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HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-01-2003 ITEM VIII-B-3CITY OF. * ' WASHINGTON AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM Agenda Subiect Date: Resolution No. 3663 DCTED Grant 11/25/2003 Department: Planning Attachments: Resolution No. 3663 Budget Impact: with Exhibit; September Memo to Public Works and PCD Committees Administrative Recommendation: City Council to Resolution No. 3663. Background Summary: The Growth Management Act (RCW 36.70A.130(1)) requires that each city and county in Washington take action to review and, if needed, revise its comprehensive plan and development regulations by December 1, 2004 to ensure that they comply with the GMA. The State of Washington has appropriated funds to assist local jurisdictions in the review and update of their GMA planning documents and implementing development regulations. The grant award for Auburn is $30,000. In September 2003, staff had previously proposed setting aside $150,000 of downtown redevelopment funds to fund a corridor study of Auburn Way South from 4th Street NE to Cross Street ($100,000) and to construct limited Phase I improvements at Main Street and Auburn Way ($50,000). This $30,000 GMA Update Grant will be used towards funding the $100,000 corridor study. Pursuant to Chapter 35A.33 RCW, the City Council of the City of Auburn must adopt and approve all appropriations. At their meeting on November 24, 2003, the Planning and Community Development Committee recommended approval. L1201-2 F5.2 Reviewed by Council & Committees: Reviewed by Departments & Divisions: ❑ Arts Commission COUNCIL COMMITTEES: ❑ Building ❑ M&O ❑ Airport ❑ Finance ❑ Cemetery ❑ Mayor ❑ Hearing Examiner ❑ Municipal Serv. ❑ Finance ❑ Parks ❑ Human Services ® Planning & CD ❑ Fire ® Planning ❑ Park Board ❑Public Works ❑ Planning Comm. ❑ Other ® Legal ❑ Police ❑ Public Works ❑ Human Resources Action: Committee Approval: ❑Yes [:]No Council Approval: []Yes ❑No Call for Public Hearing Referred to Until Tabled Until Councilmember: Borden Staff: Krauss Meeting Date: December 1, 2003 Item Number: VIII.B.3 AUBURN * MORE THAN YOU IMAGINED RESOLUTION NO. 3 6 6 3 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUBURN, WASHINGTON, AUTHORIZING THE ACCEPTANCE OF GRANT FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF THIRTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ($30,000.00), AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK TO EXECUTE AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY AND THE STATE OF WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY, TRADE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENT THE CITY'S 2004 GMA UPDATE WHEREAS, the City of Auburn is required to meet certain planning requirements pursuant to the Washington State Growth Management Act (GMA) (RCW Chapter 36.70A); and WHEREAS, the City of Auburn is undertaking a review and evaluation of the comprehensive plan and development regulations pursuant to RCW 36.70A.130(1); and, WHEREAS, the State of Washington has appropriated funds to assist local jurisdictions in the review and update of their GMA planning documents and implementing development regulations; and, WHEREAS, in May 2001 the City of Auburn adopted the "Auburn Downtown Plan" which includes policies and recommended intended to foster and promote the redevelopment of Downtown Auburn; and, WHEREAS, one of the Auburn Downtown Plan's themes is the development of a pedestrian oriented, compact and walkable downtown; and, WHEREAS, Auburn Way is a high volume major arterial and commute route that intersects with Main Street and bisects Downtown; and, Resolution 3663 November 25, 2003 Page 1 WHEREAS, the Auburn Downtown Plan envisioned that improvements to the streetscape and its intersection at Main Street would help unify Auburn Downtown; and WHEREAS, a study of this intersection and street corridor would implement the Comprehensive Plan an Downtown Plan. NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUBURN, WASHINGTON, DO ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. The Grant from the Washington State Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development, to the City in the amount of thirty thousand dollars ($30,000.00), for the purposes of assisting in implementing the City's GMA update effort, is hereby approved, and the Mayor and City Clerk of the City of Auburn are authorized to execute an Intergovernmental Agreement with the State of Washington Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development for the reimbursement of said funds, which Agreement shall be substantially as set forth in the Exhibit "A," incorporated herein by reference. Section 2. The Mayor is hereby authorized to implement such administrative procedures as may be necessary to carry out directions of the legislation. Section 3. