HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-BPW-2016-10-24Board of Public Works Meeting Proceedings
Regular Meeting 4:45 p.m. October 24, 2016
Present:
Mayor Myrick
Commissioners (4) Darling, Warden, McCormick, Greene
Others Present:
CC Liaison – Fleming
Supt. of Public Works – Thorne
Asst. Supt. W & S – Whitney
Asst. Supt. S & F – Benjamin
Information Management Specialist – Myers
Director of Engineering – Logue
Excused:
Director of Parking – Nagy
Commissioners Goldsmith, Jenkins
Call to Order - Additions to or Deletions From the Agenda:
Supt. Thorne requested the addition of item 12A under Water & Sewer entitled “312
Fourth Street Discolored Water Refund - Ithaca Ice Company – Resolution” for
discussion.
No Board Member Objected.
Mayor’s Communications:
The Mayor had no communications for the Board at this time.
Communications and Hearings From Persons Before the Board:
The following people addressed the Board to voice their support for the implementation
of traffic calming measures in the Belle Sherman/East State/Martin Luther King, Jr.
Street and Mitchell Street neighborhood:
Linda Slattery, City of Ithaca
Theresa Lyczko, City of Ithaca
Judith Koch, City of Ithaca
Nancy Ramage, City of Ithaca
Ann Sullivan, City of Ithaca
Stephanie Mitchell, City of Ithaca
George McGonigal, First Ward Alderperson, addressed the Board of behalf of himself
and his ward mate, Cynthia Brock, to express their support for the proposed changes on
Spencer Road. The changes will improve the safety of the residents of the area, as well
as improve traffic flow and safety. He thanked the Board for their consideration of the
request and for making the right choice for this neighborhood.
Response to the Public:
Mayor Myrick responded to concerns raised about the safety of the residents of the
above noted neighborhoods. He noted that as a policy maker one of the areas where
he feels that he can’t win is with traffic decisions because some want one thing and
others want another. He agreed that everyone wants to live in a neighborhood that is
safe and where cars do not speed. He stated that the City is supportive of
implementing traffic calming measures around the City. Towards that goal, the City has
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a plan to put at least $50,000 into traffic calming measures city-wide going forward each
year. He stated that the Belle Sherman neighborhood will be included in that plan.
Commissioner Warden apologized for being late to the meeting and missing some of
the comments that were made. He stated that he takes pedestrian and school crossing
safety matters very seriously. He thanked the neighbors for the detailed report they
provided to the Board with recommendations for traffic calming measures.
Administration and Communications:
Approval of September 26 and October 3, 2016 Board of Public Works Meeting
Minutes - Resolution
By Commissioner Darling: Seconded by Commissioner Greene
RESOLVED, That the minutes of the September 26, 2016 and October 3, 2016 Board
of Public Works Meeting Minutes be approved as published.
Carried Unanimously
Reports:
Commissioner Greene reported that he recently began attending the meetings of the
Waterfront Working Group. The group meets twice a month to review how to implement
some of the City of Ithaca Comprehensive Plans - “Plan Ithaca” - components in that
area. There is nothing to report upon at this point; however, some good ideas seem to
be flowing amongst the group.
Mayor Myrick responded that he is pleased that Commissioner Greene is attending
those meetings so that he can keep the Board informed of what is happening in that
area of the City.
CC Liaison Fleming reported that Common Council members have been attending
many budget meetings, which are very well organized, during the month of October.
She further reported that the Task Force established by the Mayor to discuss the City’s
gorges began meeting recently, and is chaired by Alderperson Kerslick. She is also on
the task force which has been charged with discussing swimming in the gorges,
educational programs, and what can be done to address dangerous activities occurring
in the gorges.
Commissioner Green asked whether that Task Force will be looking at any potential
funding sources to implement any of the recommendations that may be agreed upon.
CC Liaison Fleming responded that they would be doing that as they move forward with
discussions and any implementation of any changes.
Commissioner Darling, BPW Liaison to the Planning and Development Board, has been
very interested in the movement of traffic during the construction of the new seven-story
Tompkins Trust Company Bank Building on East Seneca Street. They are also working
to make sure sidewalks are constructed where there are none now while new
development is taking place. The Board is continuing its work on the environmental
impact statement for the Chainworks Project.
