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Environmental Protection Agency Emerging Mobility Building Blocks Technical Assistance - Next Steps Action PlanCity of Dubuque City Council Meeting Consent Items # 31. Copyrighted January 18, 2022 ITEM TITLE: United States Environmental Protection Agency Emerging Mobility Building Blocks Technical Assistance - Next Steps Action Plan SUMMARY: City Manager transmitting the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Emerging Mobility Building Blocks Technical Assistance — Next Steps Action Plan. SUGGESTED Suggested Disposition: Receive and File DISPOSITION: /_1if_Td:I�,I=1kih�'5 Description Type Emerging Mobility Building Blocks Technical City Manager Memo Assistance-MVM Memo Staff Memo US EPA Plan Dubuque, IA Emerging Mobility Staff Memo Supporting Documentation Supporting Documentation THE C Dubuque DUj!BQTE WAWca 914 Masterpiece on the Mississippi YP pp aoo�•o 13 zai7*20*�oi9 TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager SUBJECT: United States Environmental Protection Agency Emerging Mobility Building Blocks Technical Assistance - Next Steps Action Plan DATE: January 13, 2022 Director of Transportation Services Ryan Knuckey and Project Manager Steve Sampson Brown are transmitting the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Emerging Mobility Building Blocks Technical Assistance — Next Steps Action Plan. Mic ael C. Van Milligen MCVM:jh Attachment CC' Crenna Brumwell, City Attorney Cori Burbach, Assistant City Manager Ryan Knuckey, Director of Transportation Services Steve Sampson Brown, Project Manager THE CITYF DUijB- El Masterpiece on the Mississippi TO: Michael C. Van Milligen - City Manager FROM: Ryan Knuckey — Director of Transportation Services Steve Sampson Brown - Project Manager Dubuque AII•Anedea M W�­I­ 1IIII®r 2007-2012.2013 2017*2019 SUBJECT: United States Environmental Protection Agency Emerging Mobility Building Blocks Technical Assistance - Next Steps Action Plan DATE: January 12, 2022 INTRODUCTION The purpose of this memorandum is to provide a copy of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Emerging Mobility Building Blocks Technical Assistance - Next Steps Action Plan. BACKGROUND In November 2020, the City of Dubuque sent a letter to the USEPA requesting no cost technical assistance to help city staff address emerging mobility issues within the City of Dubuque (see attachment). The letter described the need for technical assistance in the following way - Dubuque is attracting new residents, businesses, and entertainment options to its central core. With the increase in density comes the challenges of cross- town movement, traffic congestion, and parking. Before the pandemic, downtown arterial roads were becoming congested during rush hour. The City manages a combination of 7 parking garages, 19 surface lots, and 1859 meters and is being encouraged by local developers to invest in additional parking to meet anticipated demands. Additionally, disadvantage residents also face barriers with fixed transit schedules and inequitable access to micro -mobility options. The COVID-19 pandemic has presented Dubuque with a fresh opportunity to rethink its mobility challenges. DISCUSSION During the project city staff collaborated with USEPA and their consultant Renaissance Planning, a transportation planning firm that has six offices located in the Mid -Atlantic and Southeast region of the country. Besides ourselves, the following city staff were part of the core project team: Information Services Manager Chris Kohlmann, Economic Development Director Jill Connors, and Parking Division Supervisor Russ Stecklein. The USEPA Building Blocks Technical Assistance program is intended to help a community move through a process of assessment, convening, and action planning by sharing information about Emerging Mobility and help people create a plan to move forward towards implementation of ideas. It involves a series of pre -and post -workshop Page 1 of 2 conference calls, a self -assessment, and a virtual convening (due to COVID) of residents, local business representatives, and community organization leaders to discuss issues, next steps, and potential actions related to advancing the community's mobility goals. In regard to Emerging Mobility in Dubuque, the EPA technical assistance program provided staff with an opportunity to work with consultants who work across the United States to take a fresh look at potential ideas and solutions. The technical assistance is structured to take a high level, broader view that fosters idea development vs. being an in-depth analysis that provides detailed solutions. The Emerging Mobility final report discusses four focus areas that were assessed during the program: • Focus Area 1 — Collaboration with employers to address local workforce needs. • Focus Area 2 — Access to opportunities through enhanced transit service and information. • Focus Area 3 — A walkable and vibrant downtown through pedestrian -friendly infrastructure. • Focus Area 4 — Innovative solutions to address local transportation needs. Focus Areas 2, 4, and portions of 1 and 3 will be addressed as part of the recently started Smart Parking and Mobility Master Plan Project. Other parts of Focus Area 3 are being addressed through separate capital projects such as the Central Avenue Corridor Streetscape Master Plan, Historic Millwork District Master Plan Update, and other capital project requests that are being proposed as part of the on -going FY23 city budget process. Some parts of Focus Area 1 are already being worked on by the City's Economic Development Department and Greater Dubuque Development Corporation. ACTION TO BE TAKEN No action is requested at this time, this report is being provided for information only. I:` 43W01 cc: Gus Psihoyos - City Engineer Chris Kohlmann - Information Services Manager Jill Connors - Economic Development Director Russ Stecklein - Operation Supervisor — Parking Division Anderson Sainci - Director of the Office of Shared Prosperity Justine Hull - Traffic Engineer Page 2of2 ��A fp• ra W Pit x 1 i tAlb 4 ��p rt• {' a ' �" •• ' i "' ,� mot' i 4- �- ? ��■ Pr In EMERGING MOBILITY e - .t BUILDING BLOCKS TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Next Steps Action Plan for Dubuque, Iowa November 29, 2021 wJF a jr a I- �- 1 Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa INTRODUCTION The core mission of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is to protect human health and the environment. EPA's Office of Community Revitalization (OCR) helps support this mission by working with communities to reach development goals that have positive effects on air, water, public health, economic vitality, and quality of life for residents. OCR created the Building Blocks Technical Assistance program to provide quick, targeted assistance on specific smart growth development topics by bringing subject matter experts to communities. In 2021, OCR provided Building Blocks Technical Assistance to six communities that requested assistance