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect upon passage and signatures hereon. Peter B. Lewis Mayor Resolution 3663 November 25, 2003 Page 2 ATTEST: Danielle Daskam, City Clerk APPROVEDAS TO FORM: Daniel B. He! City Attorney Published: Resolution 3663 November 25, 2003 Page 3 CONTRACT NO. SO4-62600-064 WASHINGTON STATE DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY, TRADE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GROWTH MANAGEMENT SERVICES 1. GRANTEE: 2. AWARD DATE: 3. END DATE: CITY OF AuBuRN October 28, 2003 December 31, 2004 25 WEST MAIN STREET AUBURN, WASHINGTON 98001 4. GRANTEE REPRESENTATIVE: 5. CTED REPRESENTATIVE: NAME: DAVID OSAKI NAME: IKE NWANKwo PHONE: (253) 804-5034 PHONE: (360) 725-3056 FAX: (253) 804-3114Fes; (360) 753-2950 E-MAIL: dosaki@ci.aubum.wa.us E-MAIL: iken cted.wa. ov 6. SOURCE OF STATE FUNDS: 7. GRANTEE TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: (GRowTH MANAGEMENT SERVICES) 91-6001228 30 000 8. SUMMARY: To fund a study of the Auburn Way and Main Street intersection, as well as the Auburn Way Streetscap extending north and south several blocks within Auburn Downtown to further the work Auburn Downtown Plan The DEPARTMENT and GRANTEE acknowledge and accept the terms of this CONTRACT and attachments and have executed this CONTRACT as of the date and year written below. The rights and obligations of both parties to this CONTRACT are governed by this CONTRACT and other documents incorporated by reference: CONTRACT Terms and Conditions including Attachment "A," Work Plan and Attachment "B," Budget. FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY FOR THE CITY OF AUBURN: TRADE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Nancy K. Ousley, Assistant Director Name Local Government Division Title DATE: DATE: APPROVED AS TO FORM ONLY: Signature on file Melissa Burke -Cain, Senior Counsel Office of the Attorney General of Washington DATE: October 20, 2003 I of 9 CONTRACT TERMS & CONDITIONS SECTION 1 - PREAMBLE CONTRACT NO. SO4-62600-064 This CONTRACT, entered into by the City of Auburn, (hereinafter referred to as the GRANTEE) and the Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (hereinafter referred to as the DEPARTMENT), WITNESSES THAT: WHEREAS, the DEPARTMENT has the responsibility under RCW 43.330.050(5) to provide financial and technical assistance to the communities of the state, to assist in improving the delivery of federal, state, and local programs; and to provide communities with opportunities for productive and coordinated development beneficial to the well-being of communities and their residents; and WHEREAS, the DEPARTMENT has the statutory authority under RCW 43.330.120 to offer technical and financial assistance to cities and counties planning under the Growth Management Act; and WHEREAS, the DEPARTMENT has selected the GRANTEE to receive funds and the GRANTEE shall use the funds to undertake a project which furthers the goals and objectives of the DEPARTMENT's Growth Management Services Unit in accordance with its mission. THEREFORE, the parties mutually agree to the following terms and conditions: SECTION 2 - WORK PLAN Over the course of the CONTRACT period, the GRANTEE shall accomplish the activities described in Attachment "A": Work Plan that is incorporated into the CONTRACT by reference. SECTION 3 - FUNDING The total funds to be reimbursed to the GRANTEE for costs incurred during the CONTRACT period shall be a sum not to exceed $30,000. SECTION 4 - BUDGET An approved budget by category of expenditure is included as Attachment 'B" of this CONTRACT that is incorporated into the CONTRACT by reference. The total amount of transfers of funds between line item budget categories shall be as specified in Attachment `B." If the cumulative amount of these transfers exceeds or is expected to exceed the amount specified in Attachment `B," the total project budget shall be subject to justification and negotiation of a CONTRACT amendment by the GRANTEE and the DEPARTMENT. SECTION 5 - CONTRACT PERIOD A. The effective date of this CONTRACT shall be the date all parties sign and complete execution of the CONTRACT. This CONTRACT shall terminate on December 31, 2004 except for any remaining obligations of the GRANTEE as may exist under Section 7. B. Costs to be reimbursed by the DEPARTMENT under this CONTRACT are those eligible costs incurred during the performance of the CONTRACT work program on or after July 1, 2003. 