David West, Chair of the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Council (BPAC) and stand-in
liaison until one can be appointed between the Board of Public Works and BPAC,
reported that BPAC has not met since the Board’s last meeting; they are actually
meeting at 6:00 p.m. this evening. He reported that BPAC passed a resolution two
years ago similar to the one recently approved by the Planning and Development Board
on regarding the Tompkins Trust Company construction on East Seneca Street
regarding construction of sidewalks where there are none when new development is
occurring. They are very interested in that same goal city-wide. BPAC continues its
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work on a “Complete Streets Policy” for presentation to the Board of Public Works; it
should be ready for the next BPW meeting.
Director of Engineering Logue reported that construction on North Tioga Street has
been completed. It will now be interesting to see how the Board of Public Works’
decision on the creation of a bike boulevard and the removal of some of the parking on
the street will work. He stated that staff would conduct additional traffic counts in the
Spring to compare before and after counts and data. Engineering staff are working on
two environmental impact statements right now, one for the Chainworks project and one
for the Maple Avenue project. He reported that New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation issued the City a permit to begin the retaining wall work in
Six Mile Creek where it had tipped into the creek. The old wall will be removed and
then the new wall installed.
Asst. Supt. Benjamin reported that all the paving on the 400 and 500 blocks of South
Plain Street was completed two weeks ago. Crews moved to the 300 block of West
Court Street to pave last Thursday; however, due to the rainy weather since then, the
work has not been able to take place. He stated that they found out today that the
asphalt plants are tentatively closing in two weeks, so the City needs to get a move on
with the repaving that is needed at various locations. The new curb is being set on
Dryden Road today and tomorrow, then crews will start to dig to put the base/binder
down for the Winter. If the opportunity presents itself, crews will move the paver to
Dryden Road once the work on West Court Street is completed. He further reported that
once the City’s sweepers are repaired, crews will be back out to remove leaves from the
street. He noted that it has been a good construction year for the City.
Commissioner McCormick asked whether the lines for the bike boulevard on North
Tioga Street will be painted this Fall or next Spring? Asst. Supt. Benjamin responded
that he is not sure where that project stands, and noted that it is getting near the end of
the painting season.
Asst. Supt. Whitney reported that the City is celebrating all the rainfall that has been
received recently after a very dry summer; water levels are now 10-20 cfm’s over
previous levels. Crews will be working on North Aurora and North Tioga Street to
replace three failed water valves tomorrow.
Supt. Thorne reported that staff are still trying to address the vault situation on Dryden
Road; a couple of the new vaults on Dryden Road and Linden Avenue are a little off
kilter and need to be re-set. Staff is working to set up meetings with NYSEG this week
to discuss what needs to be done. As far as other work in Collegetown things are
moving along as needed. Staff is working on a grant application that would help
towards the funding for a flooding study of the City. He further reported that DPW staff
will be meeting in the next couple of weeks to set up the 2017 work plan which will then
be presented to the Board of Public Works and Common Council for approval. Staff
met recently with Cornell University staff and a consultant to develop the time line for
the work that needs to take place on Forest Home Drive. The City would like to start by
June 1, 2017. In order to do that, a Memorandum of Understanding needs to be in
place by December 1, 2016; if it isn’t the City will have to push the start date out to July
2017.
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Highways, Streets & Sidewalks:
Proposed Resolution to Select a Preferred Alternative for the Spencer Road
Sidewalk and Traffic Study - Resolution
By Commissioner Darling: Seconded by Commissioner Warden
WHEREAS, Common Council created Capital Project #797, “Spencer Road Sidewalk
and Traffic Study” and directed the Engineering Division to investigate options to build
sidewalk along the 400 block of Spencer Road and the 800 block of South Meadow
Street Extension, as well as investigate options to redesign associated intersections to
manage traffic in the neighborhood; and
WHEREAS, alternative preliminary designs for the 400 block of Spencer Road and the
800 block of South Meadow Street Extension, including the intersection of Spencer
Road and Stone Quarry Road, have been prepared by LaBella Associates as part of the
Spencer Road Sidewalk and Traffic Study; and
WHEREAS, staff has held multiple neighborhood meetings and received input from
residents, City Departments (e.g., Planning, Police, and Fire) and interested agencies,
(e.g., the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency, Ithaca Neighborhood Housing, and the Town
of Ithaca); and
WHEREAS, considering input from the public, other City departments, and other
stakeholders, engineering staff recommends selection of Alternative 3 (the dead end
option) to further develop into final design; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works directs staff to further develop plans for
the study area in line with Alternative 3, including the concept of creating a dead-end of
Spencer Road, just west of the intersection with Stone Quarry Road, which means that
all traffic using Stone Quarry Road will align with the 300 block of Spencer Road and
the roundabout at Old Elmira Road and Albany Street.