to address either Emerging Mobility or Leveraging Cultural Anchor Institutions. The Building Blocks Technical Assistance process helps a community or organization move through a process of assessment, convening, and action planning by sharing information about a particular smart growth topic and helping people create a plan to move forward on implementation. It includes a series of pre -and post -workshop conference calls, a self -assessment, and an on -site convening of residents and community leaders to discuss issues, next steps, and actions related to advancing the community's specific goals. These efforts help a given community or organization gain a deeper understanding of a particular smart growth issue and identify specific steps necessary to move them closer to implementation. The diagram below outlines the typical flow of a Building Blocks Technical Assistance engagement GETTING TO THE ACTION PLAN & NEXT STEPS MEMO �$� a m a o YQ Qp Next Steps Memoo 2 Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa This action plan describes the community context that led Dubuque, Iowa to request Building Blocks Technical Assistance, the assistance process, and the outcomes of the assistance, which are a set of strategies and specific next steps supporting the community's goals. COMMUNITY CONTEXT As Iowa's oldest city, Dubuque has a long and rich history that dates back to the late 18th century.' Dubuque's riverine location has played an integral role in the city's prosperity and growth- even earning it the nickname "the masterpiece of the Mississippi." Once a center of lead mining and fur trading, the city later transitioned to heavy industry operations like boat building and general millwork. With the decline of these industries, Dubuque grappled with unused land and vacant properties. Over time, the city has worked to redevelop brownfield sites into new attractions and to create a vibrant downtown for residents and visitors. The city has invested in waterfront improvements and has received national recognition for its work to restore the Historic Millwork District. Today, the city of 57,882 residents is growing, and the community would like to ensure that it does so in a way that is equitable and sustainable. With major employers opening job centers in the West End of Dubuque, people are increasingly commuting to areas with limited transit access. As highlighted in the Imagine Dubuque 2037 Plan, there is a need for new and improved transportation options. The city is interested in exploring emerging mobility tools and programs to address local needs in an innovative way. Additionally, the city would also like to highlight existing assets like the Bee Branch trail system and generally encourage more walking and biking in and around the downtown. The Building Blocks Technical Assistance workshop will The workshop explored strategies to improve mobility, further these goals by bringing together diverse connectivity, and access in the Dubuque area. stakeholders and by facilitating discussions on specific (CREDIT: Renaissance Planning) community needs. The process will identify key priorities, strategies, and actions so that Dubuque can develop its transportation networks and equitably grow as a community. STEERING COMMITTEE The Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program requires each partner community to convene a Steering Committee that is responsible for providing background and contextual information to the consulting ' History I City of Dubuque 3 Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa team. They also help with workshop preparations, including advertising and spreading the word about the workshop sessions. The Steering Committee is also responsible for championing this Next Steps Action Plan and holding the community accountable for implementing actions in the plan. The following individuals served on Dubuque's Steering Committee and took part in pre -workshop coordination calls, the workshop sessions, action planning, and post -workshop follow up. Steve Sampson -Brown Jill Connors Chris Kohlmann Russ Stecklein Wally Wernimont Jason White Paul Duster Candace Eudaley-Loebach Dan LoBianco Wendi Mihm-Herold KEY COMMUNITY ISSUES City of Dubuque City of Dubuque City of Dubuque City of Dubuque City of Dubuque Greater Dubuque Development Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque Lovely City Consulting Dubuque Main Street Northeast Iowa Community College Prior to the workshop, the Steering Committee identified key strengths, challenges, and opportunities related to mobility and transportation networks in Dubuque. These issues and opportunities were refined and expanded during the workshop. The following section highlights some of the themes that emerged, informing the workshop's focus areas, preparation, content, and directly influencing the steps included in this action plan. Strengths • Successful small and large-scale redevelopment projects • Distinct character with many historic structures • Engaged community members and organizations 4 Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa • Growing trail network in and around the city Challenges • Transit access to jobs and key services (i.e., childcare) • Transit service days/hours • Jobs -housing mismatch • Perceived lack of parking in downtown • Topographic challenges to active transportation modes Opportunities • Quality employers/employment opportunities • Public sector interest in innovative solutions • Recent streetscape improvements and ADA compliance plan COMMUNITY CONVENING The Building Blocks Technical Assistance workshop took place on September 1411 and 161", 2021. The workshop brought together representatives from the City of Dubuque, local agencies, and others who live and work in the Dubuque area. Several of these participants were also part of the Steering Committee that organized the two- day workshop. Representatives of the EPA were also in attendance while EPA contractors from Renaissance Planning facilitated the event. The two work sessions and the public meeting were conducted virtually using the Zoom platform. Public Meeting The first convening of the workshop was a public meeting held virtually on September 14'. The event was attended by approximately 50 people including residents and those representing local businesses. National and regional EPA representatives were also in attendance while contractors from Renaissance Planning facilitated the discussions and activities. The purpose of the meeting was to help Dubuque and its community partners begin to brainstorm ways to improve the local transportation infrastructure for better mobility, access, and connectivity to key destinations. The facilitators began by delivering a presentation on the purpose and goals of the two-day workshop and its relationship to Dubuque's ongoing efforts. The presentation then briefly covered terminology and key concepts related to emerging mobility that would aid later discussions. The facilitators also shared their initial observations on the Dubuque area, which included