2 of 9 CONTRACT NO. SO4-62600-064 SECTION 6 - REIMBURSEMENT PROVISIONS A. Funds will be disbursed per the schedule established in Attachment `B." B. Only eligible project -related costs will be reimbursed. Ineligible costs include, but are not necessarily limited to: capital expenses, such as land acquisition or construction costs; purchase of machinery; hosting expenses, such as meals, lodging, or transportation incurred by persons other than staff and volunteers working directly on the project; lobbying or political influencing; and other costs which are not directly related to the project. C. Within twenty (20) days after receiving and approving the voucher, the DEPARTMENT shall remit to the GRANTEE a warrant covering the DEPARTMENT's share of the costs incurred for work performed. D. The final invoice voucher covering costs incurred for work performed on or before December 31, 2004, must be submitted by the GRANTEE prior to January 9, 2005 to allow the DEPARTMENT sufficient time to process it. Payment of the final voucher shall be contingent upon the DEPARTMENT's receipt and approval of any products or deliverables designated in Attachment "A." SECTION 7 - REPORTS A. The GRANTEE shall submit a brief semiannual progress report on a form approved by the DEPARTMENT which describes the progress made on the work program outlined in Attachment "A." Progress reports will be submitted on a semiannual calendar cycle. The semiannual progress report shall also provide detail on the dedicated matching funds. B. The GRANTEE shall furnish, along with or prior to submitting the final invoice voucher, two copies of each final product designated in Attachment "A." SECTION 8 - ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF STATE FUNDING The GRANTEE shall provide all project -related press releases to the DEPARTMENT. Press releases shall identify the DEPARTMENT as a project financier. Publications such as reports and pamphlets which are developed totally or in part with funds provided under this CONTRACT shall give credit to the funding source by including the following: "Funds made available through the Washington State Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development." 3 of 9 CONTRACT NO. SO4-62600-064 SECTION 9 - DOCUMENTATION, MONITORING: AND AUDIT During the CONTRACT period and following its termination, the GRANTEE shall follow accounting procedures and shall maintain books, records, documents, and other evidence which sufficiently and properly reflect all project specific costs expended in the performance of this CONTRACT. The Office of the State Auditor or any persons duly authorized by the DEPARTMENT shall have full access to and the right to inspect, excerpt, audit, or examine any of these materials at all reasonable times for a period of six years after termination of the CONTRACT. The DEPARTMENT may require a copy of the GRANTEE's most recent audit and management letter. The DEPARTMENT may require the GRANTEE to obtain an audit for specific expenditures under this CONTRACT. Costs of a required audit are an allowable expense. SECTION 10 - RECAPTURE PROVISIONS In the event that the GRANTEE fails to expend funds under this CONTRACT in accordance with state laws and/or the provisions of this CONTRACT, the DEPARTMENT reserves the right to recapture state funds in an amount equivalent to the extent of the noncompliance. Such right of recapture shall exist for a period not to exceed six years following CONTRACT termination. Repayment by the GRANTEE of funds under this recapture provision shall occur within 30 days of demand. In the event that the DEPARTMENT is required to institute legal proceedings to enforce the recapture provision, the DEPARTMENT shall be entitled to its costs thereof, including reasonable attorney's fees. SECTION 11 - CONTRACT AMENDMENTS A. The DEPARTMENT or the GRANTEE may request changes to the CONTRACT or its provisions. It is agreed and understood that no material or substantive alteration or variation of the terms of this CONTRACT shall be valid unless made in writing and signed by both parties. Any oral understanding or agreements shall not be binding unless made in writing and signed by both parties. B. CONTRACT amendments shall not be made which result in an extension of the CONTRACT period beyond June 30, 2005. SECTION 12 - NONDISCRIMINATION CLAUSE During the performance of this CONTRACT, the GRANTEE shall comply with all federal and state nondiscrimination laws, including, but not limited to chapter 49.60 RCW. Washington's Law Against Discrimination, and 42, U.S.C. 12101 et sea., the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In the event of the GRANTEE's noncompliance or refusal to comply with any nondiscrimination law, regulation, or policy, this CONTRACT may be rescinded, canceled, or terminated in whole or in part, and the GRANTEE may be declared ineligible for further CONTRACTS with the DEPARTMENT. The GRANTEE shall, however, be given a reasonable time in which to cure this noncompliance. Any dispute may be resolved in accordance with Section 20. 