Begin forwarded message: Begin forwarded message: From: Samuel Franco Date: October 21, 2021 at 2:43:05 PM CDT To: Jocelyn.Vokes@atptx.org, "Nirenberg, Jackie" <Jackie.Nirenberg@capmetro.org> Cc: info@austintransitpartnership.org, bc-mario.champion@austintexas.gov Subject: Additional comments on new Blue Line Light Rail Bridge Design Austin Transit Partnership Staff, My name is Samuel Franco, and I am a resident of Austin City Council - District 3. I hold both a BS and MS in Civil Engineering and have been an infrastructure professional for more than a decade. I strive to make my community a better place in my free time by staying active in local politics and community issues. I serve as the Chair of the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board and sit on both the Design Commission and Urban Transporation Commission for the City of Austin. Thank you very much for the excellent discussion on Tuesday, October 12 at the "Community Design Workshop : Lady Bird Lake Bridge" and for the opportunity to provide input into the design for the new transit bridge over our beloved Lady Bird Lake. This email recaps my comments at that public input meeting and further expands on my thoughts. I believe it is not equitable to build the only new north and south connection in our congestion-laden city, west of the historical divide that is Interstate 35, and only put historically more expensive rail on that bridge. This new connection over the lake, as currently envisioned by Austin Transit Partnership (ATP) staff, would not adequately or equitably serve the northeast, southeast, or southwest Austin residents. With the first two geographic areas mentioned lying within the majority-minority council districts that have been and are still predominantly people of color, I find the lack of bus access over this bridge to be very disheartening. While the light rail, as currently envisioned, will travel quickly across the river on a dedicated bridge, those that can not ride the light rail are relegated to being stuck in Austin's horrific traffic jams to wave at the people in cars alongside them. Further, in this phase of implementation, the light rail system only has one east and west route. While I am sure it is well-intentioned, this footprint does not serve the majority of the historically underrepresented parts of our city. While the new light rail system goes north to south, for the most part, our east Austin residents are resigned to "expanded" and hopefully better bus connections. …
Urban Transportation Commission Special Called Meeting November 2nd, 2021 at 5pm AUSTIN CITY HALL – BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W. SECOND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Urban Transportation Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live AUSTIN, TEXAS CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Mario Champion, Chair Susan Somers, Vice Chair Ruven Brooks Nathan Ryan Samuel Franco Athena Leyton Allison Runas Cynthia Weatherby Diana Wheeler James Driscoll AGENDA CALL TO ORDER CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 1. APPROVAL OF November 2nd, 2021 MINUTES 2. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS A. Right of Way Vacation of Harvey St. Presenters: Mashell Smith, Development Services Department Sponsors: Cynthia Weatherby and Nathan Ryan B. 2022 UTC Dates Facilitator: Christopher Parks, Austin Transportation Department Sponsors: Diana Wheeler and Samuel Franco 3. STAFF BRIEFINGS A. Downtown Commission: Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby B. Joint Sustainability Commission: Commissioner Diana Wheeler C. Bicycle Advisory Council: Commissioner Athena Leyton D. Pedestrian Advisory Council: Commissioner Allie Runas E. City Council Mobility Committee: Commissioner Mario Champion F. Community Advisory Committee for Austin Transit Partnership Board: Susan Sommers 4. Future Agenda Items ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christopher Parks, at (512)-978-1568, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Urban Transportation Department, please contact Christopher Parks at christopher.parks@austintexas.gov.
Urban Transportation Commission Special Called Meeting November 2nd, 2021 at 5pm AUSTIN CITY HALL – BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W. SECOND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Urban Transportation Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live AUSTIN, TEXAS CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Mario Champion, Chair Susan Somers, Vice Chair Ruven Brooks Nathan Ryan Samuel Franco Athena Leyton Allison Runas Cynthia Weatherby Diana Wheeler James Driscoll CALL TO ORDER CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 1. APPROVAL OF November 2nd, 2021 MINUTES REVISED AGENDA 2. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS A. Right of Way Vacation of Harvey St. Presenters: Mashell Smith, Development Services Department Sponsors: Cynthia Weatherby and Nathan Ryan B. Quiet Zones Presentation Presenters: Sam Sargent Project and Jason Gregory Capital Metro Sponsors: Ruven Brooks and Cynthia Weatherby C. 2022 UTC Dates Facilitator: Christopher Parks, Austin Transportation Department Sponsors: Diana Wheeler and Samuel Franco 3. STAFF BRIEFINGS A. Downtown Commission: Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby B. Joint Sustainability Commission: Commissioner Diana Wheeler C. Bicycle Advisory Council: Commissioner Athena Leyton D. Pedestrian Advisory Council: Commissioner Allie Runas E. City Council Mobility Committee: Commissioner Mario Champion F. Community Advisory Committee for Austin Transit Partnership Board: Susan Sommers 4. Future Agenda Items ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christopher Parks, at (512)-978-1568, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Urban Transportation Department, please contact Christopher Parks at christopher.parks@austintexas.gov.
