HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-BPW-2016-08-22Board of Public Works Meeting Proceedings
Regular Meeting 4:45 p.m. August 22, 2016
Present:
Vice Chair Jenkins
Commissioners (4) Goldsmith, Darling, Warden, Marshall
Others Present:
CC Liaison – Fleming
Supt. of Public Works – Thorne
Asst. Supt. S & F – Benjamin
Director of Parking – Nagy
Information Management Specialist – Myers
Sidewalk Program Manager – Licitra
Excused:
Mayor Myrick
Commissioner Greene
Asst. Supt. W & S – Whitney
Director of Engineering – Logue
Call to Order - Additions to or Deletions From the Agenda:
There were no additions to or from the agenda.
Communications and Hearings from Persons Before the Board:
No one appeared to address the Board.
Administration and Communications:
Approval of the July 25 and August 8, 2016 Board of Public Works Meeting
Minutes - Resolution
By Commissioner Warden: Seconded by Commissioner Darling
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works approves the minutes of the July 25 and
August 8, 2016 meetings as published.
Carried Unanimously
Reports:
Asst. Supt. Benjamin reported that work was completed at the intersection of College
Avenue and Dryden Road, so vehicles can now travel in both directions on Dryden
Road. Crews are working on the 500 block of South Plain Street installing new concrete
curbing and could be completed by the end of this week. After that, residents won’t be
able to access their driveways for a couple of weeks because of the need to back fill the
work area, and then pave the street. The 400 block of South Plain Street will get a new
base and new asphalt once the work on the 500 block is completed.
CC Liaison Fleming questioned what kind of communication had been done to those
residents that will not be able to access their driveways. Asst. Supt. Benjamin
responded that crews have been in communication each day with the residents in order
for arrangements to be made for accommodating them during the work.
Supt. Thorne reported on the water issues that the City has been experiencing this
summer. Staff met with the Tompkins County Health Department today, and the City
was issued a “Notice of Violation” for unacceptable levels of manganese and water
turbidity. The City sent water samples to a certified lab for testing about 6 weeks ago,
and is just now receiving the results from that testing; that is why the notice of violation
was issued today by the health department. Since those water samples were sent for
testing, work has been ongoing to determine the cause of the discoloration in the water.
In regard to the manganese levels, staff determined that there was manganese in the
clear well and it was the cause of the discoloration of the water. The results of the
testing show that the water contained three times the allowed amount of manganese. In
response to that information, the City of Ithaca will be sending out a public notification
this week that describes the effects of high levels of manganese and water turbidity.
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes August 22, 2016
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Bolton Point and Cornell University will be included in that notification since their water
sources interact with the city’s water. For most of July and early August the City
experienced the problem of the water being discolored.
As of August 12, 2016, the manganese issue has been resolved, the discoloration of the
water stopped, and complaints have stopped. New water samples were taken and sent
to the lab; however, as noted above, it will take 4-6 weeks for the City to receive any
results.
Just as the City thought that the water issue had been resolved, there was a huge water
main break behind the Super 8 Motel last week which resulted in dark brown to black
colored water. Excavation work was being done in order to work on the 12” sewer main
that feeds West Hill, and the main separated as a result of it not being connected
properly. The result was 8,000 gallons of water per minute flowing continuously for
about 30 minutes. This resulted in a lot of rust being scoured out of the pipes. That
main should be repaired and placed back in service by tomorrow.
Unfortunately, due to the timing of the City receiving the results from the water testing
this week, and the sewer main break, the public is confusing the two issues as being
related to one another. Chief of Staff, Dan Cogan, is working on a press release that
describes the two separate incidents in more detail for the public.
Supt. Thorne further reported that the Lake Street Bridge should be open by August
31st, and the adjacent park-like area work should be completed by mid-September. The
project is about two weeks ahead of schedule.
Director of Parking Nagy reported on parking revenue through August 15, 2016. The on
street revenue total year-to-date is City took in about $88,008.72, which is about
$6,600.00 over the same time period in 2015. The first year of the use of the pay
stations has been completed (July-June) with an overall increase of 38% in revenue.
The revenue paid for all the pay stations, which means they paid for themselves in one
year. He stated that all but 3 of the 23 new pay stations have been installed, and the
remaining three should be installed by the end of next week. The use of on-street
parking has increased significantly during this summer’s construction in Collegetown,
and has resulted in an increase in revenue for the City.
