PRESENTER: Presenter
Scott McClelland, Assistant Transportation and Capital Improvements Director
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SUBJECT: Title
Public hearing, discussion, and possible action approving a project expenditure, of up to $200,000, for additional final design of Downtown Right-of-Way Enhancements - Landscaping, Pedestrian Lighting, and Underground Conversion, pursuant to Section 505.152 of the Texas Local Government Code.
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DEPARTMENT: Transportation and Capital Improvements
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COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: 1, 5
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
In a September 2022 quarterly workshop meeting, staff presented the New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation (NBEDC) with results of a survey in which the Board ranked eligible economic development projects. Phase One of the Downtown Right-of-Way Enhancements was ranked as the 5th highest priority.
Pedestrian circulation and walkability are critical success factors identified in various downtown planning efforts. This project aims to enhance the pedestrian experience in the Downtown area by improving connectivity, walkability, safety, visibility, and addressing ADA compliance. The NBEDC approved initial final design costs in June 2023.
At the October 17, 2024 regular meeting, a representative of the consultant team, Kimley-Horn, provided the NBEDC an update and identified three design alternatives for this project: Alternate 1 will add enhanced landscaping, Alternate 2 will add pedestrian lighting, and Alternate 3 will convert electric and telecommunication utilities underground. The NBEDC directed staff to proceed with these three alternatives; final design costs for all three alternatives are not to exceed $200,000. If the project expenditure is approved, this item will move forward for City Council approval in January 2025.
ISSUE:
Continue addressing pedestrian and accessibility deficiencies in the Downtown right-of-way
STRATEGIC PLAN REFERENCE:
☐Economic Mobility ☒Enhanced Connectivity ☐Community Identity
☐Organizational Excellence ☒Community Well-Being ☐N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
The final design funding requirement for these alternatives is $200,000; the NBEDC has sufficient funds to approve this expenditure and would enter into a contract with the City of New Braunfels.
Recommendation
RECOMMENDATION:
Approval of the $200,000 for the final design for Landscaping, Pedestrian Lighting, and Underground Conversion of Downtown Right-of-Way Enhancements