Capital Metro Quiet Zone Crossings Jason Gregory, Project Manager, Rail Operations Sam Sargent, Director of Strategy City of Austin Urban Transportation Commission November 2, 2021 1 Capital Metro Rail Operations RED LINE MAP • 162 miles of total track, freight and commuter operations • 32 miles of MetroRail Red Line commuter rail service • 10 MetroRail vehicles, 9 Red Line stations • 25 miles of future Green Line service, 10 stations 2 What is a Quiet Zone Crossing • Freight and Commuter Engineers are required to sound the horn in advance of all crossings UNLESS there is an approved quiet zone in place. • A quiet zone is usually requested through the railroad from various municipalities (i.e. cities, neighborhood associations, etc.). 3 What is a Quiet Zone Crossing • A thorough approval process is followed in order to establish a quiet zone. Railroad officials as well as State and Federal authorities, called a Diagnostic Review Committee, establish what is needed at the crossings to deem them safe for quiet zone status. • Quiet zones are periodically reviewed to ascertain whether the current configuration is still valid to maintain quiet zone status. • Internal audits are also performed to verify quiet zone crossing integrity. 4 What is a Quiet Zone Crossing • Quiet zone crossings must adhere to federal regulations that are stringent in order to maintain safety. • Quiet zone crossings must have sufficient safety measures included using either: • Supplemental Safety Measures (SSMs) – Methods such as 4 quadrant gates, channelization efforts such as medians or delineators. • Alternative Safety Measures (ASMs) – Enforcement programs or other engineering efforts. 5 What is a Quiet Zone Crossing • Engineers can and will still blow the horns if dangers at the crossing are evident, such as trespassers, cars blocking the crossing or workers and equipment near the Right Of Way. 6 How Are Quiet Zone Crossings Funded? Quiet Zone crossings are funded through: • Capital Project funds (Capital Metro) • Federal Grants • Local government funds, in some cases 7 Quiet Zone Crossings in the Austin Metro Area Austin, Cedar Park and Leander comprise the Capital Metro commuter line. There are 86 crossings in the commuter Central Subdivision. All of them are official quiet zone crossings with the exception of: • Rundberg Lane • Rutland Drive • Braker Lane • Kramer Lane • McNeil (Round Rock) • Pleasant Valley Road 8 …
Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) Meeting Minutes Special Meeting November 2, 2021 The Urban Transportation Commission convened a meeting on November 2, 2021 via hybrid format. Commission Members in Attendance Susan Somers Cynthia Weatherby Cecilla Ramos Ruven Brooks Diana Wheeler Commission Members Absent: Mario Champion Athena Leyton Samuel Franco Allison Runas Nathan Ryan James Driscoll CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Somers called the meeting to order at 5:05 p.m. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: November 2nd, 2021 MEETING The November 2nd 2021 minutes were approved on a 9-0 vote with Commissioner Champion and Leyton absent 2. NEW BUSINESS A. Right of Way Vacation of Harvey St. Presenters: Mashell Smith, Development Services Department Sponsors: Cynthia Weatherby and Nathan Ryan ***Item was postponed until January meeting B. Quiet Zones Presentation Presenters: Sam Sargent Project and Jason Gregory Capital Metro Sponsors: Ruven Brooks and Cynthia Weatherby C. 2022 UTC Dates Facilitator: Christopher Parks, Austin Transportation Department Sponsors: Diana Wheeler and Samuel Franco Staff and Committee Reports A. Downtown Commission: Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby- brief updates on Downtown Commission and the potential deconstruction of the convention center. B. Joint Sustainability Commission: Commissioner Diana Wheeler- No updates given C. Bicycle Advisory Council: Commissioner Athena Leyton- No updates given D. Pedestrian Advisory Council: Commissioner Allie Runas-No updates given E. City Council Mobility Committee: Commissioner Mario Champion-brief update on Mobility Committee D. Future Agenda Items • Project Connect Racial Equity Anti-Displacement Tool • Red River Extension • Quiet Zones • Planning and Highway Funding Projects • TDM Update • ASMP Update • 2022 Meeting Schedules ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Champion adjourned the meeting at 5:45pm without objection.
