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HomeMy WebLinkAboutOctober 3, 2012 Agenda PacketST. LUCIE TRANSPORTATION PLANNING ORGANIZATION (TPO) REGULAR MEETING Date: Wednesday October 3, 2012 Time: 2:00 pm Location: Port St. Lucie City Council Chambers 121 SW Port St. Lucie Boulevard Port St. Lucie, Florida AGENDA 1. Call to Order 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Roll Call 4. Approval of Agenda S. Approval of Minutes • August 1, 2012 Regular Meeting 6. Comments from the Public 7. Comments from Advisory Committee Members (TAC/CAC/BPAC) S. Consent Agenda 8a. Amendment to the FY 2012/13 — FY 2016/17 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP): Notification of an approved amendment to the TIP to incorporate the FY 2012/13 Roll -Forward Report. Action., Approve or disapprove. 8b. 2012 Traffic Count Data Management System (TCDMS) Scope of Services: Approval of the scope of services to perform the 2012 traffic counts for the TCDMS. Action: Approve or disapprove. 9. Action Items 9a. Public Involvement Program (PIP) Major Update: Review and adoption of the PIP Major Update. Action: Adopt the PIP Major Update, adopt with conditions, or do not adopt. Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County October 3, 2012 Regular TPO Board Meeting Page 2 of 2 9b. Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan/Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan: Review and adoption of the Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan/LEP Plan for the St. Lucie TPO. Action: Adopt the Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan/LEP Plan, adopt with conditions, or do not adopt. 9c. Development of Traffic Impact Study Methodology and Procedures: Approval of the Scope of Services to develop a standardized Traffic Impact Study Methodology and Procedures for the St. Lucie TPO Area. Action: Approve the Scope, approve with conditions, or do not approve. 10. Discussion Items SOa. Florida MPO Advisory Council (MPOAC) Revenue Study: Presentation on the recently -completed MPOAC Revenue Study Action: Discuss and provide comments to staff. 11. Information Items Ila. Transportation Regional Incentive Program (TRIP) Grant: Update on the 2012 TRIP grant program. Action: None. 12. FDOT Comments 13. Recommendations/Comments by Members 14. TPO Staff Comments 15. Next Meeting: The next St. Lucie TPO meeting is a regular meeting scheduled for 2:00 pm on Wednesday, December 5, 2012, in the new TPO Offices located at 466 SW Port St. Lucie Boulevard, Suite 111, in Port St. Lucie, Florida. 16. Adjourn NOTICES Anyone with a disability requiring accommodation to access the meeting facilities should contact Dan Lutzke, St. Lucie County Risk Manager, at 772-462-1546 or TDD 772-462-1428, at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. Anyone with a disability requiring transit accommodation to attend the meeting should contact Community Transit at 772-464-7433 (Fort Pierce) or 772-879-1287 (Port St. Lucie) at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. The St. Lucie TPO satisfies the requirements of various non-discrimination laws and regulations including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability or family status. Persons wishing to express their concerns about Title VI or to receive materials in accessible formats should contact Marceia Lathou, the St. Lucie TPO Title VI Coordinator, at 772-462-1593. Items not included on the agenda may also be heard in consideration of the best interests of the public's health, safety, welfare, and as necessary to protect every person's right of access. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the St. Lucie TPO with respect to any matter considered at this meeting, that person shall need a record of the proceedings, and for such a purpose, that person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made which includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. Krevbl Avisven: Si on to rinmin recevoua information sa en creole si I bous plait rele 772-462-1777. Esoa"nol: Si usted desea recibir esta informacion en espa"nol, por favor (lame al 772-462-1777. ST. LUCIE TRANSPORTATION PLANNING ORGANIZATION (TPO) REGULAR BOARD MEETING DATE: Wednesday, August 1, 2012 TIME: 2:00 p.m. 2. 3. Pledge of nce. The roll Woss,called ah_d a quorum was confirmed with 10 members. Representing: Commissioner Reginald Sessions, TPO Chair City of Fort Pierce Mayor JoAnn Faiella, TPO Vice Chair City of Port St. Lucie Councilwoman Michelle Berger City of Port St. Lucie Commissioner Chris Craft St. Lucie County Kathryn Hensley SLC School Board Commissioner Frannie Hutchinson St. Lucie County Councilman Jack Kelly City of Port St. Lucie Commissioner Paula Lewis St. Lucie County Councilwoman Shannon Martin City of Port St. Lucie Alan Miller Community Transit Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County August 1, 2012 Regular TPO Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 12 Others present: Representina: Peter Buchwald St. Lucie TPO Ron Bowman St. Lucie TPO Ed DeFini St. Lucie TPO Neelam Fatima St. Lucie TPO Kristen Nowicki Recording Specialist Marianne Arbore COASL Denise Burton City of Port St. Lucie Lisa Frazier Kimley-Horn and Associates Eric Grotke CDM Smith Marty Laven Marine Industries of the TC Stefanie Myers SLC Community Services Kent Rice Florida's Turnpike Authority H.M. Ridgely Regional Transit Organization Patricia Roebling City of Port St. Lucie Arlene Tanis FDOT Kevin Vann CDM Smith Heather Young St. Lucie County Approval of Agenda MOTION — MOVED by Councilman Kelly to approve the agenda as presented. SECONDED by Commissioner Lewis Carried UNANIMOUSLY Approval of Minutes — June 6, 2012 Regular Meeting MOTION — MOVED by Councilwoman Berger to approve the minutes of the Regular TPO Board meeting held on June 6, 2012. SECONDED by Commissioner Hutchinson Comments from the Public There were no comments from the public. Carried UNANIMOUSLY August 1, 2012 Regular TPO Board Meeting Minutes Page 3 of 12 7. Comments from Advisory Committee Members (TAC/CAC/BPAC) There were no comments from the Advisory Committee Members. 8. ConsentAaenda 8a. Appointment to the St. Lucie TPO Bicycling -Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) Mr. David Pollard applied to fill a vacancy on the BPAC as a Resident - Bicycling representative. * MOTION — MOVED by Councilman Kelly to approve the Consent Agenda. ** SECONDED by Kathryn Hensley Carried UNANIMOUSLY 9. Action Items 9a. 2012/2013 List of Priority Projects (LOPP) Mr. Buchwald began the presentation by noting that at the last TPO Board meeting, the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for FY 2012/13 through 2016/17 was adopted. At this time, the process starts over again with the List of Priority Projects (LOPP). The LOPP must be submitted to FDOT by October 1, 2012. Projects on the list will be funded through the FDOT work program to the maximum extent feasible. The 2012/13 LOPP features a few changes. Mr. Buchwald explained the following changes: • The addition of the intersection of Kings Highway at Orange Avenue to the bottom of the Master List • A new column on the Master List indicating if the project is in a Major Gateway Corridor (relates to landscape funding eligibility and priority) • The addition of a Congestion Management Process (CMP) List • Revisions to the Transit List and Transportation Enhancement (TE) List because projects have moved up in rank, and others were removed that were programmed for construction. August 1, 2012 Regular TPO Board Meeting Minutes Page 4 of 12 The TPO Advisory Committees provided the following recommendations: • Switch the order of priorities #3 and #4 on the CMP List • Add the I-95 Express Bus Park and Ride to the Master List (in addition to remaining on the Transit List) • Switch the order of priorities #3 and #4 on the Master List The reason for moving the I-95 Express Bus Park and Ride to the Master List is to emphasize the need for this service for commuters between St. Lucie County and Palm Beach County. Palm Tran has been working with St. Lucie County and the TPO staff to establish a park and ride lot for an express bus service on I-95 from the Gatlin Boulevard area to West Palm Beach. In the interim, existing parking lots may be used during the day. In the future, a permanent facility may be built. Staff recommends this be added to the Master List to emphasize the need and draw attention to it for FDOT to extend funding so that the Express Bus will come up to St. Lucie County. Upon recognizing that the Staff recommendation is based on the recommendation of the Advisory Committees, Chair Sessions asked for Mr. Buchwald to explain to the public, the importance of the Advisory Committees. Mr. Buchwald explained that the TPO has three advisory committees made up of local government staff and members of the public. Chair Sessions asked for a project description of the Express Bus Park and Ride, and upon Mr. Buchwald elaborating on the plans and need for funding, the Chair has expressed full understanding of this need. Chair Sessions added that commerce and travel are an important issue. Commissioner Lewis asked for clarification on the bus shelters on the Transit List and if it includes the plan that the Treasure Coast RTO has funded. It does, as Mr. Buchwald confirmed. Commissioner Craft asked why a partnership with the private sector could not be the long-term solution, given all the extra parking in those shopping centers. Mr. Buchwald explained that resistance is not as much from the local management company of the parking lot properties, it is from the major retailers in the shopping center (such as Target and Bed, Bath and Beyond). The legal teams from the shopping center reviewed the lease agreements of the retailers and determined it is not permissible to give up some of the parking that is August 1, 2012 Regular TPO Board Meeting Minutes Page 5 of 12 allotted in their lease agreements. Revision of the leases is not something they are willing to do at this time. Mr. Buchwald goes on to suggest that when site plans come through local government offices, have staff ask the retailers to dedicate park and ride space. Commissioner Hutchinson asked about the Midway Road park and ride plan from several years ago. Mr. Buchwald was not aware of it, but it may have been included in a study performed six years ago. At this time, the Gatlin / I-95 area is the starting point for this Express Bus service in St. Lucie County. Commissioner Hutchinson went on to add that the Midway Road / I-95 area has a lot of cars parked for car pooling purposes and it is something to look at in the future. As a point of order, Commissioner Hutchinson questioned why the Kings Highway project limits will be discussed in the next agenda item, after approving the draft LOPP. She was expecting to see Kings Highway sections A and B on the draft LOPP. Mr. Buchwald explained that before changing the project limits to A and B, County staff decided to send a letter to FDOT for a review of the project and determination of the segment limits of A and B. However, by approving Kings Highway as it is on the LOPP, it allows for further segmentation of the project as determined by FDOT. Councilwoman Berger supports the Park and Ride lot in Port St. Lucie. Shopping centers bring in a lot of sales tax revenue. She cautions that if the park and ride were to be put in the wrong place, it may actually repel visitors to the shopping areas. While that is not the intent, it could happen so please be cautious and keep that issue in the conversations with the private businesses. Commissioner Hutchinson, in reference to the number 1 item on the CMP List, asked if the Old Dixie and US-1 project was approved by the City of Fort Pierce. She expressed concern for the businesses in that area. Chair Sessions does not recall any official City Commission approval of that project in Fort Pierce. Mr. Buchwald indicated that the intersection was studied in the Congestion Management Process (CMP) due to 14 crashes since 2002. The project would construct a median that would restrict one turning movement; a left hand, southbound turn from Old Dixie onto US-1. It would require approval from both the City of Fort Pierce and St. Lucie County for FDOT to agree to the project. Commissioner Craft asked Mr. Buchwald if a study was done at the intersection of A1A and US-1, which is where the left -turn traffic would August 1, 2012 Regular TPO Board Meeting Minutes Page 6 of 12 be diverted from Old Dixie Highway. Mr. Buchwald said that the CMP also included an examination of the effect that the project would have on the intersection at AlA and US-1. The conclusion was that there would not be any impact to the level of service at AlA and US-1. The number of accidents at this location is not known right now, but that can be identified as well. Councilman Kelly absolutely supports the project at Old Dixie Highway and US-1. It will only cost $30,000 and it will save somebody's life. Chair Sessions agrees. * MOTION — MOVED by Councilwoman Berger to adopt the 2012/2013 LOPP with the addition of the I-95 Express Bus Park and Ride Lot to the bottom of the Master List. ** SECONDED by Mayor Faiella Roll Call Vote, Carried UNANIMOUSLY 9b. Kings Highway Project Limits Recognizing that a lot of this item has been discussed in the previous agenda item, Mr. Buchwald formally presented the remaining issues. The funding opportunity is from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity and it is not completely clear how it will be administered, but we do not want to eliminate the chance to advance a project. All of the TPO Advisory Committees, as well as Staff, recommended that a formal request be submitted to FDOT to have a technical review to determine the limits of the project. * MOTION — MOVED by Kathryn Hensley to accept the staff recommendation. ** SECONDED by Commissioner Lewis Carried UNANIMOUSLY 9c. Transportation Regional Incentive Program (TRIP) Grant Application Mr. Buchwald presented the application for allocation and reallocation of grant funds for regionally significant transportation projects. Use of the funds for several projects was already approved by the Treasure Coast Transportation Council JCTC, consisting of members from each of the Indian River, St. Lucie, and Martin MPOs) for the 2011 grant cycle, but requires reallocation because the projects were not funded August 1, 2012 Regular TPO Board Meeting Minutes Page 7 of 12 last year. The funds may be reallocated to this 2012 grant cycle by TPO Board approval, and do not have to be brought before the TCTC again. The Crosstown Parkway and Kings Highway at Orange Avenue projects are two of the previously approved projects that require reallocation, as well as funding allocated in 2010 for regional rail projects that were not ready to go. Under TCTC rules, the TRIP funds may be reallocated to any previously approved projects that have not yet been constructed. This year's TRIP applications include the Crosstown Parkway project from the City of Port St. Lucie and the Kings Highway at Orange Avenue intersection project from St. Lucie County. It is recommended that the following be endorsed for the 2012 TRIP grant cycle: 1. Crosstown Parkway Extension project 2. Kings Highway at Orange Avenue intersection for the 2010 reallocation 3. Apply the 2011 allocation of funds to the 2012 grant cycle 4. Results in $495,000 to Crosstown Parkway and $189,527 to Kings Highway at Orange Avenue intersection Councilman Kelly, current Chair of the TCTC, reminded everyone that we established a precedent; St. Lucie TPO gets 50% of the funds (the remaining is split between Indian River and Martin MPOs). We want to keep it that way. Whoever takes his place next year on the TCTC Board, he wants them to continue that precedent, if not increase it, due to population. * MOTION — MOVED by Kathryn Hensley to endorse the TRIP grant application. ** SECONDED by Councilman Kelly Carried UNANIMOUSLY Since the action was focused on the Crosstown Parkway, Mr. Buchwald asked for confirmation that the other two recommendations are also endorsed. That is to apply the 2011 allocations to the 2012 application and reallocate the 2010 funding to Kings Highway at Orange Avenue. * MOTION — MOVED by Commissioner Craft ** SECONDED by Kathryn Hensley Carried UNANIMOUSLY August 1, 2012 Regular TPO Board Meeting Minutes Page 8 of 12 9d. East Coast Greenway Implementation Plan Mr. Buchwald reminded the Board that last year the TPO evaluated extending a section of the East Coast Greenway at the south part of the county, however that was problematic at the time. Until issues can be worked out with the southern segment, it was appropriate to begin planning the East Coast Greenway designation at the northern end of the county. Official designation could occur within a year due to requiring only minimal improvements. Mr. Buchwald introduced Lisa Frazier from Kimley-Horn and Associates, to present the plans for designation of a 10-mile northern section of the East Coast Greenway in St. Lucie County. Starting at the Indian River County line where the East Coast Greenway leaves off and ending in Edgar Town Historic District near Downtown Fort Pierce, Ms. Frazier described the proposed segments, the options of the trail, way -finding signs, pavement types, and trail widths. She also presented the costs of each of the options. At the segment along the railroad, there is also a cost of leasing the rail right-of-way for the "Rail with Trail" segment. The trail follows A1A southbound, just south of Round Island Park on North Hutchinson Island. It continues west on Shorewinds Drive, over the North Causeway Bridge, and west to Old Dixie Highway. Then the trail turns south along the FEC Rail Road corridor, east on Avenue H, south on Indian River Drive to Seaway Drive. Then west for a small segment on Seaway Drive and turning south along North 2nd Street to the Edgar Town Historic District on AE Backus Avenue. The recommended route terminates at Indian River Drive (corner of AE Backus Avenue). There are a number of safety improvements recommended, as well as filling in gaps between existing facilities along the route. Ms. Frazier asks the Board for approval of the draft plan. Commissioner Craft asks if this also includes suggestions that make immediate improvements that will significantly improve bicycle or pedestrian traffic. Ms. Frazier said bicycle and pedestrian counts have been included on the North Causeway Bridge, and we are recommending immediate gap closures and safety improvements at minimal cost. These recommendations will definitely improve bicycle/pedestrian conditions in those areas immediately. August 1, 2012 Regular TPO Board Meeting Minutes Page 9 of 12 Ms. Frazier indicated that Staff has already met with facility managers of the properties along the route to make wise recommendations. Commissioner Craft stated that in terms of financial priorities, he cautions that when we spend money, we have projects that give us the most bang for the buck'. While this is a great project, this does not seem like a priority for our transportation dollars. Sidewalk improvements around schools are a better place to spend the funds. Mr. Buchwald replied, explaining that is why the Board was asked to approve the LOPP. The Transportation Enhancement List does in fact include several projects with sidewalks around schools. Commissioner Hutchinson asked about warning signs that blink at crosswalks such as the one at Indian River State College. She wanted to know if those types of signs are a possibility or if we have to stick with standard signs that were shown in the plan. Ms. Frazier said that anything may be used and that the signs in the plan are just a representation of where signage should be placed. Councilwoman Berger asked about the US-1 and Old Dixie Highway area. She feels that this would be important to know what other Boards (such as Fort Pierce City Commission and Board of County Commissioners) want to do with vehicular traffic at the intersection before we can approve what is here in the study. Mr. Buchwald clarified that there are two alignments being proposed. The use of Old Dixie Highway as a bicycle boulevard will only work if the improvement at US-1 (construction of a median to reduce collisions from left turns) is implemented, as that will reduce the vehicle traffic on Old Dixie Highway. The other alignment is to take the bicycle traffic to the west side of US-1 and use the sidewalk until you get to Seaway Drive. The second option is not as aesthetically pleasing but it is an option. * MOTION — MOVED by Kathryn Hensley to accept the report. ** SECONDED by Commissioner Craft Carried UNANIMOUSLY 10. Discussion Items 10a. Federal Transportation Authorization bill and Post 2010 Census Activities August 1, 2012 Regular TPO Board Meeting Minutes Page 10 of 12 Mr. Buchwald discussed the new "MAP-21" bill, which was approved and signed into Federal law by the President and replaces 10 extensions of the former "SAFETEA-LU" bill on October 1, 2012. Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century, or "MAP-21" authorizes $105 billion over the next two fiscal years. It will fund current programs at current levels and account for inflation. It extends the Highway Trust Fund and tax collections through fiscal year 2015/16. MAP-21 also maintains the highway to transit funding split. However, the Highway Trust Fund will become insolvent if it is not fueled with additional funds by the end of fiscal year 2014/15. The MAP-21 bill consolidates and eliminates some funding, including the elimination of most discretionary programs and there are no earmarks. Florida is expected to receive about $1.8 million each of the two fiscal years. The Transportation Alternatives Program will replace the Transportation Enhancement Program. The new program is expanded to include Safe Routes to School and recreational trails. The funds will be sub -allocated directly to the urbanized areas (St. Lucie shares with the Martin MPO) and FDOT is not eligible to receive the funding, therefore it will be at the complete discretion of the TPO/MPO. We already have a competitive process established to receive the TE funds, and that can be used for the new program as well. Transit funds will continue to be able to be used for operations. The New Starts process will be streamlined. The New Freedom program will be consolidated with the Elderly and Disabled program. The Jobs Access Reverse Commute (JARC) funding has been eliminated, but the funds are available under other programs, and there is an emphasis on safety. MAP-21 includes expanded performance measures based on seven National goals: 1. Safety 2. Infrastructure and congestion 3. System reliability 4. Freight movement 5. Economic vitality 6. Environmental sustainability 7. Reduced project delays August 1, 2012 Regular TPO Board Meeting Minutes Page 11 of 12 There is a new policy in MAP-21 in regards to the structure of the MPO Boards. In two years, each MPO shall provide representation by a provider of public transportation. The St. Lucie TPO is already meeting that requirement. In regards to the Census, the US Census Bureau determines the Urbanized Areas. In 2010, the Port St. Lucie Urbanized Area became contiguous with the Indian River Urbanized Area based on population. The Census_ requires one MPO to be designated for each Urbanized Area over 50,000people. Upon agreement, St. Lucie and Martin Counties decided to have two MPOs after the 2000 Census. Mr. Buchwald explained the rules of MPO designation and membership, which the Board has the discretion to change the membership if desired, as long as there is agreement by the Governor of Florida and all of the included local governments. The question arises, should existing MPOs merge? There will be a Florida Transportation Commission workshop on October 24, 2012 to explore these boundaries and options. After the workshop and FDOT discussions, the Governor will send a letter to each MPO explaining how they want us to proceed. There will also be a redesignation of the functional classifications of roadways. The local government staffs will work with the TPO Staff soon to determine which roads should be on the Federal aid system, classified as Federal roadways. We will study the pros and cons of integration of the St. Lucie TPO and Martin MPO before meeting with the State. There are not yet any MPOs in the country who have consolidated. There also has not yet been a study to look at the pros and cons. Kathryn Hensley asked for it to be placed on the TPO website, if it is not already, for public access. Councilman Kelly stated that anytime they mention "streamlining" it usually means job losses. 11. FDOT Comments There were no comments from FDOT staff. August 1, 2012 Regular TPO Board Meeting Minutes Page 12 of 12 12. Recommendations/Comments by Members There were no comments or recommendations by members. 13. TPO Staff Comments Mr. Buchwald presented a new safety video on school crossings. The video was produced by the St. Lucie County School District Media Services through a Safe Routes to School grant. Mr. Buchwald asked for the approval before the video will be released to the public. Intentions are to reach audiences through local government channels as well as in schools, and government buildings, and waiting rooms where televisions are operating. It is available in English, Spanish, and Creole. After the 60-second video, Commissioner Hutchinson stated to go for it, as soon as possible since school is starting soon. The TPO Board members were pleased. 14. Next Meeting: The next St. Lucie TPO Board regular meeting is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 3, 2012, in the Port St. Lucie City Council Chambers located at 121 SW Port St. Lucie Boulevard in Port St Lucie, Florida. 15. Adjourn The meeting was adjourned at 3:19 P.M. Respectfully Submitted: Approved by: Kristen Nowicki Recording Specialist Commissioner Reginald Sessions St. Lucie TPO Chair AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY Board/Committee: St. Lucie TPO Board Meeting Date: October 3, 2012 Item Number: 8a Item Title: Amendment to the FY 2012/13 - FY 2016/17 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Item Origination: Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District 4 Work Program UPWP Reference: Task 3.3- TIP Requested Action: Approve or disapprove the notification of the approved annual amendment to the TIP to incorporate the FY 2012/13 Roll -Forward Report which contains the projects in the previous TIP that were not authorized by June 30, 2012. Staff Recommendation: Approve the notification Attachments • Amendment Approval Certification Form • FY 2012/13 Roll -Forward Report Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County TIP Amendment Number 1 FY 2012/13 - FY 2016117 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM AMENDMENT APPROVAL CERTIFICATION FORM FY 2012113 Roll -Forward Report The St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization (St. Lucie TPO), through administrative delegation to its Executive Director, approved incorporation of the attached report into the FY 2012/13 - FY 2016/17 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) adopted on June 6, 2012. This amendment will be recognized by the Federal Highway Administration after the TIP becomes effective on October 1, 2012. 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Attachments • Staff Report • 2012 TCDMS Scope of Services Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County MEMORANDUM TO: St. Lucie TPO Board FROM: Peter Buchwald Executive Director DATE: September 25, 2012 SUBJECT: 2012 Traffic Count Data Management System (TCDMS) Scope of Services BACKGROUND The FY 2012/13 — FY 2013/14 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) for the St. Lucie TPO includes Task 2.3, Traffic Count Program Management. The objective of Task 2.3 is to ensure the highest quality of current traffic data on the public roadway network within the St. Lucie TPO area. The Traffic Count Program identifies the roadway traffic volumes for transportation planning, monitoring, analysis, and managing purposes. A web -based Traffic Count Data Management System (TCDMS) for receiving, processing, maintaining, and reporting traffic count information was developed and implemented, and the collection, processing, and uploading of traffic counts into the TCDMS were conducted for 2011. Task 2.3 of the UPWP specifies the continuation by the St. Lucie TPO of the collection, processing, and uploading into the TCDMS of the traffic counts for 2012. ANALYSIS A Scope of Services for the collection, processing, and uploading into the TCDMS the traffic counts for 2012 was prepared by Tindale-Oliver & Associates (TOA). TOA is one of the General Planning Consultants for the St. Lucie TPO and successfully completed the development and the implementation of the TCDMS and the collection, processing, and uploading into the TCDMS of the traffic counts for 2011. The cost proposed by TOA is less than the amount budgeted for the task, and the schedule proposed by TOA is consistent with the Target Date identified in the UPWP. Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County September 25, 2012 Page 2 of 2 RECOMMENDATION Based on the scope, cost, and schedule being consistent with Task 2.3 of the UPWP, it is recommended that the Scope of Services be approved. ST. LUCIE COUNTY TRAFFIC COUNTS PROGRAM 2012 TRAFFIC COUNT DATA MANAGEMENT SYSTEM SCOPE OF SERVICES Prepared For: St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 2300 Virginia Avenue Fort Pierce, FL 34982 ph (772) 462-1593, fax (772)462-2549 (0Transpaviamem 01900120116ft ST, LUIr-ICE UnBAN FIBER, Prepared By: §eet Y/efkpitlse fet Commuters l§007-Y012, 1000 Ashley Drive, Suite 100 Tampa, Florida 33602 ph (813) 224-8862, fax (813)226-2106 July 30, 2012 INTRODUCTION Pursuant to Task 2.2 of the St. Lucie TPO 2012/13 UPWP, the St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) previously requested the service of Tindale-Oliver & Associates (TOA) to implement a Traffic Count Data Management System (TCDMS). The TCDMS is currently implemented. However, in order for the TCDMS to be kept up-to-date and to be utilized to its fullest capacity, it is recommended that traffic counts be collected within the TPO's jurisdiction on a yearly basis. This scope of service outlines the necessary tasks to collect, process, and Q/C the 2012 traffic counts. The 2012 traffic counts are a continuation of the of the program developed by the St Lucie TPO to collect traffic counts in St Lucie County. TOA will utilize the recently developed and implemented TCDMS to Q/C the 2012 traffic counts and, once a traffic count is considered acceptable, will upload these traffic counts into the TCDMS web application. As part of the Q/C process, TOA will coordinate with the TPO to ensure the TPO is aware of any "failed" counts that may need to be redone. This will be accomplished through the following sub -tasks: Task 1 Administration and Coordination with Traffic Count Data Collection Subconsultant: It is anticipated TOA will contract with Culpepper and Terpening, Inc. to collect traffic counts. Scheduling of counts, recounts, and supervision as well as administration of the subconsultant contract will be performed by TOA as part of this subtask. Task 2 Traffic Count Data Collection: Traffic count data collection is to be performed at 110 locations, as described in Exhibit A (attached herein), by an engineering/data collection firm subcontracted by TOA. At each location, the machine count data will be collected for a period of 48 hours during a "typical" weekday (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Special care will be taken to ensure the counts are not performed during periods of non -typical vehicular patterns (i.e. when school is out, holidays, etc.). As in the past collection of traffic counts, it's necessary to note that the count locations listed in Exhibit A may need to be adjusted/revised during the data collection process. Task 3 Upload and Q/C Traffic Counts: As TOA receives 2012 counts from the subconsultant, the counts will be uploaded into the TCDMS web application by TOA's Database Administrator. Using the TCDMS Web Application, TOA staff will process, review, and Q/C each individual traffic count within five (5) business days of receiving Tindale-Oliver & Associates, Inc. St. Lucie County July 30, 2012 1 2012 Traffic Counts Data Management System the count and will notify the subconsultant representative via email of any traffic counts which do not meet specifications and need to be recounted. Budget: The services described herein shall be completed for a LUMP SUM fee of $31,567.55 based on the effort estimate included here as Attachment 1. Schedule: The tasks shall be completed within four (4) months of Notice to Proceed. Tindale-Oliver & Associates, Inc. St. Lucie County July 30, 2012 2 2012 Traffic Counts Data Management System 124 m�� IG (V N 11 ri N b U'Qa. w w w w w w w w O O, w Fs-J �IY�U H O 'Cm arm a F '• F � 0 M 0 0 � 'Ot m a o 0 w iti w C N' 0_ �"d•b1 w N .O4 0. O C in N .gym w N �ww W" d""C`,Vl w O O O t C (O N 4g Y ry b o m o 0 n o no F c¢ ry o D o 0 5 b b rnU m Ua� 49 � va waa w rnu � '° IE FO- t��ga5 o � 3a c Y3 F=��oaminomu5 cy c..�i�¢��cv�aiv U v o +y o�Eov " •y^ pm€co'G@oc § v o c Q o o rn �° v u v 'o " m c E ,o vat N« N_ p@j d Q Q 00 C 5 r° U Z N? c w v O U V Yi R OO O N¢ O Tryry C : O O '>' t w C O¢ a U vcSgFm TU'oa�av�06 oIG �m "mm a 10 uv u�'ayyO nr.Tm �Y1 {'�mU0 o° 00 O° x fl F9 {Q { m m d A C°SS U 1 �T NFL C W O 1p E o � o m N M cW SJ �1-I- ": V1 P m �F Iryq d N N y Fm FN ONN F- C � U(D O G U N C J LN U) m R R R w 0 O U U N N 0 N I M Exhibit A St Lucie 2012 Count Locations ;Count,: Station'tl F On 2 Roadway Segmeht ,� '. Location - COUDt Type .;t Volume Classy 1 102 BELL AVE 0.25 MILES EAST OF SUNRISE BLVD Yes 2 104 BELL AVE 0.2 MILES WEST OF 25TH ST Yes 3 105 EMERSON AVE 0.43 MILES NORTH OF INDRIO RD Yes 4 109 FLORESTA DR 0.5 MILES SOUTH-EAST 0 PRIMA VISTA BLVD Yes 5 110 EDWARDS RD 200 FEET WEST OF 25TH ST Yes 6 111 GILSON RD 0.25 MILES SOUTH OF BECKER RD Yes 7 112 FARMER'S MARKET RD 1000 FEET EAST OF OLEANDER AVE Yes 8 121 HEADER CANAL RD 0.4 MILES SOUTH OF ORANGE AVE Yes 9 124 KITTERMAN RD 400 FEET WESTOF US-1 Yes 10 129 KEEN RD 0.35 MILES SOUTH OF ST LUCIE BLVD Yes 11 130 MIDWAYRD 750 FEET WEST OF SUNRISE BLVD jYes 12 131 JENKINS RD 600 FEET NORTH OF OKEECHOBEE RD 13 132 MIDWAYRD 685 FEET WEST OF 25TH ST 14 134 MIDWAYRD 560 FEET WEST OF SELVITZ RD 15 1 139 IOLEANDER AVE 510 FEET NORTH OF MIDWAY RD Yes 16 144 JORANGE HEADER CANAL 0.6 MILES WEST OF SHINN RD Yes 17 145 RANGE LINE RD 0.25 MILES NORTH OF MARTIN COUNTY LINE Yes 18 147 RIO MAR DR 150 FEET NORTH OF PRIMA VISTA BLVD Yes 19 148 PRIMA VISTA BLVD 260 FEET WEST OF RIO MAR DR Yes 20 149 SHINN RD 0.45 MILES SOUTH OF ORANGE AVE Yes 21 151 SNEED RD 2.25 MILES SOUTH OF ORANGE AVE Yes 22 152 ST LUCIE WEST BLVD 135 FEET WEST OF 1-95 RAMPS Yes 23 156 ST LUCIE BLVD 775 FEET EAST OF KEEN RD Yes 24 159 25TH ST 315 FEET SOUTH OF EDWARDS RD Yes 25 f 168 ISAVAGE BLVD 660 FEET NORTH OF GATLIN BLVD Yes 26 172 25TH ST 730 FEET SOUTH OF MIDWAY RD Yes 27 174 EDWARDS RD 520 FEET EAST OF MCNEIL RD Yes 28 226 FT PIERCE BLVD 1.1 MILES NORTH OF INDRIO RD Yes 29 228 MIDWAYRD 600 FEETWESTOF EASTTORINO BLVD Yes 30 234 CALIFORNIA BLVD 0.2 MILES SOUTH OF ST LUCIE WEST BLVD Yes 31 235 DARWIN BLVD 470 FEET NORTH OF BECKER RD Yes 32 236 SAVONA BLVD 470 FEET NORTH OF BECKER RD Yes 33 238 WESTTORINO PWKY 1.4 MILES SOUTH-WEST O EASTTORINO BLVD Yes 34 1 239 125TH ST 0.25 MILES NORTH OF STJAMES BLVD Yes 35 242 MIDWAY RD 365 FEET WEST OF US-1 Yes 36 245 WESTMORELAND BLVD 300 FEET SOUTH-EAST OF MORNINGSIDE BLVD Yes 37 307 BAYSHORE BLVD 155 FEET NORTH OF CROSSTOWN PKWY Yes 38 309 BAYSHORE BLVD 470 FEET NORTH OF PT ST LUCIE BLVD Yes 39 313 FLORESTA DR 480 FEET WEST OF AIROSO BLVD Yes 40 315 FLORESTA DR 720 FEET NORTH OF PT ST LUCIE BLVD Yes 41 316 ST LUCIE WEST BLVD 0.28 MILES EAST OF CASHMERE BLVD Yes 42 319 GREEN RIVER PKWY 415 FEET SOUTH OF WALTON RD Yes 43 1 322 ITIFFANY DR 340 FEET EAST OF US-1 Yes 44 328 WALTON RD 560 FEET EAST OF VILLAGE GREEN DR Yes 45 345 25TH ST 590 FEET NORTH-EAST OF AIROSO BLVD Yes 46 503 OLEANDER AVE 400 FEET NORTH OF VIRGINIA AVE Yes 47 504 GEORGEAVE 300 FEET WEST OF US-1 Yes 48 505 OLEANDER AVE 215 FEET SOUTH OF VIRGINIA AVE Yes 49 506 GEORGEAVE 190 FEET WEST OF 7TH ST Yes 50 508 GEORGEAVE 280 FEET WEST OF 13TH ST Yes 51 514 SAVANNAH RD 190 FEET EAST OF US-1 Yes 52 1 515 17TH STS 270 FEET SOUTH OF ORANGE AVE Yes 53 1 517 17TH ST S 600 FEET SOUTH OF DELAWARE AVE Yes 54 519 7TH STS 400 FEET SOUTH OF GEORGIA AVE Yes 55 Si9 25TH ST 1310 FEET SOUTH OF VIRGINIA AVE Yes Exhibit A St Lucie 2012 Count Locations Roadway Segment "`' ;'Count Type iD. Count` Station # On Location' - Volume. Class 56 609 25TH ST 160 FEET NORTH OF OKEECHOBEE RD Yes 57 622 BAYSHORE BLVD 400 FEET WEST OF SELVITZ RD Yes 58 624 BECKER RD 1.07 MILES EAST OF VILLAGE PKWY Yes 59 625 BECKER RD 0.48 MILES EAST OF ROSSER BLVD Yes 60 627 BECKER RD 0.93 MILES EAST OF DARWIN BLVD Yes 61 1 630 IBLUEFIELD RD 0.38 MILES SOUTH-EAST OKEECHOBEE RD Yes 62 635 CALIFORNIA BLVD 300 FEET SOUTH OF DEL RIO BLVD Yes 63 636 CALIFORNIA BLVD 400 FEET SOUTH OF CROSSTOWN PKWY Yes 64 642 CASHMERE BLVD 425 FEET SOUTH OF CROSSTOWN PKWY Yes 65 648 CORTEZ BLVD 860 FEET EAST OF 25TH ST Yes 66 659 DARWIN BLVD 685 FEET EAST OF PT ST LUCIE BLVD Yes 67 660 DEL RIO BLVD 430 FEET EAST OF CASHMERE BLVD Yes 68 664 DELAWARE AVE 465 FEET WEST OF 7TH ST Yes 69 681 MCCARTY RD 0.3 MILES NORTH OF MIDWAY RD Yes 70 1 697 IPTST LUCIE BLVD 0.2 MILES SOUTH-WESTO GATLIN BLVD Yes 71 698 PTST LUCIE BLVD 575 FEETWESTOF DEL RIO BLVD Yes 72 709 TORINO 580 FEET WEST OF KINGS ISLE Yes 73 711 TRADITION PKWY 320 FEET WESTOF VILLAGE PKWY Yes 74 714 TULIP BLVD 0.5 MILES NORTH-EASTO DARWIN BLVD Yes 75 715 US-1 370 FEET SOUTH OF AVENUE H Yes 76 721 WEATHERBEE RD E. of Oleander Rd Yes 77 722 WESTCLIFFE LN 0.45 MILES WEST OF VILLAGE PKWY Yes 78 702 SAVONA BLVD 720 FEET NORTH OF GATLIN BLVD Yes 79 1 318 IST LUCIE WEST BLVD 900 FEET EAST OF PEACOCK LOOP Yes 80 317 FLORESTA DR 530 FEET SOUTH OF PT ST LUCIE BLVD Yes 81 634 CALIFORNIA BLVD 275 FEET EAST OF SAVONA BLVD Yes 82 107 FLORESTA DR 875 FEET EAST OF AIROSO BLVD Yes 83 683 MELALEUCA 940 FEET EAST OF LENNARD RD Yes 84 704 SELVITZ RD 700 FEET SOUTH OF EDWARDS RD Yes 85 628 BECKER RD 0.3 MILES WEST OF FLORESTA DR Yes 86 146 PRIMA VISTA BLVD 400 FEET WEST OF US-1 Yes 87 311 DEL RIO BLVD 290 FEET NORTH OF PT ST LUCIE BLVD Yes 88 1 237 IEASTTORINO PKWY 640 FEETSOUTH OF MIDWAY RD Yes 89 232 CASHMERE BLVD 0.3 MILES SOUTH OF ST LUCIE WEST BLVD Yes 90 337 SOUTHBEND BLVD 800 FEETSOUTH OF FLORESTA DR Yes 91 326 WALTON RD 570 FEET EAST OF LENNARD RD Yes 92 231 CASHMERE BLVD 960 FEET NORTH OF ST LUCIE WEST BLVD Yes 93 150 PRIMA VISTA BLVD 0.25 MILES EAST OF AIROSO BLVD Yes 94 637 CALIFORNIA BLVD 290 FEET NORTH OF CASHMERE BLVD Yes 95 339 WESTMORELAND BLVD 315 FEETSOUTH OF PT ST LUCIE BLVD Yes 96 706 AIA NORTH 1MILES NORTH-EAST OF OLD DIXIE HWY Yes 97 629 1 BECKER RD 0.23 MILES EAST OF FLORESTA DR Yes 98 712 TRADITION PKWY 0.45 MILES EAST OF VILLAGE PKWY Yes 99 314 ST LUCIE WEST BLVD 0.65 MILES WEST OF AIROSO BLVD Yes 100 676 KINGS ISLE 525 FEET NORTH OF CASHMERE BLVD Yes 101 100 ANGLE RD 500 FEET NORTH OF ORANGEAVE Yes 102 108 EDWARDS RD 200 FEET WEST OF SUNRISE BLVD Yes 103 233 CALIFORNIA BLVD 0.25 MILES NORTH OF ST LUCIE WEST BLVD Yes 104 710 EASTTORINO PKWY 0.6 MILES NORTH OF KINGS ISLE Yes 105 123 INDIAN RIVER DR 350 FEET NORTH OF MIDWAY RD Yes 1061 719 IVILLAGE PKWY 680 FEET NORTH OF TRADITION PKWY Yes 107 301 AIROSO BLVD 0.25 MILES NORTH OF FLORESTA DR Yes 108 135 JOHNSTON RD 770 FEET NORTH OF INDRIO RD Yes 109 166 MARIPOSAAVE 415 FEET EAST OF LENNARD RD Yes 116 687 OKEECHOBEE RD 11.4 MILES WEST OF CARLTON RD I Yes AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY Board/Committee: Meeting Date: Item Number: Item Title: Item Origination: UPWP Reference: Requested Action: Staff Recommendation: Attachments • Staff Report • Draft PIP Major Update St. Lucie TPO Board October 3, 2012 m Public Involvement Program (PIP) Major Update Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) Task 6.1- Public Involvement Adopt the PIP Major Update, adopt with conditions, or do not adopt Because the draft PIP Major Update meets or exceeds Federal and State requirements and optimizes opportunities for the public to impact the transportation planning process, it is recommended that the draft PIP Major Update be adopted. Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County MEMORANDUM TO: St. Lucie TPO Board FROM: Peter Buchwald Executive Director DATE: September 25, 2012 SUBJECT: Public Involvement Program (PIP) Major Update BACKGROUND The Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) includes substantial public involvement efforts, a continuous and ongoing task which includes compliance with all Title VI and Nondiscrimination requirements. These public involvement efforts are advanced through the PIP of the St. Lucie TPO. The PIP was last updated in 2007. ANALYSIS Because the PIP was last updated in 2007, a major update to the PIP was conducted to ensure that the TPO's PIP meets or exceeds Federal and State requirements and optimizes opportunities for the public to impact the transportation planning process in the St. Lucie TPO area. The PIP Major Update is an opportunity for the incorporation of new and/or alternative techniques, methods, and activities for capturing public input and facilitating public impact on the transportation planning process. Techniques, methods, and activities identified in the PIP will be selected for use based on the plan or program that is being developed or presented and the context of the community in which the plan or program is being developed or presented. The techniques, methods, and activities will be evaluated as part of annual updates of the PIP and will be continued depending on their success. The success of the techniques, methods, and activities will be determined through the use of quantitative performance measures included in the PIP. Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County September 25, 2012 Page 2 of 2 The techniques, methods, and activities are intended to support the Goals, Objectives, and Strategies developed as part of the PIP Major Update. The PIP Major Update was completed by the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council which conducted the public involvement efforts associated with the development of the 2035 Regional Long Range Transportation Plan and which has conducted numerous other public involvement efforts along the Treasure Coast. At their meetings on September 18th and September 20th, the TPO advisory committees recommended adoption of the draft PIP Major Update. RECOMMENDATION Because the draft PIP Major Update meets or exceeds Federal and State requirements and optimizes opportunities for the public- to impact the transportation planning process, it is recommended that the draft PIP Major Update be adopted. ST. LUCIE TRANSPORTATION PLANNING ORGANIZATION (TPO) PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT PROGRAM prepared by Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council September 2012 This Page Intentionally Left Blank St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/12 TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 1: Introduction and History.......................................................................................................................1 Chapter 2: About the Chapter 3: Title VI - Environmental Justice and the Traditionally Underserved.........................................9 Chapter4: Goals, Objectives, andStrategies..................................................................................................1 1 Chapter 5: Public Outreach Opportunities, Methods, and Activities............................................................13 Chapter b: Public Involvement Plan - Performance Measures and Annual Update..................................25 Appendices...............................................................................................................................................................31 a. Acronyms and Terminology b. Public Notification and Comment Form Examples c. Public Involvement Plan Survey Results d. Consideration of Public Responses e. PIP Revisions Log and Annual Updates St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 This Page Intentionally Left Blank St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Chapter I Introduction and History Introduction A Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is an association of local agencies that coordinate transportation planning and development activ- ities within a metropolitan area. One MPO is designated for an urbanized area with a popu- lation of more than 50,000 including all contigu- ous urban areas with a population of 1,000 or more per square mile. The St. Lucie MPO was established in 1981. It is a countywide agency responsible for transportation planning and pro- gramming, of state and federal transportation funds for the three municipalities and unincorpo- rated areas of St. Lucie County. In 2007, the St. Lucie MPO changed its name to the St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) to better reflect the activities of the agency how- ever, it continues its function statutorily as an MPO. Public involvement is among the most important functions that the St. Lucie TPO performs. Ensur- ing public input is one of the key reasons the fed- eral government established the MPO process back in the early 1970's. MPOs are required to have a proactive public involvement process that provides for early and continuing input from citizens, modal and resource agency partners, and other interested parties in the development of MPO plans, programs, and projects. This doc- ument represents the process the St. Lucie TPO employs to engender the greatest degree of public input, involvement, and education when considering transportation priorities and expen- ditures. The St. Lucie TPO is governed by a Policy Board, which is comprised of elected officials from St. Lucie County, City of Ft. Pierce, City of Port St. Lucie, the Town of St. Lucie Village, as well as representatives from the St. Lucie School Board and Community Transit. Three Advisory Commit- St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization tees provide direction and recommendations to the TPO Board. These are the Technical Advi- sory Committee (TAC), the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), and the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC). The TAC provides technical expertise to the TPO Board and the CAC provides public involvement in the trans- portation planning process. The BPAC provides input and oversight to the planning and imple- mentation of bicycle and pedestrian facilities. The TPO is the designated official planning agency to receive the Transportation Disadvan- taged Trust Funds for planning for the trans- portation disadvantaged in the urbanized area. The TPO has a Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board that is chaired by an elected official from St. Lucie County. TPOs are responsible for establishing "... a con- tinuing, cooperative, and comprehensive trans- portation planning process that results in plans and programs that consider all transportation modes and supports metropolitan community de- velopment and goals." While there are many important functions that TPOs perform to ad- dress this responsibility, public involvement is a key element. TPOs are required to have a proactive public involvement process that pro- vides for early and continuing input from citizens, modal and resource agency partners, and other interested parties in the development of TPO plans, programs, and projects. It has been rec- ognized that having an effective public involve- ment process is important for ensuring successful implementation of TPO plans (e.g. eliminating transportation projects with fatal flaws due to lack of community support or significant environ- mental impacts). Likewise, this also helps to ad- dress federal certification requirements pertaining to areas such as Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and state initiatives such as the Effi- cient Transportation Decision Making (ETDM) Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Introduction and History Chapter I program. In addition, public involvement has been incorporated into the annual TPO Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP). The ETDM process is a very good example of the Florida Department of Transportation efforts to ensure public participation. ETDM is designed to provide early and diverse input and participation to the State and other decision makers (the TPO is a key participant in this process) regarding future transportation facilities and systems for our communities and residents. ETDM is an inclusive process providing input opportunities throughout the entire life of any major transportation project. Perhaps the most difficult aspect of governmental planning and policy making is ensuring that af- fected communities, neighborhoods, civic groups, service providers, the private sector, special -interest groups, and the public at -large, are participants and contributors to the transportation decision - making process. There is not one method or formula that has proven to be the single -most efficient and productive in stimulating public participation. Rather, arming the TPO with a range of tools and outreach methods, tailored to each community and effort, continues to be the best approach. RLRTP Regional Long Range Transportation Plan P 'Ogvr1'DSP Transportation Disadvantaged Service Plan TIP Transportation Improvement Plan UPW P Unified Planning Work Program The Public Involvement Plan is the Blueprint for TPO Public Outreach, Contact, and Meaningful Community Involvement St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 2 Public involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Chapter 2 Purpose and Function Public involvement is among the most important functions that the St. Lucie TPO performs. Ensur- ing public input is one of the key reasons the fed- eral government established the TPO process back in the early 1970's. TPOs are required to have a proactive public involvement process that provides for early and continuing input from cit- izens, modal and resource agency partners, and other interested parties in the development of TPO plans, programs, and projects. This docu- ment represents the process the St. Lucie TPO employs to engender the greatest degree of public input, involvement, and education when considering transportation priorities and expen- ditures. Planning tasks of the St. Lucie TPO include re- gional coordination, bicycle and pedestrian planning, mobility management, demographic data collection, and PIP processes and plan up- dates. As an agency, the St. Lucie TPO also serves its primary function as the coordinator for multi -modal transportation project planning and funding. These efforts are conducted throughout the County and in cooperation with various state, regional, and local agencies responsible for transportation and land use planning. Specifi- cally, the St. Lucie TPO is responsible for prepar- ing short and long-range transportation plans, which identify the need, timing, and phasing of future transportation improvements. The St. Lucie TPO also works closely with the Martin and In- dian River MPOs and occasionally collaborates with the MPOs of Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami -Dade in larger regional discussions of transportation and mobility. Board and Committees The TPO is governed by a Policy Board, which is composed of elected officials from the three mu - St. Lucie Transportation Pluming Organization 3 About the TPO nicipalities and representatives from the St. Lucie School Board and Community Transit. There are twelve (12) voting members on the TPO Board. The membership of the Board is as follows: • (4) County Commissioners; (4) City of Port St. Lucie; • (2) City of Fort Pierce; • (1) St. Lucie County School Board; • (1) Community Transit member. The TPO also maintains four standing committees who provide direction and recommendations to the TPO Board. The Technical Advisory Commit- tee (TAC), the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Commit- tee (BPAC), and the Local Coordinating Board for the Transportation Disadvantaged (LCB-TD). Each of these committee meetings provides op- portunities for additional public involvement in the transportation planning process. Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) The St. Lucie TPO has established a broad - based TAC for the purpose of advising and pro- viding technical expertise as part of the St. Lucie TPO decision -making process for adopting and maintaining area -wide transportation plans, policies, and programs. The TAC represents all modes of transportation as well as various levels of government including county and city trans- portation and land use agencies and state Public involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 About the TPO Chapter 2 agencies such as the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District IV office and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) The St. Lucie TPO also has established a CAC designed to facilitate a broad range of citizen involvement in the transportation planning process. The purpose of the CAC is to seek citi- zen and community reaction to planning propos- als, provide comment with respect to the concerns of various segments of the population, and recommend projects and funding allocations for consideration. The CAC plays a significant role in implementing public involvement activities in the planning process. The Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) The St. Lucie TPO has established a BPAC to pro- vide recommendations regarding the bicycle The Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) to the St. Lucie TPO is an important advocate for local mobility improve- ments. and pedestrian planning and programming ac- tivities for the St. Lucie TPO and to work with local and State government agencies to coordi- St. Lucie l'ransportation Planning Organization 4 Draft: 9/14/2012 rate bicycle and pedestrian planning and pro- gramming activities. The Local Coordinating Board for the Trans- portation Disadvantaged (LCB) The LCB is appointed by the TPO, pursuant to Chapter 427, F.S., and Rule 41-2, F.A.C. The pur- pose of this board is to implement the duties de- scribed in Rule 31-2 as part of the Transportation Disadvantaged (TD) service de- livery program. The LCB is made up of repre- sentatives from various State and local agencies as well as citizen representatives. A member of It is a top priority of the TPO to provide better access to transit and mobility for those who are transportation dis- advantaged. the TPO is appointed annually to serve as the LCB chair. State and Federal Requirements Based upon the 1962 Federal -Highway Act, TPOs are required to be created in all urban areas of more than 50,000 people. In 1991, the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) directed additional funding to TPOs and expanded their authority. The ISTEA legis- lation also emphasized public participation in the transportation decision -making process. Public Involvement Plan Chauter 2 When ISTEA expired in 1998, the Transportation Equity Act for the 21 st Century (TEA-21) took its place, emphasizing public involvement as well. In 2005, the Safe Accountable Flexible Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), added new requirements to the public involvement process. The rule states that "public participation plans" shall be developed in consultation with "interested parties' and ex- pands the definition to include users of pedes- trian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities, representatives of the disabled, freight shippers and providers of freight transportation services. SAFETEA-LU also requires that TPOs provide adequate, timely public notices; employ visualization techniques; make information avail- able in electronic formats; and hold meetings at convenient and accessible locations and times. In July 2012, MAP 21: the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21 st Century Act was authorized by President Obama. This act will effectively replace SAFETEA-LU by October 2012. Federal and state regulations require that all TPOs develop a public involvement process through which public participation in transporta- tion decision -making is actively solicited. Some of the specific regulations that apply to TPO public participation are listed below: • MAP 21 contains requirements a such as pro- viding the public with timely information regard- ing transportation issues, plans, and programs; providing adequate public notice and time for public review of transportation activities; and granting explicit consideration and response to public input received. • Title VI of the Federal Civil Rights Act of 1964, mandates non-discrimination by race, color, or national origin in connection with pro- grams and activities receiving federal financial assistance. • Executive Order 12898 on Environmental Justice (1994) requires measures to avoid dis- proportionately high adverse environmental ef- St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 5 About the TPO fects of federal programs through full and fair participation of low-income and minority com- munities. Chapter 339.175, Florida Statutes requires that citizens, public agencies, and other known interested parties be given the opportunity to comment during development of the LRTP and TIP. • Chapter 286, Florida Statutes (Florida Sun- shine Law) requires public access to governmen- tal meetings at the state and local level and requires meetings of boards and commissions to be open to the public, adequately noticed, and recorded via minutes. • Efficient Transportation Decision Making (ETDM) program established by the Florida De- partment of Transportation to ensure an early and diverse public participation process for the state and other key transportation decision mak- ers (including the TPO) while considering future transportation systems and facilities. The ETDM is specifically designed as an inclusive process so that any and all parties can provide input throughout the life of a project. Key Planning Documents and Programs The TPO publishes and distributes numerous doc- uments throughout the year and participates in a variety of public outreach activities. All of these publications, reports, and activities are de- signed to make the transportation planning process as accessible and transparent as possi- ble. The primary documents produced annually are the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) and the Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP). Every five years, the TPO produces a Long Range Transportation Plan with a 20-year time horizon. Below is a brief description of each of key TPO documents. Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) The UPWP defines the planning activities to be undertaken by the TPO and the estimated Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 About the TPO Chapter 2 budget for the next two years. The UPWP is de- veloped on a bi-annual basis and is updated as needed. The work program describes the plan- ning tasks to be fulfilled in the specific year and costs associated with each activity. A status re- port is also provided in the UPWP on activities undertaken in the previous year, so achievements can be highlighted and deficiencies can be ad- dressed. The UPWP is updated every other year and must be approved by FDOT and FHWA as well as the TPO Board and advisory committees. Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) The TIP is updated annually and is used as the shorter -term transportation planning document. The TIP contains the list of the highest priority transportation improvements that have the high- est probability of funding in the upcoming five years. The TPO must coordinate these priority transportation projects of Federal, State, and local governments into the metropolitan planning area. The list is derived from the priorities in the LRTP. A project cannot be included in the TIP if it is not listed in the LRTP. Development of the TIP is completed in two parts. The first part is creating a list of priority projects to be com- pleted in the next five years. That list of priority projects must be adopted by the TPO Board. Following adoption of the list, a draft TIP is de- veloped and must also be adopted by the TPO Board before being submitted to the state. Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) The LRTP identifies transportation improvements necessary to maintain mobility due to antici- pated growth in St. Lucie County over the next 20 years. The LRTP contains a list of needed and cost affordable highway, transit, pedestrian, bicycle and trail, and Intelligent Transportation System projects for the next two decades. In De- cember 2004, an agreement was executed by St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 6 Draft: 9/14/2012 the Martin MPO and the St. Lucie TPO to de- velop a year 2030 Regional Long Range Trans- portation Plan (RLRTP) which was adopted in February 2006. In February 2011, the second Martin -St. Lucie Regional Long Range Trans- portation Plan for year 2035 was adopted by the Martin MPO and St. Lucie TPO. Congestion Management Process (CMP) The CMP is an evaluation of the county's trans- portation network to identify areas of increased congestion and provide recommendations to mit- igate those concerns. Recommendations from the CMP will typically include operational improve- ments, measures to reduce single occupancy ve- hicle (SOV) travel and encourage high occupancy vehicle (HOV) use, public transit in- vestments, and measures to improve other modes such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities. While not specifically part of the CMP plan, land use considerations are increasingly part of the CMP process discussion. Transportation Disadvantaged Service Plan (TDSP) The Local Coordinating Board for the Trans- portation Disadvantaged (LCB) advocates for the availability of efficient, cost-effective, and quality transportation services for transportation disadvantaged persons in the community. The LCB functions as an advisory board whose main purpose includes advising, monitoring, evaluat- ing and supporting the transportation activities of the Community Transportation Coordinator (CTC). The TPO functions as the designated of- ficial planning agency which appoints the mem- bers of the LCB. TPO staff fulfills the functions of transportation disadvantaged planning for the LCB by facilitating meetings and providing resources to enable the LCB to fulfill its respon- sibilities. One of the responsibilities of the LCB is to approve a Transportation Disadvantaged Public Involvement Plan Chapter 2 Service Plan (TDSP). The TDSP is developed jointly by TPO staff and the CTC. Regional Coordination The St. Lucie TPO currently coordinates its efforts with a number of other agencies at the local, re- gional, and state level. The St. Lucie TPO is a member of the Florida Metropolitan Planning Organization Advisory Council (MPOAC) at the state level. The MPOAC provides a forum for all Florida TPOs to interact on issues and con- cerns of statewide importance. The St. Lucie TPO also interacts with FDOT District IV staff on a regular basis and they serve as members of the TAC. The St. Lucie TPO also interacts regu- larly with the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council (TCRPC). On a regional level, the St. Lucie TPO has de- veloped a Regional Long Range Transportation Plan (RLRTP) with the Martin MPO for future years 2030 and 2035. With the 200 census, the Ft. Pierce and Stuart UZAs (Urbanized Areas) were merged to form the single Port St. Lucie UZA. This newly merged UZA was also designated by the US Department of Trans- portation as a Transportation Management Area (TMA). The TPOs were allowed to remain separate but agreed to undertake regional transportation planning. In addition, this re- gional coordination has been expanded to in- clude the Indian River MPO in certain planning activities that affect the entire Treasure Coast. The St. Lucie/Martin 2030 and 2035 RLRTPs are the result of the above agreement and are in- tended to create a regional structure to deal with transportation issues and priorities that in- creasingly affect both counties. Both the St. Lucie TPO and Martin MPO have individual public in- volvement plans however; a regional PIP was created as part of the RLRTP processes. The re- gional public involvement process is not intended to replace the local plans, rather they are meant St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 7 About the TPO to build upon them by emphasizing common in- terests. Creation of the PIP This update to the St. Lucie TPO Public Involve- ment Plan is essentially a restructuring of the old PIP into a more complete and comprehenive ap- proach to public outreach methods and monitor- ing. There was a peer review process and collaboration with the Regional Planning Council. The PIP was vetted through the Advisory Com- mittees in September 2012 and presented for adoption to the TPO Board in October 2012. There was a 45 day review period and all pub - The Martin/St. Lucie Regional Long Range Transportation Plan (RLRTP), cover illustrated above, is an important component of regional coordination and collaboration be- tween the Martin MPO and St. Lucie TPO. The two agen- cies continue to work together and will develop a joint update to the RLRTP for the year 2040. Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 About the TPO lic hearings were advertised in local papers throughout September and October 2012. The development of this PIP update is an important step in clarifying the TPO's committment to public input and impact into the tranportation planning process of St. Lucie County. It is important to note that elements of the 2035 Martin -St. Lucie Regional Long Range Transportation Plan are in- tegral to the Goals, Objectives, and Strategies of the PIP and further emphasize the regional efforts in mobility planning. Chanter 2 Improving bicycle and pedstrian facilities and infrastruc- ture is at the core of the Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Green - ways Plan. The Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Grenways Plan illustrates the extensive network of existing and future corridors. St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 8 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Chanter 3 Title VI -Environmental Justice All agencies that receive federal funding are required to incorporate Title VI and environmental justice considerations into their programs, policies, and activities. Title VI relates to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and amended civil rights legislation which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, age, sex, income, disability, religion, and family status. Environmental jus- tice is the process of determining whether minority populations and/or low-income populations will experience potential environmental or health impacts from a proposed program, project, or activity. The TPO supports Title VI and environmental justice by involving the public in transportation decisions, including members of the public who are limited in their ability to speak English. TITLE VI The TPO values diversity and both welcomes and actively seeks input from all interested parties, re- gardless of race, color, national origin, age, sex, income, disability, religion, and family status. The TPO has developed a Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan to provide an opportunity for all citizens to participate in the planning process. The Policy and Plan has Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Limited English Proficiency (LEP) components. LEP PLAN The purpose of the LEP Plan is to outline the basis for which the TPO will provide language assistance to members of the public who speak little or no English. At this time the TPO has determined that language assistance may be necessary primarily in Spanish and Haitian Creole. The TPO will take reasonable steps to provide language assistance in these two languages. However, the TPO does not intend that its LEP Plan exclude anyone requiring language assistance and will attempt to ac- commodate all requests for assistance. The LEP is reviewed annually. ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE The essence of effective environmental justice practice is summarized in three fundamental princi- ples: • Avoid, minimize, and mitigate disproportionately high and adverse effects • Ensure full and fair participation by all potentially affected communities • Prevent the denial of, reduction in, or significant delay in the receipt of benefits by minority and low-income populations The TPO is committed to ensuring the full and fair participation of all potentially affected communities by striving for continuing, cooperative, and comprehensive public involvement in transportation de- cision -making. The TPO uses various data tools and GIS maps to assist in identifying and building better relationships with non-traditional transportation stakeholder groups in the area. St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 9 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Title VI - Environmental Justice and the Traditionally Underserved Chapter 3 This Page Intentionally Left Blank St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 10 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/ 14/2012 Chapter 4 Goals, Objectives, and Strategies One of the primary goals of the TPO Public Involvement Plan is to ensure that transportation plans reflect community values and benefit all segments of the community equitably. This PIP is intended to achieve, through the following Goals, Objectives, and Strategies, a roadmap to expand public participation and understanding of the critical functions of the TPO. Generally, a "Goal" is the primary purpose for an activity; an "Objective" is a refined method for achieving that goal; and "Strategies" are detailed instructions to ensure the objectives and goals can are met. Goal: Ensure continuous, cooperative, and comprehensive public impact on the transportation plan- ning process and foster continued community support for the TPO mission and its transportation, mo- bility, and quality of life priorities identified through the TPO planning processes. Objective A: Hold regularly scheduled and advertised meetings open to the general public. Strategy Al — All TPO Policy Board meetings, times, agendas, and locations will be publicly noticed in local newspapers and online. • Strategy A2 — All televised TPO meetings will be recorded and available for replay on the local government channels and the internet (St. Lucie Online — Video on Demand — via link from the TPO Website — www.stlucietpo.org). • Strategy A3 — TPO meetings will be held in ADA-compliant locations accessible to transit and traditionally underserved communities. • Strategy A4 — TPO meetings and workshops will be publicly noticed in a variety of means to ensure that a variety of communities are reached. • Strategy AS — Ensure that all Advisory Committee positions are filled. Strategy A6 — Ensure all Advisory Committee recommendations are presented to the TPO Board. • Strategy A7 — Incorporate specialized surveys and questionaires in meetings and events where appropriate. Objective B: Seek -out traditionally under -served communities. • Strategy B1 — The TPO will create electronic newsletters and pamphlets describing its pur- pose and activities to be widely distributed throughout the County and Cities as well as placed on the TPO website. Materials will also be made available in Spanish and Creole. • Strategy B2 — All televised TPO meetings will be closed -captioned. • Strategy B3 — TPO notices of public hearings, meeting agendas and packets will be sent to minority communities or traditionally underserved populations to ensure notification of upcoming TPO events. Strategy B4 — TPO staff will provide presentations to community groups throughout the County to discuss the TPO process and projects. • Strategy B5 — Tailor outreach methods according to community profiles. • Strategy B6 — Identify communities with higher concentrations of minority and/or underserved populations, develop relationships with community and religious leaders in these communities, and hold workshops and meetings in these communities. St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization ll Public involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Goals, Objectives, and Strategies Chapter 4 • Strategy B7 — A contact list of minority and underrepresented citizens will continue to be maintained and updated by the TPO. Strategy B8 — Utilize existing mass transit stops and seats for advertising community -based TPO workshops and planning activities. Objective C: Engage the public early, continuously, and comprehensively through a variety of out- reach activities to maximize public impact. • Strategy Cl — Schedule at least two workshops or community presentations per year in the evening and/or at locations other than City or County Administration buildings to increase public awareness and outreach. • Strategy C2 — Track and keep records of public comments and contacts to the TPO through telephone calls, emails, letters, and include summary in annual update. Strategy C3 — Use TPO website to improve amount of information available, its appeal, its usefulness, and make the site interactive so that public input can be obtained electroni- cally. • Strategy C4 —Continue to explore and document new and/or alternative means of reaching out to the community and facilitating public impact including advancements in social media outlets, engagement activities, and the TPO Visualization Campaign. • Strategy C5 — Create an outreach link with local schools and universities to emphasize the relationships between transportation, mobility, and livability. Objective D: Integrate the principles and special projects adopted in the 2035 RLRTP in public outreach efforts, emphasizing key concepts of the plan (including enhanced mobility, the U.S. 1 Corridor Retrofit, and the Treasure Coast Loop Trail). Strategy D1 — Partner with other transportation planning agencies, local governments, and community leaders to broaden the awareness of TPO priorities and objectives, especially in traditionally underserved communities. • Strategy D2 — Include key concepts of the 2035 RLRTP in outreach tools including TPO newsletters, annual reports, and project postcards. • Strategy D3 —Maintain the 2035 RLRTP website and outreach database to ensure continuity through each future planning effort. St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 12 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Chapter 5 Public Outreach Opportunities, Methods, and Activities Public Participation The most enduring policy decisions by govern- ment are those that inform, involve, and institute ideas from the public. Transportation planning in particular has seen a growing commitment to public involvement since the 1991 ISTEA legisla- tion, to the 1998 TEA 21 act, currently under the SAFETEA-LU act of 2005 and soon to be re- placed by the MAP 21 Act of 2012. With each advance in federal public involvement legisla- tion, errors of the past are being addressed and local communities are more involved and in- formed on transportation planning issues than ever before. This chapter focuses on Public Participation: var- ious ways to effectively interact with the public on different issues. Public Notification, the fol- lowing chapter, deals more with strategies to "get the word out". Both of these aspects of public involvement are crucial and interdepen- dent. Public Comment Gaining insight to public ideas and perspective on transportation issues and desires is vital to the function of the TPO. There are many ways in which the TPO solicits public comment. Public comment may be specific to a particular project or program or it may be more general relating to mobility or quality of life issues. Comment forms, questionnaires, surveys The TPO utilizes public comment forms, surveys, and questionnaires to encourage citizens to pro- vide input and suggestions concerning specific transportation planning activities. The TPO has created a general comment form (available in English, Spanish, and Creole) for public com- ments that do not pertain to a specific planning St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 13 activity. Sample comment forms are provided in the appendix. Email, Mail, Telephone, In -Person The TPO encourages public comment and inter- action of all forms. Despite a growing reliance upon web -based and social media outlets for public interaction with agency staff, surveys show that traditional means of communication (in -person and telephone) are still highly valued by the public. If you have questions or comments please contact the TPO: • Email to admin@stlucieco.org or visit website at www.stiucietpo.org • St. Lucie TPO 466 Port