Buildings, Properties, Refuse and Transit:
Request for Encroachment Agreement/License at 602 West State/Martin Luther
King, Jr. Street - Resolution
By Commissioner Darling: Seconded by Commissioner Warden
WHEREAS, Elmira Savings Bank, the owner of the property at 602 West
State/Martin Luther King, Jr. Street (Tax Map Parcel No. 50.-4-9), in the City of
Ithaca, has requested an encroachment agreement/license from the City into the
adjacent street right-of-way for West State/Martin Luther King, Jr. Street and
North Meadow Street; and
WHEREAS, the encroachment consists of the following:
A stair way and canopy approximately 7 feet, 11 inches in width,
encroaching in the City property to the south by approximately 18.25
inches, thereby encompassing an encroachment of approximately 12
square feet, which is shown on a drawing dated April 14, 2016 and
entitled “A101P - Proposed South Stair Entrance” prepared by Holt
Architects P.C.
And on the eastern face of the building, seven sunshades extending into
the City airspace by no more than a total of 14 square feet as shown in the
drawing dated April 15, 2016 and entitled “G1 Parking Separation
Diagram” prepared by Holt Architects P.C.
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes August 22, 2016
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WHEREAS, it appears that the proposed encroachments are inside the current
location of the existing public sidewalks on West State/Martin Luther King, Jr. Street
and North Meadow Street, and nevertheless will not interfere with the sidewalks as
currently constituted; and
WHEREAS, the Superintendent does not anticipate any conflicts in the near
future with public works uses or needs; and
WHEREAS, for use of City-owned property, the City requires an initial application
fee of $100 for new licenses, but stipulates that the annual use fee shall be
waived for minor encroachments, now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works hereby grants the request for an
encroachment at 602 West State/Martin Luther King, Jr. Street, as proposed,
contingent upon the execution of a license/agreement and submission of the
required application form and fee (and renewal fees for any subsequent terms)
and proof of required insurance; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Mayor, upon consultation with the Superintendent and City
Attorney, is hereby authorized to execute a license/agreement allowing said
encroachment, revocable upon 90 days’ written notice by the City in the event
that the encroached upon City property is required for any City purpose, and
containing the usual terms and conditions, including those specified in Chapter
170 of the City’s Municipal Code.
Carried Unanimously
Highways, Streets and Sidewalks:
Approval of the 2017 Sidewalk Work Plan and Assessment Roll - Resolution
Commissioner Warden: Seconded by Commissioner Darling
WHEREAS, Section C-73 of the City Charter creates five Sidewalk Improvement
Districts (each a “SID”) for the construction and repair of sidewalk, and provides
for an assessment against each property located in each SID for the benefits
received by the property from such construction and repair; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Works is responsible for recommending to the
Common Council a budget and schedule of work for each SID district for each
fiscal year, following a public hearing; and
WHEREAS, the Board has received a proposed SID assessment roll, budget,
and schedule of work for Fiscal Year 2017; and
WHEREAS, the City provided public notice of the SID assessment roll, budget,
and schedule of work in July 2016; and
WHEREAS, owners of assessed properties were provided an opportunity to file
written objections with the City Clerk, and present evidence to the Board at a
public hearing on August 8, 2016; and
WHEREAS, the Board has given due consideration to the objections, if any,
presented by the property owners in accordance with Section C-73; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Board recommends, subject to amendment and approval
by the Common Council, the 2017 budget and schedule of work dated August 8,
2016; and, be it further
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes August 22, 2016
4
RESOLVED, That the Board approves the schedule of assessments constituting
the 2017 assessment roll, which are reflected on the assessment roll kept on file
with the City Clerk, which roll the Superintendent of Public Works shall on behalf
of the Board file with the Common Council in the form of an upcoming Committee
agenda thereof, and which roll shall thereafter be confirmed, as amended, by the
Common Council by local law after a public hearing, creating a lien upon the real
property so assessed.