Urban Transportation Commission Special Called Meeting October 5th, 2021 at 5pm AUSTIN CITY HALL – BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W. SECOND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Urban Transportation Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live AUSTIN, TEXAS CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Mario Champion, Chair Susan Somers, Vice Chair Ruven Brooks Nathan Ryan Samuel Franco Athena Leyton Allison Runas Cynthia Weatherby Diana Wheeler James Driscoll AGENDA CALL TO ORDER CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 1. APPROVAL OF September 7th, 2021 MINUTES 2. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS A. Project Connect Racial Equity Anti-Displacement Tool Presenters: Amanda Jasso Sponsors: Commissioners Weatherby and Driscoll B. Project Connect Red Line Design Update Presenters: Jackie Nirenburg, King Kaul and Sharmila Mukherjee Sponsors: Commissioners Brooks and Leyton C. Selection of Representative for the Downtown Austin Plan Working Group 3. STAFF BRIEFINGS A. Downtown Commission: Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby B. Joint Sustainability Commission: Commissioner Diana Wheeler C. Bicycle Advisory Council: Commissioner Athena Leyton D. Pedestrian Advisory Council: Commissioner Allie Runas E. City Council Mobility Committee: Commissioner Mario Champion F. Community Advisory Committee for Austin Transit Partnership Board: Susan Sommers 4. Future Agenda Items ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christopher Parks, at (512)-978-1568, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Urban Transportation Department, please contact Christopher Parks at christopher.parks@austintexas.gov.
Agenda Programmed Improvements Lakeline to Leander Double Track Broadmoor MetroRail Station McKalla/MLS MetroRail Station Quiet Zones A. Lakeline to Leander Dbl Track D. Quiet Zones B. Broadmoor Station C. McKalla/MLS Station Lakeline to Leander Double Track Project Park Street to Discovery Blvd • Currently, there is a single main track between the Lakeline and Leander Stations • New 3350 LF double track to establish a zone for passing trains • Turnouts • Replace railroad bridge • Retaining Walls • Minor utility work • Provides improved service frequency and reliability; continuous improvement of the customer experience • Construction October 2021 through Fall 2022 Broadmoor MetroRail Station-Overview • New multi-modal transit hub • Adjacent to the Domain on N. Burnet Road • Half mile north of the existing Kramer station Domain • One mile north of the new Austin FC Q2 Stadium • Direct connectivity to the 803, and 466 Burnet Road Broadmoor Station Kramer Station Broadmoor MetroRail Station Area of new station Looking north towards new Broadmoor Station Broadmoor MetroRail Station-Amenities • Rail station with two double length, covered platforms • Over ½ mile of new double track as part of the new station • More than 400 shared parking spaces for transit users • Abundant pedestrian and bike friendly pathways • Safety and security enhancements Rail Station at Night Artist conceptual rendering Broadmoor P3 Development - Benefits • • • • • Increases MetroRail Red Line station annual boardings Provides a multi-modal transit connection in North Austin (Austin’s second downtown) Connected to a high-density, mixed- use development with a safe and walkable street grid Leverages private investment for a public project Supports the Imagine Austin vision of a more compact and connected city Platform Looking North Artist conceptual rendering McKalla/MLS MetroRail Station Based on Preliminary (30%) Designs Coming Summer 2023 Project includes: • New passenger rail station • Customer amenities • Site specific canopy designs • Crowd control & safety provisions • Double tracking • Drainage improvements • Train signals & control systems • Modifications to grade crossings • Sidewalks (limited) • Sustainability Features McKalla/MLS MetroRail Station Based on Preliminary (30%) Designs Area of new station Looking west towards new Q2 Stadium McKalla/MLS MetroRail Station Based on Preliminary (30%) Designs Artist’s conceptual rendering Quiet Zones • Work with our partners in the city and the FRA to design and implement additional quiet zone crossings. • We …
Urban Transportation Commission Special Called Meeting October 5th, 2021 at 5pm AUSTIN CITY HALL – BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W. SECOND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Urban Transportation Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live AUSTIN, TEXAS CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Mario Champion, Chair Susan Somers, Vice Chair Ruven Brooks Nathan Ryan Samuel Franco Athena Leyton Allison Runas Cynthia Weatherby Diana Wheeler James Driscoll CALL TO ORDER CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 1. APPROVAL OF September 7th, 2021 MINUTES REVISED AGENDA 2. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS A. Project Connect Red Line Design Update Presenters: Jackie Nirenburg, King Kaul and Sharmila Mukherjee Sponsors: Commissioners Brooks and Leyton B. Selection of Representative for the Downtown Austin Plan Working Group 3. STAFF BRIEFINGS A. Downtown Commission: Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby B. Joint Sustainability Commission: Commissioner Diana Wheeler C. Bicycle Advisory Council: Commissioner Athena Leyton D. Pedestrian Advisory Council: Commissioner Allie Runas E. City Council Mobility Committee: Commissioner Mario Champion F. Community Advisory Committee for Austin Transit Partnership Board: Susan Sommers 4. Future Agenda Items ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christopher Parks, at (512)-978-1568, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Urban Transportation Department, please contact Christopher Parks at christopher.parks@austintexas.gov.
Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) Meeting Minutes Special Meeting October 5th, 2021 The Urban Transportation Commission convened a meeting on October 5th, 2021 via hybrid format. Commission Members in Attendance Mario Champion Susan Somers Cynthia Weatherby Diana Wheeler Athena Leyton Ruven Brooks Commission Members Absent: Samuel Franco Samuel Franco Allison Runas Nathan Ryan James Driscoll CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Champion called the meeting to order at 5:05 p.m. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: September 7th, 2021 MEETING The September 7th, 2021 minutes were approved on a 11-0 vote with Commissioner Franco Absent 2. NEW BUSINESS A. Project Connect Red Line Design Update Presenters: Kenneth Cartwright and Sharmila Mukherjee, Capital Metro B. Selection of Representative for the Downtown Austin Plan Working Group - Cynthia Weatherby volunteered to remain as the UTC representative 3. Staff and Committee Reports A. Downtown Commission: Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby- brief updates on Downtown Commission and the potential deconstruction of the convention center. B. Joint Sustainability Commission: Commissioner Diana Wheeler- No updates given C. Bicycle Advisory Council: Commissioner Athena Leyton- No updates given D. Pedestrian Advisory Council: Commissioner Allie Runas-No updates given E. City Council Mobility Committee: Commissioner Mario Champion-brief update on Mobility Committee 4. Future Agenda Items • Project Connect Racial Equity Anti-Displacement Tool • Red River Extension • Quiet Zones • Planning and Highway Funding Projects • Boards and Commissions Refresher • TDM Update • ASMP Update • 2022 Meeting Schedules ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Champion adjourned the meeting at 5:55pm without objection.
Urban Transportation Commission Special Called Meeting September 7th, 2021 at 5pm AUSTIN CITY HALL – BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W. SECOND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Urban Transportation Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live AUSTIN, TEXAS CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Mario Champion, Chair Susan Somers, Vice Chair Ruven Brooks Nathan Ryan Daniel Alvarado Samuel Franco Athena Leyton Allison Runas Cynthia Weatherby Diana Wheeler James Driscoll AGENDA CALL TO ORDER CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 1. APPROVAL OF August 18th, 2021 MINUTES 2. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS A. Taxicab Franchise Transfer Presenters: Jacob Culberson B. Cypress & Shoal Creek Public Space Strategy Presentation Presenters: Nina Rinaldi 3. STAFF BRIEFINGS A. Downtown Commission: Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby C. Joint Sustainability Commission: Commissioner Diana Wheeler D. Bicycle Advisory Council: Commissioner Athena Leyton E. Pedestrian Advisory Council: Commissioner Allie Runas F. City Council Mobility Committee: Commissioner Mario Champion 4. Future Agenda Items ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christopher Parks, at (512)-978-1568, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Urban Transportation Department, please contact Christopher Parks at christopher.parks@austintexas.gov.