4 of 9 CONTRACT NO. 504-62600-064 SECTION 13 - TERMINATION OF CONTRACT A. If, through any cause, the GRANTEE shall fail to fulfill its obligations under this CONTRACT in a timely and proper manner; or if the GRANTEE shall violate any of its covenants, agreements, or stipulations; the DEPARTMENT shall have the right to terminate this CONTRACT. The DEPARTMENT may withhold the balance of state funding if such default or violation is not corrected within twenty (20) days after the DEPARTMENT submits written notice to the GRANTEE describing such default or violation. B. Notwithstanding any provisions of this CONTRACT, either party may terminate this CONTRACT by providing written notice of such termination, specifying the effective date thereof, at least thirty (30) days prior to such date. . C. Reimbursement for GRANTEE work performed, and not otherwise paid for by the DEPARTMENT prior to the effective date of such terminations, shall be as the DEPARTMENT reasonably determines. D. In the event funding from the state, federal, or other sources is withdrawn, reduced, or limited in any way after the effective date of this CONTRACT and prior to normal completion, the DEPARTMENT may unilaterally reduce the scope of work and budget or terminate this CONTRACT. SECTION 14 - GRANTEE NOT EMPLOYEE OF DEPARTMENT The GRANTEE, its employees, or agents performing under this CONTRACT are not deemed to be employees neither of the DEPARTMENT nor as agents of the DEPARTMENT in any manner whatsoever. The GRANTEE will not hold itself out as or claim to be an officer or employee of the DEPARTMENT or of the State of Washington and will not make any claim, demand, or application to or for any right or privilege applicable to an officer or employee of the DEPARTMENT or of the State of Washington. SECTION 15 - USE OF SUBCONTRACTS The GRANTEE may enter into subcontracts for any of the work contemplated under this CONTRACT without obtaining prior written approval of the DEPARTMENT. The GRANTEE shall follow local policies regarding procurement, or in absence of local policies, shall use a competitive procurement process. Each CONTRACT that the GRANTEE enters into with subcontractors, creditors and others shall contain a clause providing notice that the state and the DEPARTMENT are not responsible for any legal obligation, financial or otherwise, incurred by the GRANTEE. The DEPARTMENT reserves the right to monitor the subcontractor selection process and contractual documents either during or following the selection process. The GRANTEE is responsible for the performance of any subcontractors. The GRANTEE shall require all subcontractors to follow the same rules and regulations as described in this document. All subcontractors must be monitored by the GRANTEE to ensure fiscal accountability. 5 of 9 CONTRACT NO. SO4-62600-064 SECTION 16 - OWNERSHIP OF PROJECT MATERIALS All finished or unfinished documents, data, studies, surveys, drawings, models, photographs, films, duplicating plates, computer disks and reports prepared by the GRANTEE under this CONTRACT shall be works for hire under U.S. copyright law. The DEPARTMENT may duplicate, use, and disclose in any manner and for any purpose whatsoever, all materials prepared under this CONTRACT. The GRANTEE must have prior approval of the DEPARMENT to produce patents, copyrights, patent rights, inventions, original books, manuals, films, or other patentable or copyrightable materials, in whole or in part with funds received under this CONTRACT. The DEPARTMENT reserves the right to determine whether protection of inventions of discovery shall be disposed of and administered in order to protect the public interest. Before the GRANTEE copyrights any materials produced with funds under this CONTRACT, the DEPARTMENT reserves the right to negotiate a reasonable royalty fee and agreement. SECTION 17 - TRAVEL AND SUBSISTENCE REIMBURSEMENT Travel and subsistence reimbursement shall be made in accordance with the guidelines followed by the GRANTEE in the course of normal operations. In the absence of local provisions, per diem rates and travel allowances shall be paid in accordance with rates set for state employees pursuant to RCW 43.03.050 and RCW 43.03.060 as now existing or hereafter amended. SECTION 18 - SPECIAL PROVISION. - The DEPARTMENT's failure to insist upon the strict performance of any provision of this CONTRACT or to exercise any right based upon a breach thereof or the acceptance of any performance during such breach shall not constitute a waiver of any right under this CONTRACT. SECTION 19 - HOLD HARMLESS The GRANTEE agrees to defend, hold harmless, and indemnify the State of Washington and the DEPARTMENT, their officers, agents, employees, and assigns against any and all damages of claims from damages resulting or allegedly resulting from the GRANTEE's performance of activities under the terms of this CONTRACT. SECTION 20 - DISPUTE RESOLUTION Except as otherwise provided in this CONTRACT, when a bona fide dispute arises between the parties and it cannot be resolved through discussion and negotiation, either party may request a dispute hearing. The parties shall select a dispute resolution. team to resolve the dispute. The team shall consist of a representative appointed by the DEPARTMENT, a representative appointed by the GRANTEE, and a third party mutually agreed upon by both parties. The team shall attempt, by majority vote, to resolve the dispute. The parties agree that this dispute process shall precede any action in a judicial or quasi-judicial tribunal. 