St. Lucie Boulevard, Suite 1 11, Port St. Lucie, FL 34953 772-462-1593 Office - 772-462-2549 Fax Formal Public Review and Comment Periods A public review and comment period is con- ducted prior to the adoption of certain TPO plans or activities by the TPO Board. During the comment period, the draft documents are avail- able on the TPO's website at www.stiuciempo.org. Hard copies are made available for public review and comment at the following locations: St. Lucie Public Libraries Port St. Lucie City Hall City of Fort Pierce City Hall Community Centers Public Involvement Program Draft: 9/14/2012 Public Outreach Opportunities, Methods, and Activities The TPO may provide hard copy draft docu- ments for public review and comments at other locations at its discretion. Public Meetings A public hearing is generally required prior to the TPO Board taking action on plans or proj- ects. Public hearings are held at the TPO Board meetings and used to close the official public comment period. Members of the public are able to make formal comments at the public hearings. All comments received during the pub- lic comment period and at the public hearings are included in the project record and consid- ered by the TPO Board prior to adoption of a program or plan. Committees and Boards It is the responsibility of the TAC, CAC, and TPO Board to adopt recommendations of the TPO's planning activities. Actions are vetted through the TAC, CAC, and BPAC for comment, and rec- ommendations from the committees are brought to the TPO Board for approval. The LCB repre- sents the needs of the transportation disadvan- taged but does not report directly to the TPO Board. Each of the committee meetings and the TPO Board meetings are open to the public. Engaging the Community The most effective way to gain insight into the public's perspective on transportation related is- sues is to engage the citizenry through informal and interactive meetings, presentations and events. These forums build understanding and familiarity between staff, elected officials and the public and are vital to generating meaning- ful public participation. These events are held to provide a venue in which members of the community can easily review project materials, speak directly with staff, and provide comments. Outreach Data Base Chapter 5 The TPO will continue to utilize an extensive mail and email database to convey information to the public, publicize upcoming meetings and events, and solicit input. Through its planning activities, and relationship with St. Lucie County and other cities and agencies, the TPO shall maintain and update a master public outreach database. No- tifications and informational updates, when nec- essary, will be sent via electronic and/or direct mail to the members of the TPO public outreach database. Workshops Public workshops are useful in providing the public an opportunity to learn firsthand the background, expected outcomes, and additional information about specific projects and plans. Materials provided at public workshops may in- clude maps, fact sheets, project documents, newsletters, questionnaires or surveys, and other related project materials. Often a workshop will begin with a visual presentation to orient the au- dience on the topics to be discussed, background Engaging the community through TPO workshops and events is fundamental to TPO public involvement. of a specific project or program, and examples of other similar, successful efforts. St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 14 Public Involvement Program Draft: 9/14/2012 Chapter 5 Public Outreach Opportunities, Methods, and Activities Workshop attendees are encouraged to speak with staff members, ask questions, and provide essential feedback. The TPO holds workshops at times and locations that are accessible coun- tywide for citizens interested in transportation planning issues to participate. Event Booths TPO staff collaborates with other agencies, local governments, and transportation planning re- lated associations to be involved in community events planned in the county. During such events or conferences, the TPO may set up informa- tional booths with handouts and fact sheets to inform the session attendees of TPO activities. Conferences, such as the American Planning As - Effective public workshops are held at various locations around the community, are informative and educational, and should be funL sociation, the Urban Land Institute, or the Florida Redevelopment Association are excellent oppor- tunities for the TPO to display its work and ed- ucate others on the advancement being made in transportation planning by the TPO. Transporta- tion fairs are also very effective in reaching those not customarily involved in transportation planning by bringing the information to the gen- eral public. Telephone Town Hall Meetings Telephone Town Hall meetings are a technique for public outreach and input that connects large groups of people in a town hall -style meeting, via the telephone. This type of meeting enables many to attend that otherwise my not be able to attend in person. The meeting is held over the telephone, and participants are direct -dialed or may call into a toll -free telephone number if they do not receive a call directly. These calls usually last about one hour, and participants are able to ask questions directly to TPO Board members. Cha rrettes Week-long, on -site public design charrettes are intense and unique techniques for developing design solutions while engaging the public. The Transportation and planning conferences are an excellent way to communicate TPO priorities and projects as well as network with other TPO/MPO's to learn new ideas and techniques. charrette itself has three basic stages: The Sat- urday morning public design session (where the public draws and presents their ideas); the week-long public studio (where the team devel- ops their recommendations); and the Friday night Work -In -Progress presentation (where the all of the work developed during the week is presented to the public for feedback). Char- rettes are usually reserved for developing area - wide master plans although components of the St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 15 Public Involvement Program Draft: 9/14/2012 Public Outreach Opportunities, Methods, and Activities Chapter 5 charrette process can be modified for shorter public workshops. The actual week-long char- rette is an excellent method for educating the public and building trust with the community. On -Line Surveys Traditionally, public information surveys were conducted by -hand at public meetings and workshops or, more seldom, by telephone. In this public workshop St. Lucie residents, business own- ers, and elected officials are discussing transportation pri- orities for their communities. While these survey types are informative and still useful tools, online surveys are quickly be- coming an efficient, cost-effective method to canvas large areas of the region on specific is- sues. Benefits to online surveys include: a regional reach; speed and timeliness; conven- ience to users; ease of data entry and analysis, and low administrative costs. With all of the benefits however, online surveys do pose some challenges: perception as junk mail; respondent St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 16 Draft: 9/14/2012 The Charrette process is a learning opportunity for resi- dents and TPO staff. challenges with technology and internet (access and ability); can seem impersonal; concerns about privacy issues, and low response rates. The TPO should carefully craft periodic online surveys to targeted audiences for targeted is- sues. It is important to not over -solicit public input through surveys however; this tends to di- minish responses. As part of the creation of this Public Involvement Program and Plan, an online survey was con- ducted to gauge community interest and prefer- ences in TPO planning activities. Many online survey companies exist that provide these serv- ices and in the case of this document, Constant Contact (www.constantcontact.com) was utilized to develop, distribute, and tally responses to the St. Lucie TPO Public Involvement Program online survey. Results of the survey can be found in Chapter 7: Public Involvement Program Survey Results. TPO Visualization Campaign Clear and easy to understand graphics are im- portant in communicating the message of the Public Involvement Program Chapter 5 Public Outreach Opportunities, Methods, and Activities TPO, particularly concerning complex issues re- lated to transportation planning. Collateral ma- terials such as brochures, flyers, and newsletters are used to inform the public of major milestones and events during transportation planning activ- ities and to assist the members of the public to make informed decisions. These publications can be as succinct as one page fact sheets with basic project information to multi -page newsletters which delve deeper into a project's details and can discuss multiple topics. A History of Education During the Depression -era Works Progress Ad- ministration (W.P.A.) program in the 1930's, the Roosevelt Administration recognized the impor- tance of public art to not only to lift the spirits of the American public, but also to convey clear and graphic messages that supported the goals This very effective pro -biking poster (developed Mathew Geiger and Green Patriot Posters) has gone viral through- out the Internet and social media platforms resutling in enormous distribution. St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 17 The Works Progress Administration of 1930's and 1940's employed verypowerful graphic messages to incite public interest and support of the federal government's recovery programs. and values of the New Deal. To this day, the paintings, murals, sculptures, and public service posters of the Federal Art Project are revered for their beauty and clarity in message. The use of graphically compelling images to promote public projects and programs are see- ing a resurgence. The messages are topical to today's issues and, with the expanding presence of social media, can be widely distributed in- stantly at very little expense. The ability to re- duce complex issues into simple, beautiful, and memorable images and slogans make this form of public outreach very provocative. The St. Lucie TPO should consider developing its own arts program to promote the sophisticated and progressive approach the agency has taken towards issues of mobility and livability. Projects such as the Treasure Coast Loop Trail and the US 1 Retrofit program could be perfect candidates for this type of outreach; they promote sustain - Public Involvement Program Draft: 9/14/2012 Public Outreach Opportunities, Methods, and Activities Chapter 5 The great Daniel Burnham Plan of Chicago developed in 1909 was incorporated into a grade -school text book, Wacker's Manual of the Plan of. Chicago to engender support and appreciation of long-range city planning and civic pride at a very young age. Jason Hardy and Green Patriot Posters (wwwgreenpa- triotposters.org) developed this poster in favor of urban bike facilities and greater attention given to bicyclists and their needs. Pro -biking campaigns have used successfully incorporated graphics and imagery to convey their message. This Michigan Association of Railroad Passengers (MARP), with Amtrak, evoked imagery and style form the WPA in producing this National Train Day poster in 2009. St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 18 Public Involvement Program Draft: 9/14/2012 Chapter 5 Public Outreach Opportunities, Methods, and Activities ability, efficient use of current resources, and the health and happiness of a community. Posters, Flyers, Brochures Posters and flyers can be fun ways to inform the public of an upcoming meeting, workshop, or charrette. They should be visually appealing and their messages should be clear and easily understood. Traditionally posters and flyers were posted in easy to see public spaces and buildings. Sometimes they are distributed to businesses and community buildings for display. Today, flyers and posters can also be distributed digitally via email, social media, and posted on the TPO website. Brochures are traditionally a smaller version of a newsletter. Typically one page folded in half or in thirds, a brochure can be a quick and relatively inexpensive way to communicate updates on many topics. With each of these methods, it is always important to provide key dates, locations, and contact infor- mation. TPO Newsletter Beginning in 2012, the St. Lucie TPO will peri- odically produce a general newsletter to an- nounce upcoming transportation planning activities, news within the agency, and other rel- evant transportation stories. The TPO newsletter will also highlight transportation planning tech- niques and advancements from around the na- tion. This newsletter will be distributed electronically to the mailing list on file. Paper copies will be distributed at meetings, and dis- tributed to the official public document review locations identified in the Formal Public Review and Comment Period section of this report. TPO Gallery and Kiosks The St. Lucie TPO is in the process of developing St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 19 a gallery space where informational maps, posters, flyers, and other visual materials can be viewed and collected. The Gallery also has the potential to serve as a gathering space for those interested in issues related to community, trans- portation, and quality of life in St. Lucie County. The Gallery will ultimately provide interactive opportunities with informational kiosks. The TPO Gallery will have great potential to enhance community interest and excitement in TPO plan- ning and educational programs. Media and Meeting Notification In addition to the TPO's standard website at www.stlu- ciempo.org, the TPO and the Martin MPO established a special website dedicated to the 2035 RLRTP efforts. The St. Lucie TPO will continue to collaborate with media outlets in St. Lucie County to ensure the best possible media coverage for TPO events. Distribution of media advisories will be scheduled prior to key meetings, including the date, time, location, and the process to submit feedback. Interviews on public affairs program- ming will help promote key meetings and public comment periods. The TPO will tailor the best Public involvement Program Draft: 9/14/2012 Public Outreach Opportunities, Methods, and Activities Chapter 5 combinations of public outreach methods for the specific events and target communities when ap- plicable. Print Media Print media advertising is an effective way to engage the public, including those traditionally underserved, and increase public awareness of the transportation planning processes on a broad level. Print media includes regional and local newspapers, community newspapers and newsletters, flyers, posters, TPO newsletters, and the distribution of print media via digital means (email, Facebook, etc). Print media can also in- clude special mailings when very direct notifica- tion of an event or meeting is required. The TPO will continue to utilize print media for legal no- tification in English, Spanish, and Creole. Current print media outlets include: El Hispano, Fort Pierce Chronicle, Fort Pierce Tribune, Hometown News, La Voz, Palm Beach Post, and Port St. Lucie News. Broadcast Media Board meetings, and some special committee meetings, are broadcast live on SLC-TV-Channel 20 locally. The TPO has also used SLCTV to tape special TPO workshops and meetings and replayed for periods of time. In addition, SLC- TV publishes a schedule of programming that is available on St. Lucie County website, as well as displays and electronic billboard on Channel 20 when there is no scheduled programming. The TPO will continue to utilize the SLC-TV as an broadcast media outlet. TPO staff also engages radio broadcasting as a means of providing information to the public about upcoming TPO events and transportation bulletins. The TPO will utilize Public Service An- nouncements (PSA's) to provide notice of meet- ings and participate in on -air interviews with local media related to transportation planning St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 20 Draft: 9/14/2012 and decisions. The WQCS Radio Reading Serv- ice will also be used, when applicable, as a means of providing information to the visually impaired in the area. St. W d. on the hn �,r�ea,e��.:a�nle< aannv [iiem Axfrcd�4gx ennnaa<cvJnnunlai-imommuu��dws y yJ:pgy!aYll 11 LR1+9LU19-J JA puuctar•Fe lua'.+"'i..nmr M ev_ueive [r zncv" reusuu wnn wc,ow,rgnauw mmrn ¢uoia imocnennsu"rrY 1 m.;:ra�, war n tir 1'.