Taxicab Industry Update – September 7, 2021 City of Austin Transportation Department Taxicab Franchise Operators Current Franchise Operators Franchise Closures During Pandemic ATX Co-Op Taxi Lone Star Cab (May 2020) Central City Taxi Longhorn Taxicab Co. (Dec. 2020) Yellow Cab Number of Taxicabs in Service 2019-2021 Three Year Comparison 1,016 245 220 FY 2018-2019 FY 2019-2020 FY 2020-2021 Current Taxicab Franchise Fleet Numbers ATX Co-Op Taxi 100 Taxicabs / 93 Standard + 7 WCL Central City Taxi 25 Taxicabs / 21 Standard + 4 WCL Yellow Cab 95 Taxicabs / 87 Standard + 8 WCL 3,500,000 3,000,000 2,500,000 2,000,000 1,500,000 1,000,000 500,000 0 Taxicab Number of Trips Five-Year Comparison: 2016 - 2021 3,078,481 1,814,306 1,000,207 FY 2016-17 FY 2017-18 FY 2018-19 FY 2019-20 FY 2020-21* *As of 7/31/2021 466,841 197,012 Franchise Model Operating Authority Model Application takes more than 30 days to complete Application can be completed in one business day Requires Council action for approval, renewal, or transfer Three-readings franchise approval processes may take 3 to 6 months Approval, renewal, or transfer based on established prerequisite criteria Approval granted within 2 business days upon the fulfillment of established prerequisite criteria Rigid application timeframes and deadlines Flexible application timeframes and deadlines Difficult to scale vehicle fleets to demand due to Easy to scale vehicle fleets to demand Inability to cease and resume operations when necessary Ability to cease and resume operations at will Limited driver autonomy and choice Greater driver autonomy and choice Unique vehicle-for-hire Category, unlike any others permitted in Austin Does not align with taxicab permitting programs in other Texas cities Aligns with all other vehicle-for-hire permitted services in Austin Aligns with taxicab permitting programs in other Texas cities Taxicab Industry Update – September 7, 2021 City of Austin Transportation Department
Community Concepts Study Results Community Concepts Feasibility Study ASSESS EVALUATE CONSIDER METHODS Independent 3rd Party Assessment of Feasibility of Community Concepts Feasibility of community concepts as standalone alternatives Anticipated growth in population and traffic volume Literature and media reviews Elements of the community concepts that are currently incorporated or could be reasonably incorporated into the proposed TxDOT build alternatives Elements of the community concepts that require further study and analysis Design and constructability of community concepts and TxDOT build alternatives Impacts of community concepts on city streets and highways in the area Alignment with TxDOT’s Purpose and Need for the project Stakeholder interviews Comparative analysis Development parcel analysis Travel demand modeling Key Elements of Community Concepts Depress mainlanes of I-35 Redesignate SH 130 to I-35 Create a continuous cap from Holly Street to MLK, Jr. Blvd. Create 6-lane boulevard on cap Narrow current footprint by removing frontage roads and allow development on reclaimed land in ROW Restore east-west connectivity Convert I-35 to urban boulevard Provide dedicated bus lanes and future rail in center of boulevard Through traffic uses other highways around central Austin Restore east-west connectivity Depress or lower mainlanes of I-35 Cap over some areas but not continuous East-west connectivity with stitches Decrease downtown entrances and exits Cantilevere frontage roads Allow development on reclaimed land in ROW Increase in multimodal travel Restore east-west connectivity Increase in multimodal travel Increase in multimodal travel Use reclaimed ROW for specific city purposes FINDINGS Related to June 2021 TxDOT Alternatives Incorporated / Possible Status Element or Issue Notes/Continued Analysis Freeway mainlanes below ground between Holly St and Airport Blvd. Alternatives have lowered general purpose lanes removing high-speed roads from the surface and improved street network connectivity (east-west and north-south). Add street network connections (east-west and north- south). 5th Street connection being added on TxDOT alternatives Enhance multimodal mobility on the east-west connections. TxDOT plans for east-west connectivity improvement, additional bike and pedestrian crossings, and transit provision on managed lanes and cross streets. Already incorporated into one or more TxDOT alternatives Reduce vehicular-related deaths and maximize safety TxDOT’s Road to Zero Initiative Mitigate traffic spillover into neighboring streets and communities. Community concepts reduce capacity on I-35 and increases traffic in neighborhoods. Match City of Austin guidelines for Vision Zero. TxDOT’s Road to Zero Initiative supports City of Austin’s Vision Zero Initiative Engineering Actions. Boulevard can facilitate positive climate change impacts. Facilities that support bus …
