIMS, etc.) and the RDBMS. Key advantages of
ArcSDE include centralized data storage, improved performance, and multi-
user and multi-application read/write access.
Additional information on the Master Data Repository is included in the
"Conceptual Database Design" section of this report.
Desktop GIS Resources
One or more high-end PCs will be used as GIS workstations running full-
functioned ArcInfo GIS software with selected extensions such as
SpatialAnalyst. A digitizing tablet, large format color printer, and other
peripherals will be attached to this PC as needed. GIS data layers will be
accessed from the Master Data Repository via ArcSDE.
The GIS workstation(s) is intended to use to satisfy those tasks not addressed
through the ArcIMS applications such as data development, ad hoc and
advanced analysis, and the production of high quality, large format
cartographic output.
Web-Enabled GIS Resources
A server-class computer running ArcIMS software will also be housed within
the GIS Resource Center. ArcIMS is used for deploying GIS applications via
the Internet or local intranet. A custom application will be available for use by
city staff and a separate application will be made available for the general
public. GIS data used by the ArcIMS applications will be stored in the Master
Data Repository.
Non-GIS Data Storage
Other non-GIS data stored in the City's SQL Server enterprise database would be
accessed as needed via a database "relate". This "relate" would be based on a common
field (e.g., parcel id, meter number, address, etc.) found both in the GIS data layer and
enterprise database table. Once the "relate" is established, information in the enterprise
database would be available through the ArcIMS applications and desktop GIS
software.
Web-Based Applications
Initially, two new web-based GIS applications will be developed and hosted on the
ArcIMS server. Both of these applications will expand upon the functionality available
in the City's current IthacaMaps application used by city staff and the general public.
City Staff Application
One application will be developed for use by city staff and accessed over a
local intranet running on the City's LAN and/or high-speed WAN. This
application will offer access to key GIS data layers and will include a set of
high priority functionality.
Applied GIS, Inc. 11
City of Ithaca GIS Plan - Conceptual System Design
Public Access Application
A separate version of this application will be made available to the general
public. This version will not include any restricted-use data and will also have
a reduced number of functions consistent with a user-friendly public access
web site.
These applications will be designed based on a thin client architecture to optimize
performance while minimizing end-user PC requirements. Additional details on the
architecture and functionality of these applications are included in the Implementation
Plan Report.
Web-GIS Users
Access to web-based GIS applications will be available to city staff as well as the
general public via a standard web browser(e.g., Netscape or Internet Explorer). No
GIS software would be required on the end-users PC, eliminating the need for high-
end computer processors. The relatively intuitive nature of these web-based
applications will also minimize, or in the case of the general public, eliminate the
requirement of end-user training.
The earlier discussion on the "Web-Based Deployment" option contains a full
description of this approach along with its advantages and disadvantages.
High-End Capabilities in the Water & Sewer Division
As discussed in the Needs Assessment Report, the Water and Sewer Division of the
Department of Public Works is already an advanced user of GIS technology. This
division currently has extensive GIS software (e.g., ArcInfo,etc.) and hardware (PC
workstations, printers, etc.) along with several staff members possessing a high degree
of technical expertise. Priorities of this division include ongoing data development and
maintenance, and more distributed access to existing GIS data in both the office and
the field.
It is recommended that Water& Sewer continue to leverage these GIS resources as
part of the City's overall GIS initiatives. The Water and Sewer Division and the
Resource Center will engage in a cooperative relationship, which enables the sharing
of equipment, expertise and other resources on an as-needed and agreed- upon basis.
Technical Specifications for Hardware and Software
This section contains a description of the specifications for the hardware and software
components of the recommended system configuration.
Arclnfo
ArcInfo is high-end GIS software and is the most powerful of ESRI's three ArcGIS
desktop products (i.e., ArcView, ArcEditor, and ArcInfo). This product is intended for
use by training GIS professionals with a strong background in the use of this
technology. It includes nearly 3,000 GIS functions and operations, many of which are
not available in other ESRI software products. ArcInfo is particularly powerful in
Applied GIS, Inc. 12
City of Ithaca GIS Plan - Conceptual System Design
advanced data creation and editing, high-end cartography, sophisticated geographic
analysis, and in representing complex spatial feature types.
This product is recommended for use in the GIS Resource Center and in the Water&
Sewer Division of DPW.
Extensions for Arclnfo
A number of add-on products are available to expand the base functionality included
in ArcInfo. These "extensions" included tools to process raster imagery, conduct 3D
visualizations, geocode data, real-time tracking of GPS coordinates, etc. Selected
Extensions should be acquired as needed for use by staff in the GIS Resource Center
and Water& Sewer Division.
GIS Workstations
ArcInfo should be installed on a GIS workstation. Detailed system requirements for
this computer are listed on the ESRI web site (www.esri.com). The following is
summary of the recommended specifications:
Pentium 4 class PC or higher
Windows 2000,Windows NT, or Windows XP
1 GB RAM or greater
128 MB VGA or DVUVGA, 3D, dual monitor
compatible graphics card/256 for SpatialAnalyst
80 GB (or larger) high speed hard drive
❑: 19"color flat panel monitor with min. 1280x 1024
resolution
Desktop GIS Workstation CD-ROM read/write drive or
DVD read/write
Floppy Drive
Network Card
ArcSDE
The standard dual CPU license for ArcSDE should be sufficient to meet the City's
requirements.
Data Server
The specifications for the data server should be established based on the requirements
of the underlying RDBMS (e.g., SQL Server) on which ArcSDE will run. ArcSDE
requires 40 to 160 MB of hard disk space for installation with additional memory
estimated at 100 kb to 40 MB per ArcSDE connection.
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ArcIMS
ArcIMS is web-enabled GIS software used to deploy GIS applications over the
Internet or a local intranet. ArcIMS provides the "engine" to perform spatial display,
query and analysis; however, the graphics and interaction with the end user is done via
HTML or Java documents served through a standard web browser(e.g., Internet
Explorer or Netscape).
ArcIMS version 4.0.1 (or greater) must reside on a server-class computer that also has
web-serving software. In addition to ArcIMS, the software listed below must be
installed on the server. This additional required software will vary depending on
whether a Windows 2003 Server or Windows 2000 Server operating system is used.
Windows 2000 Server Windows 2003 Server
• Microsoft IIS 5.0 • Microsoft IIS 6.0
• Java Runtime Engine • Java Runtime Engine
(JRE) 1.4.0 or higher (JRE) 1.4.0 or higher
• ServletExec 4.2 • ServletExec 4.2
Detailed system requirements for ArcIMS are listed on the ESRI web site
(www.esri.corn).
ArcIMS Server
ArcIMS should be installed on a server-class computer as described below.
Single processor Pentium Xeon, 2GHz server class
computer(or faster)
rr.„ --'1. 0
Windows 2000 or 2003 Server
2 gigabyte of RAM or greater
-'- 80 gigabyte or larger high speed hard drive
1,A,Vit i
Network card
CD-ROM read/write drive
a
Floppy drive
Monitor(oversized not required)
Web Server
Additional details regarding ArcIMS are listed on the ESRI web site (www.esri.com).
ArcIMS End-User Computer
The thin client nature of the proposed ArcIMS applications (for use by both city staff
and general public)require a PC with only a minimal set of system specifications
including the following:
• Internet access (high speed recommended for city staff)
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• Standard web browser(Internet Explorer of Netscape are recommended)
• Computer monitor capable of displaying images at a resolution of 1024 X
768 pixels or higher.
Conceptual Database Design
The conceptual database design contains important information on the content, structure, and
organization of the data layers to be included in the City's GIS. This material is presented in
2 sections: a listing of GIS data layers along with key characteristics, and recommendations
for the storage and management of these data.
Data Layer Descriptions
The following table provides a detailed description of each of the required data layers
identified in the Needs Assessment. The following information has been compiled for
each of these layers:
Layer Description: A short description of each data layer.
Feature Type: The geographic feature type used to represent the layer. The following
codes are used:
LINE —line
POINT—point
POLY—polygon
RAS —raster, image
MIXED—Mixed/Geodatabase
Creation Method: The likely method for integrating the layer into the GIS. The
following codes are used:
EX -Existing with minor alterations or no alterations needed
QA/QC -Existing data layer but needs quality control
MOD - Requires update or major modification/completion
NEW-New layer
DIGITIZE - Needs to developed via digitizing, scanning, or conversion from
other formats
GEOCODE - Geocoded as point locations (typically based on address).
Potential Source(s): Organization(s) from which the source data can be acquired.
This is not intended to be an exhaustive list, but rather one or more potential data
sources to be used as a starting point.
Estimated File Size: The estimated storage size in megabytes (MB).
Key Attributes: Important attributes to be included with the data layers.
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These layers are grouped into three categories, as described below. The categories are
intended to help organize and prioritize the layers based on importance to the identified
applications and data availability.
Priority A: Layers that are essential to provide base level functionality to high priority
and other applications.
Priority B: Layers significant to numerous applications but may require data
development, and/or layers that may not be essential, but will benefit the City due to
the low level of effort/cost associated with acquiring these readily available datasets.
Priority C: Layers not critical to a significant number of applications and/or are
requiring a significant level of data development effort or cost.
Data Feature Creation Potential Est.
Layer Description Size Key Attributes
Category Type Method Source (MB)
PRIORITY A
Sidewalks Reference LINE QA/QC/MOD City 10 none
Layer
City-owned lands Reference POLY EX City 0.1 parcel ID, acquisition
Layer info, acres, status
*Tax Parcels (Property I
parcel ID, location,
boundary, ownership and billing Reference
EX County 6 parcel owner(s), owner
address, value, use and other Layer
address, use, value
assessment data)
Road Names Reference EX City 2 annotation layer
Layer
Roads/ ROWs Reference LINE EX City 4 visual layer
Layer
Curbs/Curb cuts Reference LINE QA/QC/MOD City 6 visual layer
Layer
Reference building name, building
Building footprints Layer POLY EX/MOD City 6 characteristics-See
Buildings in Priority C
Waterways Reference POLY EX County 0.1 visual layer
Layer
Municipal and other political Reference POLY EX County 0.1 name
boundaries Layer
Property photos-address and Tax Parcel EX/QA/QC County 120 parcel ID
geographic Assessment
parcel or building or
Property address and Reference occupancy level known
occupancy data Layer MIXED NEW City/IFD 3 as address, address
applied to field,
dispatched as address
Aerial photography Reference RAS EX City& NYS 2600
Layer
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Data Feature Creation Potential Est.
Layer Description Size Key Attributes
Category Type Method Source
(MB)
Parks Reference POLY EX City 0.1 name, area, amenities
Layer
*Regulatory districts or areas of
concern (Historic districts, Fire Zoning/Reg
Limit areas, RPPS streets and Boundary POLY EX/MOD City 1 type of regulation, area
RPPS zone, Fall Creek
Recreation Area, BID
Zoning districts incl CPOZ, and Zoning/Reg POLY EX/MOD City 0.5 zone, area
Gorge Protection Zones Boundary
Primary and Secondary Zoning/Reg LINE EX/MOD City 0.1 zone
Commons Area, Boundary
Floodway zones (FEMA Zoning/Reg POLY EX FEMA 0.1 zone, area
boundary) Boundary
Ward and County legislative Political/ district, rep. name,
district boundary; County/City Jurisdictional POLY EX City/County 0.1 polling location(s)
voting districts Bounds
Political/
City polling places Jurisdictional POINT EX City 0.1 polling location, district
Bounds
Hydrant(locations, attributes, Infrast./Util./ hydrant IDs, system,
flow)- CITY Amenities POINT EX City 0.25 year set,type, pressure,
depth, size etc
Water distribution and treatment Infrast./Util./ MIXED EX City 27
system -see layers below Amenities Geodatabase
Mains LINE EX unique#
service ID,subtype
Service LINE EX (corp, curb box, stub,
Laterals valve corp)and
attributes of each type
Service ID, SubType
(fireline, line to house,
Service POINT EX line from main,
Valves
extension) and attributes
of each type
type (bend, reducer,T)
Fittings POINT EX and attributes of each
type
Tank POINT EX
Valves POINT EX Type and attributes of
each type
SEE ALSO "HYDRANTS" Hydrants-City/ POINT EX Field 0.25 Hydrant ID, Fire ID, test
ABOVE Hydrant valve results/valve attributes
Storm water system and
maintenance data (tanks, Infrast./Util./ MIXED/Ge NEW/MOD Field 20 IDs, type, year set,
pumps, pipes, manholes,catch Amenities odatabase maintenance activity
basins, etc)
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Data Feature Creation Potential Est.
