CC MEETING: April 4, 2017
DATE: March 28, 2017
TO: Erin Rinehart, City Manger
FROM: Cesar J. Molina, Jr., P.E., Director of Engineering
Title
Consider A Resolution Supporting A Grant Application To The North Central Texas Council Of Governments For The 'Safe Walks To School' Sidewalk Improvement Program; And Providing An Effective Date.
Body
BACKGROUND:
In 2015 a detailed survey of sidewalk conditions across the city was completed. There is a large amount of substandard sidewalks in the City based on the physical condition of the concrete (cracks, sunken panels, etc.) and issues with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (barrier free ramps, excessive cross slopes). Due to the large amount of sidewalks in the City (approximately 575 miles), the City's focus on repairs has been on access to public school campuses. City contractors are nearing completion of the initial program of about $1.3 million for sidewalk improvements near eleven schools.
NCTCOG has a sidewalk grant program called 'Safe Walks to School'. This program can be coordinated with the City's current sidewalk improvement program. A grant application has been submitted targeting two specific schools - Rainwater and Davis Elementary Schools. The preliminary cost estimate is about $2 million for sidewalk repairs within one quarter of a mile from each school. In order to be considered for this grant, the City Council must approve a resolution stating that the City will provide matching funds if the grant is approved.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
The total project cost is estimated to be $1.971 million, of which $1.675 million is for construction; $117,000 is for design; and $179,000 is for TxDOT's administrative fee. A 20% local match is required, making the City's potential contribution $394,230 if the full grant request is approved. The City was recently awarded a $1,086,000 grant from Denton County to use towards the Old Denton Road phase 2 reconstruction project. This will free up a propo...
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