Urban Transportation Commission Susan Fraser, P.E., CFM – Mobility35 Program Manager Mobility Committee Presentation Sept. 9, 2021 Sept. 9, 2021 Table of contents 1 2 3 4 5 5 Mobility35 Program Overview I-35 Capital Express Program Overview I-35 Capital Express Central Project I-35 Capital Express North Project I-35 Capital Express Central Project I-35 Capital Express Central Project 3-5 6-7 8-34 35-38 16-42 16-42 Mobility Committee Presentation Sept. 9, 2021 2 OVERVIEW Mobility Committee Presentation Sept. 9, 2021 3 About the Mobility35 Program Focus on Improvements to 79 miles of I-35 through Williamson, Travis and Hays counties. 100 Most Congested Roadways in Texas: – #1 – I-35 from US 290 to SH 71. – #12 – I-35 from SH 71 to Slaughter Lane. – #34 – I-35 from RM 1431 to SH 45N/Louis Henna Boulevard. – #45 – I-35 from Slaughter Lane to SH 45SE. – #70 – I-35 from Parmer Lane to US 290E. 30+ projects in Mobility35 Program. – $8 billion in construction costs for active or future projects. – 20+ contracts totaling ~$90 million in environmental and design. Mobility Committee Presentation Sept. 9, 2021 4 Mobility35 Goals and Objectives Enhance safety. Optimize the roadway footprint. Increase capacity. Minimize additional right of way. Manage traffic better. Improve east/west connectivity. Improve compatibility with neighborhoods. Enhance bicycle, pedestrian and transit options. Northbound I-35 braided ramps completed at US 79 Mobility Committee Presentation Sept. 9, 2021 5 I-35 CAPITAL EXPRESS OVERVIEW Mobility Committee Presentation Sept. 9, 2021 6 I-35 Capital Express Program Three stand-alone projects: – North - SH 45 North to US 290 East. – Central - US 290 East to SH 71/Ben White Boulevard. – South - SH 71/Ben White Boulevard to SH 45 Southeast. Proposes to add non-tolled, high- occupancy vehicle (HOV) managed lanes. https://my35capex.com/ Mobility Committee Presentation Sept. 9, 2021 7 I-35 CAPITAL EXPRESS CENTRAL PROJECT Mobility Committee Presentation Sept. 9, 2021 8 I-35 Capital Express Central Overview Video Link: For All Of Us Mobility Committee Presentation Sept. 9, 2021 9 I-35 Capital Express Central Project Scope Limits: US 290 East to SH 71/Ben White Boulevard, with additional flyovers at I-35 and US 290 East. Length: 8 miles. Project details: direction. – Construct two non-tolled managed lanes in each – Managed lanes, such as high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, are a set of …
Urban Transportation Commission Special Called Meeting September 7th, 2021 at 5pm AUSTIN CITY HALL – BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ROOM 1101 301 W. SECOND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Urban Transportation Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live AUSTIN, TEXAS CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Mario Champion, Chair Susan Somers, Vice Chair Ruven Brooks Nathan Ryan Daniel Alvarado Samuel Franco Athena Leyton Allison Runas Cynthia Weatherby Diana Wheeler James Driscoll CALL TO ORDER CITIZEN COMMUNICATION: GENERAL 1. APPROVAL OF August 18th, 2021 MINUTES REVISED AGENDA 2. NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS A. TxDOT I-35 Presentation Presenters: Susan Fraser B. Taxicab Franchise Transfer Presenters: Jacob Culberson C. Cypress & Shoal Creek Public Space Strategy Presentation Presenters: Nina Rinaldi 3. STAFF BRIEFINGS A. Downtown Commission: Commissioner Cynthia Weatherby D. Joint Sustainability Commission: Commissioner Diana Wheeler E. Bicycle Advisory Council: Commissioner Athena Leyton F. Pedestrian Advisory Council: Commissioner Allie Runas G. City Council Mobility Committee: Commissioner Mario Champion 4. Future Agenda Items ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christopher Parks, at (512)-978-1568, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Urban Transportation Department, please contact Christopher Parks at christopher.parks@austintexas.gov.
Taxicab Industry Update – September 7, 2021 City of Austin Transportation Department Taxicab Franchise Operators Current Franchise Operators Franchise Closures During Pandemic ATX Co-Op Taxi Lone Star Cab (May 2020) Central City Taxi Longhorn Taxicab Co. (Dec. 2020) Yellow Cab Number of Taxicabs in Service 2019-2021 Three Year Comparison 1,016 245 220 FY 2018-2019 FY 2019-2020 FY 2020-2021 Current Taxicab Franchise Fleet Numbers ATX Co-Op Taxi 100 Taxicabs (93 Standard + 7 WCL) Central City Taxi 25 Taxicabs (21 Standard + 4 WCL) Yellow Cab 95 Taxicabs (87 Standard + 8 WCL) 3,500,000 3,000,000 2,500,000 2,000,000 1,500,000 1,000,000 500,000 0 Taxicab Number of Trips Five-Year Comparison: 2016 - 2021 3,078,481 1,814,306 1,000,207 FY 2016-17 FY 2017-18 FY 2018-19 FY 2019-20 FY 2020-21* *As of 7/31/2021 466,841 197,012 • • • • • • Taxicab companies were first licensed in the City of Austin under an operating authority model on March 8th, 1932. On June 8th, 1950, taxicab companies were declared public utilities by City Council and formed into taxicab franchises by subsequent ordinance. Taxicab Companies reached their peak service in 2016-2017 with over 3 million trips and more than 1500 taxicabs deployed within the City. In 2017, Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) such as Uber and Lyft began operating in Austin under state regulatory authority and taxicab franchises experienced an eventual seventy-five percent decline in their number of trips the following year. Council In 2018, reform recommendations, intended to address this decline, lighten