challenges as well as areas of opportunity. Virtual Tour The public meeting also included a slideshow tour of Dubuque to set the context and aid later discussions. The virtual tour introduced the organizational structure of the transportation departments and outlined the district boundaries as identified by the city. This includes areas like the West End District, the College Grandview District, and the Downtown. Several maps were shown to illustrate distances between key areas of interest, major Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa roadways, transit routes, and bikeways. Finally, the tour also shared corridor improvements and economic development projects that are scheduled to take place. Interactive Mapping Later in the session, attendees took part in an interactive mapping activity to identify key destinations and areas with perceived safe and unsafe transportation access. The mapping activity asked participants to place different colored dots on the map to visualize the spatial distribution of these different locations within Dubuque. The exercise highlighted where the community would most like to see investment in the near term and helped to confirm the facilitation team's initial observations. The product of the mapping exercise can be seen below. Community members utilized the Mural virtual whiteboard platform to map assets and challenge areas in Dubuque. 6 Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa Facilitators also shared four draft focus areas, which had been developed based on pre -workshop conversations with the Steering Committee. The focus areas are: 1. Collaboration: Learn more about the needs of businesses in the West End and Downtown, and residents who need to access these destinations, and tailor emerging mobility options to help address their specific needs. 2. Access to opportunities: Use emerging mobility options to meet travel needs between the West End jobs center and the Washington and North End neighborhoods. 3. Walkable and vibrant downtown: Invest in emerging mobility and walkability to enable less driving and reduce parking demand in the downtown area. 4. Innovative solutions to local needs: Invest in technologies that respond to specific needs in Dubuque, provide targeted solutions to parking needs, and help increase the attractiveness of non -auto modes. These focus areas were presented as starting points and would be refined over the course of the following two stakeholder work sessions. Stakeholder Work Session Work Session 1 On September 16th about 30 people reconvened virtually to synthesize the discussions from the public meeting into specific actions aimed at improving multimodal safety and access to key destinations in and around the 7 Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa Dubuque community. The session began with a recap of information presented during the public meeting and a summary of the feedback generated during the interactive mapping exercise. The technical assistance team then presented case studies and best practice examples from other communities that could serves as inspiration for ways Dubuque could achieve its own mobility goals. The case studies and examples presented during the session include: GO Express Travel in Bloomington, IN: Employer sponsored transportation programs can help expand and improve job opportunities around the local community. Major employers can offer shuttles and other special arrangements for employees to get to work locations more efficiently and affordably. The GO Express Travel company in Bloomington, Indiana offers a corporate shuttle service. Employers can work with the provider to arrange transportation to their facilities during peak commute times. Via to Transit Program in Seattle, Washington: In coordination with King County Metro, the Seattle Department of Transportation launched a "Via to Transit" program that provides on -demand transportation to local transit hubs. Pairing emerging mobility services with existing transit can address first and last mile problems, and riders can have a better -connected travel experience with shorter commute times and increased personal safety. RideKC in Kansas City, MO: Through a partnership agreement, RideKC integrates transit and shared mobility options in the Kansas City area. Riders can seamlessly access information about services and pay user fees through a single online platform. In addition to the public transit, RideKC offers both traditional and electric -assist bikes that can address first and last mile needs. The second half of the work session included an interactive brainstorming session that used the Mural virtual whiteboard tool to brainstorm potential actions to take within each focus area. The results of this activity are below: • Meet with West End employers to hear more directly their needs and interest/willingness to support microtransit or shuttle solutions. • Also researching west end employers' needs regarding childcare transportation needs. Should coordinate. • Carpools for businesses and organizations should be encouraged. • Educating employers is so important • Provide information to employers about benefits of supporting employee transportation • The city could host listening sessions at individual nonprofit & business locations • Need to engage either part time or retired people to address workforce shortage here locally • Students also have issues getting to NICC campus/ Peosta • Meet with Metro Link in the Quad Cities to learn about their microtransit pilot and consider the concept for Dubuque. • These neighborhoods can access the Jule's Intermodal Center, which provides pretty good access to the West End through the Express bus and connecting routes at the JFK Circle transfer • Some of these options would possibly lead me to re- enter the workforce if transportation issues were addressed. • These are low-income neighborhoods, so equity efforts should emphasize improvements here • Sidewalks needed on 32nd Street to give safer access to walkers/bikers connecting from downtown/north end to NW Arterial area • Recruit and retain transit operators • Microtransit solution for West End • Organize an event to bring people together; show what is possible in terms of biking/walking • 14th street ped and vehicle overpass; extend trails; connect to jobs • Evaluate if there are any codes, regs, or policies that hinder dense/walkable development (parking minimums, setbacks, etc.) • Downtown neighborhoods are flat and easier to bike/walk (topographically), so that advantage should be capitalized • Opportunity for road diets? Could calm traffic and free up ROW space for multimodal (bike lanes etc.) • City commuter incentive program (free transit, transit ambassadors, bike buddies, competition) • Curious about the overall impact of the increase in working from home. • City needs a better understanding of private business remote work policies will be in the future • Main Street is lacking vibrancy in general, for example more coffee shops and places to gather • Rather than offering a