TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING Planning & Development Center Main Conference Room, 1 st Floor 4700 Elmore Road Anchorage, Alaska 2:30 p.m. Members Present: Name Representing Dave Post Alaska Dept. of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF), Central Region, Planning Eric Miyashiro DOT&PF, Central Region Alex Edwards Alaska Dept. of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) Stephanie Mormilo MOA/Traffic Division Jody Karcz MOA/Public Transportation Department (PTD) Brian Lindamood Alaska Railroad Corporation Hal Hart MOA/Planning Department Jerry Hansen MOA/Project Management & Engineering John Laux AMATS Air Quality Advisory Committee Sharen Walsh MOA/Port of Anchorage Also in attendance: Name Craig Lyon Vivian Underwood Aaron Jongenelen Gary Katsion Bart Rudolph Kim Carpenter Eric DeSentis Brad Coy Bryan Hill Representing MOA/Planning MOA/Planning DOT&PF Kittelson & Associates MOA/PTD MOA/Traffic Division DOT&PF DOWL PDC, Inc. 1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL CHAIR MORMILO called the meeting to order at 2:31 p.m. Steve Morris was absent. Eric Miyashiro represented the Alaska DOT&PF in Ken Morton s absence. Dave Post represented DOT&PF in Jennifer Witt s absence. A quorum was established prior to Sharen Walsh arriving at 2:42 p.m.
Page 2 of 9 2. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT CRAIG LYON encouraged public involvement in this meeting of the AMATS Technical Advisory Committee. He explained staff would first make their presentation, followed by any comments from Committee members, and the floor would then be open to public comment. 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA MR. LINDAMOOD moved to approve the agenda. MR. LAUX seconded. Hearing no objections, the agenda was approved. 4. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES February 11, 2016 MR. EDWARDS moved to approve the minutes. MR. LINDAMOOD seconded. Hearing no objections, the minutes were approved. 5. BUSINESS ITEMS a. 2015-18 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Administrative Modification #8 BACKGROUND: An administrative modification to the AMATS 2015-2018 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is needed to update Table 3 Roadways and Table 5 Congestion Mitigation Air Quality (CMAQ). MR. LYON explained that money is being moved around in Table 3 to reflect the monies having been moved in Table 5 to allow the addition of funds into the MTP to cover two additions. MR. JONGENELEN noted the additions to the MTP are Transit Oriented Development (TOD) and Transit Supportive Corridor (TSC). The updates to Tables 3, 5, and 7 are as follows: Table 3 Roadways Move $157k in the O Malley Road Reconstruction project from 2016 into 2017 to balance the TIP around the changes for the Consolidated Municipality of Anchorage MTP changes in Table 5. Increase the amount of funding for the Safety Improvement Program (Traffic Count Support) in FFY17 and FFY18 to support the new APD technology changes. Update the Pavement Replacement Program to reflect the changes in the Safety Improvement Program.
Page 3 of 9 Table 5 Congestion Mitigation Air Quality (CMAQ) Move $157k from 2017 to 2016 in the Consolidated Municipality of Anchorage MTP. TAC Information: Table 3 Roadways Update the Pavement Replacement Program Illustrative amounts to reflect the changes to the O Malley Road Reconstruction project. Table 7 Transit Update Alaska Railroad FTA Section 5307 and 5337 numbers based on a request from the Alaska Railroad. MR. LINDAMOOD explained that several years ago in the last transportation bill there were changes made to the formula, and the Alaska Railroad effectively lobbied and succeeded in having the formula returned to its original process, and he believes what is shown are the results following the restoration. In response to Ms. Karcz as to what the dollar amounts were previously, MR. LINDAMOOD noted he did not have that information immediately available. MR. LYON informed the Committee that if he were allowed just a few moments, he could easily provide that information. MR. LINDAMOOD responded to Chair Mormilo that the changes are primarily for preventative maintenance. MS. KARCZ requested more information and asked if it is necessary for this modification to be approved at this meeting. MR. LYON replied that the railroad cannot spend the dollars from their allocation unless it shown in the federal program. This is outside AMATS allocation because they are 5307 and 5337 funds, but have to be shown in the AMATS program. MR. LINDAMOOD explained they have monies that are largely outside the MPO. The way the federal program works, it has to be run through the nearest MPO even though it is not necessarily coming from within it, and a smaller amount is also allocated to Fairbanks. MS. KARCZ had hoped some project detail would have been presented showing the differences and impacts on Anchorage. MR. LYON indicated that normally in Table 7, the dollar figures remain the same, but are just moved to different projects depending on their priorities. When funds are outside AMATS obligation that level of detail is not included. MS. KARCZ mentioned that MAP-21 also states that there is an opportunity to reallocate funds between transit and the railroad through the MPO. She would not be inclined to vote on this until more information has been provided. MR. JONGENELEN pointed out that this portion can be set aside. However, it is necessary for the changes to the MTP be approved right away because the RFP cannot be released until these funds are obligated.