franchise restrictions, and level the playing field between taxicabs and other transportation options. taxicab franchise approved ATD’s regulatory In 2020-2021, due to the global pandemic, taxicab franchises have now experienced the lowest trip numbers on record. ATD recommends that taxicab companies no longer be regarded as public utilities, but rather as a valuable part of a diverse and ever-evolving network of competitive mobility options and that Council transition taxicabs from a franchise licensing model to an operating authority licensing model. The benefits of licensing taxicab companies under an operating authority model versus a franchise model are demonstrated in the figure below: Franchise Model Operating Authority Model Application takes more than 30 days to complete Application can be completed in one business day Requires Council action for approval, renewal, or transfer Approval, renewal, or transfer based on established prerequisite criteria Three-readings franchise approval processes may take 3 to 6 months Approval granted within 2 business days upon the fulfillment …
SHOAL CREEK TRAIL PLAN Trail Network >> Seamless, connected network of hike-and-bike trails along the 11-mile Shoal Creek corridor, and connection to other urban trails city-wide City Adoption >> In 2018, the City of Austin Public Works Department accepted the Trail Plan. Top Priority Project >> The improvements along the Cypress & Shoal project area is one of the top five stakeholder-identified priority improvements. The Big Loop >> The City of Austin’s Urban Trail Plan and Bicycle Plan position the Shoal Creek Trail to become a major segment in a 30-mile ‘Big Loop’ of bikeways traversing the city. Shoal Creek Trail is also poised to be the western link in the Downtown Urban Greenbelt, a 6.5 mile loop formed by the Shoal Creek Trail, the Capitol Mall, Waterloo Greenway, and the Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. PROPOSED PROJECT AREA >> GABLES WEST AVENUE TRADER JOE’S THE INDEPENDENT 360 CONDOS SEAHOLM RESIDENCES AUSTIN ENERGY SUBSTATION THIRD + SHOAL 3RD STREETNUECES STREETWEST AVENUE SEAHOLM DRIVE THE INDEPENDENT GABLES WEST AVENUE TRADER JOE’S 360 CONDOS THIRD + SHOAL SEAHOLM RESIDENCES AUSTIN ENERGY SUBSTATION LANCE ARMSTRONG BIKEWAY L I A R T K E E R L C A O H S LANCE ARMSTRONG BIKEWAY A N N & ROY B U T L E R H I K E - A N D - I K E T RAIL B NEW CROSSTOWN PATHWAYS PROJECT AREA EXISTING BIKE & TRAIL ROUTES PROPOSED BIKE & TRAIL ROUTES Located on the cusp of Shoal Creek’s confluence with the Colorado River, the Cypress & Shoal Creek area is home to two major crosstown pathways: Shoal Creek Trail which runs north- south, and the Lance Armstrong Bikeway which runs west-east. W 3RD STREETW 4TH STREETW 2ND STREETW CESAR CHAVEZ STREETNUECES STREETWEST AVENUE SEAHOLM DRIVE PROJECT PROCESS On-the ground site inventory and analysis >> Community and stakeholder input >> Two stages of widely promoted online feedback to first gather information about existing conditions and then collect feedback on the draft Public Space Strategy. Technical Advisory Group >> Comprised of representatives from key City of Austin departments. Presented the project and its desired outcomes to gauge feasibility and to collect embedded knowledge of the history of this area. Review with area property owners >> Insight about current day-to-day usage and potential challenges with the proposed concept. 1 BOWIE STREET UNDERPASS GABLES WEST AVENUE TRADER JOE’S 1 THE INDEPENDENT 360 CONDOS SEAHOLM RESIDENCES …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Urban Transportation Commission Recommendation Number 20210907-02B part 2: [Taxicab Franchise from Yellow Cab to zTrip] WHEREAS, The purpose of the board is to serve as an advisory body to the city council, the city manager, and all other 11 transportation-related departments concerning transportation-related matters including: transportation energy conservation matters grant applications; streets and highways; bus and rail service; pedestrian and bikeway programs and projects; safety related programs and projects; provision for the needs of the mobility impaired; transportation franchise requests, renewals, rate adjustments, and hours of operation; WHEREAS, The City of Austin Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) is allowed to review and make recommendations to the city council on all request for taxicab permits, including annual permits and franchise permits per Urban Transportation Commission Bylaws WHEREAS On August 5, 2021 WHC ATX LLC zTrip purchased the Greater Austin Transportation Company ( d b a Yellow Cab), including all its assets. WHEREAS, zTrip has applied for a transfer of the taxicab franchise license from Yellow Cab to zTrip in accordance with § 13 2 403 of City Code and Yellow Cab has provided a notarized letter of intent to transfer the franchise license to zTrip. WHEREAS, The Mobility Services Division of the Austin Transportation Department has reviewed the application and letter of intent to transfer and has found its contents compliant with the applicable sections of Chapter 13 2 of City Code. WHEREAS, Austin Transportation Department recommends the transfer of the Yellow Cab taxicab franchise license to zTrip. WHERAS Austin Transportation Department respectfully requests that the Urban Transportation Commission provide their recommendation to City Council on this transfer. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the UTC supports Austin Transportation Department's recommendation to transfer the Yellow Cab taxicab franchise license to zTrip. Date of Approval: 9/7/21 Record of the vote: 11-0 unanimous vote. No abstentions Attest: Christopher Parks Christopher Parks, Staff Liaison