Layer Description Category Type Method Source Size Key Attributes
(MB)
Waste water system mains Infrast./Util./ MIXED/Ge
manholes, cleanouts, service Amenities odatabase NEW/MOD City 25 IDs,type, year set
lines, services etc)
PRIORITY B
name,jurisdiction, type,
Infrast./Util./ width, speed traffic
Street attribute data Amenities LINE QA/QC/MOD City/County 3 control device, address
range (for geocoding),
number of lanes
Hydrant (locations, attributes, Infrast./Util./ POINT EX Field 0.5 hydrant ID, Fire ID,test
flow) -TOWN Amenities results
Construction drawings/floor IFD/IPD/Engin
plans Building RAS COMPILE eering/Plannin 100
g/BD
Demog. & Police location, date,type,
Crime incidents Service POINT GEOCODE Reports/SJS 2 charges, arrests etc.
Delivery
Residential Parking Permit Parking/ LINE DIGITIZE City 0.1 date, street name
System streets (RPPS) Traffic
Traffic count data (date,time,
data limitations, peak hour, Parking/ POINT DIGITIZE Field/JMAR 1 5 type, volume, collection
average daily, volume,weight, Traffic Reports date and method
etc.)
*On street parking regulations: Parking/ regulation, date
location, restrictions, loading Traffic LINE QA/QC/MOD City/Field 1 changed, last date
zones etc. checked
Parking meters (location, Parking/ POINT FIELD/GPS Field 1 type, restriction
restrictions etc.) Traffic
Signs and sign data Parking/ POINT FIELD/GPS Field 5 type, date installed, date
Traffic changed, size, content
Traffic incident/accidents Parking/ POINT FIELD/GPS City 2 location, date, type,
Traffic charges, injuries
Government operational sites Emergency
(emergency command center Management/I POINT NEW City 0.1 facility
(EOC), equipment yards Fire
Stations, Police Station nfrastructure
Emergency
Knox boxes Management POINT NEW Field 0.25 address, ID, note
type of materials,
Hazardous materials storage Emergency POINT NEW Scan/Enter 0.25 quantity, hazard
data Management category
Fire alarm circuits Emergency LINE EX/MOD Field 0.1 circuit number, over or
Management under ground
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Data Feature Creation Potential Est.
Layer Description Category Type Method Source Size Key Attributes
(MB)
Fire alarm connection boxes Emergency box ID,circuit number,
and attributes Management POINT EX City 0.1 type, address/building
name/master or pull box
Fire alarm "drop lines" Emergency POINT EX City 0.1 circuit number, box ID,
Management type of connection, note
Emergency contact lists Emergency POINT LINK TO City 1 contact person, parcel
(Owner, manager, by property, Management GEOGRAPHY y ID, address, note
address, building and tenant)
Fire incident data (address Demog. & incident ID, date, code,
based or location based Service POINT GEOCODE City 7 response time(s)
incident sites) Delivery
Locations of shut-off valves Emergency
(electric, gas, NYSEG data, Management POINT GEOCODE City/NYSEG 0.1 type, location, note
etc.)
Env. Mgmt/
Topography Physical POLY EX County 5 elevation
Features
Water services and Infrast./Util./ service ID,system,
characteristics -see also water POINT EX City 7 ownership,size,
system in Priority A Amenities material, age
Water meters and meter Infrast./Util./ POINT/ EX Cit y 0.1 type, ID, address/zone
reading zones Amenities POLY name, staff name
Service routes(snow, trash) Infrast./Util./ NEW Digitize 0.1 route name, pick up day
Amenities
building name,
Historic landmarks (designated) Tax Parcel POINT EX City 0.1 designation type,
designation date
Hydrography(Small and large Infrast./Util./ type, watershed name,
waterways) Amenities LINE EX County 5 DEC ID
ID, genus/species, size,
Tree data Infrast./Util./ POINT EX City 7 condition, overhead
Amenities wires, inv date,type of
planting site
Census Data(block, block Demog. & block/block
group and neighborhood) Service POLY EX City/Census 60 group/neighborhood,
Delivery count
*Community facilities (schools, Demog. & Compile/
day care, parks...) Service POINT GEOCODE Geocode 0.1 type, name
Delivery
Env. Mgmt/
Unique natural areas Physical POLY EX County 0.1 name, area
Features
PRIORITY C
Env. Mgmt/
Satellite Imagery Physical RAS EX Purchase 200
Features
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Data Feature Creation Potential Est.
Layer Description Category Type Method Source Size Key Attributes
(MB)
Utilities (electric, gas, conduit,
traffic light wiring and Infrast./Util./ LINE Field/NYSEG/ 5 type, note
connections, computer network, Amenities Digitize
access panels) DIGITIZE
Jurisdiction boundaries- Fire, Political/
street repair, state lands etc Jurisdictional POLY NEW DIGITIZE 0.1 type, name
Bounds
type, location, note
Building utilities and shutoffs Building POINT NEW City/NYSEG 0.1
building name, building
Building/ ID,foundation type, roof
Building characteristics Emergency POLY QA/QC/MOD City 5 type, smoke
detection/fire
Management suppression system,
alarm
Site plan, survey or map prints Tax Parcel RAS compile City/County/Pr 50
of property ivate sector
Standin i e Emergency POINT GEOCODE/ Field 0.1 note
g p p Management GPS
Projects and
Planned sidewalk replacements Work Order LINE City 0.2
Management
Zoning violations Complaints/ POINT GEOCODE City 1 address, violation
Violations
Building violations Complaints/ POINT GEOCODE City 1 address, violation
Violations
Housing violations Complaints/ POINT GEOCODE City 1 address, violation
Violations
Exterior property maintenance Complaints/ address,type,
complaints, inspections, Violations POINT GEOCODE City 2 description
violations and tickets
*Complaints (snow removal, Complaints/
noise, potholes,trash pick-up, Violations POINT GEOCODE City 1 type, complaint
sidewalks, etc.)
GIAC program participant data Demog. & name, address, program
(program, residence location, Service POINT GEOCODE City 2 information
age, etc.) Delivery
Youth Bureau program Demog. & name, address, program
participant data (program, Service POINT GEOCODE City 6 information
residence location, age, , etc) Delivery
Youth Bureau van ridership Demog. &
data Service POINT GEOCODE City 0.1 name, address
Delivery
Dispatched incidents Emergency POINT GEOCODE City/County 2 address, type,
Management description
Vulnerable population locations Emergency POINT DIGITIZE City/County 0.1 address, population
Management type, note
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Data Feature Creation Potential Est.
Layer Description Size Key Attributes
Category Type Method Source
(MB)
Emergency supplier locations Emergency POINT GEOCODE Verizon/IFD/ 0 1 address, supply
Management DPW category, contact info _
Emergency shelters Emergency POINT GEOCODE City/County 0.1 address, capacity,
Management contact info
Key locations/Grids with Emergency
coordinates (for disaster Management POINT DIGITIZE Field 0.1 location
response)
Emergency routes and Emergency LINE DIGITIZE City 0.1
street name, route
attributes Management name,jurisdiction
Employee and volunteer Emergency POINT GEOCODE City 0.25 address, department,
firefighter residences Management position, contact info
Env. Mgmt/
Watershed boundaries Physical POLY Ex County 0.1 watershed name
Features
*Riparian and stream features Env. Mgmt/
and conditions (discharge Physical POINT NEW Field 0.5 site type, note
points, erosion sites) Features
Env. Mgmt/
Soil type and permeability Physical POLY EX County 6 soil type
Features
Env. Mgmt/ NYS Aerial
Vegetation Physical POLY NEW Photography U visual layer
Features
Env. Mgmt/
Land use/land cover Physical POLY EX County 10 type, description
Features
SCADA data on components Infrastructure/ component, reorder part
and processes including Utilities/ POINT DIGITIZE City 0.25 number, install date, end
component maintenance data Amenities date
Infrastructure/
Monitoring sites and their Utilities/ POINT DIGITIZE City 0.1 location ID,site
characteristics Amenities description
Monitoring visits, locations and Infrast./Util./
results: water quality, flow, Amenities POINT DIGITIZE City 0.1 location ID, results, date
sediment load
Shutoff-Notices (for non- Infrast./Util./ POINT GEOCODE City 0.1 address, owner, date
payment, kept in MUNIS) Amenities
Back flow prevention devices Infrast./Util./ POINT DIGITIZE Field 1 type, install date
Amenities
Water usage Infrast./Util./ POINT QA/QC/MOD City 2 quarter, usage, meter
Amenities number
Infrast./Util./ plot number, owner
Cemetery plots and burial data Amenities POLY DIGITIZE City 1 name, interned name,
internment date
Damage, event or repair data work order ID,
on breaks, leaks, Infrast./Util./ POINT EX City 3 address/location,
blockages/Water and Sewer Amenities complete?, date, acct#
Work Orders & name, description
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Data Feature Creation Potential Est.
Layer Description Category Type Method Source Size Key Attributes
(MB)
Road pavement segments, Infrast./Util./ LINE DIGITIZE City 3 section ID, repair date,
attributes and maintenance Amenities repair note
Bridges (location, configuration) Ameeni nties/Util./ LINE QA/QC/MOD County 0.1 bridge name,type, date
Am built,jurisdiction
Street lights Infrast./Util./ POINT QA/QC/MOD City 1 type
Amenities
Sidewalk inspections Inspection/ POINT DIGITIZE City 0.5 date, condition,
Permits replaced?
Plumbing permits and Inspection/ POINT GEOCODE City 0.5 permit number, date,
inspections Permits status, applicant
Housing inspections Inspection/ POINT GEOCODE City 2 date, status, applicant
Permits
Use and other permits Inspection/ POINT GEOCODE City 1 date, status, applicant
Permits
Fire inspections Inspection/ POINT GEOCODE City 2 date, status, applicant
Permits
Building permits (application, Inspection/ POINT GEOCODE City 3 date, status, applicant
issuance) Permits
Building inspections Inspection/ POINT GEOCODE City 2 date, status, applicant
Permits
Public bus routes (TCAT) Parking/ LINE DIGITIZE TCAD/City 0.1
Traffic
Detour routes Parking/ LINE DIGITIZE City/Private 0.1
Traffic sector
On-site parking areas and Parking/ address, area, approved
spaces (location, boundary, Traffic POLY DIGITIZE City 0.25 count, date
layout of property)
Traffic device data (location) Parking/ POINT GPS Field 0.1 device ID, device type,
Traffic note
Beat boundaries Projects&
(neighborhood, patrol car, Work Order POLY EX City 0.1 type
walking; other officer Mgmt
assignments)
Projects& type of work, date to
Geo-referenced work orders Work Order POINT DIGITIZE City 1 start, date completed,
Mgmt note
Planned or proposed project Projects & type of work, date to
data Work Order POLY DIGITIZE City 0.1 start, date completed,
Mgmt note
Proposed project boundary and Projects &
site drawings Work Order RAS NEW City 10 project name, dates
Mgmt
Abandoned or condemned Tax Parcel POINT GEOCODE City 0.1 parcel ID, status
properties
House sales data Tax Parcel POINT EX County 0.5 Parcel ID, sale date, sale
amount
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Data Feature Creation Potential Est.
Layer Description Size Key Attributes
Category Type Method Source
(MB)
parcel ID, owner,
Right-Of-Way(ROW) and easement date,
easements & related Tax Parcel RAS COMPILE City/County 5 reference to other
documents
documents
Property history of reviews,
inspections, complaints;
Property approvals such as site applicant, date applied,
plan, zoning variance, and Tax Parcel POINT GEOCODE City 20 type of application,
special permit including amount
of on-site parking and status, approved action
stipulations (address and
geographic)
Brownfields Zoning/Reg POLY DIGITIZE City/NYS 0.1 name, location, date
Boundary designated, status
* Data description may have been grouped since Preparation of Needs Assessment Report.
Unless otherwise noted,the geographic extent of all the above data layers is the City of Ithaca.
Data Storage and Organization
As described earlier in this report, a Master Data Repository should be used to store all of the
City's GIS data layers. Details on the characteristics of the Master Data Repository are
described below.
Format
A number of different options exist for the physical file format used to store the City's
GIS data. As described earlier, it is recommended that data be stored in a RDBMS
using ArcSDE. A Geodatabase format should be used and comprised of logical
groupings of GIS data layers into "feature data sets", "features classes", "rasters" (for
imagery), and "tables" (for no spatial data).
Organization and Access
The Master Data Repository must be structured to address several different sets of
user, each having their own access requirements. These include users of: web-based
GIS applications; desktop GIS (with read-only access); desktop GIS (with read/write
access); and possibly field-based GIS (with read-only or read/write access). In order to
accommodate these requirements, the City's GIS data should be organized into at least
2 schemas as indicated below. Access to these schemas would be controlled by user
account.
Production Schema
This schema would contain copies of each data layer in the geodatabase used
by the ArcIMS web-based applications, desktop GIS, or field-based users
requiring read-only access to this information.
Development Schema
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This schema would contain the master version of each data layer in the
geodatabase. When appropriate,certain data layers would be configured for
"versioning"to allow for multi-user editing and reconciliation. By using
"versioning", data layers can be "checked out" by an authorized user, edited,
and then checked back into to the Master Data Repository. The edited data
would then be reconciled with the original data to update the development
version.