Commissioner Warden confirmed that this resolution approves the development of the
study area for the proposed plan and not the actual construction of the project. Mayor
Myrick responded that was correct, it is approving the study – not construction.
David West, Chair of BPAC, reported that BPAC passed a resolution in support of the
same study; their resolution also requested that bicycle traffic be included with the
proposed alternative plan.
A Vote on the Resolution Resulted As Follows:
Carried Unanimously
Award of Contract for Pedestrian Signal Upgrade Project - Resolution
By Commissioner Warden: Seconded by Commissioner Darling
WHEREAS, four bids were received on September 27, 2016 for the Pedestrian Signal
Upgrade Project, CP 801, PIN 375590; and
WHEREAS, staff has reviewed the four bids received and made a recommendation for
award; and
WHEREAS, the New York State Department of Transportation has authorized the City
of Ithaca to award the contract for this project; now, therefore be it
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RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Board of Public Works hereby awards the contract
for the Pedestrian Signal Upgrade Project, CP #801, PIN 375590, to Power Line
Constructors. Inc., 24 Robinson Rd., P.O. Box 385, Clinton, NY for their low bid meeting
specifications of $42,565.12; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Superintendent of Public Works be and is hereby authorized to
execute this contract and to administer the same.
Carried Unanimously
Creeks, Bridges & Parks:
Support for Pilot Food Scraps Drop Off Spot at Cass Park - Resolution
By Commissioner Darling: Seconded by Commissioner McCormick
WHEREAS, Tompkins County Solid Waste has requested that a mobile residential food
scrap drop off location be established in Cass Park to serve West Hill residents, to
begin in January 2017 and be re-evaluated in a year; and
WHEREAS, several residential food scrap drop off locations are currently in existence
throughout Tompkins County, including the City of Ithaca, and have been very
successful; and
WHEREAS, the mobile residential food scrap drop off will only be on site and operated
one day each week for a three hour period and will then vacate the premises; and
WHEREAS, Tompkins County Solid Waste has been working closely with Executive
Director Jim D’Alterio at Cass Park to determine a suitable location for this drop off site;
now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works supports the establishment of a mobile
residential food scrap drop off location within Cass Park in a location determined by
Cass Park staff, and recommends that Common Council approve this request for use of
parkland.
Supt. Thorne stated that after he discussed this proposal with City Attorney Lavine, he
was informed that since the project involves a city park, Common Council will need to
vote on the resolution in order for it to receive final approval.
A Vote on the Resolution Resulted As Follows:
Carried Unanimously
Water & Sewer:
312 Fourth Street Discolored Water Refund - Resolution
WHEREAS, during the time frame from late-June through mid-August 2016 there were
at least 4-days when the water supplied from the City of Ithaca’s production and
distribution systems to the Ithaca Ice Company at 312 Fourth Street was extremely
discolored resulting in an unusable ice product along with additional equipment cleaning
and maintenance issues; and
WHEREAS, the Ithaca Ice Company has process filtration and settling equipment
designed to address periodic water quality issues typical of a century old distribution
system, however the dissolved colors imparted to the water on occasions this summer
were more like a dark tea which cannot be addressed by any filtration system; and
WHEREAS, the discolored water supplied and subsequently the discolored ice
produced resulted in the need for Ithaca Ice to purchase additional ice from a third party
as well as perform additional cleaning and maintenance of their equipment, etc.; and
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WHEREAS, as directed by the BPW the Assistant Superintendent for the City of Ithaca
DPW Water & Sewer Division along with Engineering and Meter Technician Staff met
with Henry Newman Owner of Ithaca Ice on September 29, 2016 to review the costs his
business incurred associated with the discolored water as outlined in Mr. Newman’s
letter of September 14, 2016, presented to the BPW for discussion on September 26,
2016; and
WHEREAS, upon review by DPW Staff Mr. Newman’s estimate of $2,030.00 in costs to
his business associated with the discolored water was found quite reasonable and more
likely than not lower than actual costs; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the $2,030.00 in costs to the Ithaca Ice Company be refunded by a
credit of $2,030.00 applied to the Ithaca Ice Company’s City of Ithaca Water Account,
Account Number: 391300001.