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Urban Transportation Commission Recommendation Number 20210907-02B part 1: [Taxicab Franchise Transition to Operating Authority] WHEREAS, The purpose of the board is to serve as an advisory body to the City Council, the City Manager, and all other 11 transportation-related departments concerning transportation- related matters including: transportation energy conservation matters grant applications; streets and highways; bus and rail service; pedestrian and bikeway programs and projects; safety related programs and projects; provision for the needs of the mobility impaired; transportation franchise requests, renewals, rate adjustments, and hours of operation; WHEREAS, The City of Austin Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) is allowed to review and make recommendations to the City Council on all requests for taxicab permits, including annual permits and franchise permits per Urban Transportation Commission Bylaws ; WHEREAS Taxicab companies were first licensed in the City of Austin under an operating authority model on March 8th,1932; WHEREAS, On June 8th, 1950 taxicab companies were declared public utilities by City Council and formed into taxicab franchises by subsequent ordinance; WHEREAS, Taxicab Companies reached their peak service in 2016/2017 with over 3 million trips and more than 1500 taxicabs deployed within the City WHEREAS, In 2017 Transportation Network Companies such as Uber and Lyft began operating in Austin under state regulatory authority and taxicab franchises experienced an eventual seventy five percent decline in their number of trips the following year WHEREAS, In 2018 Council approved ATD’s taxicab franchise regulatory reform recommendations, intended to address this decline, lighten franchise restrictions, and level the playing field between taxicabs and other transportation options WHEREAS, In 2020/2021 due to the global pandemic, taxicab franchises have now experienced the lowest trip numbers on record THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the UTC supports Austin Transportation Department's recommendation that taxicab companies no longer be regarded as public utilities, but rather as a valuable part of a diverse and ever evolving network of competitive mobility options and that Council transition taxicabs from a franchise licensing model to an operating authority licensing model. Date of Approval: 9/7/21 Record of the vote: 11-0 unanimous vote. No abstentions Attest: Christopher Parks Christopher Parks, Staff Liaison
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Urban Transportation Commission Recommendation Number 20210907-02A: [TXDOT I-35 Capital Express ] WHEREAS, The City of Austin Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) has made previous recommendations opposing the core purpose and response of TxDOT’s I-35 Capital Express project, WHEREAS, the UTC opposes the TxDOT plan’s outcomes, specifically, ● To demolish small businesses and homes, despite the current economic and housing crisis ● To widen I-35 to as many as 20 lanes, exacerbating racial and economic divides while reducing safety for pedestrians, bikers, wheelchair users and others not in cars ● To add multiple square miles of concrete through the center of Austin, despite the current climate catastrophe in which we are already engaged and which we all must play a part in addressing ● To spend billions of taxpayer dollars, despite lacking assurance of a positive outcome ● To impose the negative outcomes of major highway construction through the heart of the 11th largest city in America, despite objection from local elected officials and informed citizen groups WHEREAS, All these disruptive and negative outcomes are without believable data or key stakeholder belief they will meaningfully reduce congestion or increase mobility, especially when accounting for the years of construction disruption, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the UTC urges the City Manager, Mobility Committee, and Council Members to pursue all legal methods to require TxDOT to defer any I-35 Capital Express project construction until the I-45 widening project in Houston and Harris County is resolved and can be used for clues to prevent widening I-35 in Austin, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Urban Transportation Commission urges TxDOT in the strongest possible way to abandon the I-35 Capital Express project. Record of the vote: 8-3 vote with Commissioners Brooks, Driscoll and Weatherby voting nay. No abstentions. Date of Approval: 9/7/21 Attest: Christopher Parks Christopher Parks, Staff Liaison