Data Layer Naming
A standard scheme for naming GIS data sets should be established. This file naming
convention can be used to provide insight into the content of a GIS layer. The
convention should also ensure that each data layer is assigned a unique name, while
complying with any operating system or software limitations such as the maximum
allowable length of the name, or restrictions on special characters.
Coordinate Systems
The three main coordinate systems utilized within the New York State GIS
community are the Universal Transverse Mercator(UTM) system, State Plane, and
Latitude/Longitude. Most NYS counties and municipalities use state plane
coordinates, while the majority of NYS agencies utilize the UTM coordinate system,
expressed in meters, with an extended zone 18 (this version is also referred to as
NYTM).
It is recommended that all of the City's GIS data layers be stored in the New York
State Plane coordinate system, central zone, datum NAD 83, with units of US survey
feet.
Metadata
An approach for storing metadata should be established including a physical
mechanism for storing and accessing metadata, as well as standardization of the
metadata items to be documented.
It is recommended that the City use the capabilities available to store and manage
metadata directly with each data layer in the geodatabase. This will provide flexibility
to update, display,query, and output the metadata. In cases where the ESRI metadata
browser is not suitable an external metadata handler can be used.
The actual metadata content should include, at a minimum, information on the data
layer name, geographic extent, data source, scale of source material, geographic
feature type, coordinate system, update history, and attribute descriptions. The City
may also choose to adopt an existing metadata standard, such as that promoted by the
New York State GIS Coordination Program.
Backup
A backup procedure should be initiated to protect against data loss. All GIS data
layers should be backed up on a basis consistent with the rate at which the data are
changed. Backups should be stored on-site and at another off-site location, in case of
on-site loss by fire or other type of damage.
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Personnel
Personnel issues are often overlooked when designing a GIS. However, a system cannot be
successfully implemented without addressing this basic requirement. This section includes a
description of the functional roles required for the recommended system and the number of
staff required to fill these roles.
Functional Roles
City staff or other qualified personnel should fill each of the roles described here.
While these roles are meant to identify areas of responsibility that must be accounted
for, they do not correspond to the number of staff needed, given that individuals can
be assigned responsibility for more than one of these functional roles.
GIS Manager
This individual would be responsible for the overall operation of the City's GIS.
Specific duties would include: serving as the primary point of contact regarding any
issues relating to the GIS; coordinating and managing system developments; and
presenting and developing reports.
Required Expertise:
• Solid understanding of GIS fundamentals and the characteristics of all aspects
of the City's GIS
• General organizational and management skills
Potential Candidate(s):
• New position
• Existing city employee
System Administrator
This individual would be responsible for the overall operation of the web-enabled and
desktop GIS software. Specific duties include installation of new software and
upgrades to existing software; posting data updates; system security; and backup and
archive.
Required Expertise:
• Technical understanding of computer systems (hardware, software, etc.)
• Technical understanding of the administration of web services and Internet
mapping software (ArcIMS)
Potential Candidate(s):
• New position
• Existing city employee
Geodatabase Administrator
This individual would be responsible for the administration of the City's Master GIS
Data Repository. Specific duties include: loading of new and updated data; setting user
privileges; system tuning; and configuration of geodatabase layers (e.g., domains,
subtypes, data models, etc.).
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Required Expertise:
• Strong technical knowledge of ArcSDE
• Strong technical knowledge of enterprise geodatabases
Potential Candidate(s):
• New position
• Existing city employee
Desktop GIS Technician
This individual would be responsible for the use of the desktop GIS to perform data
development, data editing, advanced spatial analysis, and high-end cartographic map
production.
Required Expertise:
• Technical understanding of the end-user operation of the selected desktop GIS
software (e.g., ArcGIS, ArcEditor, or ArcInfo), knowledge of data layer
development, and cartographic skills.
Potential Candidate(s):
• New position
• Existing city employee
Technical Support and User Training
This individual would be responsible for providing assistance to end-users regarding
the use of the web-enabled and desktop GIS applications. This would include ad hoc
technical support and formal training for new users.
Required Expertise:
• Technical understanding of the web-enabled GIS application.
• Technical understanding on desktop GIS software.
Potential Candidate(s):
• New position
• Existing city employee
Application Developer
This individual would be responsible for creating programs to expand the functionality
of the web-enabled and desktop GIS software.
Required Expertise:
• Knowledge of programming fundamentals and proficiency in standard desktop
and Internet development languages (e.g., Visual Basic, C++, HTML, and Java
Script), and GIS-specific application languages (e.g., ArcObjects).
Potential Candidate(s):
• New position
• Existing city employee
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• GIS consultant
GIS (Data Development) Specialist
This individual or individuals would be responsible for developing new GIS data
layers using ArcGIS, ArcEditor or ArcInfo, updating existing layers, and maintaining
corresponding metadata. The individual is also familiar with field data collection and
GPS.
Required Expertise:
• Technical knowledge of the data creation and editing components of the
desktop GIS software and field data collection
Potential Candidate(s):
• New position
• Existing city employee
• Student intern (under the direction of qualified staff)
• GIS consultant
Number of GIS Staff Required
Many different approaches can be used to staff the City's GIS. At minimum, two full
time staff persons are needed for the plan to be implemented. It is understood that the
City has limited ability to dedicate staff resources to GIS operations; therefore it is
recommended that internal resources, now and on-goingly, be supplemented through
the use of GIS consultants and student interns.
These positions would perform essential duties. Therefore, if the City is unable to fund
two positions, progress in certain functional areas, particularly data development and
services would be impacted.
Essential Prerequisites
There are a number of essential prerequisites that must be in place to support the
recommended system design. These include:
• Completion of the upgrades to the City's WAN to provide all departments with high
speed network access and fulfillment of the anticipated gains in performance.
• The acquisition of SQL Server to be used as the database for the Master Data
Repository.
• Database Administrator(DBA) staff to support SQL Server.
• GIS staff resources as indicated in this report.
Without these prerequisites in place, the recommended system should not be pursued.
Summary
The material contained in this report presents a detailed conceptual framework from which the
City of Ithaca can implement an enterprise-wide GIS. This system will provide City staff and
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the general public with broad and powerful access to GIS technology, addressing a set of high
priority requirements as identified in the User Needs Assessment. The design in based on
state-of-the-art GIS technology from industry leader ESRI, Inc. and is structured to support
both current requirements and potential future expansion.
The subsequent Implementation Plan Report contains an in-depth strategy for moving forward
with this recommended conceptual system design.
Applied GIS, Inc. 28
CITY OF ITHACA
V'` If '': s 108 East Green Street— 3rd Floor Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
W;.:11
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
H. MATTHYS VAN COAT, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Po,
JOANN CORNISH, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development - 607-274-6550 Community Development/IURA - 607-274-6559
Email: planning @cityofithaca.org Email: iura @cityofithaca.org
Fax: 607-274-6558 Fax: 607-274-6558
TO: Planning, Neighborhoods and Economic Development Committee Members
FROM: JoAnn Cornish, Deputy Director of Planning and Development
SUBJECT: Grant Submission to the Environmental Protection Fund for the Ithaca
Children's Garden
DATE: July 15, 2004
The Ithaca Children's Garden is applying to the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation,
and Historic Preservation for a grant under the Environmental Protection Fund for a park
project to be located in Cass Park, a site located within the territorial jurisdiction of the City
of Ithaca Common Council.
The Ithaca Children's Garden Conceptual Master Plan and the Home Rule Request for
Enactment of a Special Law were previously endorsed by the City of Ithaca Common
Council. The State Environmental Quality Review Act was examined at the Conservation
Advisory Council June 10, 2002 meeting, and approved at the City of Ithaca Common
Council August 7, 2002 meeting. The Lease with the City of Ithaca was finalized and
approved on January 12, 2004.
The Ithaca Children's Garden (ICG) purpose is to establish a public garden that provides
innovative hands-on educational programs for youth of all ages, offers a teen horticulture
apprentice job-training program, enhances community attractions geared to families and
visitors, and sponsors engaging community events. Many of these programs have already
been successfully delivered and will be incorporated into the permanent public garden.
Many area community members, the Ithaca Children's Garden Board of Directors and
Advisors, national Youth Garden advisors, City of Ithaca Common Council, the NYS
Assembly and Senate have approved the location and conceptual design. Ongoing meetings
with Ithaca Children's Garden staff, City of Ithaca staff and committees, and the public are
anticipated during the pre-development phase of the project to finalize project plans.
The Ithaca Children's Garden seeks funds to construct Phase II of a unique public garden and
interpretive center in the City of Ithaca that will provide hands-on educational opportunities
for community members and visitors and increase park usage. Construction of Phase I is in
progress. Located at the southern end of Cass Park, the Ithaca Children 's Garden will
provide a highly visible, attractive entrance to the park with visually dramatic features such
"An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification." 0
as a spiral mound and waterfall, turtle mound sculpture, labyrinth and amphitheater. The
location of the Ithaca Children's Garden will also serve as a destination adjacent to both the
Finger Lakes State Park Black Diamond Trail and the City of Ithaca Cayuga Waterfront
Trail.
The Ithaca Children's Garden was able to match a previous grant within one year. The Ithaca
Children's Garden is prepared to match the state contribution to Phase II of the project with a
combination of corporate and private cash donations and in-kind services and private
foundation grants within one year of the grant award. Several private foundations have
supported the Ithaca Children's Garden since 1997. The Ithaca Children's Garden
Development Workgroup has identified several foundations, individuals, and corporations
that will participate in this project.
The Ithaca Children's Garden PHASE II will include several components of the Conceptual
Master Plan: Discovery Gardens (2), Amphitheater, Water Garden Feature and an
Interpretive Center for Classes and Office Space. The scope of work will include: the design
development and engineering, installation of drainage, water/sewer, electric, soil, grading,
landscaping,benches, signage and exhibits.
The grant request is for$335,000 toward the $670,000 Phase II of a total $1.4M project. The
Ithaca Children's Garden Inc. will be responsible for the $335,000 match. No money is being
requested from the City of Ithaca for this grant application.
A Resolution Authorizing a Grant Submission to the Environmental Protection Fund for
the Ithac Children's Garden, located in Cass Park in the City of Ithaca
WHEREAS, the New York State Department of State has announced the availability of grant
applications under the Environmental Protection Fund or Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act, and
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Children's Garden is applying to the New York State Office of Parks,
Recreation, and Historic Preservation for a grant under the Environmental Protection Fund for a
park project to be located in Cass Park, a site located within the territorial jurisdiction of the City
of Ithaca Common Council, and
WHEREAS, as a requirement under the rules of these programs, said not-for-profit corporation
must obtain the"approval/endorsement of the governing body of the municipality in which the
project will be located"; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Common Council of the City of Ithaca hereby does approve/endorse the
application of the Ithaca Children's Garden, Inc. for a grant under the Environmental Protection
Fund for a park project known as the Ithaca Children's Garden to be located in the southern end
of Cass Park in the City of Ithaca.
Q:\PLANNING\GROUPS\Planning,Neighborhood and Eco Dev Committee 2004\072104\ICG Grant Res.doc
Appendix D: Conceptual Garden Design
ChilAtli•,
Gan `
sl
'. 4Ib•y4- c'" ,
Ithaca Children's Qarden
1 , "Discover...Explore...&re te...Entoy " Elements oftheGa,den
,�� +„ •';
1 �' A Sapeethm pith beckons visitors to experience
, 1 zu,a -.. ..it.r. :-, .•CR. wonders around every bend. Made of brick and
« limestone dust,the accessible pathway
•-., < ?j • originates from the Amphitheater and meanders
. X c w .°� / f? I I k_) southward,Intersecting the Maln Entry,I he Spiral
1 .. y+ ja'1 Mound and two Overlooks. A Labyrinth and several
a i X:::�1•I I yl ° u, a,,- •'•f tom Discovery and Growing Oardens invite visitors off
t '�' - �t '..0Z;�''f>�a. the main ath to discover the plant world with all
jl .�jl E F P P
t i €6, c 4.''' 'a• jl - \`,',,,., ®a'l,s one's senses.
x s. f• x4 '' '4 Dr laa6eway
�s ,`r= ;°" I( �.• ICCa Offices and F tlunr(ic n Cetlte
` 'ac- "• u3•� �a The 2,000 square foot,eco•frlendly building will•s z, alrY-`-i' ,'a 1 fi: house administrative offices,education and
,( " z ,;,p• Locust �� `a meeting spaces. A plaza off the east side of the
7t 1 a 'dr, :' Curb [' building's Ideal for Informal gatherings and
L;.,fV ,fir �.I a°p° ' ;i; : cai`s �i.14.�
n outdoor will
h, r 5 6 = c,,, ,lit.. undoubted) become a ver xdm couunuull
pt
,� .. a, ;` f >'tr IST�.fE®rlEC ! y,.. y Y Iml Y
{ I ,1 i4l lint �{ enuaoa tic a i "n®' ,,-.. °; venue. The dreular stage provides a sdting for e
; I/S '' � 3 Isoo-y l , l l- ,e4�'ewe`f''t classes and lectures and also plays host to a wide f , eir l+' i � • ,{;' ;I t it E`11 y r '• 'A' 7 variety rm with performances, Enclosure provided
l� r"t'a! i 7 I( I i The Ithaca 'k Caterpillar a ao "f t �,� f by a berm with shrub plantings screens the area
r;t C, "� I from visual distractions as well as nearby noise.
s s: 1 1,1,0:1.4 a Children 5 ' S'roPiry' .. r an, ,0 , �Y
er . Gardeh 4` + d! hcd r r
s r,-..e'; i, F � Spiral M°"4"114 IA+aferfafi
-Ytr' t i± r'f on the :, kv.4 C'' a9 s +,� ;� A breathtaking sight as visitors enter the site,the
� 1 L- ;,.Waterfront hm.rwna r �1 i f �in4Wdei(illcaptivateandinspire.