Ayes (4) Jenkins, Goldsmith, Darling, Warden
Nays (0)
Abstentions McCormick
Carried
Badge of Honor Association (BOHA) - Ithaca Police Department Historical Sign
Dedication for Ithaca Police Officer Levy Spaulding - Resolution
By Commissioner Warden: Seconded by Commissioner Darling
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Police Department and the Badge of Honor Association (BOHA)
seek to honor IPD Officer Levi Spaulding who died in the line of duty on September 11,
1930; and
WHEREAS, the BOHA commemorates officers in Central and Western New York who
have died in the line of duty by placing a memorial sign at the location where the officer
died; and
WHEREAS, Officer Levi Spaulding, Ithaca’s first African American police officer,
suffered a heart attack and died in the line of duty after participating in an intense thirty-
six (36) hour manhunt for a murder suspect; and
WHEREAS, the memorial sign shall be placed at the location of the former Ithaca Police
Department which was located on the Northeast corner of Tioga and Seneca Streets in
the City of Ithaca; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works approves the request to allow this
memorial to be constructed, to direct the Department of Public Works to install the sign,
and for the Badge of Honor Association to fund and dedicate the sign in conjunction
with the Ithaca Police Department.
Ayes (4) Marshall, Warden, Goldsmith, Darling
Nays (1) Jenkins
Abstention (0)
Carried
Discussion Items:
Recommendation of Increasing Pavilion Reservation Fees:
Youth Bureau Director Vance joined the Board for discussion of this topic. She
provided the following memorandum that explains the reasons for the request:
To: Board of Public Works
From: Liz Vance, Youth Bureau Director
Re: Pavilion Reservation Fees
Date: August 22, 2016
During our 2017 budget planning we reviewed the pavilion fees at Cass and
Stewart Parks. (The Ithaca Youth Bureau (IYB) handles the pavilion reservations
for both parks). We also reviewed the pavilion rental agreement to address
concerns about renters use and treatment of the pavilions.
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes August 22, 2016
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The last fee increase was made in 2014 following the rebuilding of the Tea
Pavilion in Stewart Park. In 2015, we moved to a resident/non-resident fee
structure when the Town of Ithaca first decreased their contributions to water
front parks and recreation facilities. With outside funding continuing to decrease
and with the City continuing to invest in the parks, we are recommending the fees
for City of Ithaca residents increase by 1% and that the fees for non-residents
and organizations increase 1.5%. Please see chart below.
This summer we received reports of damage done to the pavilions by renters and
the condition that pavilions were left in after use. Broken glass, beer bottles,
garbage and vomit have been found after events. The Department of Public Works
also discovered that renters are using staples and adhesives on the pavilion walls
to hang decorations and this is causing damage to newly painted walls. We have
reviewed the current pavilion rental form and are recommending several changes
that will hopefully help protect the recent investments in the pavilions so that they
will last for many years to come.
Proposed new fees Proposed new fees
Individuals and Families All Organizations
from the City of Ithaca Non-Resident
City Discount Individuals and Families
Cass Park
Up to 24 people $40.00 $52.00
25 – 74 people $80.00 $104.00
75 + people or Exclusive Use $100.00 $130.00
Stewart Park Small Pavilion
Up to 24 people $40.00 $52.00
25 – 74 people $80.00 $104.00
75 + people or Exclusive Use $130.00 $170.00
Stewart Park Large Pavilion
Up to 24 people $40.00 $52.00
25 – 74 people $80.00 $104.00
75 – 99 people $130.00 $170.00
100 – 149 people $165.00 $215.00
150 + people or Exclusive Use $200.00 $260.00
Youth Bureau Director Vance explained that staff would recommend an increase in
pavilion use fees as well as a method by which the City could protect the condition of
the pavilion and recover any costs incurred as a result of the misuse of the pavilions.
This summer, in particular, the City has received complaints from both staff and other
users regarding the physical condition in which the pavilion was left after use by certain
groups. In response to these complaints the pavilion rental application/agreement has
been revised to include stronger language regarding the penalties that could be charged
back to the user of the pavilion if the pavilion is not left in the same or better condition
than before their use. The agreement will also include instructions on the types of
materials that are approved for use to decorate the walls. The City may also install cork
borders or hooks for people to use when they are decorating so the walls will be
protected.