Page 4 of 9 MR. LAUX moved to change the order of the day and continue discussion on Item 5(a) following Item 5(b). MR. HANSEN seconded. Hearing no objections, this motion passed. Ms. Walsh arrived at 2:42 p.m. b. AMATS Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee Appointment JONI WILM presented the appointment. She noted that Brian Litmans, who has been on the Committee for several years, is resigning as Bike Anchorage s President and she acknowledged Mr. Litmans for his dedication. Wes Hoskins is being recommended to replace the vacant seat. She added that Brendan Babb, Darrel Hess and John Miller s terms are up for reappointment, and they have all agreed to serve another term. CHAIR MORMILO asked for clarification that John Weddleton s term expired February 2016, and since this is his first term, is he automatically reappointed. MS. WILM explained that Mr. Weddleton s reappointment is being delayed because he is also running for the Assembly and they are not sure if this would create a conflict of interest, should he be appointed to the Assembly. MR. LYON further explained that he had asked Mr. Weddleton to confirm he had no desire to be reappointed, but has not heard a response. He is certain if Mr. Weddleton wins the race for the Assembly, he will not want to continue on the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee. There were no public comments. MR. HART moved to approve the appointment of Wes Hoskins and reappointments of Brendan Babb, Darrel Hess and John Miller to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee. MS. WALSH seconded. Hearing no objections, this motion passed. Item 5(a) 2015-18 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Administrative Modification #8 (continued) MR. LYON provided copies of the Administrative Modification #7 (the previous version of the TIP modification). CHAIR MORMILO noted that Line Item 10 shows the total amount over the number of years has increased slightly, and Line Item 11, even though the values have increased in 2017 and 2018, the numbers, overall, have reduced due to the reduction in 2016. MR. LYON noted that
Page 5 of 9 the estimated total project cost for the Transit Program showed a $6 million increase from the previous modification and the allocation has changed slightly. MS. KARCZ pointed out that MAP-21 states that if there are two designated recipients of FTA funds, the funding can be divided in a manner that is agreeable to both parties. At this point, she would like to review Table 7 more closely to see what the impact is with the additional funds. She suggested postponing Table 7 until the next meeting. MR. LINDAMOOD moved to approve the complete Administrative Modification #8 as submitted. MR. LINDAMOOD withdrew his motion in order to allow public comment. MR. LINDAMOOD remarked that for full disclosure, MS. KARCZ is correct. However, the funds coming in through 5307 and 5337 are programmatic in nature through FTA. What has happened in the past is to facilitate that FTA requirement that gets split under one MPO, and there is a letter that states what the community brings in for the bus service is theirs and what the railroad brings in for the rail service belongs to the railroad. The Municipality is attempting to change that plan, and the majority of these funds are coming into this because the railroad operates service outside this MPO. The legislative process requires it to come through here, and it is unknown why the Municipality is changing this. He encouraged the Committee to refrain from postponing this and allow the Mayor and the railroad president to resolve this in due time. MS. KARCZ expressed that what the Committee often does not see is that there is funding specifically allocated to the railroad, which is approximately $15-18 million per year. There is another $15 million that could be divided differently between the railroad and the Municipality. She urged the Committee to postpone action on this until the numbers can be closely reviewed and how they could be distributed with the Municipality. There is a lot of funding that comes to the Municipality, but they do not see it. MS. WALSH asked what effect postponing this would create. MR. LINDAMOOD reiterated that it would prevent the railroad from being able to spend the funds. MS. KARCZ believes one month would not be detrimental. Currently, the 2016 FTA money has not come out yet and last year, she believed, the split letter was signed in August. MR. LINDAMOOD replied to Mr. Hansen that the difference regarding the $6 million is the result of the whole transportation bill. The amount of money that was apportioned to the railroad through FMATS was reduced from what it had been, historically, for at least a decade prior to that. Then under the new program, it was restored to what it was originally. MR. POST noted that the majority looks to be 5337 funds, and asked if this is eligible to be spent on other modes within the railroad. MR. LINDAMOOD conveyed that if there is an agreement in place between People Mover and the Alaska Railroad, yes that is possible. The fact of the matter is, where those monies are coming from are a result of the railroad providing passenger service and the Municipality providing bus service, and the railroad does