�.t.A ,a a Ys= v. .. ._ � 4 TT+ I ` `'�- Visit ors will enjoy the beauti(W view and colorful
j 9e_ +''. 1P.4�t r�i."-..4''''' i plantings along the accessible walkway to the
KG on the Waterfront r 4 ..A:,,',, t.�tr - ®i D'. ound's 10'high peak. ho one will be able to resist
The Ithaca Children's Garden(ICU)Is "Cis, F:-M/ ,, 't� w 7 exploring the physics of water along the Waterfall's
workIng with the City of Ithaca to create q , y , s different diversion patterns,radng their leaves and
a public garden in Cass Park- The ' `4, ' a n 14, ..-, , g{' eye flower petals to the two pools at the wound's base.
Garden Is a unique and welcome � a , ...
U] 14,84. .° . i 4; Main Erltty
attraction that will be a focal point in i•, , a es c
the developing waterfront area. The ICU �t T,m�' J ® 4 ? The Miter Fps trellised archway and view to of the
,,- �,. Splint Momtd Itad°iteerall welcomes and invites
is excited to be included among the 4 `, ,y�f v \" "raj visitors to explore the wonders within. Framed by
area's existing and developing attractions pA` w /11,t a grove of shade trees,the entry is located directly
such as the Cayuga Waterfront Trail, ; sC.t,� c west of a future Back Diamond Trallhead.
the Black Diamond Trail and the Inlet a, ac r d t
island. The Garden will be accessible b r ®" c " t'°�` f *F- ta):yrilrfll
Car,bike,foot,and during the summer,y a s� '' V.47:-;,,m,.,,,"31) h--S C �� firs accessible,circular t76ylllrrllt will be one the
TCAT bus. r-'4,;:‘,',,. 1 �,, xI `'p Lost Locust Pommy and rails draped in at Cass Park Black
by • N £ �' a; Locust posts and rails draped In beautiful wisteria
,, r, ll < - � + guide visitors along its ancient pathways, Children
[ g - d.-. , 11 ;,, by yyy n. and adults alike can explore the mathematical and
.mow), A• '- & - +'t' ,k mtsical patterns embedded In the labyrinth dealgn
,�°.x =� ` •4 x '' ,k.'
and lts rrythologlcal and spiritual significance.
,yF,.�'� t
' f r' W.rk'My P r d 1d er' \
fJ g nataaed ar Discovery Gardens
1 br c h '+; ( y f The Tuttle Mound and LnLyr(rtdt will be the first and
a i Its. �tfi l F ;.,r ' largest of the pbcotiey QOdda(D t-D 10).
t a L,- § l�, Smaller theme areas entice visitors off the main
' .:' I ,» 1 , serpentine path to play,learn,relax and explore In
■ a '._. .:� `p '+ .4 A gardens Inspired by the woods of art,science,
' '" Virg^ S s' history,literature and horticulture.
I
S
6 , ' ry ' 1.•,,,,Yr10.f Growing Gardens
>A' 1 } �. t A , = t," The Gimlets(41-O5)provide children the
,3'..i f - .- or k- i n. 1 freedom to dig,plant and discover the mysteries
[,,,,V; j' 4 + d; of the art and science of horticulture while
q:' 'I k i, ■ r' t�', becoming more acquainted with the plant world.
41,---' t y[ r I g s _,.,e Q These small,enclosed gardens will be designed,
C'f Jr 4� implemented and maintained by youth participants,
�- A k r. " - r```tl.5 , ;' ,1 ' volunteers and apprentices.
r,-
1 F t , 7.,`G1T k
, - a YY1.' .- .�
t r >r - r u y r Wildflower Meadrnv
t 1 i `t, •, Sane The WlidlloneMewlow with ornamental grass
`�r�py y, Oralaa8ewy
r¢+ r z tot p E,?• '"' plantings frames the east edge of the garden. The
r �.', f� ' bank provides an attractive public edge along Route�� 89,the future Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway. A fence,
'� if�, ^`a�+: urn Iocated along the garden's east perimeter,serves
a-r.¢�11` '' y roedana ,-.' as an Inconspicuous safety barrier.
�x! Z- r I 40'. - r Netlnna
f real�`: + ` t Turtle Mound
7 .!' , w<� The garden's south end Is highlighted by a large
4 g,.• c 7 r - j [ t Tulle Mound earth sculpture. The turtle is an
? �`+) Important symbol In Iroquois culture,at the center
F 3, 3, - \: of the Iroquois creation stories and reflective of the
\ - lunar calendar. The turtle's head faces east,resting•
The Garden in Cass Park \ 1, in a small,reflective pond representative of the rich
The Ithaca Children's Garden will be • diversity found in the wetlands of the Cayuga Lake
located at the south end of Cass Park, basin. As well as being one of the most fun and
IthaCfl9 largest and most active water- \ °'�, creative play areas,this garden offers unique and
diverse educational opportunities. As the first sight
front park. The site has fantastic views ".�: seen after crossing the bridge on Route 89 heading
of the Cayuga inlet and Cornell atop north,the TtallcMoogd will be a highly visible,
�� attractive and recognizable feature.
East Hill. r
SoIl linkage to C yang
;x, Waterfront Iran and
rem 5
M Black Dimond Trail
/ Plan by.
5
Ithaca ankh.i Oarden pick nano) all
® rti it " Conceptual Master Plan Cornell Cooperative Extension northeast treenwaya Collaborative
� �
or 7 l8lIow Connly 114 Dry Street
816 Fallow hxnue Ithaca,NY 14860
• N alert to:kale Ithaca,NY 18860 607.219•1140
607412.1191 maod.0OISLap..d.mm
off , CITY OF ITHACA
V ' " �:°F 108 East Green Street— 3`d Floor Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
�(TTirflr=_TTl
Irm rmI i
f --
p DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
�q�.. ~ ' H. MATTHYS VAN CORT, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
JOANN CORNISH, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development - 607-274-6550 Community Development/IURA - 607-274-6559
Email: planning @cityofithaca.org Email: iura @cityofithaca.org
Fax: 607-274-6558 Fax: 607-274-6558
TO: Planning, Neighborhoods and Economic Development Committee Members
FROM: JoAnn Cornish, Deputy Director of Planning and Development
SUBJECT: Grant Submission to the Environmental Protection Fund for a Feasibility
Study for the Third Phase of the Cayuga Waterfront Trail
DATE: July 15, 2004
This grant was approved by Common Council and submitted by the City of Ithaca last year
but has not been acted upon at the state level. To ensure consideration of this grant
application in the upcoming round, (if it did not get funded), the State office suggested we
resubmit the application. The proposal is the same as was submitted last year and is to
evaluate a number of issues related to the development of Phase 3 of the Cayuga Waterfront
Trail. Phase 3 of the trail is proposed to be located between the Farmers Market and the
Tompkins County Visitors Center, passing through the Newman Golf Course and Stewart
Park. (See attached map.) Issues to be evaluated in the feasibility study include:
1. Evaluate trail route alternatives through or around the Golf Course, including
required hole relocations,protection of trail users from golf balls, etc.
2. Study the use of wastewater effluent for golf course irrigation both to enhance
water quality in Cayuga Lake and to improve operations of the golf course.
3. Study other improvements as requested by the golf course manager and users that
are compatible with required changes in the golf course design to accommodate
the waterfront trail.
4. Consider how the existing clubhouse could serve trail users to the benefit of the
trail and economic benefit of the course.
5. Look at preliminary design issues of a proposed new bridge over Fall Creek to
accommodate the waterfront trail.
6. Consider the impact of trail development on adjacent natural areas including
Lighthouse Woods and Fuertes Bird Sanctuary.
"An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification." 0
7. Evaluate the trail route alternatives in Stewart Park
8. Evaluate the feasibility of developing a wetland restoration area with dredge spoils
off of the west end of Stewart Park, as indicated in plans included in grant.
The total anticipated project cost is $50,000.00. The grant request is for $25,000.00. The
Chamber of Commerce is proposing to raise $25,000.000 as the local match. No money is
being requested from the City of Ithaca for this grant application.
Proposed Resolution
Planning, Neighborhoods & Economic Development Committee
July 21, 2004
A Resolution Authorizing a Grant Submission to the Environmental Protection Fund for a
Feasibility Study for the Third Phase of the Cayuga Waterfront Trail
WHEREAS, the New York State Department of State has announced the availability of grant
applications under the Environmental Protection Fund's Local Waterfront Revitalization
Program, and
WHEREAS, Common Council approves and endorses the submission of an application to assist
in the study of the third phase of the Cayuga Waterfront Trail, including the feasibility of using
wastewater effluent to irrigate the golf course and the possibility of creating a dredge spoil site
off the west end of Stewart Park, now,therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that H. Matthys Van Cort, as Director of Planning&Development for the City of
Ithaca, is hereby authorized and directed to file an application for funds from the New York State
Department of State in accordance with the provisions of Title 11 of the Environmental
Protection Act of 1993 in an amount not to exceed$50,000.00, and upon approval of said request
to enter into and execute a project agreement with the State for such financial assistance to the
City of Ithaca for a feasibility study for the third phase of the Cayuga Waterfront Trail, and be it
further
RESOLVED, that the local share of this grant application will not be derived from City of
Ithaca financing,but shall be raised by the Cayuga Waterfront Trail Initiative.
Q:\PLANNING\GROUPS\Planning,Neighborhood and Eco Dev Committee 2004\CC res_CWT3.doc 07/15/04
Site Plans, Drawings, and Photographs
•
Existing Wastewater ! •'
�4 Outflow Pipe _ t ' $
•t. ,- , a ,k Dredge Spoil Site ,. _VA... .urwn » ,
••'r., %} ti cis• ✓atal..v-' ..
, ,iii .» • ' •',,..1:,:r-t-,- --t.," : �,•..,.�►. •, t q"Yi+.., ,,,...^,.. , .,.elow'.,�►
"/'� ,fig � +.r.
`b°Y..` 4 F 4 •� °`IF ;...y'• t y .. ` ' "n:-.5',''' • ,,, ' Vh N.a ....b.,�.r.w.•
•.V ..c:=4.-4". A 44 ; w ✓'`...0 , q• �' 1 .,.•
. New'.'rail ;.w
Vii , , ; 'AL ' ,,:� .Bridge •-v,-1,:41`.'„:1' ,.r.�..._�_
} �, �` R t y '4"l
,,..........r.3 z.,.„1,:,,„=,1„„ado.r_,.,ii .„,t,*, . c --"It.,441:4.=,., ,.,t ‘"....:-;:.",..7....• 0,-,---
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zar „4* 4-tr.14 a'4, 'J,3-t 4'_ ,'_-4--,:',1 , A,-7
.... .� Effluent Irrigation �� . ;•=,,.-
� � System at Newman : ' =J
r: 1 A Y .... .
I Municipal Golf Course `` '•
iM7 ►My.....
j v.......1, '°t�74 • +''• �•.www«.L../, y Y•-. ' 1` • dr ...
si y-# •+. ,M ,Nv `.S°°'4 � '��wig,� 1 rf ,�j f
piI •..r • :••f� ' / .4%y* ....... a 'Fa.Ft! v6:
x ~ •.pia.• �� . - \� ‘. R „h' �=-1.,rr Jr I.ff
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+4 '...7—. r.. v"wK>•..w�cfa o ter r
+. L dam.
rorYrwl• ..t.'� '�"�`•�''� � {
. �'� ' .!, v�•'• �•�M .N,•.,,„ti'•.: ^ P�w 1V 11•J 6r.YAi iiiiu
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wv.• • V .,' T1! � JW r^• t ,
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Collage of three drawings from the Cayuga Waterfront Trail Master Plan showing the project locations.