Asst. Supt. Benjamin reported that it was brought to his attention by City Forester Grace
that there have been instances where City staff have been asked to lock the pavilion at
night after it has been decorated for use the next day in order to protect it. He stated
that the City is not in a position to do that because they don’t have the staff. The City
also needs to make it known to users of the pavilion that if they choose to decorate the
pavilion the night before their event that they are doing it at their own risk; that type of
language should be included in the updated agreement.
Extensive discussion followed on the floor regarding the serving of alcohol at the park,
specifically fraternities and sororities that use the pavilion, and then leave them in very
poor, unclean conditions. Discussion also followed on the different requirements for the
serving of alcohol at public or private events at the park, as well as the sale of alcohol
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes August 22, 2016
6
during large events. The Board is interested in an increased presence by the City of
Ithaca Police Department at the park when alcohol is being served at an event. Youth
Bureau Director Vance offered to meet with the Chief of Police and City Attorney to
discuss these concerns, and report back to the Board at a future meeting.
The Board expressed their support for the proposal to increase the fees for the use of
the pavilions. They would also be willing to vote on any resolution that might be written
about the penalties or charges that could be billed to the person reserving the pavilion
when damage is discovered, and the use of alcohol at the park, as recommended by
the Chief of Police and City Attorney.
Request for Encroachment Agreement/License at 128 Eddy Street - Resolution
By Commissioner Warden: Seconded by Commissioner Darling
WHEREAS, Margaret Liguori, owner of the property at 128 Eddy Street (Tax Map
Parcel No. 68.-3-11), in the City of Ithaca, has requested an encroachment
agreement/license from the City into the adjacent airspace of City-owned “Frosh
Alley”; and
WHEREAS, the encroachment consists of the following:
A second story overhang extending into the “Frosh Alley” airspace by
approximately .7 foot in width, for a span of approximately 14 feet,
thereby encompassing an encroachment into the right-of-way by
approximately 9.8 feet, which is shown on a drawing stamped September
24, 2009 and entitled “Survey Map No. 128 Eddy Street” prepared by Lee
Dresser, Licensed Land Surveyor; and
WHEREAS, it appears that the second story overhang in question has been in
existence for many years, and that the proposed overhang encroachment is
inside the current location of the existing airspace of the City-owned property
known as “Frosh Alley” and will not interfere with the City’s property as currently
constituted; and
WHEREAS, the Superintendent does not anticipate any conflicts in the near
future with public works uses or needs; and
WHEREAS, the 2016-17 schedule of fees for use of City-owned property
requires an initial application fee of $100 for new licenses, but stipulates that the
annual use fee shall be waived for minor encroachments; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works hereby grants the request for an
encroachment at 128 Eddy Street, as proposed, contingent upon the execution of
a license/agreement and submission of the required application form and fee
(and renewal fees for any subsequent terms) and proof of required insurance;
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Mayor, upon consultation with the Superintendent and City
Attorney, is hereby authorized to execute a license/agreement allowing said
encroachment, revocable upon 90 days’ written notice by the City in the event
that the encroached upon City property is required for any City purpose, and
containing the usual terms and conditions, including those specified in Chapter
170 of the City’s Municipal Code.
Ayes (4) Jenkins, Darling, Marshall, Warden
Nays (1) Goldsmith
Abstentions (0)
Carried
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes August 22, 2016
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Parks Commission Recommendation to Rename Cass Park Road:
Supt. Thorne provided the following information for the Board:
At its July 12, 2016 meeting, the Parks Commission discussed a request from the Ithaca
Children’s Garden (ICG) to rename the two sections of the Cass Park Access Road.
One portion of the road is located in the main area of Cass Park (near the pool, rink,
Hanger Theatre and soccer fields) while the other portion runs near ICG, the park
pavilion and Union baseball fields. The ICG has requested that the two portions of the
road, which are not connected, be given separate names to help with visitors’ navigation
to both Cass Park and the Ithaca Children’s Garden. There is currently confusion over
which part of Cass Park Access Road the various facilities are located on, and visitors
are having difficulty finding their destinations. While the ICG suggested naming the
portion of the road adjacent to their facility “Gaia Way” after Gaia the Turtle, the
commission thought this name would have little meaning if the garden closed or
relocated. The Parks Commission would like the road sections to be assigned names
that are related to local Ithaca history. The Parks Commission proposes that the
section of Cass Park Access Road near the Hangar Theater, rink and pool be renamed
“Runway Run” to reflect the history of the area on a portion of the access road thought
to have been part of the former airport runway. The Commission also proposes that the
portion of the road near the ICG be renamed “Storm Country Road” to commemorate
the writings of Grace Miller White, an author who lived in the area. Her popular novel
“Tess of the Storm Country” (1909), which was also made into several film versions,
was set in Ithaca’s west end. The novel focused on the struggles against injustice of an
impoverished girl living in the squatter’s fishing camp, which was likely located very near
the current Cass Park location.
The Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the Board rename the Cass
Park Access Roads as noted above.
Asst. Supt. Benjamin noted it would be easier for Dig Safe NY to mark for work being
done at the park, if the access roads were re-named.
Commissioner Darling voiced his support for the idea, but does not support the length of
the proposed new names, he does not like two word road names. He wondered how
the City chooses the name for its roads, and noted that he mentioned to the Board a
few weeks ago that the City of Ithaca seems to have a lot of roads with the word “Park”
in their name. He suggested that the access roads be renamed “Bordoni Road” in
honor of Christopher Bordoni because Bordoni Park located near them.
CC Liaison Fleming requested that the Board begin a discussion about whether or not
the current name of the access roads is really that confusing to everyone, and what the
perceived problem seems to be.
Asst. Supt. Benjamin responded that all the roads in the area are called “Cass Park
Road” and it becomes confusing for crews from Dig Safe NY when they are trying to
locate utilities in the area. It also appears, from information provided by the Parks
Commission that the public has problems locating particular areas of the park that they
wish to visit.
Vice Chair Jenkins suggested the name “Hangar Road”, which other Board members
supported.
Commissioner Warden wondered if the request should be sent back to the Parks
Commission with information that the Board supports the idea, but would like shorter
names for the roads than what was proposed.
Board members agreed that it makes sense to change the name of the access roads,
and suggested “Hangar Road” and “Turtle Road” as other possibilities.
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes August 22, 2016
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CC Liaison Fleming questioned why both roads should have their name changed;
couldn’t one be left at as “Cass Park Access Road” and then rename the other road?
She also feels that others should be involved in this process than just the Board of
Public Works. She questioned what the City’s protocol is when suggestions are made
to change the name of a particular road.
Supt. Thorne suggested that the request be sent back to Parks Commission with
information that the Board supports the idea, but not the suggested names. If it comes
back to the Board then a resolution should be included with the request. He further
suggested that the Board not support the request and to keep the name of the roads as
is. He doesn’t believe this has ever been an issue; now, one group wants to change the
names and he is wondering why, because it will entail a lot of work and time by city staff
as well as the Board of Public Works unnecessarily.
Commissioner Darling noted that the Hangar Theatre has its own sign, Cass Park Rink
has its own sign, and the Children’s Garden has its own sign why do anything else? He
stated that “North Cass Park Road” and “South Cass Park Road” were also suggested
to clarify different locations.
Supt. Thorne stated that he would talk with Senior Planner Wilson, who works with the
Parks Commission, about the request, and send it back to the Parks Commission with
the suggestions that have been offered by the Board and staff.