6of9 CONTRACT NO. SO4-62600-064 SECTION 21 - GOVERNING LAW AND VENUE The CONTRACT shall be construed and enforced in accordance with, and the laws of the State of Washington hereof shall govern the validity and performance. Venue of any suit between the parties arising out of this CONTRACT shall be the Superior Court of Thurston County, Washington. SECTION 22 - APPLICABLE LAWS AND REGULATIONS The GRANTEE shall comply with all existing applicable laws, ordinances, codes, regulations and policies of local, state, and federal governments, as now or hereafter amended. SECTION 23 - SEVERABILITY In the event any term or condition of this CONTRACT or application thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other terms, conditions, or applications of this CONTRACT which can be given effect without the invalid term, condition, or application. To this end, the terms and conditions of this CONTRACT are declared severable. SECTION 24 — ENTIRE AGREEMENT This contract, including referenced exhibits, represents all the terms and conditions agreed upon by the parties. No other understandings or representations, oral or otherwise, regarding the subject matter of this contract shall be deemed to exist or to bind any of the parties hereto. The attachments to this agreement are as follows: ATTACHMENT A: "Work Plan," consisting of 1 page(s); and ATTACHMENT B: `Budget," consisting of 1 page(s). 7 of 9 ATTACHMENT A: WORK PLAN Grantee: City of Auburn CONTRACT NO. SO4-62600-064 Summary: To fund a study of the Auburn Way and Main Street intersection, as well as the Auburn Way Streetscap extending north and south several blocks within Auburn Downtown to further the work Auburn Downtown Plan. Estimated Completion Dates & Activities: Goals/ Description Start End Date Actions/ Date Deliverables Goal Auburn Way Corridor Study to Strengthen Downtown Auburn Action Develop contract with CTED/obtain City Council approval of interlocal agreement with 10/1/03 12/15/03 CTED Action Consultant Selection Process, negotiate scope of work, execute contract 11/15/03 2/15/03 Action Consultant defines study area, inventories existing conditions, conducts issues identification, and identifies relationships to 2/28/04 4/15/04 Downtown Redevelopment Objectives Action Draft Study and Preliminary Recommendations regarding pedestrian, 4/1/04 6/15/04 traffic, and aesthetic improvements Deliverable Preliminary Draft Stud 7/15/04 Action Present Study to Planning Commission 7/15/04 9/1/04 Action Present Study to City Council 8/15/04 .12/1/04 Deliverable Final Auburn Way Corridor Study.12/15/04 Deliverables: Preliminary Draft Study, Final Auburn Way Corridor Study Status reports due by: December 15, 2003, June 15, 2004, and December 15, 2004 Products to be submitted by: December 15, 2004. 8 of 9 CONTRACT NO. SO4-62600-064 ATTACHMENT B: BUDGET The budget shall consist of the following elements: 1. Category of Expenditure 2. Budget Summary SFY 2004 SFY 2005 Total CTED Funds $20,000 $10,000 $30,000 Other Funds Total $20,000 $10,000 $30,000 3. Payment Disbursement Schedule Upon final signing of contract and before June 30, 2004: SFY 2004 SFY 2005 Total Salaries and Benefits $7,000 Upon completion of the contract, after July 1, 2004 and before December 31,2004: $3,000 Goods and Supplies Professional Services $20,000 $10,000 $30,000 Other Goods and Services Total $20,000 $10,000 $30,000 2. Budget Summary SFY 2004 SFY 2005 Total CTED Funds $20,000 $10,000 $30,000 Other Funds Total $20,000 $10,000 $30,000 3. Payment Disbursement Schedule Upon final signing of contract and before June 30, 2004: $10,000 After submission of first status report and before June 30, 2004: $10,000 After submission of second status report, after July 1, 2004 and before December 31, 2004: $7,000 Upon completion of the contract, after July 1, 2004 and before December 31,2004: $3,000 4. Special Budget Provisions A. For CONTRACTS over $30,000 the total amount of transfers of funds between line item budget categories shall not exceed ten (10) percent of the total budget. If the cumulative amount of these transfers exceeds or is expected to exceed ten percent, the total budget shall be subject to justification and negotiation of a CONTRACT amendment by the GRANTEE and the DEPARTMENT. B. For CONTRACTS under $30,000 the total amount of transfers of funds between line item budget categories shall not exceed twenty (20) percent of the total budget. If the cumulative amount of these transfers exceeds or is expected to exceed twenty percent, the total budget shall be subject to justification and negotiation of a CONTRACT amendment by the GRANTEE and the DEPARTMENT. C. A sum of ten (10) percent of funds shall be withheld until all tasks, activities, and final products defined in ATTACHMENT "A" have been successfully completed by the GRANTEE and accepted fully by the DEPARTMENT. 