= CITY OF ITHACA
VHF f - 108 East Green Street— 3rd Floor Ithaca, New York 14850-5690 D4
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
PoisO _= H. MATTHYS VAN CORT, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
JOANN CORNISH, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development - 607-274-6550 Community Development/IURA - 607-274-6559
Email: planning @ciryofithaca.org Email: iura @cityofithaca.org
Fax: 607-274-6558 Fax: 607-274-6558
To: Planning, Neighborhoods 86 Economic Development Committee
From: Tim Logue, Neighborhood 85 Economic Development Planner
Date: July 14, 2004
RE: Planned Unit Development (PUD)
At your last meeting, discussion of the PUD turned towards the options of: 1)
adding a sunset clause to the ordinance, and/or 2) designating or excluding
areas of the City that would be eligible for a PUD.
Sunset Clause
Allowing the entire PUD ordinance to sunset could raise some difficult issues
for projects developed as PUDs (e.g., what would the zoning become?) or for
projects working through the PUD process at the expiration date. For these
reasons, it makes more sense to allow the ordinance to stay in effect, but not
allow any more applications to be processed or acted upon. If the committee is
interested in including a sunset provision in the PUD ordinance, I would
suggest adding the following language, which the City Attorney has reviewed.
"Section 6. Expiration Date. Though this Ordinance shall remain in effect,
applications for Planned Unit Development districts must be received by the
Department of Planning 86 Development not later than December 31, 2007.
Applications received after that date shall not be considered or approved under
this Ordinance."
Designate or Exclude Areas
If the committee wishes to designate or exclude certain areas of the City in
which the PUD ordinance would be applicable, it would be fairly easy to include
such language. In Section B (page 3), a fourth statement could be added to the
list of conditions for PUD applications (existing three relate to ownership,
minimum area, and conformance with Comprehensive Plan). That said,
Planning Department staff would make a strong recommendation against
including such a statement for at least two reasons (the City Attorney also has
some serious concerns about designating or excluding areas).
First, there is a logistical problem on how to define the allowed or excluded
areas. One option would be to describe the area by its street boundaries or tax
"An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification." 0
parcel numbers; another would be to use a zoning district category, such as I-1
(Industrial) or SW-1 (Southwest). Both options have their difficulties.
Using street boundaries or tax parcel numbers singles out specific properties
for the application of a PUD; this is not inherently a problem, but a rigorous
rationale would need to used to select such areas - one that applies across the
board. For example, if the selection is based on such considerations as
proximity to a gorge or that it is City owned property, why wouldn't all
properties along gorges or all City owned properties be included (or excluded)?
As you can gather, it would make much more sense to determine criteria first,
then select areas based on that criteria- not the other way around. The City
Attorney told me that he was very uncomfortable with a street boundary or tax
parcel designation.
Allowing or barring PUDs within certain zoning districts makes more sense
because the criteria would apply across the board and, presumably, would be
based on some characteristic of the zoning district. The problem is that certain
zoning districts are located in different areas of the City and this may allow or
eliminate a greater area than otherwise considered. For example, the R-1
district (low density residential) exists on all three hills.
The second, and perhaps more significant, reason not to include such a
provision is that it is unnecessarily restrictive, especially if the above sunset
clause is included. There is already a great deal of process and review built in
to the PUD ordinance (mailed notifications, public hearings, environmental
review, Planning Board report, etc.) and, moreover, the final decision comes
before Common Council - the ultimate in local development oversight. If the
City were to designate or exclude potential PUD areas, it is only bound to get
an attractive proposal for a different area. In this case, it would then take three
legislative acts to allow it (create the PUD ordinance, amend the PUD
ordinance, approve the application). As the ordinance is written, PUD projects
would already get significant public exposure and considerably more review
than other development projects. With the above sunset clause included, at
least half of the present Council would approve or deny a PUD application. For
these reasons, staff would recommend against designating or excluding areas
for PUD applications.
',„ CITY OF ITHACA
v~ 14;, 108 East Green Street— 3rd Floor Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
FririW ,
cam ...-Q''��' DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Ai *R H. MATTHYS VAN CORT, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
DOUGLAS B. McDONALD, DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
JOANN CORNISH, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development - 607-274-6550 Community Development.ILRA - 607-274-6559
Email: planningjjcit•oFithaca.org Email: Tura('citvohthaca.org
Fax: 607-274.6558 Fax: 60 7-2 74-6558
TO: Mayor Carolyn Peterson
Members, Planning,Neighborhood, and Economic Development Committee
FROM: Members, Planning and Development Board
DATE: May 10,2004
RE: Preliminary Comments–Proposed Planned Unit Development Ordinance
At the April 27, 2004 meeting of the Planning and Development Board, the Proposed Planned Unit
Development Ordinance was discussed and the Board had the following comments:
• Page 3, A. 6. "Will promote attractive and functional environments for nonresidential
areas that are compatible with surrounding land use." Members of the Planning
Board feel this may be confusing and interpreted to mean that residential use is not
allowed or encouraged in the PUD.
• Page 3, B. 2. "Shall be limited to development that is equal to or greater in land area
than 60,000 square feet for undeveloped land or 20,000 square feet for redeveloped
land. " Members of the Planning Board question how these sizes were determined?
• Page 5, 3. "...Notice of hearing shall be served by the city to the public at least ten
(10) days before the date of such hearing, by means of a legal notice in the official
newspaper of the City of Ithaca, and by the applicant to each owner of real estate
within a distance of two hundred (200)feet from the exterior boundaries... "Since a
PUD has the potential to be relatively large in both land area (greater than 60,000
square feet) and impacts on nearby properties, members of the Planning Board question
how the 200 feet was determined and whether or not this is sufficient given the
possibility of far reaching impacts if a PUD is being considered.
In addition, members of the Planning Board would like information on where a PUD ordinance is
currently in place, examples of projects that have been approved in accordance with the PUD and
the success of the PUD projects.
An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diver'itication." ��
•
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street— 3rd Floor Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
vuroagi
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
T 0 H. MATTHYS VAN CORT. DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
DOUGLAS B. McDONALD, DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
JOANN CORNISH. DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development - 607-27-*-6550 Community Development/11'RA - 60--2-4-6559
Email: planning@.cityofithaca.org Email: iura(iz cit-otithaca.org
Fax: 607-274-6558 Fax: 60--2--+-6558
MEMORANDUM
TO: Planning,Neighborhoods, and Economic Development Committee
FROM: Planning and Development Board
DATE: June 10, 2004
RE: Comments,Planned Unit Development
At the May 25, 2004 meeting of the Planning and Development Board, the Proposed Planned Unit
Development Ordinance was discussed and the Board had the following comments:
The PUD process would require the Planning Board and staff to do the initial groundwork in sifting
through applications (not including environmental review, which, in accordance with the proposed
ordinance, w(ylid be done later by Common Council),but the criteria for the Board's yes-or-no vote
on applications,relying on such phrases as "conceptually sound" are vague. If applicants get turned
down and decide to sue, would such votes hold up in court?
By definition, PUD applications may not correspond (and probably don't) with regulations of the
zoning district where they are to be located, and yet the Planning Board must certify them to be in
accord with the City's Comprehensive Plan. Isn't there a basic contradiction here?
Common Council. after granting a PUD district, may attach conditions and requirements (see
Section E on pages 6-7) to a project, although review of such topics as building height. protection
of natural and historic sites, parking and traffic circulation, etc. is not specifically required. This
seems late in the game to raise such issues – which the usual Planning Board process would have
raised from the start.
The PUD process, if it were approved, might be OK for non-controversial projects with no
downside. How well will it work for others, such as the Gun Co. redevelopment plan?
Does the city need an alternative process? How many 60.000 square foot spaces have we got left?
If the goal is to facilitate mixed-use development, mixed use is already in practice downtown
(Cayuga/Green. Gateway) through use or modification of existing. laws and procedures. How will
the PUD better the process that has been in place?
How have other cities used PUDs? Is Ithaca's proposed ordinance based on theirs'? How has their
experience clarified the advantages and drawbacks?
"An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification."
From: Michael Culotta <mculotta @alternatives.org>
To: "Tim Logue" <timlo @cityofithaca.org>
Date: 6/10/2004 9:30:32 AM
Subject: Re: PUD
Tim:
CAC comments on the PUC are re-interated as follows.
CAC sees the positive aspects of the PUD ordinance that it a can be project
specific with control and oversight of legislature throughout the
design/build process. Used properly, the Ordinance seems to allow more
flexibility for both developers, planners and community interests.
Threshold levels seemed reasonable.
Submitted 6-10-04
Michael Culotta
CAC chair
•
ORDINANCE NO. OF 2004
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF
ITHACA, CHAPTER 325, ENTITLED "ZONING" TO ESTABLISH PLANNED
UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD) DISTRICT REGULATIONS.
WHEREAS the Common Council of the City of Ithaca would like to promote the
public health, safety, and welfare of its residents, and
WHEREAS the Common Council wishes to promote the most desirable use of
land within the city limits in order to conserve the value of buildings, and to enhance the
value and appearance of land throughout the City, and
WHEREAS to achieve these objectives the Common Council of the City of Ithaca
is amending the Zoning Ordinance Chapter 325 to insert a new section 325-27 providing
for a new Zoning District known as the "Planned Unit Development" (PUD) District, and
WHEREAS this Ordinance is enacted pursuant to the authority conferred on
municipalities pursuant to New York State General City Law, Section 81-f, and
WHEREAS consequently, sections 325-3 and 325-4 entitled "Definitions and
word usage" and "Establishment of Districts" respectively need to be amended to reflect
the creation of this new zoning district,
BE IT NOW ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the City
of Ithaca as follows:-
Section 1. Definitions.
Chapter 325, Section 325-3(B) of the Municipal Code of the City of Ithaca is hereby
amended to add the definition of Planned Unit Development as follows, "One or more
lots, tracts, or parcels of land to be developed as a single entity, the plan for which may
propose density or intensity transfers, density or intensity increase, mixing of land uses,
or any combination thereof, and which may not correspond in lot size, bulk, or type of
dwelling or building.. use, density, intensity, lot coverage, parking, required common
open space, or other standards to zoning use district requirements that are otherwise
applicable to the area in which it is located."
Section 2.
Section 325-4 of the Municipal Code of the City of Ithaca entitled `'Establishment of
Districts" is hereby amended to insert the new PUD zoning district as follows:-
"ARTICLE II. Zoning Districts
Passed on July 29. 2003, effective July 1. 2004.
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() PLANNING PROJECTS ZONIN(1 PL I)P1,1)/rain'Orlinance.doc
§ 325-4. Establishment of districts. For the purposes specified in Article I of this chapter,
the city is hereby divided into the following districts:
R-la Residential
R-lb Residential
R-2a Residential
R-2b Residential
R-2c Residential
R-3a Residential
R-3b Residential
R-U Residential
B-la Restricted Business
B-lb Restricted Business
B-2a General Business
B-2b General Business
B-2c General Business
B-2d General Business
B-4 Service Business
B-5 Service Business
CBD Central Business
I-1 Industrial
M-1 Marine Commercial
PUD Planned Unit Development
P-1 Public and Institutional
MH-1 Residential-Mobile Home
C-SU Courthouse Special Use
U-1
WF-1 Waterfront
WEDZ-1 West End Development
CPOZ Collegetown Parking Overlay Zone
SW-1 Southwest".
Section 3. A new section 325-27 is inserted as follows:
"325-27. Planned Unit Development.
A. Declaration of Legislative Authority. Findings and Purpose. This ordinance is
enacted pursuant to the authority and provisions of the New York State General City Law
to promote public health. safety and welfare and the most desirable use of land, to
conserve the value of buildings. and to enhance the value and appearance of land
throughout the city. This ordinance is also enacted pursuant to the authority and
provisions of New York State General City Law §81-f, Planned Unit Development
Zoning Districts, which was enacted by the State Legislature on July 29. 2003. The
Common Council finds that this Ordinance:
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1. Will permit flexibility in the application of land development regulations that
will encourage innovative development and redevelopment for residential and
nonresidential purposes so that a growing demand for other housing and other
development and land use may be met by variety in type, design, and layout of
dwellings and other buildings and structures, including traditional
neighborhood development.
2. Will provide flexibility in architectural design, placement, and clustering of
buildings, use of open areas, provision of circulation facilities, including
pedestrian and bicycle facilities and parking, and related site and design
considerations.
3. Will encourage the conservation of natural features, preservation of open .
space and critical and sensitive areas, and protection from natural hazards.
4. Will provide for efficient use of public facilities.
5. Will encourage and preserve opportunities for energy-efficient development
and redevelopment.
6. Will promote attractive and functional environments for residential and
nonresidential areas that are compatible with surrounding land use.
"B. The application of the Planned Unit Development ordinance to a proposed
development:
1. Shall be by the owner of the property or properties, or shall be made with the
approval of the owner or owners of the property or properties, as
demonstrated by submission to the City of Ithaca of a signed "Owner's
Authorization" by the applicant;
2. Shall be limited to development that is equal to or greater in land area than
60.000 square feet for undeveloped land or 20,000 square feet for redeveloped
land.