¢in�h rui ru e ,n. ' tn� lom rkdwm roam UnUn orail.e wwk rror me,�i� xpeaielee fY]ni3/I]]YIL)IlAlLeenl� The TPO website provides immediate access to TPO meeting schedules, TPO events calendar, download -able project files and maps, and staff contact information. The website is constantly being updated and TPO staff are al- ways open to suggestions of how to improve the site. Website and Social Media Perhaps the most significant advancement in public information and outreach has been the In- ternet and the TPO website. Increasingly, local governments and public agencies are augment- ing their public outreach efforts through web site design and social media outlets. A recent study conducted by the University of Illinois analyzed digital government innovations for 75 of the largest cities in the United States. The analysis compares results from a comparable study con- ducted in 2009 and indicates that the adoption of various social networks by local, state, and regional governments has increased between 250% and 600% in the last three years. Among the 75 largest U.S. cities, 87% used Twitter; 87% use Facebook; and 75% post videos to YouTube. Public Involvement Program Chapter 5 Public Outreach Opportunities, Methods, and Activities "Civic Engagement and Local E-Government: So- cial Networking Comes of Age", the study con- ducted by Karen Mossberger, Ph.D. and Yonghong Wu, Ph.D. ranks the top U.S. cities for their use of social networks in local governments. The top U.S. cities were: New York and Seattle tied for first, Virginia Beach, Portland, San Fran- cisco, Kansas City, and Chicago. For large U.S. cities, all allowed comments on Facebook and Twitter and 90% allowed public comments on YouTube. Currently Miami -Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties utilize Facebook, You Tube, and Twitter to provide instant public access to county activites and resources. Website The St. Lucie TPO maintains an extensive website providing all public meeting information, sched- ules for particular projects and programs, links to special project websites, and access to trans- portation planning documents and research. The TPO routinely updates the website, www.stlu- ciempo.org and utilizes the site for notification, project input, and public surveys. Concerns for transparency, clarity, ease of nav- igation, and ability to connect (online or offline with key individuals) are important considera- tions for a public website. The St. Lucie TPO will continue to refine and augment its website to en- sure each of these elements are fully addressed. Social Media Social Media, in its variety of forms, applica- tions, and deliveries, is becoming an increasingly important tool for local, state, and national units of government. It is not uncommon in larger com- munities like Miami -Dade and Broward Counties, to be able to communicate with elected officials and key staff via Facebook and Twitter and stay St, Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 21 linked with other forms of social media. Gov- ernments are starting to take a concerted notice and incorporate social media methods into their Facebook is becoming and increasingly popular method for public out- reach and feeback with local governments. Twitter is emerging as a powerful method for elected officials and key administrative staff to pro- vide real-time updates on municipal activities. Twit- ter may prove to be espe- cially important during emergencies. You Tube is a fantastic resource to replay com- munity event videos, key public presentations, and important Public Service Announcements. Public hrvolvement Program Draft: 9/14/2012 Public Outreach Opportunities, Methods, and Activities Chapter 5 daily actions. In April 2010, the Pew Internet & American Life Project (a project of the Pew Research Center), pub- lished a paper titled "Government Online — The Internet Gives Citizens New Paths to Government Services and Information". The study can be found online at http://pewinternet.org/Reports/2010/Government-Online.aspx. The research and extensive survey conducted to develop this document revealed many conclusions related to public use and openness to government and social media. Key findings of the report in- clude: • 61 % of American adults have looked for information or completed a transaction on a gov- ernment website in the 12 months prior to the Pew survey; • Government use of social media offers the potential to reach currently underserved popula- tions, such as minority groups; • Whites, blacks and Latinos are equally likely to get government information using digital tech- nologies; • African Americans and Latinos are more likely than whites to view government use of social media as helpful and informative; African Americans and Latinos are also much more likely than whites to say it is "very impor- tant' for government agencies to post information and alerts on sites such as Facebook and Twitter; • Internet users prefer contacting government online, but the telephone remains a key resource for government problem -solving. The use of social media has the potential to increase outreach and involvement with traditionally underserved communities which has often been challenging. There is evidence to suggest that social media should be used to augment existing informational and outreach techniques rather than replace them. Key Options for E-Government outreach and public interaction include: Facebook Twitter You Tube UPALM.com Scripps Treasure Coast Newspapers provide a vital print media link between the local communities and the St. Lucie TPO. St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 22 Public Involvement Program Draft: 9/14/2012 Chapter 5 Public Outreach Opportunities, Methods, and Activities Public Outreach Matrix Electronic Sheets or Other `In - optional Items PIP: Public Involvement Program LRTP: Long Range Transportation Plan TIP: Transportation Improvement Program UPWP: Unified Planning Work Program CMP: Congestion Management Process St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 23 Public Luvolvement Program Draft: 9/14/2012 Public Outreach Opportunities, Methods, and Activities This Page Intentionally Left Blank Chapter 5 St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 24 Public Involvement Program Draft: 9/14/2012 ETR 9 T N s E 3 ° a m E O `u O p ° >c Oc , •c� F c � a a t 0 - w o m � a a a a N Q > N N UI N Oc a $ ° O H N N � a a � V V s > � 3 _Q `v T a � s v (j a V � V E ° a v i E o � a � c V 6 47 � m � •> � o O o a d N u N Q � a J N V t T ~ o a a N O E >V a N a N j C s o � a N v = t d u v a N � u > T c 0 6 u O C a% C > > a Q C O N � s — C Y U 6 fq - O 0 t O C N 0 6 T 3 r o N O rn c .: U.. i. « u U G W O O_ U -LLi o E a - p ° a O a ° rn o v a) w a u N O ..c N F c ,Y a a rn � U v ° o 5 E E -a o v o T a a +- U1 N -a r a 4 r a v 0 U O a a> E w E E N o` o C c c ._ c ._ a c a N N m 0 0' U U s 0 U c ° I I I F a C N o O p u a u, E� c L p � i a `O E a o m O o o 0 O N C O U1 Q o T N> N a s > a � 0 a o 3 3 Q ai E 3 a Q U) a s c 0 rn c- a - 3 v u ° ° 0)O m a m � p a O m •3 c m w d T a • in 3 a u a a i- -a O_ " O a1 N Cl)O v u a U) >m E N aTi ° c rn o N ° m°° E 4 w v d v v t O h in Q a as- •- F- a E � p N N U) v 7 S Z E o N a 2 .1 c a N c Q a ° N N s rn > > i _0 O U ° C 4 2 O_ O o N r m N L N N a � .r ° ° v m � 3 t s d T o a v N � � a o C c t � O N � 6 •�-' vs- ° � m V c a m r � V C - 0 6 0 v 0 Q. o c o a r Ym' `aY-6d ad o a v E = N v p � O N t V c N N > d V c O O v N N N L 3 t _ a w N w O_ N 1%f S � � T N �- N v >° m y O V ° c c O Q p 2 O O C N Owl L r O_ O O w N Q 0 a a o N 3 c c U 3 r N v w :U w o 0 o_ ° Q ,� O w W v- QTj -a u 2 F, O .- ,.. 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N 0..T- fl T J N o-' Y _ .� c `o O O c~ MO O a c ° N o rn a N o - u c u 'a 0 Y o a) o G s Q N T 3 +Y- �. ..Y u O_ T C CD o a 0 0 cc d O p O N p O O O `6 a 6 w s a u: -a y E ° a)+- a) a a_ O y O c p N a N u p a U- N •+- F c E o N a ° Y o ° -0 v aTi u u Lo w 0 a v M u o s a O O O a Y c h- H t N a1 O d 1 0-N ° O c 0 ..` �O V N i a1 s Q- 'v N — N -a r :� O %n O Q'a D s c T N 0 N a aa�=reU v 0 Appendices Appendix APPENDIX A Acronyms and Terminology St. Lucie Transportation Pluming Organization 31 Public Involvement. Plus Draft: 9/14/2012 Appendix A Acronyms and Terminology CAC: Citizens Advisory Committee ADDendices CMP: Congestion Management System Process. A process to help decision makers in selecting cost effective, short-term alternative strategies to enhance the mobility of people and goods. ETDM: Efficient Transportation Decision Making Process. ETDM is a process developed by the FDOT Environmental Management Office in cooperation with federal and state agencies to involve envi- ronmental permitting agencies early in the transportation planning process. One of the major fea- tures of ETDM is to discover potential socio-cultural effects of transportation projects on communities much earlier in the project development process. ETDM started being implemented in Florida in 2003. FDOT: Florida Department of Transportation FHWA: Federal Highway Administration F.S.: Florida Statutes FTA: Federal Transit Administration GIS: Geographic Information System. GIS is a computer -based means to display information ge- ographically, in which files of shapes are related to files of data. LCB: Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board MAP 21: The Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21 st Century Act. This act was signed into law in July 2012 and is the first long-term highway authorization enacted since SAFETEA-LU in 2005. MPO: Metropolitan Planning Organization. A unit authorized by federal legislation and state statute to recommend priorities and establish transportation policies for urbanized areas based on a continuing, cooperative, and comprehensive planning process. The St. Lucie TPO changed its name to "TPO", however, the organization remains an "MPO" for the purpose of maintaining its legal status consistent with federal and state laws. Public Involvement: Participation by the public in the development of transportation plans for the St. Lucie TPO planning area. PIP — Public Involvement Plan: The manual that serves as a guide for planning, encouraging, im- proving and reporting public involvement in the development of transportation plans and services in the Urbanized Area. St. Lucie "Transportation Planning Organization 32 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Appendices Appendix Public Involvement Techniques: Ways of communicating with the public. Examples include press releases, committee meetings, workshops, website, displays, and focus groups. RLRTP: Regional Long Range Transportation Plan (also referred to as the long range plan). SAFETEA-LU: Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users, the federal transportation legislation of 2005. TAC: Technical Advisory Committee TCTC: Treasure Coast Transportation Council TDP: Transit Development Plan TDSP: Transportation Disadvantaged Service Plan TIP: Transportation Improvement Program Traditionally Under -served Communities: Communities which have been less active or not involved in the processes and decisions that shape their future. The TPO is striving to remove barriers to com- munication so that every community has an opportunity to participate in the transportation planning and decision -making process. UPWP: Unified Planning Work Program. Planning tasks, work program, and budget approved an- nually by the TPO. UZA: Urbanized Area. Places with a population of 50,000 or more that encompasses an entire urbanized area in a state as designated by the US Census Bureau. St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 33 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Appendix B Appendices APPENDIX B Public Notification and Comment Form Examples St, Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 34 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Appendix B Appendices BEFORE THE ST. LUCIE TRANSPORTATION PLANNING ORGANIZATION (TPO) ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FLORIDA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Fiscal Year 2012/2013 Public Involvement Plan (PIP) Update All interested parties within St. Lucie County are hereby advised that the ST. LUCIE TRANSPORTATION PLANNING ORGANIZATION will present its FY 2012 PIP update to the St. Lucie TPO Policy Board. Notice is hereby given that there will be a public hearing held by the St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization (TPO). The purpose of this hearing is to obtain public comment on the PIP for the St. Lucie TPO. This hearing will be held on (insert day and date) by the St. Lucie TPO Board during their regular meeting in the Commission Chambers on the first floor of the County Administration Building, (insert address). The meeting begins at (insert time). All interested persons are invited to attend and be heard. Assistance for disabled persons may be arranged by calling (insert phone number) or the County Ad- ministrator's Office at (insert phone number). Hearing Assistance for disabled persons may be arranged by calling the County Administrator's Office at (insert phone number). Hearing Impaired individuals may call (insert phone number), to request assistance. A copy of the FY 2012 PIP will be available to the public at the (insert place and address), on the TPO website at http://www.stluciempo.org and at the (insert library's name) reference section. Items not in- cluded on the agenda may also be heard in consideration of the best interests of the public's health, safety, welfare, and as necessary to protect every person's right of access. If any person decides to appeal any decision made with respect to any matter considered at the meetings or hearings of any board, committee, agency, council, or advisory group, that person will need a record of proceedings and, for such purpose, may need to insure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record should include testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. THIS NOTICE DATED THE _ OF 2012 Submitted by: Peter Buchwald, AICP St. Lucie TPO Director [NOTICE TO PUBLISH: This block ad is to appear on (insert day and date).] St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 35 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Appendix B Appendices Name Organization (if applicable) Address City Email St. Lucie TPO General Comment Form Do not add me to the mailing list. Please print your comments below: If you need additional room, please use reverse side. State Zip Code Please return comments to the St. Lucie TPO in one of the following ways: Mail: St. Lucie TPO 466 Port St. Lucie Boulevard, Suite 1 1 1 Port St. Lucie, FL 34953 Telephone: (772) 462-1593 Fax: (772) 462-2549 Email: admin@stlucieco.org In accordance with Title A of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other nondiscrimination laws, public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, familial, or income status. It is a priority for the TPO that all citizens in St. Lucie County be given the opportunity to participate In the transportation planning process, Including low Income Individuals, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and persons with limited English proficiency. You may contact the TPO, Title A Specialist at (772) 462-1593 If you have any discrimination complaints. St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 36 Public LTvolvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Appendices APPENDIX C Public Involvement Plan Survey Results I St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 37 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Appendix C Appendices The following are the results from the public, on-line survey conducted during the creation of this Public Involvement Program. Invitiations to the On-line survey was widely distributed throughout St. Lucie County via direct email (nearly 300 individuals were contacted using a county -wide data base of agency, local government, and community leader contacts), and the survey was posted on the St. Lucie TPO and Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council websites. Respondents said that it is important for them to be involved in community and transportation planning issues, they are moderately happy with their current level of public involvement opportunities, and prefer hands-on workshop type of activities. Per the survey responses, email is a high-ranking method of notification and although the majority of respondents rarley use social media, they do feel it is an appropriate method for public outreach. l . How important is it for you to be included in workshops/meetings to discuss issues that affect your community? 2. What is your current level of satisfaction with the opportunities to be involved in the decisions that affect your community? St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 39 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Appendices 3. What is the best time for you to attend public meetings or workshops? 50% 44% 45% 40% 34% 35%-- 25% " 20% t � . w �� 15% g 13-A —_ 10% Weekdays after Weekdays Saturdays Never No Response 5:00 pm between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm 4. 1 prefer to participate in community decisions by: (select all that apply) so% -- 68% 10% .30%20%1a�M. M50%4 Contacting my Commenting at Participating in Answering Answering an etectedpfficials pub8emeetings hands-on mthmsurveys emailme5sage directly wurkshupsand rharrctteG 1 5. Please rank, in order of importance, your level of interest in participating in decisions on the fol- lowing subjects: 4.5 4 t 3 � �x AMEN Newdevolopment Transportation SocialseMcesthat Klscal issues such Communityevents in my area projoctslikenew areauailabletome astaaesand suchasmusic roads,sldewalks, government festivalsand bikeroutes budgets holiday celebrations St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 39 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Appendix C ADDendices 6. Please rank, in order of importance, your level of interest in participating in transportation initia- tives on the following subjects: 7. Please rank how you get your information and news: a 3.5INK 2 L i. MEN V' 12410 0 3 1 Sqm— % gzO Local TV news Local newspaper Local radio Closed circuit My friends and (includingon- government TV neighbors line versions) channels 8. Please rank the best way to inform you of public meetings: St. Lucie Transportation Planing Organization 40 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Appendices Appendix C 9. How actively you use social media to get community information (Facebook, Twitter, list serves, etc.) 30% 25^% -- 28% ,3 22% 22% 20% 1q I V ` z t i - 9% F' 9�f Y T .. 9% Very active. Somewhat Seldumactive Neveractive No response active 10. Do you consider social media an appropriate public outreach method? 11. How much advance notice do you prefer to participate in a public event or meeting? 40% _. 35% 34% 34% tea. 1396 One week Two weeks More than two Marethan a No response weeks month St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 41 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Appendix C Appendices 12. Please rank, in order of importance, the factors that make you more likely to participate in a public meeting/event: 13. How far will you travel to participate in a public meeting/event? soli 45% 44% 14. Which of the following places do you think are appropriate.facilities for holding a public meet- ing/event: (You may choose more than one) 80Y — 7ssi - - --- n% 70% -- -- 61% 60% 50% 69 40% 30% 20% 18Yo 18% 10% — Aconnownity Apiaceof CoVcrnment Wlilicsdiool Pavateschaol Thetype center worship facility(Le, fadleyd, library, city. notmatti hall) me St. Lucie Transportation Planting Organization 42 Draft 9/14/2012 0 --— Noneafthe above Public Involvement Plan St. Lucie Transportation Planting Organization 42 Draft 9/14/2012 0 --— Noneafthe above Public Involvement Plan Auuendices 15. Please rank the best method to provide you with updates after a public meeting event:) C a 7 _ - _ -- IN Ih I'.) kat £' i__ ha° et. �¢ �d� saga V° oaf o°�y �a\c�, o�a� 0 � 0 16. How many people are in your household? St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 43 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/ 14/2012 Appendix C Appendices 17. How long have you been a resident of St. Lucie County? 40% 35% 30% 25% 20°% 16% I 18. What is your gender? 19. What is your age group? %Ir Ma MA 30% zs�s 2896 a -16% 1694 Sfi% 16% 10% 9 St Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 44 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Appendices Appendix C 20. What is your ethnic background? 80% 70% ..__. _.._.....___._._..._..----------- ___..__.__.__.—_—. 60% 50% 40% — 30% 20% % 10°% 0% coo �o oy4 pc �r�y�. ese w s � fie{ `4 21. Which of the following best describe your employment status? 6% 70% 60% 14 50% ----- 30% s 14% 10%� 0% 0% �7 � „.y.� OSS F ,zxll Fa Fa ai EFQ\ za x°� �O 'Op Oe 22. What is the zip code of your primary residence? Zip Code Percentage 33334 4.5% 34949 9.0% 34950 9.0% 34951 4.5% 34952 13.5% 34981 4.5% 34982 23.0% 34983 4.5% 34986 23.0% 34997 4.5% St. Lucie'rransportation Planning Organization 45 Public Involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 Appendix C Appendices 23. 