free parking space with a job, offer a generic transportation benefit (I walk to work and don't really get my parking "benefit") • Curb bulb -outs and chicanes (for example) improve walkability while also providing a streetscaping opportunity that calms traffic • Building more parking always leads to more driving - do we need an 8th parking ramp? Work Session 2 Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa • Update city's sidewalk policy to alleviate burden on homeowners and get more sidewalks built. • Consider adding a proactive sidewalk improvement/ construction program to the CIP. • Shuttle/bus from downtown to Peosta, possibly with one central stop (e.g. JFK) - would benefit education & job opportunities • Point to point shuttle from 16th & Central to Chavanelle for example, for each shift • Connect NW Arterial and Chavenelle paths with biking routes to/from the downtown and North End area. • Expanding and supporting not just city bus routes but other existing programs including RTA and DuRide. Recruiting staff and volunteers remains a challenge • Also consider other resources like DURIDE, although focus there is older groups served • Concern of those who are tech challenged who need transportation • Host events to introduce people to new options like e- bike share (demo days) or have demos at community events (farmers market, etc.) • Maybe develop helpers (could be retired) for helping people to bridge the technology. An example is I have been techie all my life, but zoom and Mural intimidate even myself. • MaaS (mobility as a Service) to have integrated system for microtransit, micromobility, and transit options • Explore west end businesses hosting daycare at their location The final work session took place later in the afternoon of September 16t" with around 30 stakeholders. Building off the actions that were identified in the previous session, participants took part in a Mural action prioritization and planning activity to pinpoint specific steps and resources that would be necessary for key actions. This activity directly informed the next steps and action plan described in the final section of this document. 9 Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa NEXT STEPS Participants discussed and voted on the actions they believe are most important. The remainder of the workshop focused on identifying implementation details such as resources (both needed and available), lead and supporting roles, measures of success, and immediate next steps. The outcome is a set of next steps serving as an action roadmap for the Dubuque community and partners as they work towards safer and more equitable mobility options in their neighborhood. A summary of topics and supporting actions is below. The tables that follow provide additional detail for each topic and action. Focus Area 1 — Collaboration with employers to address local workforce needs • Action 1.1 — Host a business roundtable or listening session to discuss findings from the recent Resident Transportation Survey and general employment trends (i.e., WFH, worker shortages) • Action 1.2 — Create a starter guide for employers to learn about commuter incentive programs - including case studies and data on potential program outcomes • Action 1.3 — Explore the potential for a collaborative employer -sponsored shuttle service between the Downtown and West End • Action 1.4 — Explore the potential for an employer -sponsored childcare facility in the West End Focus Area 2 — Access to opportunities through enhanced transit service and information • Action 2.1 — Hire new bus drivers using incentives and creative recruitment strategies • Action 2.2 — Expand bus service (routes, frequency, hours) to key destinations • Action 2.3 — Review materials on transit services to ensure information is accessible and easy to understand Focus Area 3 — A walkable and vibrant downtown through pedestrian -friendly infrastructure • Action 3.1 — Improve bike storage options in the downtown • Action 3.2 — Identify priority locations and implement Complete Streets efforts like traffic calming and landscaping • Action 3.3 — Highlight existing bicycle and pedestrian assets like the Bee Branch Trail with wayfinding options and other tools • Action 3.4 — Audit codes, regulations, and policies to identify potential barriers to pedestrian -friendly land use and development Focus Area 4 — Innovative solutions to address local transportation needs • Action 4.1 — Organize educational events to teach community about emerging mobility (i.e., a -bikes and scooters) • Action 4.2 — Explore Mobility as a Service (MaaS) to integrate platforms for different transportation services • Action 4.3 — Implement smart parking strategies to manage demand (i.e., availability tracking apps) 10 Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa ACTION PLAN This section outlines specific actions that could support each focus area. The actions and outcomes documented below were initiated by attendees of the Building Blocks workshop and expanded and refined by the Technical Assistance Team. These actions represent opportunities for collaboration between local government, organizations, and community members to achieve stated goals related to improved transportation mobility in Dubuque. FOCUS AREA 1: Collaboration with employers to address local workforce needs The results from the recent Resident Transportation Survey suggest that Dubuque residents often work in a city district separate from where they live. In the survey, some respondents noted that transportation -related challenges have impacted their ability to apply for or accept a job. Others indicate that they have arrived late or too early to work because of their transportation. These findings highlight the importance of efficient, convenient, and reliable transportation to and from a workplace. Collaboration between employers and the local workforce can be an important way to identify obstacles and to find appropriate solutions. Additionally, collaboration among employers can help to consolidate efforts and achieve mutually beneficial outcomes. The following section outlines actions that may be taken to address workforce challenges, specifically as they pertain to transportation. • Transportation is linked to job access and security • Present employers with data and information that they may be otherwise unaware of • Capture employer attention through City -organized event • Greater accountability when approached as part of city-wide workforce development goals • Employers may not be familiar with the different strategies • Combined with information gathered from Action 1.1, can identify suitable programs to address employee needs • Success stories and data on positive outcomes can encourage employers to implement strategies Identify meeting format and coordinate logistics Interpret the findings from the Resident Transportation Survey and identify themes and main challenges Host event and outline next steps Identify point person who will compile resources Draft guide Distribute to employers Employers