3. Shall be consistent with and work towards the implementation of the City of
Ithaca Comprehensive Plan, as amended from time to time.
"C. Application procedure: zoning approval process.
Whenever any Planned Unit Development is proposed, before any permit for the erection
of a permanent building in such Planned Unit Development shall be granted, the
developer or the developer's authorized agent shall apply for and secure approval of such
Planned Unit Development in accordance with the following procedures:
1. Application for sketch plan approval.
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a) A pre-submission conference between the applicant and staff of the
Department of Planning and Development may be held to discuss the
proposal, outline the review procedure and required submissions and
inform the applicant of minimum standards and potential city concerns of
the conceptual project. This step may be beneficial because the applicant
will learn about his or her responsibilities before expending significant
resources regarding the project.
b) The developer shall submit a sketch plan of the proposal to the Planning
and Development Board. The sketch plan shall be approximately to scale,
though it need not be to the precision of a finished engineering drawing
and it shall clearly show the following information:
i) The boundaries and included tax parcels in the proposed Planned Unit
Development.
ii) The location of the various uses and their areas in square feet.
iii) The general outlines of the interior roadway system, including parking
and service/delivery areas, and all existing rights-of-way and
easements, whether public or private.
iv) Delineation of the various residential areas indicating for each such
area its general extent, size and composition in terms of total number
of dwelling units, approximate percentage allocation by dwelling unit
type (e.g., single-family detached, duplex, townhouse, garden
apartments, etc.); and general description of the intended market
structure (e.g. luxury, middle income, low and moderate income,
elderly, family, student. etc.) plus a calculation of the residential
density in dwelling units per gross acre (total area including roadways)
for each such area.
v) The interior open space system.
vi) The overall drainage system.
vii)If grades exceed 3% or portions of the site have a moderate to high
susceptibility to erosion, flooding and/or pondine a topographic map
showing contour intervals of not more than five feet of elevation, or as
may be reasonably required by the Planning & Development Board,
along with an overlay outlining the above susceptible soil areas, if any.
viii) Principle ties to the community at large with respect to
transportation. water supply and sewage disposal.
ix) General description of the provision of tire protection services.
x) A location map showing general location within the City of Ithaca
(e.g.. a City-wide map or a USGS quadrangle map highlighting the
proposed development site would be acceptable).
xi) A context man showing building footprints. uses and ownership of all
properties within 200 feet of the boundaries of the proposed PLC site.
2. In addition, the following documentation shall accompany the sketch plan
at the request of the Planning and Development Board:
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a) Evidence that the proposal is compatible with the goals of the City
Comprehensive plan.
b) A general statement as to how common open space is to be owned
and maintained.
c) If the development is to be staged, a general indication of how the
staging is to proceed. Whether or not the development is to be staged,
the sketch plan shall show the intended total project.
d) Other plans, drawings or specifications as may be required for an
understanding of the proposed development.
3. The Planning and Development Board shall hold a public hearing on the
proposal within thirty(30) days of receipt of an application for sketch plan
approval. Notice of the hearing shall be served by the city to the public at least ten
(10) days before the date of such hearing, by means of a legal notice in the official
newspaper of the City of Ithaca, and by the applicant to each owner of real estate
within a distance of two hundred (200) feet from the exterior boundaries of the
proposed PUD district by means of a letter addressed to the owner of record of
such real estate delivered by first class mail. The costs of notification, including
but not limited to publishing, posting and mailing costs, shall be paid by the
applicant prior to the issuance of any building permit.
4. The Planning and Development Board shall review the sketch plan and its
related documents and shall render either a favorable report to the Common
Council or an unfavorable report to the applicant.
a) A favorable report shall be based on the following findings which
shall be included as part of the report:
i. the proposal conforms to the Comprehensive Plan
ii. the proposal meets the intent and objectives of a Planned Unit
Development as expressed in Section 1 (above)
iii. the proposal is conceptually sound in that it conforms to
accepted design principles in the proposed functional roadway
and pedestrian system, land use configurations. open space
system, drainage system and scale of the elements both
absolutely and to one another
iv. there are adequate services and utilities available or proposed
to be made available for the development
b) An unfavorable report shall state clearly the reasons therefore and. if
appropriate, point out to the applicant what might be accomplished in
order to receive a favorable report. The applicant may. within 10 days
after receiving an unfavorable report. file an application (an appeal)
for PUD districting with the City Clerk. who shall notify the Mayor to
bring the matter to the next Common Council meeting.
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5. The Planning and Development Board shall submit its report within sixty-
five (65) days of a submittal of a sketch plan application to the Department of
Planning and Development. If no report has been rendered after sixty-five (65)
days, the applicant may proceed as if a favorable report were given to Common
Council.
"D. Application for PUD districting
1. Common Council shall receive a PUD report from the Planning and
Development Board or an applicant's appeal at a duly convened Common
Council meeting. Upon receipt of a favorable report from the Planning and
Development Board, or upon an appeal from an unfavorable report, Common
Council shall conduct a public hearing for the purpose of considering PUD district
for the applicant's plan, said public hearing to be held within 35 days of the
receipt of a favorable report or the decision on appeal from an unfavorable report.
Notice of this hearing shall be served by the city to the public at least fifteen (15)
days before the date of such hearing, by means of a legal notice in the official
newspaper of the City of Ithaca. The public hearing shall be held by the Common
Council in accordance with its own rules and General City Law §83.
2. Common Council shall refer the application to the Tompkins County
Planning Department for its analysis and recommendation pursuant to the
provisions of $239-1 and $239-m of the General Municipal Law, if applicable.
Common Council shall give the Tompkins County Planning Department 30 days
to render its report.
3. In considering an application for a Planned Unit Development district,
Common Council shall comply with the provisions of the New York State
Environmental Quality Review Act and the City of Ithaca Environmental Quality
Review Ordinance.
4. In considering an application for a Planned Unit Development district.
particularly as regards the intensity of land use. Common Council shall
consider the following factors:
a) The need for the proposed land use in the proposed location
b) The availability and adequacy of water service
c) The availability and adequacy of sewer service
d) The availability and adequacy of transportation systems,
including the impact on the road network
e) The pedestrian circulation and open space in relation to
structures
f) The character of the neighborhood in which the PUD is being
proposed. including the safeguards provided to minimize possible
detrimental effects of the proposed use on adjacent properties
and the neighborhood in general
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•
g) The height and bulk of buildings and their relation to other
structures in the vicinity
h) Potential impacts on local government services
i) Potential impacts on environmental resources including wetlands,
surface water, flood plains, and plant and wildlife communities
j) The general ability of the land to support the development,
including such factors as slope, depth to bedrock, depth to water
table and soil type
lc) Other factors as may be deemed appropriate by the Common
Council.
5. Within 45 days of the public hearing, Common Council shall render its
decision on the application.
"E. Zoning for Planned Unit Development. If Common Council grants the PUD
districting, by an ordinance duly adopted, the Zoning Map shall designate the proposed
area as "Planned Unit Development (PUD) District Number ." Common Council shall
state at this time its findings with respect to the land use intensity and/or dwelling unit
density. Common Council may, if it feels it necessary in order to fully protect the public
health, safety and welfare of the community, attach to its zoning_resolution any additional
conditions or requirements for the applicant to meet. Such requirements may include, but
are not limited to:
1. visual and acoustical screening
2. land use mixes
3. sequence of construction and/or occupancy
4. circulation systems (vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian), including parking and
service/delivery areas
5. protection of natural and/or historic sites
6. the amount, location, and proposed use of common open space;
7. the location and physical characteristics of the proposed Planned Unit
Development:
8. the location. design, type, height, and use of structures proposed:
9. traditional neighborhood development provisions intended to ensure:
a) The creation of compact neighborhoods oriented toward pedestrian
activity and including an identifiable neighborhood center. commons or
square:
b) a variety of housing types,jobs, shopping, services, and public facilities:
c) residences, shops, workplaces. and public buildings interwoven within
the neighborhood. all within close proximity;
d) a pattern of interconnecting streets and blocks, preferably in a rectilinear
or grid pattern, that encourages multiple routes from origins and
destinations:
e) a coordinated transportation system with appropriately designed facilities
for pedestrians, bicyclists, public transit. and automotive vehicles:
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Q. PL.ANNING,PROJECTS'ZONING'PUD PUD/toning Ordinance.dec
f) preservation, restoration, and maintenance of historic buildings that
physically express the history of the City of Ithaca unless it is shown that
the building's condition prohibits preservation, restoration, renovation, or
reuse;
g) natural features and undisturbed areas are incorporated into the open
space of the neighborhood;
h) well-configured squares, greens, landscaped streets, and parks are woven
into the pattern of the neighborhood;
i) public buildings, open spaces, and other visual features act as landmarks,
symbols, and focal points for community identity;
j) compatibility of buildings and other improvements as determined by their
arrangement, bulk, form, character, and landscaping to establish a livable,
harmonious,and diverse environment; and
k) public and private buildings that form a consistent, distinct edge, are
oriented towards streets, and define the border between the public street
space and the private block interior.
"F. Site Plan Review. Site plan approval for all Planned Unit Developments shall be
obtained in accordance with Chapter 276 of the City Code, Site Plan Review.
"G. Regulation after initial construction and occupancy. For the purposes of regulating
development and use of property after initial construction and occupancy, the approved
final site plan shall serve in lieu of other provisions of this chapter as the use, space and
bulk, yard, parking and other land use regulations applicable to the Planned Unit
Development district. Any changes other than use changes shall be processed as a change
to an approved site plan. in accordance with §276-6 (C). In addition to the three possible
determinations listed in 5276-6, the Building Commissioner, in consultation with the
Director of Planning and Development, may determine that the proposed changes are
substantially different from the Planned Unit Development district approved by Common
Council and that a new PUD application is required. Use changes shall also be in the
form of a change to an approved site plan except that the Planning and Development
Board shall have the opportunity to make a recommendation to Common Council and
that Common Council approval shall be required. It shall be noted, however, that
properties lying in Planned Unit Development districts are unique and shall be so
considered by the Planning and Development Board or Common Council when
evaluating these requests; maintenance of the intent and function of the planned unit shall
be of primary importance.
H. Expiration of permit. All permits shall become null and void, and the Zoning Map
amendment revoked and restored to the zoning designation to which the district had been
prior to the PUD application, if construction has not started within three (3) Years of the
date of final site plan approval. However, the applicant may petition the Planning and
Development Board before the expiration date for an extension of no more than two (2)
years. If the applicant can demonstrate substantial investment or reasonable progress
towards construction to the Planning and Development Board. the extension shall not be
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11: PL.\�`:I\( PRoIE('TS ZO`ItiCi PUD'PI;D 7onin2 Ordinance.loc
unreasonably denied. Additional extensions may also be granted by the Planning &
Development Board."
Section 4. Severability. Severability is intended throughout and within the provisions of
the ordinance. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this
ordinance is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction,
then that decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance.
Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect in accordance with law upon
publication of notices as provided in the Ithaca City Charter, provided however, that the
same shall not become effective sooner than July 1, 2004.
•
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��: I'I_.ANNING PROJI:CTS ZONING I'll)I'I;D/_,mine(rdinance.doc
' "', CITY OF ITHACA E 1
t,'`� W'V 108 East Green Street— 3rd Floor Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
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DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
H.MATTHYS VAN CORT, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
JOANN CORNISH, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development - 607-274-6550 Community Development/IURA - 607-274-6559
Email: planning @cityofithaca.org Email: iura @cityofithaca.org
Fax: 607-274-6558 Fax: 607-274-6558
To: Carolyn Peterson, Mayor
Common Council
Martin A. Luster, City Attorney
H. Matthys Van Cort, Director of Planning & Development
JoAnn Cornish, Deputy Director of Planning & Development
Planning & Development Board
Phyllis Radke, Building Commissioner
William Gray, Superintendent of Public Works
Conservation Advisory Council
Ed Marx, Tompkins County Planning Commissioner
City-Cornell Working Group
From: Tim Logue, Neighborhood & Economic Development Planner Al/
Date: July 2, 2004
Re: Proposed U-1 District Zoning Amendment (including GML 239-1
and -m referral)
At their June meeting, the Planning, Neighborhoods & Economic Development
committee directed the Department of Planning & Development to take the next
steps in the amendment procedure for the proposed U-1 zoning district concept
outlined in my memo of June 9th. These steps include the preparation of the
zoning amendment, the environmental review forms, referral to the County
Planning Department under General Municipal Law §239-1 and -m, and
referral to the City's Planning & Development Board and Conservation Advisory
Council. Additionally, the committee recommended that the matter be brought
to the City-Cornell Working Group for discussion at their July 9th meeting.
The proposed amendment essentially applies a requirement for a special permit
similar to the P-i district (§ 325-9(C)(1)(g)) to the U-1 district. A special permit
would be required in the U-1 district for all primary and accessory uses within
200 feet of a residential district, except for classrooms or living
accommodations which conform to the district regulations of the adjoining
residential district. Furthermore, living accommodations in the U-1 district
"An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification."