9 of 9 CITY OF } Peter B. Lewis, MayorU, Y WASHINGTON 25 West Main Street * Auburn WA 98001-4998 * www.ci.aubumma.us * 253-931-3000 MEMO TO: Public Works and Planning Committees FROM: Paul Krauss RE: Downtown Pedestrian / Traffic and Visual Improvements BACKGROUND The Auburn Downtown Plan bases rehabilitation and expansion of the downtown on "pedestrian oriented" development. What this boils down to is that the pedestrian needs to feel both safe and comfortable while moving .through downtown. The City is blessed with a traditional / historic, development pattern that is a major advantage in achieving this goal. However, there are several areas where post -WWII infrastructure built to support automobiles, comes into conflict with pedestrian movement. Auburn Way, with its wide ROW and large volumes of traffic moving at fairly high speed is one of those areas. It is not possible to turn back the clock, nor is it reasonable to consider undertaking major efforts to force automobile traffic out of downtown. While this could theoretically be achieved, there are not sufficient viable alternate routes and trying to find them would likely result in creating significant traffic impacts for residential neighborhoods around downtown. Rather than propose draconian measures, the Downtown Plan suggested a series of improvements that could enhance pedestrian movement and downtown's visual experience while not adversely impacting and potentially improving the safety of vehicular circulation. Such improvements were proposed for sections of the Auburn Way corridor. Improvements included the use of refuge islands and similar measures to insure that people of all ages and abilities can safely cross at Main Street. Also, landscaped islands would restrict left turns across traffic and offer a break of the rather dismal view of endless lanes of traffic. At this time it appears highly likely that the City will soon be relocating the Municipal Court and Police Department to a renovated Massey's Building. This project has a high potential to anchor the East Main Street area. Coupled with new public parking assets, it should serve as a catalyst, spurring private investment in new and renovated buildings. Thus it is reasonable to expect that the volume of pedestrian traffic on Main and Auburn Way, already significant, will see a dramatic increase. Thus it appears to be an optimal time to consider realizing one of the goals of the Downtown Plan (refer to attached excerpt). PROPOSAL Staff is proposing that the Council allocate $150,000 of funding set-aside for downtown redevelopment, to fund the following: AT TRT TR IST* UnT? V TT -i A KI VnI T TAA A(NNTM $100,000 to undertake a "corridor study" of Auburn Way from 0 Street NE to Cross Street. The study will ascertain the feasibility, cost and concept design of improvements including enhanced pedestrian crossings, landscaped medians and restricted left turns similar to those being built south of SR 18. This study would then serve to facilitate seeking grant funding to support the project. • $50,000 to actually construct limited Phase I improvements at Main and Auburn Way so that it can be improved in the near term. At this time it is thought that a "bubbled "out, landscaped corner on the southeast side of Auburn Way, could offer significant benefit with little impact and low cost. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Council authorize the appropriation of $150,000 from downtown funds to support Auburn Way corridor improvements between 4a' Street NE and Cross Street and direct staff to issue an RFP for required consultant services. Concepts for rest of the district is healthy. Public and private actions which AUbUM Way could stimulate the redevelopment of the building include: Development of additional public parking in the immediate vicinity, City or South of Main Street another party's guarantee of a 2nd floor lease which would enable the current owner to secure financing, use of CDBG funds for • Seiectivey extend curb to gala planting area renovation, and the City or other parties such as local business owners purchasing a partial share in the building. ' Center -planted median with larger trees in center Fagade renovations should include removing the 1970s metal facade to Select• ed access management reveal the original surface. Restoring the storefronts to their 1920s configuration should be (prArtarUy Cross to 2nd Street) • smaller double row of trees considered. This was originally a very simple building, it isnot necessary to "prettify it. If the building border sidewalk (accomrnodates is designated as an Auburn Historic landmark, it would quaW power Ines; "per) for restoration under the more flexible Washington Historic "y Building Code, if adopted by the City. • signage consolidated above and below trees • AMPedestrian-scaie 