Page 6 of 9 not understand why the Municipality feels they can take the money that the railroad has earned when the railroad has never asked the Municipality to pay for any railroad expenses. CHAIR MORMILO noted that these discussions are happening outside the TAC meeting with no documentation and no agreement has been presented, that she is aware of, between the railroad and transit. MR. LINDAMOOD repeated that there is an existing letter in place, but the Municipality wants to change it. MR. LYON explained that what occurs is that FTA says here is your total allocation, and the MPO definitely has a role in determining what that split is. In years past what has occurred, the split has been resolved between the railroad and the Municipality, and the MPOs role has been just to accept the number decided. MS. ACTON commented that according to FTA Circular 9030 Subarea Allocation, in a UZA with more than one designated recipient, FTA expects local officials operating through the MPO, and designated recipients, to determine the allocation of Section 5307 funds together. The designated recipients and the MPOs should determine the sub-allocation area fairly and rationally through a process based on local needs and agreeable to the designated recipients. A sub-allocation is based on a predetermined fixed percentage, for example, it may not adequately represent the needs of the systems in the UZA. This is directly from FTA guidelines. This split letter has been in discussion for years and years, and FTA is slowly clarifying what it means and what role they want MPOs to take. She thinks this is the change being made in the Fast Act, which began with MAP-21 for 5307 and 5337 funds. MS. WALSH asked if this agreement references that the Mayor and railroad executives are working it out, or does it come from the AMATS Policy Committee. MS. ACTON replied that it has been the discussion and the decision of the Mayor and the railroad for many years. At this point, the guidance being seen at the circular sounds like it is supposed to come from the Committee as a recommendation. CHAIR MORMILO stated that she has not been well informed enough to make a decision and needs more history. MS. KARCZ concurred and that is why she is requesting Table 7 be postponed. In response to Ms. Walsh s question as to what happens during the postponement, MS. KARCZ stated that railroad and she will meet with Mike Abbott, Municipal Manager, and schedule work sessions. MR. LINDAMOOD added that this, currently, is being addressed at the executive level, but it does not change the fact that the TIP needs to be adjusted to account for the additional monies coming in. If for some reason the split letter does get changed, then there will be a TIP modification at that time. MR. JONGENELEN asked if there was clear direction that this is the MPOs responsibility since the Committee is asking for information that is outside AMATS allocation and outside the Committee s decision abilities at this point. MR. LYON noted that except for the fact that FTA is clear on the circular that Ms. Acton quoted, the MPO has a role in determining the split. MS. ACTON repeated that the monies spent within the UZA are outside of AMATS allocation. MR. JONGENELEN asked if the Committee is responsible for the split letter because it sounds as if this is being decided in a different way. MS. KARCZ thinks this is
Page 7 of 9 premature knowing that it is in the process of changing. She explained there is new guidance stating that the money coming in to the Municipality of Anchorage with a line item that says, Municipality of Anchorage s $15 or $18 million is the money that can be split in a different manner. Keep in mind that these funds come from the FTA for public transportation services and passengers. There have been discussions now specifying a clearer guidance and whether that amount can still be split. Again, she does not think postponing this for one month would make any difference. MR. LINDAMOOD indicated that the railroad s position is that the $17 or $18 million dollars that come in are brought in based on how People Mover wants their buses to operate and how Alaska Railroad wants to operate the trains. The only thing the railroad has ever requested from the beginning, is that the money contributed by the railroad, be allowed to be used by the railroad; and People Mover to be allowed to use the money they contributed. For some reason, the city believes they are entitled to the full amount. MS. KARCZ disagreed. MS. WALSH asked for clarification that the Municipality is expected to provide feedback, and if there will also be feedback from the administration in the near future. MS. KARCZ does believe that will happen. CHAIR MORMILO asked for public comments. BRYAN HILL with PDC, Inc. commended those responsible for the movement of funds for the MTP, and allowing for the Transit Oriented Development (TOD) because it will create more TOD activity. He thinks the result will be good. MS. KARCZ moved to approve Administrative Modification #8, Tables 3 and 5, and postpone Table 7 to the next meeting. MR. HANSEN seconded. Hearing objections, CHAIR MORMILO called for a vote. AYES NAYS ABSTAIN Mr. Hart Mr. Lindamood Mr. Laux Mr. Hansen Mr. Edwards Ms. Walsh Mr. Post Mr. Miyashiro Ms. Karcz Ms. Mormilo MOTION PASSED 7 TO 1 WITH 1 ABSTENTION MS. KARCZ requested to schedule a work session prior to the next meeting to discuss this. CHAIR MORMILO asked if all of the appropriate information would be available for the work session, and asked the Committee if they were in favor of a work session. MS. WALSH feels it is important especially with the change in the circular direction.