1 consider my level of community involvement as: St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 46 Public involvement Plan Draft: 9/14/2012 AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY Board/Committee: St. Lucie TPO Board Meeting Date: October 3, 2012 Item Number: 9b Item Title: Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan/Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan Item Origination: Federal law UPWP Reference: Task 6.1: Public Involvement Requested Action: Adopt the draft Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan/LEP Plan, adopt with conditions, or do not adopt. Staff Recommendation: Because the Draft Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan/LEP Plan complies with Federal law and supports the public involvement activities outlined in the adopted FY 2012/13 — FY 2013/14 Unified Planning Work Program, it is recommended that the draft Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan/LEP Plan be adopted. Attachments • Staff Report • Draft Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan/LEP Plan Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County MEMORANDUM TO: St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) Board THROUGH: Peter Buchwald Executive Director FROM: Marceia Lathou Transit Program Manager DATE: September 25, 2012 SUBJECT: Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan/Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan BACKGROUND All agencies that receive federal funding are required to incorporate Title VI and environmental justice considerations into their programs, policies, and activities. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. Two Executive Orders and related statutes further define populations protected under the umbrella of Title VI. Executive Order 12898 (1994) is concerned with environmental justice for minority and/or low-income populations. Executive Order 13166 (2000) is concerned with providing equal access to services and benefits for those individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP). ANALYSIS It is part of the TPO mission to ensure non-discrimination and environmental justice in the transportation planning process. The TPO's public involvement process is designed to provide equal opportunities for the public to express its views and to become active participants in the decision -making process regardless of race, color, religion, income status, family status, national origin, age, gender, or disability. Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County September 25, 2012 Page 2 of 2 The TPO Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan, which includes an Americans with Disabilities Act/504 Statement, is being updated and a Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan has been developed. The purpose of the Title VI Non -Discrimination Policy and Plan is to establish guidelines to effectively monitor and ensure that the TPO is in compliance with all Title VI requirements and regulations. The purpose of the LEP Plan is to outline the basis for which the TPO will provide language assistance to members of the public who speak little or no English. At their meetings on September 18th and September 20th, the TPO advisory committees recommended adoption of the draft PIP Major Update. RECOMMENDATION Because the Draft Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan/LEP Plan complies with Federal law and supports the public involvement activities outlined in the adopted FY 2012/13 - FY 2013/14 Unified Planning Work Program, it is recommended that the draft Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan/LEP Plan be adopted. Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy and Plan Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan Title VI/Nondiscrimination Policy Statement The St. Lucie TPO values diversity and both welcomes and actively seeks input from all interested parties, regardless of cultural identity, background or income level. Moreover, the TPO does not tolerate discrimination in any of its programs, services or activities. The TPO will not exclude participation in, deny the benefits of, or subject to discrimination anyone on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, religion, income or family status. The TPO will actively work to ensure inclusion of everyone in our community so that our programs, services and activities represent the diversity we enjoy. Title VI/Nondiscrimination Plan At this time, the TPO has determined through development of a Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan that language assistance may be necessary primarily in Spanish and Haitian Creole. The TPO will take reasonable steps to provide language assistance through the use of volunteer and/or paid interpreters for these and other languages. The TPO does not intend that its LEP Plan exclude anyone requiring language assistance and will attempt to accommodate all requests for assistance. Anyone who requires special language services should contact the TPO's Title VI Coordinator: Marceia Lathou St. Lucie TPO 466 SW Port St. Lucie Boulevard, Suite 111 Port St. Lucie, Florida 34953 (772) 462-1671 (phone) (772) 462-2549 (fax) lathoum@stlucieco.org Florida Relay 711 or 1-800-955-8771 (TTY) The TPO will take the following steps to assist in carrying out the Title VI/ Non -Discrimination Plan: Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County September 2012 Page 2 of 6 • Maintain a GIS database with the capability to analyze socioeconomic demographics. • Provide translation of planning and public involvement documents when a project is located in or near a substantial population of non- English speakers. • Work to integrate equity and civil rights considerations throughout all TPO plans and programs. • Maintain a proactive public involvement effort that achieves a better understanding of the needs and concerns of low-income and minority populations. • Participate in training offered by FDOT and FHWA as it relates to recent developments in Title VI/EJ and transportation planning. Complaint Procedures: The TPO has established a discrimination complaint procedure and will take prompt and reasonable action to investigate and eliminate discriminatory actions in accordance with the following: Any person who believes that he or she has been subjected to discrimination based upon race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, family or income status initially files a complaint with the TPO's Title VI Coordinator: Marceia Lathou St. Lucie TPO 466 SW Port St. Lucie Boulevard, Suite 111 Port St. Lucie, Florida 34953 (772) 462-1671 (phone) (772) 462-2549 (fax) lathoum@stlucieco.org Florida Relay 711 or 1-800-955-8771 (TTY) If possible, the complaint should be submitted in writing and contain the identity of the complainant; the basis for the allegations (e.g., race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, family or income status); and a description of the alleged discrimination with the date of occurrence. If the complaint cannot be submitted in writing, the complainant should contact the TPO's Title VI Coordinator for assistance. The Title VI Coordinator will respond to the complaint within thirty (30) days and will take reasonable steps to resolve the matter. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), Equal Opportunity Office, Statewide Title VI Coordinator shall be notified of the complaint. Should the TPO be unable to satisfactorily resolve the complaint, the Title VI Coordinator will forward the complaint, along with a record of its disposition, to the FDOT September 2012 Page 3 of 6 Statewide Title VI Coordinator. FDOT will assume jurisdiction over the complaint for continued processing. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)/504 Statement The TPO makes great effort to ensure that its facilities, programs, services, and activities are available to those with disabilities. The TPO also actively seeks out disabled communities and service groups to ensure their input into the TPO's programs, services and activities. The TPO encourages everyone to report any facility, program, service or activity within the county that appears inaccessible to persons with disabilities. Furthermore, the TPO will provide reasonable accommodation to persons with disabilities who wish to participate in public involvement or other events with advance notification of at least 48 hours. The TPO provides closed caption for the hearing impaired for its televised TPO Board meetings. Questions, concerns, comments or requests for accommodation should be made to the TPO's ADA Coordinator: Marceia Lathou St. Lucie TPO 466 SW Port St. Lucie Boulevard, Suite 111 Port St. Lucie, Florida 34953 (772) 462-1671 (phone) (772) 462-2549 (fax) lathoum@stlucieco.org Florida Relay 711 or 1-800-955-8771 (TTY) Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan In adherence with Federal regulations, the TPO makes reasonable efforts to ensure its programs, services and activities are meaningfully accessible to those who do not speak English proficiently. The TPO utilizes its state and local transportation partners, faith based organizations and community groups, and other language services to provide oral and written interpretation and translation of program documents, as required. To determine if or when alternate language usage is required for meaningful access, the TPO has assessed its programs and services using the following four factors. September 2012 Page 4 of 6 1. The number or proportion of LEP persons eligible to be served or likely to encounter the TPO's programs, services or activities. An LEP Plan starts with an assessment to identify LEP individuals who need assistance. Data was gathered from the Census Bureau's 2010 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates Data Set for "Language Spoken at Horne Populations 5 Years and Older," to identify persons who speak English less than "very well" and would be classified as Limited English Proficient (LEP). A review of the Census data revealed that for St. Lucie County there were 25,626 persons who are LEP, or almost 10 percent of the total population of persons 5 years or older (261,780). Of the number of LEP persons, 17,213 or 67% speak Spanish; 6,480 persons or 25% speak "Other Indo-European" languages; 1,867 persons or 7% speak "Asian and Pacific Islander" languages and 66 persons or 3% speak "Other" languages. TPO staff worked with St. Lucie County to confirm estimates of LEP populations. St. Lucie County provides assistance for persons who speak Haitian Creole as well as those who speak Spanish. Therefore, TPO staff concludes that providing language assistance in Haitian Creole as well as Spanish would provide access to information and services in their language spoken at home for a majority of the population that is identified as LEP. 2. The frequency with which LEP individuals come in contact with these programs, services or activities. TPO Board, committees, and staff are most likely to encounter LEP individuals through office visits, phone conversations, and attendance at board and advisory committee meetings. TPO staff reviewed the frequency with which Board, committee members, and staff have had contact with LEP persons. This includes documenting phone inquiries or office visits. To date, the TPO has received one request for an interpreter and one request for a translated program document. The TPO frequency of contact with LEP populations is somewhat limited especially when compared to providers of government social services which have higher instances of contact. These providers include the St. Lucie County Housing and Community Services Department and Community Transit, the contracted public transportation provider. Also, most of the TPO Board and committee meetings occur every other month or quarterly, and project -specific public input meetings occur on an as -needed basis. September 2012 Page 5 of 6 3. The nature and importance of the program, service, or activity to people's lives. The TPO undertakes a variety of planning and policy initiatives to encourage a more sustainable region now and in the future. The impacts of transportation improvements resulting from these initiatives have an impact on all residents of the metropolitan planning area. The impact of proposed transportation investments on underserved and under -represented populations is part of the evaluation process in the development of the Regional Long Range Transportation Plan (RLRTP), the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP), and the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Because the TPO must ensure that all segments of the population, including LEP persons, have been involved or have the opportunity to be involved in the transportation decision -making process, the TPO will provide translation of vital documents — including certain news releases, meeting agendas, brochures, factsheets and portions of the LRTP, UPWP, and TIP into other languages as requested. In general, the TPO's planning process affects residents in the long-term and not in an immediate manner. Therefore there has not been a significant demand from LEP residents to participate in TPO planning and policy - oriented discussions compared with the demand from LEP residents for social and community services provided by other government agencies. 4. The resources available to the TPO and costs. The TPO assessed its available resources that could be used for providing LEP assistance and which of its documents would be most valuable to be translated if the need should arise. The TPO currently provides materials in Spanish and Haitian Creole such as factsheets, web content through an online language translator, and certain advertising notices. The TPO has contacted various agencies to secure language translation should the need arise. St. Lucie County staff will provide voluntary Spanish translation on a limited basis if needed and if notified within seven working days. Other language assistance, if needed, will be provided through private sector translators and telephone interpreter lines for which the TPO would pay fees. Persons requiring language assistance would be self -identified, meaning they would initiate contact with the TPO for assistance. All TPO board and committee agendas include concise statements in Spanish and Haitian Creole notifying readers about the existence of language assistance. All TPO staff September 2012 Page 6 of 6 have access to "I Speak" cards to assist in identifying the type of language interpretation needed if the occasion arises. Board/Committee Meeting Date: Item Number: Item Title: Item Origination: UPWP Reference: Requested Action: AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY St. Lucie TPO Baord October 3, 2012 1461M Development of Traffic Impact Study Methodology and Procedures Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) and Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Task 2.2 - Data Collection and Monitoring Approve the Scope of Services, approve with conditions, or do not approve Staff Recommendation: Based on the scope, cost, and schedule being consistent with Task 2.2 of the UPWP and the TAC recommendation, it is recommended that the Scope of Services be approved. Attachments • Staff Report • Scope of Services Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County MEMORANDUM TO: St. Lucie TPO Board THROUGH: Peter Buchwald Executive Director FROM: Neelam Fatima Transportation Systems Manager DATE: September 26, 2012 SUBJECT: Development of Traffic Impact Study Methodology and Procedures BACKGROUND Task 2.2 of the FY 2012/2013 - FY 2013/2014 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) of the St. Lucie TPO includes the development of a Standardized Traffic Impact Study Process and Methodology. The Standardized Traffic Impact Study Process and Methodology will be developed in collaboration with the local jurisdictions. Should it be adopted by the local jurisdictions, the approved standardized traffic impact study process would be followed by all new development requiring a traffic study, and the resulting traffic study would be reviewed by the responsible jurisdiction. The TPO will be the data repository for all traffic studies and traffic data collected as part of traffic studies. ANALYSIS As part of the Scope of Services, the traffic impact study procedures followed by the different municipalities within the TPO area will be reviewed. Workshop and phone interviews with the local staffs will be conducted and the results of such efforts will be presented. Both the methodology and the data to be used and/or collected as part of a traffic impact study then would be determined and standardized within the TPO area. Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County September 26, 2012 Page 2 of 2 The intent is to develop a TPO areawide standardized procedure for performing traffic impact studies for land development proposals regardless of whether the agencies have transportation concurrency, no transportation concurrency, or a modified approach to transportation concurrency. However, this work effort does not include the development of any changes to local government comprehensive plans and/or land development regulations. A Scope of Services was prepared by Tindale-Oliver & Associates (TOA). TOA is one of the General Planning Consultants for the St. Lucie TPO and successfully completed the development and the implementation of the Traffic Count Data Management System. The cost proposed by TOA is less than the amount budgeted for the task, and the schedule proposed by TOA is consistent with the Target Date identified in the UPWP. At its meeting on July 17th, the TPO Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) requested that this project be initiated as soon as possible and that a Scope of Services be provided for its review and recommendation to the TPO Board. At its meeting on September 18th, the TAC reviewed the Scope of Services and recommended its approval with the addition of training to the local staffs on the implementation of the methodology and process after they are developed. The Scope of Services was revised to incorporate this addition. RECOMMENDATION Based on the scope, cost, and schedule being consistent with Task 2.2 of the UPWP and the TAC recommendation, it is recommended that the Scope of Services be approved. ST. LUCIE COUNTY DEVELOPMENT OF TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY METHODOLOGY AND PROCEDURES SCOPE OF SERVICES Prepared For.