1.5.2 Auburn Way Corridor p� and paint • Textured pavement at Cross &General Description ndititans Main sum intersection functions as t' and alert Auburn Way is a major travel route through the City of Auburn, andexperiences the highest Mai, Stm*t intersection with volume of traffic within downtown. It is characterized by strip development over its entire length, spit phase signal on Main to allowlefttums including the portion which runs through downtown, between 4" • Crosswalks at an intersections Street NE and SR18. The street is characterized by parking -lots Concentrate Limited m�� Potential Street Trees UrrifyCorJdor knObvePubReeerK aCreate Pedestrian Travel tialnd Figure 20. Concepts for Auburn Way South of Main Street 14o Concentrate Public kwoaeemments to Link East and west Main; Alert Drivers City of Auburn Downtown Plan/EIS F7 -1" - I I ri 13 Way North of Main Street knprovernew as Gateway and Entry Pant 141 separating buildings from the roadway. It is raze to find a building with an entrance that is adjacent to the street in this district. 'Many for of the buildings are single story and advertise themselves with tall Auburn Way pole signs designed to catch a passing automobile driver's eye. Landscaping is minimal along the corridor, with the exception of North of Main Street two small center planted medians and small trees and shrubs at intermittent intervals. Since repeating vertical elements tend to gai plantingSib extena ""{'ton area dominate the view in any street's case, pole signs and utility poles are the dominatingP. Yri h cal characteristics along this corridor. The c �r� jncewer pavement, buildings and the landscaping become a minor element. Selected access management Auburn Way functions as a barrier to east west pedestrian travel Smallertrees �` �'"W` and to the cohesion of the retail district The width of this heavily t accm � knbed up) tes pow� traveled arterial varies from four to six lanes, and many of the -Sigruw ccauoft"ed above crosswalks on Auburn Way are in need of re -striping. There are xWbelow bves sidewalks along most of Auburn Way within the study area, except'M lay 201 and 3a NE and near Cross Street at the southern en Wkvaround ttgi>tdecora epoles andPaint The sidewalk is integral with the curb, leaving no separation between the pedestrian and vehicular traffic. The 'textured pavement at Mat sweet imersection sidewalk and street edge are characterized by curb cuts, with some properties Narrowed Main Street having their entire frontage as 'a- curb cut Frequent curb cuts discourage pedestrian use because of frequent auto I' ion with �OweP Signal tto accommodate left usage and the change in sidewalk elevation. These conditions create an turns) uncomfortable pedestrian environment and decrease traffic safety. -1" - I I ri 13 Way North of Main Street knprovernew as Gateway and Entry Pant 141 142 U7 n Although the corridor is characterized by strip development, the areas north and south of Main Street are different. The right-of- ightof- way way is at its greatest near Safeway at 1001, and at its narrowest in the northern area between 2'a and 41h Streets NE at 601. The street varies in width as well, from 4 lanes north of Main Street to 5 lanes in the southern area where the curbside lane is wider than 20' and underutilized. The corridor appears especially wide around Safeway where the pavement is widest and where the buildings are set back the farthest from the street. Given all of the conditions identified here, Auburn Way as the main travel route into and through downtown presents a poor impression and relates very little in form and function to the Main Street Core. Auburn Way is a key corridor and entry to downtown. Improving the aesthetics of Auburn Way is essential to improving downtown Auburn. Future Land Use and Character While there is a lack of visual continuity on Auburn Way, and it does not have the desired character of a downtown, most of the buildings along the street are in good to fair condition, and most are occupied. The majority of parcels are relatively small, ranging eet. The Safeway parcel is 2710,000 square from 4,00010,000 square f feet, and other minimal numbers of larger parcels do exist. These land use conditions lead to the conclusion that most of the existing oreseeable future, although the tenants buildings will remain in the f , may change. Improvements to private property that will make a significant difference include signage that complies with a new City sign ordinance, and design standards for new development and redevelopment. As demonstrated in many Puget Sound cities, it is possible to successfully lower the heights and sizes of signs without destroying the viability of existing businesses. This helps to create the more pedestrian -friendly atmosphere which is a key element of the vision for downtown. Implementation actions may include both sign code changes and a City finance program to help