6. INFORMATION ITEMS ANCHORAGE METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORTATION SOLUTIONS Page 8 of 9 a. AMATS Public Involvement Plan Update (PIP) MS. WILM presented the update. BRYAN HILL with PDC, Inc. informed the Committee that he had submitted a comment on the Public Participation Plan (PPP) regarding the ability of the plan to capture the transportation preferences and modes of low-income, minorities, LEP and other traditionally underserved populations. The plan discussed a lot about how those populations had been identified and how they were involved earlier in the process, but did not release anything specific as to how their transportation and travel patterns were being captured or accommodated. MS. WILM noted that they will look into how that data can be provided. MS. ACTON, in response to Chair Mormilo, explained that the logo poll was sent through AMATS mailing channels, primarily online to be able to achieve the three digital images together. They have received just over 100 responses, which is significantly more than what was anticipated. MS. ACTON announced that the Citizens Advisory Committee is holding a special meeting on March 15 th to discuss comments received, and for the to recommend to the Policy Committee for approval of the document. CHAIR MORMILO asked for clarification that the title of this information item should be the Public Participation Plan. MS. WILM replied that it is the PPP. 7. COMMITTEE COMMENTS MR. HANSEN noted that April 25 th in Room 170, tentatively, the Annual Construction Coordination meeting will be held for all of the agencies with construction contracts. The Municipal Right-of-Way Department has also been invited. CHAIR MORMILO added that this is primarily for agency projects, but there are several current very large private projects that also have impacts and significant closures. 8. PUBLIC COMMENTS GARY KATSION with Kittelson & Associates asked for updates on the RFP for the 2040 MTP. At the Policy Committee meeting it was said that this would be selected by the middle of April. MR. JONGENELEN explained that he just has to approve the scope of work as the state representative, which should be soon, but until the $150,000 is obligated, everything is on hold. The process is slow due to the multiple changes at the state and federal level of obligated funds, so he is not sure of a timeframe. The RFP is not completed yet.
Page 9 of 9 MR. JONGENELEN mentioned that recently some DOT employees were involved in accidents at the Airport Heights intersection, with one requiring hospitalization. They were in a DOT Right-of-Way vehicle and another motorist traveling approximately 60 mph collided with them during the snow storm. Both are in physical therapy and it will require a long healing process. He advised everyone to use caution while driving in inclement weather. BRYAN HILL pointed out that the Mayor recently kicked off a Vision Zero campaign. The goal is to bring the death toll in the traffic system to zero by a given date. They are currently in the process of working with the Steering Committee to develop a vision, a goal and objectives for that campaign. On March 30th there will be a public forum to help guide the Steering Committee. MS. WILM added that the kickoff was last Thursday, March 3 rd and was well attended including the Mayor and Chris Schutte, MOA Executive Director of Economic and Development. CHAIR MORMILO added that she missed it since her invitation was just received in the mail today, but it would be appropriate to invite the MOA Traffic Department and the Anchorage Police Department since enforcement and engineering are the two biggest components. MS. ACTON just completed the website and the URL is muni.org/visionzero. CHAIR MORMILO mentioned that the state was notified of this, but the State Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) has a Zero Death Program, which is related to this because it has the same goals. 9. ADJOURNMENT Hearing no objections, the meeting adjourned at 3:27 p.m. 10. SCHEDULED AMATS MEETINGS Policy Committee, March 24, 2016, 1:30 3:30 PM : April 14, 2016, 2:30 4:30 PM