Approval of the Cayuga Waterfront Trail For the Public Art Commission’s Mural
and Street Art Program - Proposed Resolution:
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Public Art Commission (PAC) has been established to,
among other duties, review and advise Common Council on proposals for the exhibition
and display of public art in City spaces, buildings, facilities, and infrastructure, and to
review development proposals for decorative elements in the city’s public spaces; and
WHEREAS, in 2010, the PAC created a mural and street art program to beautify blank
walls within the city while providing local artists from all sections of the community an
opportunity to showcase their work; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Works approved the following City-owned sites for
inclusion on the list of potential sites in the City of Ithaca Public Art Commission’s Mural
and Street Art Program by resolution on May 19, 2010:
Walls in the City Garages on Green Street and Seneca Street
Retaining Wall along Ithaca Hotel Site (for temporary image)
DPW facilities next to the Sciencenter and across the street from the
Sciencenter
Municipal Electrical boxes throughout the City
Retaining walls on West Spencer Street and downstream from the George
Johnson Bridge (Plain Street over Six Mile Creek)
; and
WHEREAS, several more sites have been added to the above list by the Board of
Public Works, including, the stairwell at the intersection of South Cayuga Street and
West Spencer Street, buildings at Cass Park, the South Albany Street Bridge, and the
Dryden Road Parking Garage; and
WHEREAS, as a result of these approvals, the PAC has worked with more than 50
artists to install murals on City-owned property throughout the city, and the response to
the new murals has been overwhelmingly positive; and
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Festival has submitted a proposal for a glow-in-the-dark mural
project, titled “Art in Glow,” as part of the PAC’s Mural and Street Art Program to be
installed on the surface of a section of the Cayuga Waterfront Trail; and
WHEREAS, the Cayuga Waterfront Trail was not included among the sites pre-
approved for future murals by the Board of Public Works; and
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes August 22, 2016
9
WHEREAS, the PAC will be reviewing the design submitted by the Ithaca Festival at its
August 24, 2016, meeting but recommended that the Board consider the Cayuga
Waterfront Trail as a potential location for this proposal and other mural projects earlier
this spring; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works approves the Cayuga Waterfront Trail for
inclusion on the list of potential sites for the PAC’s Mural and Street Art Program; and,
be it further
RESOLVED, That the PAC will continue to work with Planning Department staff to
conduct a mutually acceptable public input procedure for engaging nearby businesses,
residences, and/or business and neighborhood associations for each specific project;
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the PAC will work with the City Attorney to ensure that any mural,
Request for Proposals, or contract with a participating artist reflects and accommodates
the needs and constraints of the City of Ithaca.
The artist for this Art Glow mural addressed the Board about the technique to be used
to install the art, and showed them a sample of the glow in the dark medium that will be
used. The proposed installation date is at the end of October 2016.
Board members expressed their support for the project especially since there is no cost
to the City, and requested that the resolution be brought back to their next meeting for a
vote.
Appeal of Water Service Bill for 201 West Clinton Street:
Asst. Supt. Whitney provided the following information regarding the appeal for the
Board:
The property owner should not have been charged for the street patch as the street was
being paved subsequent to the water and sewer work that was done. The City’s Water
and Sewer Operations Supervisor remembers talking with Mr. Boggs and telling him
that this was the time to replace his old services as he would save the cost of the
pavement portion since the street was scheduled to be paved very soon afterwards.
Asst. Supt. Whitney recommends that the Board of Public Works approve the reduction
of $800.00 on Mr. Bogg’s bill, which will zero out the street patch line on the invoice. He
would also recommend that the late payment interest should also be reduced
proportionally for the adjustment of the bill.
Board members expressed their support for staff recommendations, and requested that
a resolution be provided to them to vote on at their next meeting.
Request from Ithaca Farmers Market to Increase Parking Area at Steamboat
Landing:
Ithaca Farmers’ Market Manager, Aaron Munzer, and architect Steve Gibian joined the
Board for discussion of this item.
Mr. Munzer explained that when the City of Ithaca recently completed the construction
of the Cayuga Waterfront Trail through the parking lot area of the Ithaca Farmers’
Market at Steamboat Landing, the market lost 50-60 parking spaces. In addition,
shortly thereafter a neighboring property owner requested that the City of Ithaca place
“No Parking” signs all along Third Street Extension, where customers of the market had
been parking for decades. That decision was made by the City of Ithaca Department of
Public Works and the City of Ithaca Fire Chief based on the fact that vehicles were
obstructing the public right-of-way. The market estimates that they have lost
approximately 1/5 of their 500 parking spaces – some of which were located in their lot,
and others on the edge of Third Street, Carpenter Drive, and the front entrance to the
market. He further noted, that Cornell University’s rowing team uses their parking lot for
training and events so additional parking for the market is lost to the attendees of those
events.
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes August 22, 2016
10
He stated that the Ithaca Farmers’ Market was not notified of the impending removal of
the parking until three days before the no parking signs went up. That resulted in the
market having no chance to plan for the loss of parking, right in the midst of its busy
summer farming season. In addition, were they not only not given a voice in the
discussions leading to the removal of the parking, they have been unsuccessful in their
attempts, so far, to work with the City on possible alternative parking options for the
market.
The loss of this parking has had a deep impact, financially, for vendors at the market.