Asst. Supt. Whitney explained that the Board discussed this item at their September
26th meeting, at which he was asked to meet with the owner. He met with the owner,
engineering staff, and the water meter technicians to discuss the request. He stated that
additional information was presented to staff by the owner, and it is staff’s conclusion
that the owner was asking for quite a bit less than the actual costs incurred; so staff are
very agreeable to the request. He noted, however, that the City Attorney has not
reviewed the resolution yet.
Mayor Myrick stated that he feels that the proposed resolution is reasonable but he
would request that the City Attorney review it before the Board votes on it.
Asst. Supt. Whitney noted that the City will not issue a refund, instead it will be a credit
to the account.
Board members expressed their opinion that they thought that the request was more
than fair. They expressed their support for it and the importance of keeping the
business local in the City of Ithaca.
Staff will have the City Attorney review the resolution and then bring it back to the Board
at a future meeting for a vote.
Discussion Items:
Belle Sherman/Bryant Park Traffic Study Working Group Update:
The following report was provided to the Board of Public Works from the working group:
To: City of lthaca Board of Public Works
From: Belle Sherman/Bryant Park Traffic Safety Working Group
Date: October 11, 2016
In July 2016, twelve residents of the neighborhood attended a Board of Public Works
meeting asking for help in calming neighborhood traffic. The BPW members asked
those attending to submit a summary of the problems in written form. This is the
response that has been put together by a volunteer working group of Belle Sherman
and Bryant Park residents.
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Respectfully submitted,
Adrienne Clay
105 Cobb Street
Naama Menda
203 Pearl Street
Theresa Lycsko
316 Ithaca Road
Kris Hodges
215 Cornell Street
Nancy Ramage
964 East State Street
Stephanie Martin
806 Mitchell
Traci Nathans Kelly
105 Cornell Street
Ann Sullivan
109 Irving Place
Jim Hedlund
110 Homestead Road
Judith Koch
313 Ithaca Road
Marybeth Tarzian
603 Mitchell Street
Adam Jacobstein
114 Clover Lane
Report on Traffic, Speeding, and Safety Issues in the Belle Sherman and Bryant Park
Neighborhood With a Request for Action from the City:
Introduction
The Bryant Park and Belle Sherman district comprises a neighborhood of walkers who
prize easy pedestrian access to downtown Ithaca, Cornell University and East Hill. As
planned originally by the neighborhood's designers, large numbers of residents walk to
work, while neighborhood children walk to Belle Sherman, both to go to school and to
make use of the large playground located there. Walkability·is one of the
neighborhood's greatest advantages and an important reason many residents live here.
We would like to keep it that way.
In 2006, citizens in the Belle Sherman neighborhood brought to the city's attention the
fact that speeding and other moving violations were adversely affecting pedestrian
safety. The following year, the city went so far as to conduct a traffic survey (copies are
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8
available for review) and performed a walkabout with citizens for an on-site review of
issues. Now, ten years later, we believe that proper remediation of the problems has
still not been adequately addressed in spite of improvements such as the sidewalk on
the south end of Cornell Street and the recently repainted lines of some of the
crosswalks. Indeed, in recent years, we believe our streets are even less safe for
pedestrians.
In our neighborhood, there are two state routes that lead into the center of town: Routes
366 (Ithaca Road) and 79 (East State Street/MLK Street). The following types of
vehicles travel each day on these streets: construction vehicles, including cement
trucks; trucks hauling debris and construction materials; TCAT and touring buses;
tractor trailers and trailer beds; delivery vehicles used by local businesses and
contractors, as well as passenger cars, motorcycles, and bicycles.
Ithaca Road
Large vehicles driving uphill consistently drive in the bike lane, both because of their
size and to negotiate turns more easily. On the downhill side, it is questionable whether
large trucks, in particular, could brake effectively in an emergency situation. Drivers
regularly fail to observe posted speed limits, and to yield to pedestrians crossing at
crosswalks. A recent story in the Ithaca Voice highlighted the problem.
(http://ithacavoice.com/2016/09/belleshermantrafficD). It is worth noting that the truck
that crashed into Simeon's two years ago began its descent on Ithaca Road.
Four years ago, on-street parking on Ithaca Road was eliminated and a bike lane
installed. The bike lane paradoxically appears to have made Ithaca Road less safe, as
the widened road seems to have encouraged speeding. This situation is particularly
dangerous above the Mitchell Street intersection. The curve at this juncture, making
close to a 90 degree tum, encourages traffic to move into the oncoming traffic lane,
while vehicles coming down Mitchell at this corner have almost zero visibility of
oncoming cars. A recent report by Ithaca Police Officer Barry Banfield shows that
although 76% of vehicles traveled at 35 mph or less (in a 30 mph zone), 24% traveled
at 36 mph or higher, and a number went over 40 mph. More than half exceeded the
speed limit of 30 mph, even knowing that their speed was being monitored; and even
though the evidence was gathered during August, the slow summer period, which is
clearly not the peak time for traffic in this neighborhood.
