1997-01-06 - Laserfiche WebLink

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223 CTS and UTS buses. Ms. Mueller asked Council for approval of the general location, and said that detailed plans will then be developed, with significant public involvement. Responding to a question from Ms. Slaughter, Mr. Gouldman agreed that Planning Commission review* of the proposal will be required since it would be relocation of a public facility, and Ms. Mueller recommended that the issue be reviewed by the Planning Commission in March. The public hearing was opened, but as there were no speakers, the public hearing was closed. Ms. Daugherty asked that Ms. Mueller comment on how public input will be solicited. MS. Mueller said that staff has met with representatives of adjacent businesses, the First Baptist Church and adjacent neighborhoods, and she anticipates that representatives from these groups would be part of a committee and planning process for the facility. Ms. Richards said that neighborhood representatives may have ideas about other possible services that could be offered at the plaza location. Ms. Richards also recommended that a frequent bus rider be included in the planning process. Ms. Mueller noted that the idea of a day care center has been mentioned. Mr. Toscano said that he feels the project creates a grand opportunity, and he would like to find a way to bring more dollars to the project. Mr. Toscano said the project addresses the need for safety and parking, provides a lipak between the City and U. Va. bus systems, and creates the potential to bring the University population to West Main Street. Mr. Toscano made a motion to approve the general location for the transportation plaza and Ms. Daugherty seconded the motion. Ms. Slaughter noted that the police substation will also provide safety for late night train riders. Ms. Richards said she feels the proposal has many advantages, including bringing vitality and life to West Main Street. Council unanimously approved West Main Street next to Union Station as the general location for the transportation plaza, with Mr. Cox absent. PUBLIC HEARING/RESOLUTION: AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR ISTEA GRANT FOR RIVANNA GREENBELT Mr. O'Connell said that staff has proposed submitting an ISTEA grant for extension of the Greenbelt Trail, though a public hearing has been advertised to include the possibility of using the grant funds to purchase billboards and to underground utilities. Mr. Huja proposed that the Greenbelt Trail be extended by 6,400 feet, most of which is in Albemarle County, and to construct a pedestrian bridge over the river at Darden Towe Park. The amount requested would be $400,000, with a $50,000 match required by both the City and County. The operating costs are estimated to be $511 per 1000 linear feet, though Mr. Huja noted that the land is in the flood plan and would be susceptible to water damage. Responding to a question from Ms. Richards, Mr. Huja said that the bridge is estimated to cost bemTeen $300,000 and $400,000. Ms. Daugherty asked where the bridge would lead from Darden Towe Park, and expressed concern about the high cost of the bridge and about the usage of the bridge.