Therefore, the Ithaca Farmers’ Market is asking for the City of Ithaca’s support to
replace the parking they lost, with the creation of a small gravel pull-off on city property
on the edge of Third Street Extension for approximately 600’ feet of perpendicular
parking space. Their architect, Steve Gibian, has drawn up a proposed blueprint, which
they would like to share with the Board of Public Works for their review, in an effort to
come up with a possible solution to assist them in regaining some the parking that was
lost. The Ithaca Farmers’ Market would be willing to share part of the cost, perform all
the maintenance on the site, and take responsibility for the added liability.
Mr. Munzer reported that Dan Cogan, Chief of Staff for the City of Ithaca, requested that
the Ithaca Farmers’ Market obtain several quotes for what the work to create the
parking spaces would cost, which they did. The best one was estimated at a cost of
about $25,000, which their Board would have to approve and for which they certainly
want to contribute towards because they do not expect the City of Ithaca to pick up the
entire cost. He stated that the Ithaca Farmers’ Market is at the mercy of the City in this
matter as they try to find a way to create some additional parking for the market. The
additional parking will assist the market, its vendors, and the City of Ithaca by
accommodating the many visitors to Ithaca which has become a tourist destination to
what has been called the “world famous” Ithaca Farmers’ Market.
Commissioner Goldsmith responded that he supports the request; he is also wondering
if the City of Ithaca Fire Department needs to comply with city code or are they asking
for more than city code requires for the size of a public right-of-way/fire lane. He
expressed his support for the City of Ithaca Fire Department, he just wants to double
check the facts. He cited one instance where because of the fire department
involvement, the city denied a request for a park. The fire department asked for more
than the code demanded for their fire lane. However, if the City of Ithaca Fire
Department needs the entire area for a public right-of-way/fire lane, then the Board
should support that decision.
Supt. Thorne explained that cars are parked in the fire lane now which is right along the
land that the property owner wants to keep intact and doesn’t want vehicles to park on.
The City of Ithaca cut down all the brush along that area so the “No Parking” signs
would be visible. There is also a creek that meanders through the area being
suggested by the Ithaca Farmers’ Market for additional parking. That would trigger the
need for involvement by New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
who would need to be involved to assist the City in mitigating any environmental
concerns in that wetland area before the parking area could be developed. He thinks
that it might cost more than the stated estimate provided by the Ithaca Farmers’ Market
for the project; probably closer to $40,000 to $50,000. He visited the area and has
discussed with staff what would need to done – i.e. what kind of material, the work
involved, and determining any encroachment issues. He is okay with the request;
however, he does not support the City of Ithaca paying for it. If the City did have to pay
for the cost, then it would need to be funded through a capital project.
Commissioner Darling noted and reiterated that Cornell University’s rowing crew, their
families, and attendees to rowing events use the market’s parking area as well. That
would raise the question that the cost for construction of additional parking should be
shared by not only the Ithaca Farmers’ Market and the City of Ithaca, but Cornell
University as well.
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Mr. Munzer responded that the Ithaca Farmers’ Market approached Cornell University
about sharing some of the cost of the project, but it would seem that the market has a
more pressing need to construct the additional parking area than the timeline for any
contribution from Cornell University to come forward.
Mr. Gibian stated that the proposed perpendicular parking would allow twice as many
people to park, so besides the quantity of parking being proposed, it would also be easy
for parkers to come and go. He noted that parallel parkers need a place to turn around,
whereas perpendicular parkers do not.
Supt. Thorne agreed that there would be clear benefits to both the City of Ithaca and the
Farmers’ Market if additional parking were created, it’s just the cost is something that
the City is not in a financial position to fund right now – without doing it through a Capital
Project, which takes might or might not be a request that would be approved for funding.
Mr. Munzer stated that it would not be unreasonable for the Ithaca Farmers’ Market to
contribute $20,000 towards the project, as long as the market would have exclusive
right to use it when its’ there. He further stated that they have spoken with TCAT about
possible shuttles back and forth to remote parking areas; however, their customers want
to be able to drive to the market so they can drive their produce home - they don’t want
to have to walk home with it or use a shuttle. The fact of the matter is, that right now,
people just want to drive and that’s just is what it is. He noted that bike racks have been
installed to encourage alternate means of transportation to and from the market, and
soon charging stations for bikes will be installed.