The intersection where Dryden and Ithaca Roads, Cornell Street, and Maple and Oak
Avenues meet is an especially dangerous spot. It has always been difficult for
pedestrians and cyclists to negotiate that intersection, and is tricky for vehicles too. The
elimination of on-street parking now gives vehicles a clear path to accelerate both going
up and down the hill. This is not safe for anyone on a bike or crossing the street on foot.
Residents who live in houses near the intersection have difficulty entering and exiting
their driveways, as motorists tailgate and pass people attempting to access their own
homes.
East State Street
The speed of traffic on East State Street in the 900 and 1000 blocks poses an ever
increasing danger to pedestrians who walk through and live in this densely populated
neighborhood. Speeding noticeably increased after November 2007, when parking on
one side of State Street was no longer permitted. The safety of cyclists was again cited
as a major reason for this change, but ironically, the speed at which cars, trucks, and
busses are traveling dramatically increased after the parking was removed, making this
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes October 24, 2016
9
area of State Street less, not more, safe, for cyclists. Several vehicles have crashed into
trees in the past few years, and one driver recently was killed; and a tractor trailer
recently jackknifed into a neighbor's front steps. The construction of Collegetown
Terrace apartments has brought hundreds more pedestrians and vehicles into this
neighborhood, as have the trucks going to the construction of the Water Works.
Mitchell Street and Belle Sherman Elementary School
The Mitchell Street corridor, serving as a connector route between Ithaca's city center
and points east, has seen increased traffic over the past few years. In 2006, a traffic
counting study showed there were more than 5,000 cars passing through each day. A
decade later, the problems have only increased. Of great concern for residents of this
area is the fact that Belle Sherman School is located in the heart of this corridor
(between Cornell Street and Elmwood Avenue, and between Mitchell Street and Valley
Road). Adults and children cross Mitchell Street frequently to access the school and bus
stops for schools farther away.
Residents observe how cars often roll through the four way stop signs near Belle
Sherman School. Traffic traveling east from the intersection of Route 366 is slowed due
to the "bump out" at the intersection of Mitchell and Ithaca Road, but once around the
curb, drivers are often seen speeding uphill to the Mitchell Street/Elmwood Avenue
intersection. Inattentive drivers often run through this first four-way stop sign. The early
morning hours can be particularly hazardous because drivers traveling east are blinded
by the rising sun.
Traffic traveling west on Mitchell Street from Pine Tree Road and the East Hill area
(Ellis Hollow Road, Snyder Hill Road) have a fairly long 35 mph straightaway before
they enter the city's 30 mph speed limit at Vine Street and Mitchell. Speeding is
common as drivers traverse two crosswalks (one at the East Hill Trail next to Belle
Sherman Cottages and one at the Vine Street intersection) before entering the city
limits. These crosswalks are well used due to commuters on the East Hill Trail and
because of a lack of continuous sidewalk on the north side of Mitchell Street between
Vine and Cobb streets. Pedestrians have to jaywalk to get across Mitchell at and below
Cobb Street.
During school days, the 30 mph speed limit drops to 15 mph on all the streets
surrounding the school; however, many drivers disregard the lowered speed zone as
they approach the crosswalks and the school. Of special note is the crosswalk that
connects the two school buildings in the middle of the block on Cornell Street between
Valley Road and Mitchell Street. Entire classes often cross the street during the school
day.
Pedestrians are endangered by cars that travel through the intersection at Cornell and
Mitchell streets without stopping -- some without even slowing down. Other cars that are
able to stop do this abruptly, and the all-too-common sound of squealing brakes or tires
at this intersection is another indicator that drivers are surprised and/or unprepared to
stop. When the pavement is wet or covered in snow or ice, the intersection becomes
even more dangerous. Nearby residents fear that it is only a matter of time until
someone is seriously injured or killed at this intersection. With the Maplewood project,
and the potential East Hill Village, the situation may well worsen.
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Side Streets such as Irving Place, Delaware Avenue, Worth Street, Cobb Street
and Pearl Street
Despite reassurances that increasing density and elimination of parking requirements in
Collegetown would not impact traffic, this does not seem to be the case. Increasingly,
students and commuters seeking on-street parking are cruising through our streets,
often at unsafe speeds.
