1998-01-05 - Laserfiche WebLink

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134 Huja noted that another project not ready for consideration this year is a pedestrian bike and possible transit link between Fontaine and Ridge Street. The public hearing was opened, but as there were no speakers, the public hearing was closed. Responding to a question from Ms. Richards, Mr.. Huja said that proposals for a feasibility study of the traffic circle at Ridge/Mclntire and Preston have been received, but no decisions have been made. Ms. Slaughter asked if the cost for easements for the project on High and Long Streets could be paid out of the grant, and Mr. Huja replied that they could. Ms. Slaughter said she feels this project would improve access to the fiver. Ms. Daugherty said the High and Long Street project has a lot of promise, but a lot of work needs to be done and 'she is not ready to commit to this project since the plan is so undeveloped. Responding to a question from Ms. Richards, Mr. Huja said that if the funding was approved for a landscaped island, construction would be no sooner than a year from now. Mr. Toscano said that he is leery of embracing a project when the feasibility study is not yet completed. Ms. Daugherty said that the traffic circle would be her first choice for the grant as she feels it would make an impressive entrance to the downtown area. Ms. Richards said that a traffic circle is a major way to reduce speed, but stressed that they are not volume reducing. Ms. Slaughter expressed concern about embracing a project that Council has not decided to approve. Ms. Richards made a motion to approve applying for an ISTEA grant for a landscaped island at the intersection of Ridge/iMcintire and Preston. Ms. Daugherty seconded the motion. Mr. Toscano said that he will vote in favor of the motion with the caveat that Council can refuse the grant money if a decision is made not to construct the traffic circle. Council approved the application for the ISTEA grant for the traffic circle by the following vote. Ayes: Ms. Daugherty, Ms. Richards, Mr. Toscano. Noes: Ms. Slaughter. Absent: Mr. Cox. WHEREAS, under the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) certain funds are made available for enhancement projects; and WHEREAS, the project presented is construction of a landscaped island at the intersection of Ridge/Mclntire Road and Preston Avenue; and WHEREAS, the project is in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan of the City of Charlottesville; and WHEREAS, the project is deemed meritorious and of benefit to the community and the State; and WHEREAS, in accordance with Commonwealth Transportation Board construction allocation procedures, it is necessary that a request by resolution be received from the local govermnent in order that the Virginia Department of Transportation program an enhancement project in the City of Charlottesville, Virginia;