• St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization 2300 Virginia Avenue Fort Pierce, FL 34982 ph (772) 462-1593, fax (772)462-2549 Prepared By: "'� I ind:dc-Oli4er Ass(Id teS; lnc. _ - �IApninp @ntl BelplrleEifRp 6tila4raling 39 Ysrfa 1484-xopo 1000 Ashley Drive, Suite 100 Tampa, Florida 33602 ph (813) 224-8862, fax (813)226-2106 September 25, 2012 ST. LUCIE TRANSPORTATION PLANNING ORGANIZATION (TPO) DEVELOPMENT OF TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY METHODOLOGY AND PROCEDURES �i17�1C43*:: INTRODUCTION The objective of this Scope of Services is to develop a countywide standardized procedure for performing traffic impact studies for land development proposals. Regardless of whether the agencies have transportation concurrency, no transportation concurrency or a modified approach to transportation concurrency, the procedures developed in the Traffic Impact Study (TIS) Methodology and Procedures will result in a standard requirement for St. Lucie County and the Cities of Ft. Pierce and Port St. Lucie to follow in the review of traffic impact studies for land development proposals. The standard requirements will set forth both the methodology and the data to be used and/or collected as part of a traffic impact study. This work effort does not include the development of any changes to local government comprehensive plans and/or land development regulations (identification of targeted geographic areas, redevelopment areas, protected neighborhoods, etc.). Such work, if requested, must be approved by the TPO prior to the consultant undertaking such additional work efforts. In order to develop a countywide standardized TIS Methodology and Procedures the following tasks will be completed: • Task 1: Review of the Current TIS Guidelines • Task 2: County and City Staff Interviews • Task 3: Development of Draft Countywide TIS Methodology and Procedures • Task 4: Workshop • Task 5: Final Countywide TIS Methodology and Procedures Task 6: Staff Training • Task 7: CAC and TAC Presentations • Task 8: TPO Board Presentation Task 1: Review of the Current TIS Guidelines TOA will collect and review practices regarding TIS guidelines currently followed by St. Lucie County, the City of Ft. Pierce, and the City of Pt. St. Lucie. Information to be reviewed as part of this effort includes appropriate existing adopted Comprehensive Plan Goals, Objectives, and Policies, Land Development Regulations, and written TIS Guidelines included in Land Tindale-Oliver & Associates, Inc. St. Lucie TPO September 25, 2012 1 Traffic Impact Study Methodology and Procedures Development Codes, if any. This review will include identification of similarities and differences among the currently followed procedures. Task 2: County and City Staff Interviews Phone interviews with St. Lucie County and city staffs will be conducted to identify current practices and procedures, and what, from their perspective currently works and what they would like to change and/or improve. Information from these interviews will be summarized.to identify common practices and differences, as well as potential changes to be considered in the development of the Countywide TIS Methodology and Procedures. Task 3: Development of Draft Countywide TIS Methodology and Procedures Based on information collected in Task 1 and direction received during the interviews conducted in Task 2, TOA will prepare a Draft Countywide TIS Methodology and Procedures outlining procedures to be followed in the preparation of the TIS methodology statement, standardized report format requirements, software to be used, procedures to be followed in the preparation of a study, acceptable forms of mitigation, and appeal provisions if the petitioner seeks to appeal a staff position. TOA will also prepare a draft Resolution of Agreement to be reviewed by the County and cities at the Workshop. Finally, TOA will prepare a Summary Presentation on the Draft Countywide TIS Methodology and Procedures and Resolution of Agreement for use at the Workshop. Task 4: Workshop The objective of this workshop is to present findings from Tasks 1, 2, and 3 and reach consensus regarding aspects covered by the Draft Countywide TIS Methodology and Procedures and Resolution of Agreement. To facilitate discussion and reach the consensus needed, TOA will prepare an agenda listing issues/discrepancies and similarities identified during the review and phone interviews and alternative approaches to the preparation of a TIS methodology statement, standardized report format requirements, software to be used, procedures to be followed in the preparation of a study, acceptable forms of mitigation, and appeal provisions if the petitioner seeks to appeal a staff review. Task 5: Final Countywide TIS Methodology and Procedures To the maximum extent possible, and pursuant to consensus received during Workshop, TOA will prepare the Final Countywide TIS Methodology and Procedures and Resolution of Agreement to be signed by the County and cities. Any area where consensus was not reached in the Workshop will be identified in a separate Summary Letter. Tindale-Oliver & Associates, Inc. St. Lucie TPO September 25, 2012 2 Traffic Impact Study Methodology and Procedures Task 6: Staff Training TOA will prepare training materials and conduct a two-hour workshop with the St. Lucie TPO Project Manager and local government representatives (St. Lucie County, City of Fort Pierce, and City of Pt. St. Lucie) on the use and application of the Countywide TIS Methodology and Procedures. Task 7: CAC and TAC Presentations TOA will prepare an updated presentation and present the proposed Countywide TIS Methodology and Procedures and draft Resolution of Agreement to the CAC and TAC. These presentations will be held during the same day. Comments and recommendations from these presentations will be reviewed with TPO Staff to determine if changes should be made prior to the TPO Board Presentation. Task 8: TPO Board Presentation TOA will present the proposed Countywide TIS Methodology and Procedures and draft Resolution of Agreement to the TPO Board for their review and approval. BUDGET: The services described herein shall be completed for a LUMP SUM fee of $30,425.58 based on the effort estimate included here as Attachment 1. SCHEDULE: Tasks 1 — 5 shall be completed within four (4) months of Notice to Proceed. The schedule for remaining task shall be coordinated with the TPO Project Manager following completion of Task 5. The preliminary project schedule is included here as Attachment 2. Tindale-Oliver & Associates, Inc. St. Lucie TPO September 25, 2012 3 Traffic Impact Study Methodology and Procedures m J a } M O h CN m N M M of W V Q ; t9 FA v3 » 4i e3 t9 t9 w M fWII N w JJQQ (9 M� M M N ro W W W O d y, N O o c u CI ,mF b ci o C; b C 0 M 0 v � v v o N w M 'm W 10 C1, O d ,:N d.rn 0 � • N y � O N P. Hj H _tll_O,<tti N (MO o o VW •�.m o a � o � O � C N D C N a N 0 a w aF o 0 0 3 '3 0 > 5 o O F > a m c o i 0 N £ U 3 m a m Q 0 L 0 p U O 'a yr � U � � v m of U o7E ii m O 66 O ry r ry r N r m r N r N r N r N r O r O r 'r m 0� 8 (0)U r I V d El T AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY Board/Committee: Meeting Date: Item Number: Item Title: Item Origination: UPWP Reference: Requested Action: Staff Recommendation St. Lucie TPO Board October 3, 2012 10a Florida MPO Advisory Council (MPOAC) Revenue Study Task 1.1- Program Management Discuss and provide comments to staff Discuss and provide comments to staff Attachments • Summary/Update Correspondence Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County • it lr b Lam; Mayor Richard J. Kaplan Chairman April 29, 2011 Governor Rick Scott President Mike Haridopolos Speaker Dean Cannon State of Florida The Florida Senate Florida House of Representatives Plaza Level 05, The Capitol 409 The Capitol 420 The Capitol 400 S Monroe Street 404 S Monroe Street 402 S Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1300 Dear Governor Scott, President Haridopolos and Speaker Cannon I know that you are winding down a particularly difficult 2011 legislative session dealing with the budget and economic issues that have plagued our great state. While the issue of adequate and reliable transportation funding for our future cannot be immediately addressed, I wanted to take the opportunity to keep you informed of the efforts by the organization which I chair, Florida's Metropolitan Planning Organization Advisory Council (NVOAC). We informed your predecessors last Tune that we were about to begin an effort to examine the state of transportation funding in our State. This communication is intended to update on our activities and to invite your input into our deliberations - The Florida Metropolitan Planning Organization Advisory Council is a statewide transportation planning and .policy organization created by the Florida Legislature pursuant to Section 339.175(11), Florida Statutes, to augment the role of individual MPOs in the cooperative transportation planning process. The MPOAC assists MPOs in carrying out the urbanized area transportation planning process by serving as the principal forum for collective policy discussion. As you are well aware, the pressures on state resources have reached a critical condition. The recent legislative session was certainly a difficult one dealing with the impacts of declining revenues for all public services. Stagnant or declining traditional transportation funding sources, increases in construction and fuel costs, and current economic conditions are all among the Factors placing increasing pressure on transportation providers across Florida. Increasing fuel efficiency of automobiles along with the development of alternative fuel technologies will also present challenges to a gallon -based gasoline tax. In order to understand and deal with these issues, the MPOAC embarked on an 18-month effort to attempt to frame the situation and to reach consensus on potential solutions to the transportation funding dilemma. Using our own resources, we engaged the Center for Urban Transportation at the University of South Florida to conduct the analysis and established a Revenue Study Advisory Committee to ensure the views and ideas of wide spectrum of stakeholders were considered. I have attached a membership roster of the Advisory Committee for your reference but that includes cities, counties, the Florida Chamber, and representatives from the environmental, highway, port, and airport constituencies. Howard Glassman, Executive Director 605 Suwannee Street, MS 28B Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0450 1-866-374-3368 x 4037 or 850414AO37 Fax 850 414-4895 Ww Mpoaa.org April 29, 2011 Page 2 To date, we have completed an analysis of the status of funding for surface transportation at the State and federal levels as well as an inventory of the needs. Highlights of that analysis include: Current revenue sources are not sufficient to fund long-term transportation needs. Potential uncertainties in the long-term could dramatically alter transportation revenues and, thus, require structural changes in Florida's overall revenue approach. These uncertainties include the impact of: • A growing market for more fuel efficient cars (hybrids; compressed natural gas, electric, gasohol, etc. • Significant price increases for fitel • The current lack of certainty of the federal role in transportation funding • Public reluctance to accept additional user fees • National emphasis on alternative fuels and technologies • Telecommuting • Shifts in demographics that will impact revenues and the demand for transportation services • Changing public attitudes towards environmental sustaumbility The current situation at the federal level is critical from two perspectives. The federal Highway Trust Fund balance has been in a precipitous decline that has required federal general fund infusions to ensure its solvency. In addition, due to various political factors, the current surface transportation authorization expired in at the end of federal fiscal year 2009. Fuel efficiency standards were established over 30 years ago in the wake of the petroleum crises of the 1970's. Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAPE) standards that were introduced in 1975 have remained relatively unchanged for the last 25 years. The new standards will by model year 2016 result in an estimated miles per gallon equivalent of 35.5 for the combination of light duty trucks and passenger autos. Emerging technologies such as the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, the all electric vehicle and alternatively fueled vehicles are all expected to contribute positively to the environmental and energy security concerns of the nation but will also continue to erode the motor fuel tax as it is currently administered as a viable long-term major funding mechanism. In Florida, the estimated 20-year funding shortfall for transportation in the State's metropolitan areas increased to $62.5 billion, an inflation -adjusted 46 percent increase over 2002. This represents an annualized statewide shortfall of just over$3.1 billion per year. Unfunded multi -modal needs in 2030 as reported in May 2006 totaled $53.2 billion. Unfunded transit needs in support of Florida's Strategic Intermodal System during that same period are projected to be $4.5 billion, which increases SIS unfunded needs to $57.7 billion. April 29, 2011 Page 3 At our April 7* meeting, the MPOAC considered 23 potential revenue sources or actions to enhance transportation revenue and settled on a list of 16 items and/ or issues to be analyzed.. The list of potential options is not an endorsement of support in any way, but rather a request for CUTR to include these items in their investigation. The options being investigated are: 1. Fuel Tax — examine various incremental increases in the State Motor Fuels Sales Tax, State Comprehensive Enhanced Transportation System (SCETS) Tax and other state imposed fuel taxes and indexing those not currently indexed o Analyze indexing of the federal 18.4 cents for State Transportation Trust Fund (STTF) o Investigate raising of Local Option Motor Fuel Tax 2. Fees — look at indexing existing fees currently remitted to the STTF 3. Vehicle Sales Tax — currently not going to STTF. Research various increments of sales value of motor vehicles that could be directed to the STTF 4. Right -of -Way Cost Savings — investigate revisions to property acquisition procedures to reduce overall cost of right-of-way acquisition 5. Return Fees to STTF examine implications of dedicating additional transportation related fees to the STTF. This would include revenues raised from a recent increase to fees on motor vehicle registrations and licenses as well as those that have not traditionally gone to the Trust Fund 6. Sales Tax on Motor Fuels - research replacing cents per gallon state fuel tax with a percentage tax including a "floor" 7. VMT Charges — examine replacement of state motor fuel tax and other transportation taxes and fees with a vehicle miles traveled charge that is basic in its implementation 8. Maximization of Local Option Taxes — research issues surrounding incentives to take advantage of existing avenues to raise transportation revenue, including local option motor fuel taxes and local option sales taxes for transportation 9. Mobility Fees — document previous research and analyze financial impacts of statewide adoption 10. Toll Rate Making — research options for independent authority to set toll rates on state facilities, e,g, a Public Service Commission model 11. Regional Transportation Financing Authorities — review legislative proposals on the concept and develop potential alternatives 12. Sales Tax on Motor Vehicle Parts/ Accessories — investigate revenue potential of assessing or dedicating an existing portion of sales tax on vehicle related goods and services to the STTF 13, Optional Municipal Sales Tax for Transportation — research and document the potential for broadening the Charter County Surtax to allow municipalities of a certain size to implement 14.. County Vehicle Registration Fee — investigate the issues surrounding and revenue potential of a county decal program 15. Alternative Fuel Decal Program Changes — re-examine the existing state requirement for an alternative fuel decal and fee 16. Expansion of Tops and Increase Local Expressway Authority Role — explore options to increase contributions by existing or new expressway and transportation authorities April 29, 2011 Page 4 We will continue our work over the summer and will be considering which of these options we would recommend to the Legislature for consideration. Again, we invite you and or your staff to participate in our discussions and deliberations. The next meeting to discuss recommendations has been scheduled for September 15, 2011 in Tallahassee at a location to be determined. As an elected official, I understand the political difficulties of discussing revenue issues in light of the current climate. I hope that you agree that the future of the State's economic vitality is immeasurably linked to a world class transportation system. I am anticipating the results of our efforts will be available for consideration by the beginning of 2012. In the meantime, if there is a particular area of concern, direction or interest you would like our research to consider, we ask for your valuable input. Your involvement at this point in our study can help us to be focused on results that are relevant and more easily implemented at a fixture date. Please feel free to contact us to provide updates and status reports on our Transportation Revenue Study. I hope that you agree that the effort to identify and recommend forward - looking, sustainable and innovative solutions to the state's transportation funding issues is an important one. If you have any questions, please call Mr. Howard Glassman, MPOAC Executive Director at (950) 414-4062. Sincerely, Mayor Richa naplan Chairman RWslr Attachment cc: MPOAC Governing Board Members Secretary Ananth Prasad, P.E., Florida Department of Transportation T.J. Fish, Chairman, MPOAC Staff Directors Michael Howe, Chairman, MPOAC Revenue Study Advisory Committee Revenue Study Advisory Committee Members Bill Johnson Executive Director, Florida Airports Council Bob Burleson President, Florida Transportation Builders Association Carrie Blanchard Director of Research and Public Policy, Florida Chamber of Commerce Casey Cook Legislative Advocate, Florida League of Cities Douglas Callaway President, Floridians for Better Transportation Eric Poole Assistant Legislative Director, Florida Association of Counties Janet E. Bowman Director of Legislative Policy & Strategies, The Nature Conservancy in Florida Mary Lou Rajchel President & CEO, Florida Trucking Association Michael Howe MPOAC Staff Directors Rep., RSAC Chair Nancy Leikauf Executive Vice President, Florida Ports Council Richard J. Kaplan Mayor, Chair MPOAC Governing Board Sally Patrenos Executive Director, Florida Transportation Commission Susan Hann American Public Works Association, Florida Chapter Rep. Wes Watson Executive Director, Florida Public Transportation Association IT�7�►17e��i�uF�7PuIu717'1 Board/Committee: Meeting Date: Item Number: Item Title: Item Origination: UPWP Reference: Requested Action Staff Recommendation: St. Lucie TPO Board October 3, 2012 11a Transportation Regional Incentive Program (TRIP) Grant Florida Department of Transportation District 4 (FDOT) Task 5.1 - Regional Planning and Coordination None Not applicable Attachments • Summary Correspondence Transportation Planning for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village and St. Lucie County September 7, 2012 Stacy L. Miller-Novello, P.E. District Four Program Management Office 3400 West Commercial Boulevard Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309 RI;: 2012Transportation Regional Incentive Program (TRIP) Priority Projects Dear Stacy: Attached please find the Treasure Coast Transportation Council 2012 List of Transportation Regional Incentive Program (TRIP) projects. The list is based on the projects and funding totals approved by the Treasure Coast Transportation Council (TCTC) at its 2011 meeting and the revised total TRIP program funding available in FY 2013/14 ($990,000). M/TPO Project Amount Indian River Count MPO 66thAvenue $ 71,250 St. Lucie County TPO Crosstown Parkway Extension $618,7 0 In addition, please note that the subject M/TPO's request the reprogramming of funds for passenger rail station development as follows: M/TPO Project Amount Indian River County MPO 66th Avenue Project $18 ,527 St. Lucie County TPO Crosstown Parkway Extension $18 ,527 Martin County MPO SR76 Interim Interchange Project $18 ,527 If you have any questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Sin�ely, 'Phil Matson, AICP MPO Staff Director Enclosure cc: Peter Buchwald, Director, St. Lucie TPO Beth Beltran, Director, Martin County MPO Arlene Tanis, FDOT-District IV Marjorie Hilaire, FDOT-District IV Attachments: TRIP project forms