Summary
From the perspective of those of us living on these streets, existing signs and
crosswalks have done little to alleviate the dangerous situation. With the upcoming
Maplewood development and East Hill Village plans, the need for traffic calming
measures in the Belle Sherman and Bryant Park neighborhood has become even more
necessary. We respectfully request that identifiable, actionable processes begin to
address these issues. We understand that resources are tight, but the potential for
injury or even death is too great to ignore.
Director of Engineering Logue stated that the above report contains not a lot of different
concerns from other neighborhoods around the City. He stated that all the factors are
certainly present; however, absent traffic and speed data, it’s hard to say whether the
concerns noted for this neighborhood are worse than other areas of the City.
Mayor Myrick stated that the Board of Public Works could do three things in the
neighborhood right now – such as to narrow the streets, install additional stop signs to
stop traffic more often or add the parking back in where it had been removed in an effort
to slow traffic speeds. However, none of the options can be done within the next six
months because of the approaching Winter season. He noted that a study could be
done during that time, as well as reviewing traffic data for the neighborhood such as
whether there are more accidents now than before the parking was removed on Ithaca
Road.
CC Liaison Fleming reported that the Ithaca Police Department conducted a two week
traffic study on Ithaca Road recently for the working group’s report. The traffic study
indicated that the majority of cars were speeding; the group is waiting for IPD to further
explain those results to them.
Commissioner Warden asked whether New York State or the City of Ithaca owns Ithaca
Road/Route 366.
Director of Engineering Logue responded that the City of Ithaca owns all of Route 366;
it’s just signed as a state route for directional purposes only.
Commissioner Warden noted that the anecdotal information in the report about the
conflicts between bicyclists and pedestrians would need to be verified for the Board. It
should also be brought to the attention of BPAC for their input regarding the safety of
children.
David West, Chair of BPAC, responded that BPAC takes both bicyclist and pedestrian
issues very seriously, and noted that they have heard about this concern as well. He
explained that people have come to their meeting to discuss this and he actually went
out with some the residents to look at the noted areas. He stated that there is added
validity that when the parking was removed on Ithaca Road, more speeding of traffic
was likely. He noted that there are a lot of options that can be considered for the
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11
treatment of different crossings and intersections. He shared that his kids attend Belle
Sherman Elementary School and there is an issue with traffic speeding through the
neighborhood which could be addressed by physical means, enforcement, and possible
use of speed cameras that send tickets to drivers that speed through an area. He
stated that this has been discussed with staff from IPD and they are not interested in
enforcement of low speeding violations and would only ticket for speeds at more than
45 mph. BPAC is very interested in being a part of these conversations going forward.
Commissioner Greene shared that his children attend Belle Sherman Elementary
School as well. With respect to the bike lane, he feels that it is not fair to characterize
that the bike lane is not used all the time; he uses it, but it is not a heavily used bike
lane, it would, however, be a shame to lose it. He agreed that it is dangerous for
bicyclists to go up and down the hill so the removal of the on-street parking on Ithaca
Road provided some additional space for bikes. He recognizes that there is a trade-off
that needs to be made, he is not sure adding the parking back onto the street is the
solution. He further noted that he moved to the Belle Sherman neighborhood in 2004,
and at that time there was discussion about the amount of truck traffic in the
neighborhood. His neighbor, Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton, listen to concerns raised
by the neighborhood residents about the amount of truck traffic; however, she indicated
to them that since Ithaca Road was a NYS Route there was not much that could be
done to reduce the amount of trucks traveling on the road.
Director of Engineering Logue reiterated that the City owns Route 366 which is
designated a truck route. He noted that when the Simeon’s accident occurred two
years ago, there was a discussion about not designating this route as a truck route.
However; if that were done, alternative routes would have to be provided and other
neighborhoods don’t want truck traffic either. He asked the Board what other road in
the City that trucks could be re-routed to, and noted that there are not many options.
Commissioner Greene responded that currently a portion of the truck traffic on Route
366 should really be on Route 13 - that was sort of the impetus for the question - is
there anything legally that could be done. Could IPD could enforce if this is not
designated a truck route, or would there still be enforcement issues.
Discussion followed on the floor regarding what might be done to reduce speeding in
the neighborhood, whether the bike lane should be kept or removed and parking
reinstated, and would the use of traffic bumps address the problem. It was noted that
one of the concerns with any type of traffic calming is the future cost of maintenance. In
particularly, during the wintertime this is one of the first hills to get plowed and is plowed
multiple times since it is a main route in and out of the City.