. r
within 200 feet of multiple City residential districts would have to conform to
the strictest adjoining residential district.
Applications for special permits are made to the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA).
Section 325-9 of the Zoning Ordinance outlines the intent, standards, and
applicability of special permits, as well as the reasons why the BZA shall deny
a special permit. Whereas special permits are only required in certain cases or
places as specified in the ordinance, the criteria for the BZA's decision to grant
or deny a special request applies in every case.
For your review and comment, please find attached the proposed zoning
amendment for the U-1 District and the short Environmental Review Form. For
the County, please consider this a request for review under GML.239-1 and -m.
Mary Tomlan, chair of the Planning, Neighborhoods, and Economic
Development Committee, has requested that, if possible, comments be received
by the Department of Planning & Development by July 14th, so as to be
included in the mailing for the committee's July 21st meeting. If this is not
feasible, please submit comments by August 6, 2004.
•
•
7/6/2004
An Ordinance Amending The Municipal Code Of The City Of Ithaca,
Chapter 325, Entitled "Zoning" To Amend the U-i Zoning District
The ordinance to be considered shall be as follows :
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF
ITHACA, CHAPTER 325, ENTITLED "ZONING" TO AMEND THE U -1 ZONING
DISTRICT.
BE IT NOW ORDAINED AND ENACTED by the Common Council of the
City of Ithaca that Chapter 325 (Zoning) of the Municipal Code
of the City of Ithaca is hereby amended as follows :
Section 1. Chapter 325, Section 325 -8 of the Municipal Code of
the City of Ithaca entitled "District Regulations" is hereby
amended to modify district regulations for the U -1 Zoning
District to read as follows (changes will appear on the District
Regulations Chart, which is a part of Chapter 325) :
Column 1 : Use District - U-1 .
Column 2 : Permitted Primary Uses (See General Notes) - 1 . Post
secondary educational institution and its affiliated
institutions, whose primary purpose is education, research,
extension or living accommodation except that, within 200 feet
of a residential district, any use other than classrooms or
living accommodations which conform to the regulations of the
adjacent residential district is permitted only by special
permit of the Board of Zoning Appeals (see § 325-9) .
Column 3 : Permitted Accessory Uses - Required off-street
parking, parking garages, signs, except that, within 200 feet of
a residential district, accessory uses are permitted only upon
issuance of a special permit as set forth in § 325-9 .
Column 4 : Off-Street Parking Requirements - See Section 325-20 .
Column 5 :Off-Street Loading Requirements - None .
Column 6 : Minimum Lot Size, Area in Square Feet - No minimum lot
size .
Column 7 : Minimum Lot Size, Width in Feet at Street Line - None.
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7/6/2004
Column 8 : Maximum Building Height, Number of Stories - None .
Column 9 : Maximum Height of Building, Height in Feet - 175' ;
except that within 200 feet of any adjacent City
residential district, the maximum height of any building
shall be limited to 15' more than the maximum height
permitted in the adjacent City residential district . See
also Section 325-16 (D) .
Column 10 : Maximum Percent of Lot Coverage by Buildings - 35 .
Column 11 : Yard Dimensions, Front, Required Minimum - None
except as required by Section 325-18 (D) .
Column 12 : Yard Dimensions, Side, One Side at Least - None.
Column 13 : Yard Dimensions, Side, Other at Least - None.
Columns 14 and 15 : Yard Dimensions, Rear - None.
Column 16 : Minimum Height of Building, Height in Feet - None.
See §325-16D.
Section 2 . Chapter 325, Section 325-9 of the Municipal Code of
the City of Ithaca entitled "Special Permits, Standards" is
hereby amended to add subsection (C) (1) (s) to read as follows :
"In U-i Districts, within 200 feet of adjoining residential
districts, any use other than classrooms or living
accommodations . In such U-1 Districts, notwithstanding the
district regulations of Section 1 of this Ordinance, living
accommodations within 200 feet of adjoining residential
districts shall conform to the use and area regulations applying
to the strictest of such adjoining residential districts . "
•
Section 3 . Effective date . This ordinance shall take affect
immediately and in accordance with law upon publication of
notices as provided in the Ithaca City Charter.
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• SHORT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM
Project Information
To Be Completed By Staff
In order to answer the questions in this Short Environmental Assessment Form(SEAF),the preparer is to use
currently available information concerning the project and the likely impacts of the action.
Iame of Project: U-i Zoning Amendment
Yes No
1. Will project result in a large physical change to the project site or physically alter X
more than one acre of land?
2. Will there be a change to any unique or unusual land form found on the site or to any
site designated a unique natural area or critical environmental area by a local or state X
agency?
3. Will the project alter or have any effect on an existing waterway? X
4. Will the project have an impact on groundwater quality? X
5. Will the project affect drainage flow on adjacent sites? X
6. Will the project affect any threatened or endangered plant or animal species? X
7. Will the project result in an adverse effect on air quality? X
8. Will the project have an effect on visual character of the community or scenic views X
or vistas known to be important to the community:
9. Will the project adversely impact any site or structure of historic,pre-historic,or X
paleontological importance or any site designated a local landmark or in a landmark
district?
10. Will the project have an effect on existing or future recreational opportunities? X
11. Will the project result in traffic problems or cause a major effect to existing X
transportation systems?
12. Will the project cause objectionable odors,noise, glare, vibration, or electrical X
disturbance as a result of the project's operation during construction or after
completion?
13. Will the project have any impact on public health or safety? X
14. Will the project affect the existing community by directly causing a growth in X
permanent populations of more than 5 percent over a one-year period OR have a
negative effect on the character of the community or neighborhood?
15. Is there public controversy concerning the project? X
If any question has been answered YES, a completed Long Environmental Assessment Form (LEAF)
is necessary.
PREPARER'S SIGNATURE: 14,144 t,W . 1.. `-c-- DATE: 12-10%-i
PREPARER'S TITLE: Glo-vto-ml, �z�c y �i��,�✓
REPRESENTING: C•1-n ,c t{1Ra.c'.
Q:'PLANNING PROJECTS\ZONINGAU-I Zone SEA':doe
Schedule for Amending the U-1 District-------------_----
,, r . ids ,+ . - .
s
1• Draft concept memo 28-May-04 X
2 Planning Committee Mailing 10-Jun-04 Mail Concept Memo X
3 Planning Committee Meeting 16-Jun-04 Discussion on the concept X
4 Draft Amendment&Env. Review 30-Jun-04 X
5 Circulate Amendment&Env. Review 6-Jul-04 Distribute to staff,CAC, Planning Board, X
County Planning,and City-Cornell Working
6 CAC Meeting 12-Jul-04 Discussion and Comments
7 Planning Committee Mailing 15-Jul-04 Draft amendment, Resolutions for lead agency
and neg dec.,cover memo, and Env.Review
8 Codes Committee Mailing 15-Jul-04 Draft amendment and Env. Review
9 Notice of Public Hearing 16-Jul-04 Legal Notice printed in Ithaca Journal
10 Codes Committee Meeting 20-Jul-04 Discussion
11 Planning Committe Meeting 21-Jul-04 Discussion and confirm public hearing
12 Planning Board Mailing 21-Jul-04 Draft amendment,cover memo, and Env. Review
13 Planning Board Meeting 27-Jul-04 Discussion and Comment
14 Public Hearing at CC Mtg 4-Aug-04 Hold Public Hearing
15 Planning Committee Mailing 12-Aug-04 CAC, Planning Bd,County, and public
16 Planning Committe Meeting 18-Aug-04 Action on Env. Review and Amendment
17 Common Council Mailing 25-Aug-04 Amendment, Env. Review and resolutions, and
comments
18 Common Council 1-Sep-04 Action on Env. Review and Amendment
Documents to be Completed
X Concept Memo
X Draft Amendment Last changed on:
X SEAF 6-Jul-04
Resolution to declare lead agency By:
NegDec Resolution Tim Logue
�.•••�••� \ ' ,, CITY OF ITHACA
E2
108 East Green Street— 3rd Floor Ithaca, New York 14850-569C
[IfTTlf� fT_=_Tll
rrn i•lm:
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
0_= H. MATTHYS VAN CORT, DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
JOANN CORNISH, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development - 607-274-6550 Community Development/IURA - 607-274-6559
Email: planning @cityofithaca.org Email: iura @cityofithaca.org
Fax: 607-274-6558 Fax: 607-274-6558
To: Planning, Neighborhoods and Economic Development Committee
From: Nels Bohn, Director of Community Development t 9,°
Date: July 14, 2004
Subject: Transfer of Surplus City-Owned Land to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
for Future Development, 324—346 Floral Avenue
The purpose of this memo is to provide information regarding the proposed transfer of City-owned
land at 324-346 Floral Avenue to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency(IURA)for sale to a third party
for future development of the property. If this property is transferred to the IURA, the IURA will
publicly solicit housing development proposals for the property with the goal of selecting a
preferred developer and structuring a proposed sale of the property, subject to Common Council
approval following a public hearing.
Disposition through the IURA is an alternative method to sell City-owned land instead of sale
through an auction or through a sealed bid. Disposition of property through the IURA provides the
City with greater control on the future use and ownership of the property. It further allows for sale
of the property at less than fair market value in recognition of public benefits that may result from a
specific development proposal.
City staff has determined that these contiguous City-owned parcels are not needed for municipal
purposes and therefore recommends the Common Council declare this property as surplus land.
The property is a little over 2 acres in size with 333 linear feet of street frontage on Floral Avenue
and a parcel depth of 300 feet. The property is generally located down slope of West Village
Apartments and overlooks the Flood Control Channel (see map). Cherry Street Industrial Park is
located across the waterway. The properties almost span the distance between Floral Avenue and
Chestnut Street. The sites are vacant and wooded. The topography of the site is very steep near
Floral Avenue with more gentle slopes at the rear of the parcels
The property is zoned R3a, where multi-family residential uses are permitted. Current assessed
value of the property is$78,000, although the property has been classified as exempt from real
property taxation since 1976.
At this initial stage, the IURA has prepared an environmental assessment form for the property
transfers and seeks Common Council conceptual approval to move forward to circulate the
An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification." 0
environmental review information. If committee members have reservations about developing this
vacant,.city-owned land through a Request For Proposal (RFP) competitive process administered
by the IURA, please raise concerns now prior to incurring extensive work effort on this activity.
In the RFP process, the IURA will develop a list of criteria to guide selection of a preferred
developer. If there are specific City public policy goals for future use of this property, they should
be identified in the RFP solicitation to guide developers submitting proposals. Some examples
could be to maximize the sales price, maximize real property taxation revenues, increase
affordable housing,develop mixed-income housing, preserve open space, provide for special
needs housing, minimize number of curb cuts, or develop owner-occupied housing. Lacking any
clear direction from the Common Council, the IURA will develop its own selection criteria.
Environmental Review
This action is an Unlisted Action pursuant to the City of Ithaca Environmental Review Ordinance
and to the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act, which requires review under the
City's Environmental Quality Review Ordinance. An environmental review for this action has been
prepared and the draft short environmental assessment forms are enclosed. No significant
environmental impacts are anticipated as a result of this action, therefore a negative declaration of
environmental impact is recommended. An additional environmental review of the development
project by the Planning Board would occur once the specific project is defined.
Next Steps
With the Committee's approval, the draft environmental review of this action will be circulated to
City boards and staff, and to the County. Staff will return to the Committee in August with the
completed environmental review and any comments that are received and the following proposed
action steps:
• Declaration of Lead Agency
• Environmental Determination
• Resolution Authorizing Transfer of Surplus Property to IURA for Disposition (contingent
upon a negative declaration)
If you have any questions regarding the enclosed materials, please contact me at 274-6547 or
nelsb @cityofithaca.orq.
Cc: IURA HNI committee
IURA staff
H.M.Van Cort
J.Cornish
Project file
Chrono
q:lplanninglstaff nelsliuralproperty dispositionlcover memo for eaf 324-346 floral ave dispos.doc
2
Cit Owned Floral Avenue Parcels to be Transferred to the IURA
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CITY SHORT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM
Project Information: To be completed by applicant or project sponsor.
1. Applicant/Sponsor: 2. Project Name:
Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency(IURA) Transfer of 324-346 Floral Avenue from City of
Ithaca to IURA
3. Project Location:
324-346 Floral Avenue, Ithaca, NY
4. Is Proposed Action:
X New o Expansion o Modification/Alteration
5. Describe project briefly:
Transfer surplus City property to IURA for disposition to a sponsor of a housing development
project. IURA will solicit housing development proposals through a Request For Proposal
process, select a preferred sponsor and negotiate a proposed property sales agreement for
review and approval by the Common Council.
6. Precise Location (Road Intersections, Prominent Landmarks, or provide map)
324-346 Floral Avenue, comprising the following five contiguous tax parcels: 97.-1-1, 97.-
1-2, 97.-1-3, 97.-1-4, and 97.-1-5 (see map).