are aware of employee challenges Employers express interest in implementing new programs or services to address issues • Employers are aware of commuter incentive strategies • Employers implement commuter incentive programs • Greater employee retention rates • Positive employee feedback on implemented programs 11 Short (0-1 year) • Aggregate survey responses • Coordinate and schedule discussion/ roundtable • Identify actions that will be taken as a result of survey findings and discussion Midterm (1-2 years) • Implement identified changes/actions • Monitor outcomes and gauge success through additional resident surveys Short (0-1 year) • Draft guide • Distribute to employers Midterm (1-2 years) • Follow up with employers to note cases of implementation LEAD: • City of Dubuque SUPPORT: • Greater Dubuque Development • Local employers • Employees • Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce • The Lovely City • Temp agencies • Iowa WORKS LEAD: • City of Dubuque SUPPORT: • Local employers • Dubuque Main Street • ECIA Staff or volunteer time: Survey information processing; discussion event coordination Information Resources: Resident Transportation Survey Staff or volunteer time: Guide research and creation; distribution to local employers Information Resources: Employer Commute Program Toolkit I Sonoma Countv Transportation Authority Guidebook to Implementing An Employer Based Commute Options Proaram Commuter Benefit Solutions — How it Works for Emolovers Commuter Financial Incentives Commuter Financial Incentives The West End has a concentration of major employers The Resident Transportation Survey notes commutes between the West End and Downtown A coordinated effort with resource sharing can lead to more efficient outcomes Greater accountability when working as a collective Childcare is often expensive and difficult to find The West End employment centers may be far from available childcare options More equitable employment opportunities (i.e., working mothers) Co -locating workplaces and childcare can lead to more efficient commutes and less turnover • Recruit employer and employee representatives • Identify key needs and desired outcomes • Create plan to implement key goals (i.e., program structure, potential routes) • Pilot shuttle program and gather feedback • Recruit employer and employee representatives • Identify key needs and desired outcomes • Research program models and recruit specialist consultant/provider • Greater employer collaboration to address employee transportation challenges • Specific actions or programs are identified to address transportation challenges • Creation of a temporary or permanent shuttle program • Positive feedback from workforce • Less employee turnover and tardiness • More diverse applicant pools • Employees report less time spent accessing childcare • Employees report shorter commute times 12 Short (0-1 year) • Form working group • Outline objectives, timeline, resources • Work with shuttle provider to coordinate pilot program Midterm (1-2 years) • Pilot shuttle program • Gather feedback and make adjustments as needed Long term (2+ years) • Depending on feedback, move towards implementation of permanent shuttle program Short (0-1 year) • Engage with employees to identify childcare needs and preferences • Identify potential program models and work with consultant/specialist to identify program structure Midterm (1-2 years) • Pilot program and assess success LEAD: • Employers • Employees SUPPORT: • City of Dubuque • Dubuque Chamber of Commerce • The Lovely City • Shuttle service provider LEAD: • Local employers SUPPORT: • Childcare Resource and Referral • Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce • Employees • Advocacy groups Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa Staff or volunteer time: Meeting and coordination; pilot implementation work Potential Funding Resources: CDBG Career Link (Employment Transportation) I IowaGrants Information Resources: Employee Commute Programs I Uber for Business Emolover Partnerships I Rideshare Shotl Staff or volunteer time: Discussion coordination; program planning Potential Funding Resources: Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program I Rural Development USDA (*Private borrowers not eligible. Eligible borrowers include: Public bodies, Community -based non-profit corporations, Federally -recognized Tribes) Information Resources: Childcare Workforce Toolkit I U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation The Case for Employer -Sponsored Child Care Onsite Child Care I Learning Care Group Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa FOCUS AREA 2: Access to opportunities through enhanced transit services and information The City of Dubuque offers important public transportation through the Jule fixed -route bus service. The DuRide and Minibus paratransit are also available to seniors and passengers who require special assistance and door-to-door access. As in many other places, the COVID-19 pandemic and public health concerns impacted transit routes and schedules. Although some of the pandemic -related adjustments are returning to normal, the city also faces a shortage of bus drivers and reduced capacity. With access to opportunities as a key focus area for Dubuque, hiring new bus drivers can be an important step in providing the necessary level of transit services. Similarly, route and schedule expansions could further help transit -dependent populations. The next section elaborates on these and other actions that could work to improve the community's access to opportunities. • COVID-19 has affected pool of available drivers • Driver shortage impacts ability to maintain bus services • The bus is a key form of transportation for many people • Opportunity to grow and strengthen the local workforce • COVID-19 caused changes and disruptions to routes and schedules • The resident transportation survey indicates improved bus service as top priority to improve commutes • Lack of sufficient transportation can affect access to economic and social opportunities • Residents and visitors may not be aware of local transportation options due to gaps in information • Clearer and more accessible information can increase ridership • Reach diverse populations and offer more equitable access through information sharing • Secure funding to hire additional drivers • Identify recruitment strategies to reach potential drivers • Advertise positions and begin hiring process • Identify funding to expand service • Assess COVID-19 impacts on schedules, routes, and frequency • Work with local community to identify gaps in service and areas of high demand • Gather feedback on existing resources and services like City of Dubuque website, MyJule, and MyRide (survey, focus groups) • Identify user needs and improvements to address them • Implement changes to print and digital mediums • New driver job postings • Interest in positions and growing number of applications • New drivers hired/Increase in available drivers • Increase in ridership • Riders report