Mayor Myrick explained that what Common Council will do on Wednesday is hopefully
pass the 2017 budget and $50,000 will be included for traffic calming measures
throughout the City. The Department of Public Works will need to develop a plan for
how that money will be used. He could use a couple of volunteers from the Board to
assist with the development of that plan.
Director of Engineering Logue stated that alternately staff would draft recommendations
for the Board to review and discuss, and then go from there.
Commissioners McCormick and Warden volunteered to assist in whatever way would
be most helpful to staff.
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes October 24, 2016
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Ann Sullivan, Belle Sherman Neighborhood liaison, requested that once draft
recommendations are ready to please share them with the neighborhood so they can
provide input as well.
Mayor Myrick responded that staff would send the draft to CC Liaison Fleming who is
the Alderperson for this area who can then disseminate it to the neighborhood through
its listserve.
Director of Engineering Logue stated that he would be very surprised that just the Belle
Sherman neighborhood would be interested in this information. He is sure that other
neighborhoods will want to review the information as well, and noted that the topic will
most likely be on a couple Board agendas for review and discussion during their
meetings at which the public is welcome to attend.
Commissioner Greene suggested that a couple meetings with interested neighborhoods
be held outside of the regular Board of Public Works meetings to discuss and receive
input.
Director of Engineering Logue explained that the last traffic calming plan was done was
15 years ago, and that information was included in the Board’s agenda packet two
meetings ago. He encouraged Board members to review it in preparation for upcoming
discussions.
Commissioner Darling suggested that other neighborhoods be included in study
because of the potential impact on other neighborhoods - when something is done in
one neighborhood it usually has a domino effect into another area. He also noted that
one of the things that has been impacting traffic on Ithaca Road is the nearby
construction on Dryden Road.
Director of Engineering noted that Pine Tree Road was closed for a chunk of the
summer which impacted the traffic for this neighborhood, as well as the ongoing
construction at Collegetown Terrace.
David West, Chair of BPAC, wanted to follow up on Commissioner Greene’s comment
that this is the only bike lane that goes from one neighborhood in to another. We won’t
see a huge increase in its use until there are more bike lanes that go into more than one
neighborhood. BPAC has been trying to remind everyone to look at the priorities in
“Ithaca Plan” when meeting and discussing these types of items as a guide as budgets
are established for the projects.
Mayor Myrick thanked all the residents who came to the meeting, and confirmed that
staff will send the draft report of recommendations to them once it's ready.
Request for Exclusive Use of Stewart Park for New York State Special Olympic
Fall Games in 2017 and 2018 and the Waiving of the Fee for Use of the Park -
Resolution
City Clerk Holcomb joined the Board for the discussion of this topic. Please see
attached information for additional information about the request.
Mayor Myrick asked what the board should know about the event to make an informed
decision.
City Clerk Holcomb introduced herself and explained that she is the facilitator for the
City of Ithaca’s Special Event Team, and she is very excited to work with the
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes October 24, 2016
13
representatives from the Special Olympics. Their request is for exclusive use of Stewart
Park on October 14, 2017 and October 13, 2018, as well as a request to the City to
waive the use fee for the park for both days. They need to submit their bid package to
New York State for the event by November 9, 2016. Stewart Park would be a great
location for the event, and would assist in bringing community members into this very
special event either as spectators or as volunteers. Other events will be taking place on
Cornell University and Ithaca College campuses at the same time. In order to facilitate
this event, it really would require the exclusive use of the park for one day. The event is
free and open to the public; but no one else would be able to use the park on that day.
Would the Board consider approving the exclusive use of park on these two days as
well as waiving the fee for this special event?
Commissioner McCormick stated that he would be thrilled to have this event come to
the City of Ithaca, and questioned why the Cayuga Waterfront Trail could not be used
instead.
Karli Buday and Michael Perehinec, who are the local organizers for the event, joined
the Board for discussion of the request. They toured the Cayuga Waterfront Trail as a
possible location; however, there are bridges that would need to be crossed as well as
different road crossings that would need to happen during the event. The participants
will have special bicycles that might trigger New York State not to approve the event if it
was held on the Cayuga Waterfront Trail. Stewart Park is the best option as well as it
being very central to the City of Ithaca.