7. Amount of Land Affected:
Initially 2.0 Acres or Sq. Ft. Ultimately 2.0 Acres or Sq. Ft.
8. Will proposed action comply with existing zoning or other existing land use
restrictions?
X Yes o No If No, describe briefly:
9. What is present land use in vicinity of project:
X Residential o Industrial o Agricultural o Parkland/Open Space
o Commercial o Other
Describe:
10. Does action involve a permit/approval, or funding, now or ultimately, from
governmental agency(Federal, State or Local): X Yes o No
If Yes, List Agency Name and Permit/Approval Type:
Common Council approval of IURA-proposed disposition of property.
11. Does any aspect of the action have a currently valid permit or approval?
o Yes X No
If Yes, List Agency Name and Permit/Approval Type:
12. As a result of proposed action will existing permit/approval require modification?
o Yes X No
q:Aplanning\stafflnels\iura\property disposition\seaf 324-46 floral ave.doc
I certify that the information provided above is true to the best of my knowledge.
PREPARER'S SIGNATURE: -
7.‘
DATE: I
Ju y 9, 2004
PREPARER'S TITLE: Nels Bohn, Director of Community Development
REPRESENTING: Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency
q:\planning\staff\nels\iura\property disposition\seaf 324-46 floral ave.doc
SHORT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM
Project Information
To Be Completed By Staff
In order to answer the questions in this Short Environmental Assessment Form(SEAF),the preparer is to use
currently available information concerning the project and the likely impacts of the action.
Name of Project: Transfer of 324-346 Floral Avenue from City to IURA
Yes No
1. Will project result in a large physical change to the project site or physically alter ❑ X
more than one acre of land?
2. Will there be a change to any unique or unusual land form found on the site or to any ❑ X
site designated a unique natural area or critical environmental area by a local or state
agency?
3. Will the project alter or have any effect on an existing waterway? ❑ X
4. Will the project have an impact on groundwater quality? ❑ X
5. Will the project affect drainage flow on adjacent sites? ❑ X
6. Will the project affect any threatened or endangered plant or animal species? ❑ X
7. Will the project result in an adverse effect on air quality? ❑ X
8. Will the project have an effect on visual character of the community or scenic views ❑ X
or vistas known to be important to the community:
9. Will the project adversely impact any site or structure of historic, pre-historic, or ❑ X
paleontological importance or any site designated a local landmark or in a landmark
district?
10. Will the project have an effect on existing or future recreational opportunities? ❑ X
11. Will the project result in traffic problems or cause a major effect to existing ❑ X
transportation systems?
12. Will the project cause objectionable odors, noise, glare, vibration, or electrical ❑ X
disturbance as a result of the project's operation during construction or after
completion?
13. Will the project have any impact on public health or safety? ❑ X
14. Will the project affect the existing community by directly causing a growth in ❑ X
permanent populations of more than 5 perceni over a one-year period OR have a
negative effect on the character of the community or neighborhood?
15. Is there public controversy concerning the project? ❑ X
If any question has been answered YES. a completed Long Environmental Assessment Form (LEAF)
is necessary.
PREPARER'S SIGNATURE: . ///t,,,Airkilw I DATE: July 12, 2004
PREPARER'S TITLE: JoAnn Cornish, D<puty I' ec o of Planning & Development
REPRESENTING: City of Ithaca
q: planning staff nels\iura property disposition seatpart i 324-46 floral ave.doc
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Scale: 1" = 500'
Map Prepared by the City of Ithaca Planning Department July 2004
E3
Planning, Neighborhoods & Economic Development Committee
City of Ithaca
108 East Green Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
TO: Planning,Neighborhoods &Economic Development Committee Members
Mayor Carolyn K. Peterson
Common Council Members
FROM: Mary Tomlan, Chairperson
SUBJECT: Removal of Bump-outs on College Avenue
DATE: July 16, 2004
Item E3 on the agenda, concerning a request to remove bump-outs on College Avenue, was
introduced at the July 7, 2004, Board of Public Works Committee of the Whole meeting, as per
Traffic Engineer Dan Cole's memo. Because these features were an integral part of the designed
Collegetown streetscape, it seemed appropriate that the Planning,Neighborhoods &Economic
Development Committee at least be aware of this request and comment if members wish to do
so. I have included an e-mail I received from Superintendent of Public Works Bill Gray that
presents various considerations with respect to this neighborhood (which is the most densely
populated neighborhood in the city).
E3
Print View
From: Bill Gray
To: Mary TomIan
CC: Joann Comish,Dan Cole,H.Matthys VanCort
Date: Thursday-July 8,2004 12:53 PM
Subject: Re:College Avenue bump-out removal
•
Thank you for the note. . . Collegetown is a classic tortured element in city planning. The
community seems to have a hard time settling on which values will lead and which will follow. We
need mass transit to serve the corridor. We probably should widen the sidewalks and sacrifice
parking on atleast one side of College Avenue to serve the pedestrians and the street commercial
environment. That decision should have been made when the Collegetown parking garage was being
designed.
I am willing to tell the cars"too bad, no room"under the assumption that they(the students and
tranient work force)should leave them home, but it didn't woork before. Being the"centally
isolated"community we are,the students seem prepared to bring the vehicles evn if they just want
them for the weekends...and seem to be able to afford it.The cars end up somewhere. The Planning
Department seems to get conflicting directives. The zoning has been changed several times to
reflect the love-hate relationship with cars, as well as the other conflicting values..
The streets need to work for deliveries to keep the commerce alive,for the buses to keep mass
transit reliable, and for the pedestrians and bicycles to reflect the average age of the community. If
the buses can move through then the cars can move as well. We can push back against the bus sizes
or the delivery times to help in the compromise and to rebalance the equations one way. We could
widen sidewalks and remove parking to accomodate pedestrians, bicycles, buses, and moving cars to
reflect a different balance. We can remove bumpouts to improve bus and commercial
deliveries...the list goes on and on.
I am ignoring costs here, and just seeking a long range plan that we can build to over time.The
problem with a longrange plan is that we need the politicians to adopt it,fund it and defend it...for
a long time. Because the pain is felt and resisted by different community members at different
times it is very difficult to get the consistency needed to realize any plan. Welcome to the real
world I suppose.
Street design in Collegetown needs to reflect long term communtiy values. It is very expensive to
change streets later. It can be made safe many diferent ways once we know what we want.
Memo from Dan Cole,City traffic Engineer,to Board of Public Works,July 7,2004 Meeting
E3
Request To Remove Bump Outs on the South Side of the College & Dryden
Intersection
On March 22, 2004 TCAT met with DPW and IPD to discuss problems that buses were having in
the 300-400 blocks of College Avenue. TCAT estimated that 54%of all accidents involving buses
have occurred in this two block area.Many of these accidents involved collisions with parked cars.
From the meeting three changes were recommended; 1) change the notification procedure in the
municipal code so that IPD can tow illegally parked vehicles in a time frame that is considerably less
than the current 48 hour period,2)get DPW to install"Tow Away Zone"tags at all bus stops in the
vicinity of the College and Dryden intersection, and 3)remove the bump outs on the south side of
the intersection.
DPW is in the process of installing"Tow Away Zone"tags in area's that are needed in Collegetown.
It is desired that the BPW make recommendations concerning the other two issues.
Currently there are two bump outs on the south side of the intersection (near side) in front of
Collegetown Deli and Bear Lodge. Between these bump outs are loading zones approximately 36'
long.These loading zones are considered inadequate by many of the merchants because they are too
short to accommodate 40' trailers. On the far side (north side) of the intersection is a bus loading
zone.TCAT believes that many of the accidents involving parked cars could be eliminated if the bus
loading zone on the far side of the intersection could be swapped with the loading zones on the south
side creating a near side bus stop. However in order to make this change the bump out in front of
Collegetown Deli would have to be eliminated to accommodate the longer buses which are in the
neighborhood of 60'.
There are several advantages and disadvantages to near side bus stops. The advantages include;
• Minimizes interferences when traffic is heavy on the far side of the intersection
• Allows passengers to access buses closest to the crosswalk
• Results in the width to the intersection being available for the driver to pull away
from the curb
• Eliminates the potential for double stopping
• Allows passengers to board and alight while the bus is stopped at a red light
• Provides the driver the opportunity to look for oncoming traffic, including other
buses with potential passengers.
The disadvantages include;
• Increases conflicts with right turning vehicles
• May result in stopped buses obscuring curbside traffic control devices and crossing
pedestrians
• May cause sight distance to be obscured for cross vehicles stopped to the right of the
bus
• May block the through lane during peak traffic periods
• Increases sight distance problems for crossing pedestrians.
1
Suggested Recommendations:
Item 1:
Most cities have much stricter criteria in dealing with illegally parked vehicles.Increased traffic and
decreased street capacity have created more congestion in Ithaca. Changing the notification
procedure would help reduce delays.A recommendation from the BPW to Common Council would
help to bring about needed changes.
Item 2:
The north side of the College & Dryden Road intersection is historically more congested.
Eliminating the bump out in front of Collegetown Deli would provide enough room to accommodate
buses on the near side of the intersection. Eliminating the second bump out would allow the city to
make better utilization of the available parking area on the south side of College Avenue. My
recommendation would be to make these changes and convert the existing bus loading area to a time
restricted loading zone.
1 THE BIKE RACK i
—
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figure 1
2
Chapter STREET-SIDE FACTORS
3 VEHICLE CHARACTERISTICS—Vehicle Types and Dimensions
In the design of facilities for buses, it is important to define a design vehicle that represents a
compilation of critical dimensions from those vehicles currently in operation. These dimensions are
used when designing roadway features. For example, the weight of the expected vehicle is important
to pavement design. The following two basic bus types are commonly used by transit service
providers: 1)40-foot"standard"bus; and 2) 60-foot articulated bus.
l o
•
or Q v �-K - .-
n�_ 0 j i 1 1 0
I H
F — 1 D E
G ITEM
III -i A Overall Height 10' 9"
B Overall Length 40' 0"
C Overall Width 8' 6"
r.---- D Wheel Base 23' 9"
E Front Axle to Bumper 7' 3-3/4"
�` i�
A F Rear Axle to Bumper 9' 4-3/4"
Y G Edge Mirror to Mirror 10' 2"
rmiH Step to Ground, Entrance 1' 5"
coo MIMI 000 I Step to Ground, Exit 1' 4-1/2"
J Clear Door Opening, Entrance 2' 6"
., II A K Clear Door Opening, Exit 2' 2-1/2"
C le■i C •1 L Centerline Door to Front 3' 0"
M Centerline Door to Rear 17' 11-1/4"
NET/GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT•' N Centerline Door to Door 19' 8"
Front Axle 7.420/11,980
Rear Axle 18,060/24,660 NOTES
Seating Capacity 51
Standing Capacity 25 • Varies for different types of 40' buses
•• Net Weight is "Road Ready" Without Passengers
Gross Includes Passengers
Figure 12. Typical Dimensions for 40-Foot Bus.
36
STREET-SIDE FACTORS Chapter
VEHICLE CHARACTERISTICS—Vehicle Types and Dimensions 3
The standard 40-foot bus and the 60-foot articulated bus are generally the largest buses in a transit
fleet and represent the most common designs. (Currently, manufacturers are also producing 30- and
35-foot buses.) Key roadway design features, such as lane and shoulder widths, lateral and vertical
clearances, vehicle storage dimensions, and minimum turning radii are typically based on the
standard 40-foot bus. The articulated bus, while longer, has a "hinge" near the center of the vehicle
that allows maneuverability comparable to the 40-foot bus. Figures 12 and 13 show the dimensions
for a 40-foot and 60-foot bus, respectively.
M _I. 'i N L
r I.
e...... __- ' r=`
o K o .1
❑ e ��
�o n❑
o
l H
t
F D2 Dl s►∎ E
B
1 U ITEM
O i��� A Overall Length Height 10' 4"
B Overall Lt 59'10"
user A ° C Overall Width 8' 6"
Em is D Wheel Base (01/D2) 18'7"/24'0"
, . E Front Axle to Bumper 8'8"
y F Rear Axle to Bumper 8'8"
I G Edge Mirror to Mirror 10' 6"
G �I I me C ■1 H Step to Ground, Entrance 1' 2"
I Step to Ground, Exit 1' 2"
NET/GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT* J Clear Door Opening, Entrance 3' 8"
Front Axle 11,800/16,420 K Clear Door Opening, Exit 3' 8"
Rear Axle 12,190/16,420 L Centerline Door to Front 3' 6"
Center Axle 14,970/24,250 M Centerline Door to Rear 21'4"
MAXIMUN BEND ANGLE N Centerline Door to Door 35'0"
Horizontal t 36 deg
Vertical t 11 deg
• Net Weight is "Road Ready" Without Passengers
Seating Capacity 70 Gross Includes Passengers
Figure 13. Typical Dimensions for 60-Foot Articulated Bus.
37