being able to access more destinations • Riders report shorter trips to key services • Riders report greater understanding of bus routes and schedules • Increased ridership • Increased traffic to online resources and tools 13 Short term (0-1 year) • Post jobs and recruit • Hire new bus drivers Midterm (1-2 years) • Assess if additional drivers are needed Short (0-1 year) • Return bus hours and frequencies to pre -pandemic levels Midterm (1-2 years) • Work with community to identify unmet transportation needs and expand service • Continue monitoring impact Short term (0-1 year) • Gather feedback from riders and the local community • Review existing materials and update based on needs LEAD: • City of Dubuque- Human Resources • The Jule • Minibus SUPPORT: • Advocacy and interest groups • Local workforce LEAD: • The City of Dubuque • The Jule SUPPORT: • Community members • Business owners LEAD: • City of Dubuque • DuRide • Minibus • The Jule SUPPORT: • The Lovely City Staff or volunteer time: Recruitment strategizing and outreach; hiring process Potential Funding Resources: Human Resources & Training - 5314 L Build Back Better Regional Challenge I U.S. EDA Information Resources: Recruiting & Retaining Bus Operators I APTA 6 Low -Cost Ways to Boost Driver Recruitment Staff or volunteer time: Rider survey creation, distribution, and analysis; planning updates to existing service Potential Funding Resources: Route Planning Restoration Program Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Formula Program - 5339(a) Information Resources: Staff or volunteer time: Survey creation, distribution, and analysis; audit of existing materials; updates to digital and print information Information Resources: Targeted Strategies for Generating Ridership I National RTAP Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa 14 Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa FOCUS AREA 3: A walkable and vibrant downtown through pedestrian -friendly infrastructure As the community continues to grow, cross-town traffic is an increasing concern for the City of Dubuque. At present, the City maintains 7 parking garages and 19 surface lots. In addition to congestion issues, the car -centric landscape does not lend itself to an atmosphere of vibrancy and activated street life. Nevertheless, with a grid layout and connections to nearby trails, Dubuque's downtown has a strong foundation to become a pedestrian haven. Simple changes like additional bike storage and improved trail wayfinding could encourage people to bike to and walk around the downtown. Larger changes like development and code audits could also remove unnecessary barriers to more pedestrian -friendly land uses in the future. This section will outline possible actions to reduce driving and create a more walkable and vibrant downtown. • Easy and secure storage options can incentivize more bike trips • Fewer bikes in prohibited areas • Encourage use of local bike trails • Reduce private car trips and downtown congestion • Creating a safer and more appealing environment for walking and biking can lead to a decrease in driving • More equitable transportation access • Safer street environment for all modes • Opportunity to combine work with other improvements like stormwater management • Work with community and local businesses to identify priority areas • Research and identify storage solution • Identify funding mechanism Identify funding mechanism Conduct city audit of infrastructure and survey community to identify priority areas Outline project: treatments, timeline, cost • More people biking in and around the downtown • Fewer reports of bike thefts or damage • Increased use of connecting trails • Fewer cars downtown • Fewer crashes and traffic -related injuries • More pedestrians and cyclists; less car traffic • A more vibrant street life observed 15 Short term (0-1 year) • Community feedback gathering • Storage and location identification • Secure funding Midterm (1-2 years) • Installation of bike storage • Monitor usage and gather feedback Short (0-1 year) • Identify funding • Pinpoint priority areas and treatment Midterm (1-2 years) • Implement changes and monitor impact • Adjust based on feedback LEAD: • City of Dubuque SUPPORT: • Biking advocacy and community groups • Local businesses LEAD: • City of Dubuque SUPPORT: • The Lovely City • Dubuque Main Street • Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportation Study (DMATS) • Pedestrian and cyclist advocacy groups • Downtown businesses • Community members Staff or volunteer time: Coordination with community; location and funding identification; installation planning Potential Funding Resources: PeopleForBikes Grant Funding Information Resources: Bike Parking Guide I Dero Bicycle Parking I Online TDM Encyclopedia Staff or volunteer time: Community input gathering and scan of downtown infrastructure; funding identification work; implementation coordinating Potential Funding Resources: Transportation Alternatives Programs Surface Transportation Block Grant Program (STBG) Information Resources: Street Design Elements I NACTO Complete Streets Toolbox I Ozarks Transportation Organization Why is this important? MJ • Dubuque has many walking and biking trails that people may not be aware of • Signage could be developed to match City branding for cohesion • Increased attention to trails can decrease driving and downtown traffic • Improved wayfinding can allow for more equitable access (reach different user populations) • Trails can become a destination of their own • Identify unnecessary obstacles to pedestrian -friendly development • The built environment and development patterns have long-term walkability impacts • Streamline processes and make regulatory updates to incentivize desired development Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa • Identify funding mechanism 0 More people are aware of and using Short (0-1 year) LEAD: Staff or volunteer time: • Research best practices trails 0 Identify locations and wayfinding 0 City of Dubuque Work with community to identify locations • Work with community to identify 0 Increased community and leadership tools SUPPORT: and wayfinding strategies; installation strategies and locations interest in expanding trail system 0 Secure funding 0 Dubuque Main Street planning • Plan installation approach 0 Bike storage is well -utilized Midterm (1-2 years) • Local artists • Install wayfinding and observe impact Yf 9 p • Community members Potential Funding Resources: • Add additional signage or adjust as • Business owners HARP Community Challenge Grant necessary 0 Advocacy and community -based National Endowment for the Arts groups Information Resources: WaVfindinq Guide - A Guide for Urban Trail Networks by LivableStreets Bike Route WaVfindinq Signage and Markings System I NACTO Seamless Seattle Pedestrian Wayfinding Program • Examine development related code 0 More compact development Short (0-1 year) LEAD: Staff or volunteer time: and policies in municipalities with 0 Increase in pedestrian traffic • Review policies and