Commissioner Greene agreed that this is a great idea for a special event and he has no
issues with the request. He did question whether there would be staff on hand to pick
up the garbage and dispose of it appropriately at the completion of the event.
Ms. Buday responded that the Special Olympics operates in such a way that it leaves
the venue in the same condition that it was found.
Discussion followed on the floor regarding the probable need for a dumpster (which
most likely would be donated), the need for volunteers to help with the maintenance of
the park and the event, and spectator parking.
Mr. Perehinec responded that they are hoping that Gadabout and other local
transportation entities will help with shuttling of spectators to and from the park. It will
be a great honor to have the Special Olympics come to the City of Ithaca, a few
representatives from the Special Olympics have come to the city of Ithaca for a site visit,
and the local organizer's motto has been “they’ll figure it out”. He stated that the use of
the parking lot at Ithaca High School is a great idea for spectator parking, and that they
are hoping to get as many community volunteers as they can to assist with the event –
the more the better. They already have volunteers from Cornell University, Ithaca
College, and Lansing Schools.
CC Liaison Fleming questioned whether the Ithaca Police Department would be
involved and how the cost of for any of their overtime would be paid.
Ms. Buday responded that in the past at these events, the police department has
participated and donated their time. They are working with Sgt. Barry Banfield at the
Ithaca Police Department as well as representatives from other local law enforcement
agencies to assist with the event.
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes October 24, 2016
14
Mr. Perehinec noted that the Special Olympics held an event recently at the Country
Club and Bangs donated an ambulance and crew for entire day. They anticipate that will
be the same for this event.
City Clerk Holcomb noted that all special events in the City of Ithaca have Ithaca Police
Department coverage as part of the officers’ regular duties; so there will be coverage of
the event provided by the IPD.
Commissioner Warden asked whether Stewart Park had ever been closed for exclusive
use in the past.
City Clerk Holcomb responded that it had for events such as the Ithaca Festival and
Ithaca Police Department’s “Pud’s Run” (which was in honor of a Ithaca Police
Department Officer that was killed in the line of duty). So there is precedent for doing it,
and the pavilion fees were waived for those events as well.
Commissioner Warden wondered how funding for any TCAT shuttles at the event would
work.
City Clerk Holcomb responded that the organizers would work with them, and she is
sure that they will be able to negotiate something that will be very cost effective for
everyone.
Mr. Perehinec noted that businesses are able to claim “in-kind” donations for the event
which assists them as well.
Commissioner McCormick wondered whether it would help the application to have the
event held in the streets of the City of Ithaca.
Mr. Perehinec responded that he worries about the use of streets for the event due to
number of volunteers that would be required, plus he does not want to stop traffic at all.
City Clerk Holcomb explained that, logistically, it is more difficult if an event is held on a
street; the use of a park is more easily controlled and the safety of everyone is better.
Ms. Buday stated that there is a torch run held at the event, if it were held on the street,
they would need 17 volunteers for 17 different intersections, and it would shut done
traffic for a 15 block radius potentially. They would like to avoid that if at all possible.
Mayor Myrick asked whether the Board could vote on this item at its next meeting, and
Supt. Thorne wondered if the approval would be just for this year or for the next two
year.
City Clerk Holcomb responded that Board approval for the two years is required for the
application.
Mr. Perehinec stated that they feel their bid is strong because of the involvement of
Cornell University and Ithaca College to provide volunteers. The Special Olympics were
last held here in Ithaca in 1992 and 1994.
Mayor Myrick stated that if the Board agreed, he would move to vote to approve the
request at today’s meeting. All the Board Members supported that suggestion.
Board of Public Works Meeting Minutes October 24, 2016
15
Request for Exclusive Use of Stewart Park for New York State Special Olympic
Fall Games in 2017 and 2018 and the Waiving of the Fee for Use of the Park -
Resolution
By Mayor Myrick: Seconded by Commissioner Warden
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works approves the request of the Special
Olympics for the exclusive use of Stewart Park for the New York State Special Olympics
event being held in the City of Ithaca on October 14, 2017 and October 13, 2018; and
be it further
RESOLVED, That the Board of Public Works hereby waives the fee for exclusive use of
the park for the Special Olympics for 2017 and 2018.
Carried Unanimously
Mr. Perehinec invited anyone that might be interested in becoming involved to let him
know; the more community volunteers the better.
Adjournment:
On a motion the meeting adjourned 6:10 p.m.
______________________________ _______________________________
Sarah L. Myers, Svante L. Myrick,
Information Management Specialist Mayor