Commissioner Goldsmith asked whether parking for the market might be available in
the Aldi’s grocery store parking lot. Mr. Munzer responded that people who use that lot
for parking and go to the Ithaca Farmers’ Market will be towed because it is a private lot.
CC Liaison Fleming stated that she uses the Tompkins County Department of Motor
Vehicles parking when she goes to the Ithaca Farmers’ Market without any problems.
Mr. Munzer responded that the Ithaca Farmers’ Market has an agreement with them to
allow their customers to use that parking lot.
Vice Chair Jenkins asked whether the Ithaca Farmers’ Market had explored some sort
of bus transport on Saturdays and Sundays from the Tompkins County Department of
Motor Vehicles to the market.
Mr. Munzer responded that they have explored that idea and have been discussing it
with the Mayor and Chief of Staff. They have also been exploring the TCAT parking lot
and the use of a shuttle. He stated that the use of nearby alternate parking areas is
something that the market would like to explore further; he asked what they need to do
next. He noted that the market knows that there are locals that just won’t come to
market because they can’t drive there, and because visitors make it so unpleasant for
them as far as parking goes.
Commissioner Darling asked whether the Ithaca Farmers’ Market had considered
reconfiguring their parking lot. Mr. Munzer responded that they had and that they
worked with Cornell University and the City of Ithaca Forester to see what could be
done. It wouldn’t really make a big difference; they were able to trim some weeds which
resulted in about 6 spaces.
Commissioner Darling stated that the next step for the Ithaca Farmers’ Market would be
to bring the proposal to staff in the Planning Department for review. The Planning
Department will most likely say that a lead agency needs to be designated because of
the environmental impacts to the wetland area where the additional parking spaces are
proposed to be designated. It will then go to the Planning and Development Board for
discussion, review, and so they can be designated as the lead agency for the project.
Supt. Thorne stated that if the Planning and Development Board approves the project,
the City of Ithaca would need to develop a memorandum of understanding with the
Ithaca Farmers’ Market.
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Commissioner Goldsmith questioned whether the City would be in support of the project
if cost were no question; Supt. Thorne responded that it would.
CC Liaison Fleming asked whether the Ithaca Farmers’ Market had ever worked with
Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce or the Tourism Commerce for funding.
Mr. Munzer responded that they work with both, and the market applies for a tourist
grant each year.
Commissioner Darling expressed some reservations in terms of the future development
in that area and the market. He stated that there have been discussions about a
proposed expansion of the City of Ithaca Waste Water Treatment Plant, and other
property in the area being developed as well in the near future. He wondered why the
City of Ithaca can’t just sell the land to the Ithaca Farmers’ Market.
Mr. Munzer stated that right now, it is of value to the Ithaca Farmers’ Market to move
forward with the proposal where they are. They have discussed and considered moving
the market somewhere else, but the pavilion and persona of Steamboat Landing has
really helped the market grow and what draws in so many people.
Commissioner Goldsmith stated that the market might want to put more effort into
arranging for a TCAT shuttle on Saturday and Sunday for transportation to and from the
market and the parking lot at the Department of Motor Vehicles, and maybe expand the
shuttle service to other nearby parking lots. The Ithaca Farmers’ Market then needs to
work to promote these other areas to park, and about the TCAT shuttle.
Commissioner Warden stated that one of the reasons people want to be able to drive to
and from the Ithaca Farmers’ Market is due to the size of their purchases, oftentimes in
bulk quantities. He wondered whether there might be a way for the market to facilitate
transporting purchases from the market to the customers’ vehicle which could, for
example, be parked at the Department of Motor Vehicles. If customers know that they
will have assistance in transporting their bulk purchases, they might be more inclined to
walk to the market rather than drive.
Vice Chair Jenkins stated that some farmers/vendors will deliver purchases directly to
your home, so that might be something to promote as well. She noted that locals should
be made aware that there are market days around the City, other than Saturday and
Sunday that might be easier for them to park and shop at.
The Board recommended that the Ithaca Farmers’ Market bring their proposal to the
Planning and Development Board for review and consideration. After that review, it
would most likely come back to the Board of Public Works for further discussion and
any other approvals that might be needed.
Adjournment:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 6:53 p.m.
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Sarah L. Myers, Claudia Jenkins,
Information Management Specialist Vice Chair