make necessary City of Dubuque Document consolidating; coordination with pedestrian -oriented development 0 Less demand for new parking facilities updates or amendments SUPPORT: relevant agencies and companies; policy • Identify all relevant policies across 0 Dubuque Main Street review; update and amendment drafting different regulatory entities 0 Community members • Coordinate workshop to review 0 Business owners Information Resources: existing policies and regulations 0 Utility providers Smart Growth Implementation Toolkit • Developers DIY Zoning Code Audit 16 Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa FOCUS AREA 4: Innovative solutions to address local transportation needs Emerging mobility tools may offer an innovative way for Dubuque to address existing transportation challenges. Namely, emerging mobility could help manage Dubuque's areas of focus like parking and equitable access to nonautomotive modes of travel. Given that emerging mobility is a new concept for many, educational events and opportunities to learn about the different strategies can be helpful for community members. Their feedback would be crucial to the implementation and adoption of any such tools. This final section offers actions that could be taken to harness technology to address Dubuque's critical transportation needs. • Education is an important step in the acceptance and adoption of new technologies • Engage populations that may not be comfortable using technology • Community members can provide feedback on different programs to help determine future investments • Streamline the travel planning and payment process across different modes and services • Create a more accessible and comfortable transportation experience • Better utilize range of existing transportation services • Address first and last mile challenges through integration with micromobility • Avoid traditional approach of constructing additional parking lots • Decongest downtown through efficient identification of open parking • Identify emerging mobility topics or projects of interest • Recruit partnership agencies, businesses, advocacy organizations • Identify ongoing community events that could feature emerging mobility showcases/ events • Survey community interest and needs • Research MaaS best practices and implementation models • Identify funding mechanism • Review recommendations in +1500 Downtown Dubuque • Identify priority recommendations to implement space 0 Identify funding mechanism • Maximize capacity of existing parking • Explore potential service or device lots through technological updates providers Residents report an increased understanding of emerging mobility topics Residents can share their feedback on different emerging mobility strategies for the community Increased ridership across different transit services Community members report shorter trip times Decrease in road congestion across the city • Decrease in downtown congestions - particularly before high -traffic local events • Community members report less time looking for parking 17 Short (0-1 year • Coordinate and host educational event • Gather and assess community feedback on event Midterm (1-2 years) • Execute additional events depending on interest • Pursue implementation of favorably received emerging mobility options Short (0-1 year) • Community needs and strategy research • Secure funding Midterm (1-2 years) • Service provider identification and implementation Short (0-1 year) • Strategy identification • Secure funding Midterm (1-2 years) • Work with identified provider for installation/ implementation • Monitor impacts and adjust LEAD: • City of Dubuque SUPPORT: • Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportation Study (DMATS) • Advocacy and interest groups • Community members LEAD: • City of Dubuque SUPPORT: • The Jule • Minibus • DuRide • Technology/ service providers LEAD: • City of Dubuque- Parking Division; Planning & Zoning SUPPORT: • The Lovely City • Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportation Study (DMATS) • Technology service/device provider Staff or volunteer time: Event organization and execution; event feedback processing Potential Funding Resources: Better Bike Share Information Resources: Emerging Technology and Innovation I National Association of City Transportation Officials Staff or volunteer time: Strategy identification; grant writing; planning with service provider Potential Funding Resources: Accelerating Innovative Mobility Integrated Mobility Innovation Information Resources: MaaS Library I MAAS-Alliance Staff or volunteer time: Strategy research; funding identification/ grant writing; implementation Potential Funding Resources: Accelerating Innovative Mobility Integrated Mobility Innovation Advanced Transportation and Congestion Management Technologies Deployment Information Resources: +1500 Downtown Dubuaue Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa APPENDIX Additional Resources U.S. EPA Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities http://www.epa.gov/dced/buildingblocks.htm National League of Cities, Cities Connecting Children to Nature https://www.nlc.org/cities-connectinq-children-to-nature Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter Nearby Nature Program/Excursiones a la Naturaleza de Nuevo Mexico (Outings to the Nature of NM) https://www.facebook.com/ExcursionesNaturaIezaNM/ AARP Age -Friendly: Inspiring Communities Report (2015) http://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/network-age-friendly-communities/info-2015/8-domains-of-livability- case-studies.html AARP Walk Audit Tool Kit https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/getting-around/info-2014/aarp-walk-audit-tool-kit. html Bright Spots in Community Engagement: Case Studies of U.S. Communities Creating Greater Civic Participation from the Bottom Up (2013) http://www.knightfoundation.org/media/uploads/publication Ofs/BrightSpots-final.0f Creating Equitable, Healthy, and Sustainable Communities: Strategies for Advancing Smart Growth, Environmental Justice, and Equitable Development (2013) http://www2.epa.gov/smartgrowth/creating-egu itable-healthy-and-sustainable-communities-strategies- advancing-smart-growth Educate and Empower: Tools for Building Community Wealth (2015) http://democracycollaborative.org/content/educate-and-empower-tools-bu ild ing-community-wealth-0 EJ Screen http://www2.epa.gov/eiscreen/what-eiscreen APTA Mobility Innovation Hub https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/mobility-innovation-hub/ New Routes to Equity: The Future of Transportation in the Black Community 18 Building Blocks Technical Assistance Emerging Mobility Dubuque, Iowa https://www.cbcfinc.org/publication/new-routes-to-equity-the-future-of-transportation-in-the-black-community/ NACTO Guidelines for Regulating Shared Micromobility https://nacto.org/sharedmicromobilitVquidelines/ Safe Routes to Healthy Food https://www.saferoutespartnership.org/healthy-communities/101 /safe -routes -healthy -food Micromobility Policy Atlas