businesses remove nonconforming signs. A specific amount could be dedicated per year to accomplish this task. It is difficult to alter a land use pattern that is as established as Auburn Way. However, great potential exists to improve the public right-of-way, especially south of Main Street where the right-of- way ightof- way is widest and the existing street width is not fully used. The addition of landscaping, decorative lighting, and the undergrounding of utilities will complement the decreases over City of Auburn Downtown Plan/ElS me . - Potential Infill on Safeway Site time in the height and -size of pole signs. After these improvements are made, the unifying. element will become the landscaping, decorative lighting, and signage, both public and private. Improved building design will be accomplished over time as the design standards are implemented. Another key area of the corridor is the intersection of Auburn Way and Main Street, as. discussed in the Main Street District section above. With the implementation of design standards and a public signage program, the buildings and urban form will look more like downtown than like strip development, thus alerting the Auburn Way user that they are in the downtown area of the City. Intersection improvements will help to unify Main Street on the east and west sides of Auburn Way. Redesigning the entries to downtown from Auburn Way will create a better impression of downtown than currently exists. Careful design of public art and the redevelopment of public infrastructure will speak for themselves in terms of the quality of the community and the downtown. The northern gateway will also link downtown to the emerging regional retail area to the north around 15th Street NE. Intensifying -land uses will also improve the appearance and function of Auburn Way. Potential projects include the addition of a building to the corner of the Safeway parking lot, and the addition 1.5 Downtown Plan Districts 143 May, 2001 of a hotel and Class A office development at the southern area of the corridor. Street and Intersection Improvements Of all of the identified catalyst projects, improvement of the Auburn Way street and intersections will have the greatest impact and unify the corridor visually while improving its physical function. Specific improvements to be made include: • Center -planted medians in the approximate locations shown in Figures 20 & 21 • At the intersection of Main Street and Auburn Way split phase signal improvements on Main Street should be explored (to allow left turns from Main Street to Auburn Way) • Add a travel lane and sidewalk improvements between 2nd and 4th NE on Auburn Way Potential Auburn Way Street Improvements with Existing Power Poles and Wires 144 City of Auburn Downtown Plan/EIS :1 - • Realign Fourth Street NE between Auburn Way and Auburn Avenue to improve the 2 intersections The alley behind Main Street (south side) will be closed, and street entrances to Safeway consolidated • Aecess management would be instituted on Auburn Way to minimi�p curb Cuts and multiple accesses per block Southern Gateway The southern gateway to downtown on Auburn Way South occurs at the crossing of SR 18 and railroad bridges. There are many opportunities for public art to be integrated with existing infrastructure. In addition to the SR 18 bridge and the railroad bridge, the Cross Street intersection also provides opportunities. Intensive landscaping and signage can begin at this gateway point to alert the user that they have entered downtown. These elements should be used throughout the Auburn Way corridor to establish continuity and identity. Hotel and Small Conference Facilities The Downtown Market Analysis identified the potential for a hotel with small conference facilities to be developed in downtown Auburn near SR 18. Visibility and convenient freeway access are key to the success of a hotel facility. Also, a sizable site is required to meet the needs of the hotel and accompanying parking. Sites on the west side of Auburn Way near the Cross Street intersection would be appropriate for the hotel catalyst project, and, combined with public street and gateway improvements, would greatly improve the appearance of the southern entrance to downtown. Northern Gateway The land uses at the northern end of downtown do not change dramatically when one enters the downtown core. There is no easily identifiable point at which one knows that "now I am in downtown." Therefore a gateway should be created. Given the land use pattern of strip development, the greatest potential exists to use the public infrastructure of the reconstructed street as a eway. The change in the type and quality of the infrastructure the vicinity of 41h Street NE will speak for itself. A cluster of signage, and other art elements will function as the gateway l establish the identity of the downtown portion of the Auburn Y corridor. >owntown Plan Districts 2001 145