https://learn.sharedusemobiIitycenter.org/atlas/? Four Steps Towards Mobility Integration for Public Agencies https://sharedusemobiIitycenter.orq/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/05.08.19 PolicyPaper SUMC.pdf Smart City Challenge: Lessons Learned https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/Smart%20City%20ChaIlenge%20Lessons%20Learned. pdf Curbside Management Technical Resources https://www. ite.org/technical-resources/topics/complete-streets/curbside-management-resources/ NACTO Blueprint for Autonomous Urbanism https://nacto.org/publication/bau2/ The Scenic Route Guide to Arts, Culture, And Transportation https://www. transportation. art/?eType=EmaiIBlastContent&eId=97464b36-745d-4122-bdf0-d4988f9bc167 EPA Region 6 Brownfield Program overview https://www.epa.gov/brownfields/brownfields-and-land-revitalization-region-6 Multipurpose, Assessment, RLF, and Cleanup (MARC) Grant Application Resources https://www.epa.gov/brownfields/multipurpose-assessment-rlf-and-cleanup-marc-grant-application-resources Targeted Brownfields Assessment (TBA) Information https://www.epa.gov/brownfields/region-6-targeted-brownfields-assessment https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2016-12/documents/2017 r6 tba brochure.pdf The Pop -Up Placemaking Tool Kit https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/tool-kits-resources/info-2019/pop-up-tool-kit.html 19 THE CITY OF DUB_J*__TE Masterpiece on the Mississippi November 16, 2020 Dubuque Office of the Mayor City Hall 50 West 131h Street NI-Amedulity Dubuque, IA 52001-4864 563-589-4100 www.cityofdubuque.org 2007-2012-2013 2017*2019 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency — Office of Community Revitalization 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20460 Re: Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities — Letter of Interest The City of Dubuque is interested in receiving "Addressing Emerging Mobility" technical assistance: Nature of challenge: Unlike many small communities, Dubuque is experiencing a population increase (0.5% since 2010 Census). This growth is directly related to its downtown revitalization efforts. That work was recognized in 2013 with an EPA National Award for Smart Growth Achievement, honoring the restoration of the city's Historic Millwork District and brownfields redevelopment in the low-income/minority Washington Neighborhood. As a result, Dubuque has attracted new residents (particularly millennials), businesses, and entertainment options to its central core. With increased density comes the challenges of cross-town movement, traffic congestion, and parking. Before the pandemic, downtown arterial roads were clogged during rush hour. The City — which manages a combination of 7 garages, 19 surface lots, and 1,859 meters — was regularly encouraged by developers to invest in additional parking to meet growing demand. Low-income residents also faced barriers with fixed transit schedules and inequitable access to micro -mobility options. COVID-19 presents Dubuque with an opportunity to rethink mobility. Many requiring workers will not return to their offices until mid-2021 at the earliest. Major employers of knowledge -based workers are considering teleworking systems which will further limit traffic flow. As a result, the City's parking revenue models will fall short (estimated to drop 40%) as residents work from home and shop online. These emerging trends portend a future where downtown parking is less critical, street design must be reimagined, transit flexibility is essential, and micro -mobility options need to be universally available. Technical assistance & challenge: Dubuque seeks technical assistance to develop new, sustainable solutions to its transportation hurdles. The City envisions a comprehensive "Smart Travel" approach that weaves together the following elements: • Smart parking: Using camera/sensor technology and parking apps to direct users to available parking options, enabling Dubuque to improve the efficiency of existing parking structures, close poorly -performing garages and lots, and avoid the costs of new parking construction. • Micro -mobility: Expanding access to bikeshare, electric scooters, and other alternative transportation devices for residents in the low-income Washington and North End neighborhoods, thereby improving the mobility of those without a vehicle. • Innovative street design: Reinventing local roads with improved access for pedestrians, bikers, and transit vehicles; less parking; and intelligent transportation system technologies. • Flexible transit options: Launching a downtown rapid transit shuttle with park -and -ride commuting, as well as working with local businesses (particularly manufacturers on the West End) to match fixed -route schedules with workday start times. • Other real-time travel information: Providing point -of -origin to point -of -destination travel information with mobile apps, including fastest route, shortest route by distance, and alternative transportation options (walking, biking, transit, etc.). • New financial models: Shifting from a demand pricing philosophy (which may no longer be viable post -pandemic) to convenience pricing strategies, which would require people to pay more for priority spaces near mixed -use development. Alignment with previous plans or strategy implementation: In 2017, Dubuque completed its Imagine Dubuque 2037 comprehensive plan. Following a year of community engagement that gathered over 12,500 ideas from more than 6,000 stakeholders, the plan serves as a guide for the community's physical, social, and economic development. This effort envisioned improved transportation options, infrastructure upgrades, and better connectivity. Building Blocks technical assistance aligns with these goals. Earlier this year, Dubuque was awarded a $1 million FHWA Accelerated Innovation Deployment Demonstration Grant to implement its Smart Traffic Routing with Efficient and Effective Traffic Signals (STREETS) project. The goal of the project is to develop an automatic system that will use traffic -control strategies to enable dynamic routing on 10 corridors to maximize existing roadway capacities. This STREETS technology could also count available on -street parking spaces as it measures congestion. The project also leverages cleanup in the Washington Neighborhood with EPA Brownfields resources, the development of Complete Streets in the Historic Millwork District with DOT BUILD funding, and economic development across downtown with federal Opportunity Zone tax incentives. Capacity for implementation: Dubuque commits to taking whatever steps are necessary following the Building Blocks technical assistance to enact changes that will help improve mobility across the community, including policy changes, updates to master plans, development incentives, infrastructure investment, and more. Project partners: This effort will involve active participation by municipal staff within the Economic Development, Engineering, Parking, and Transit departments. External partners include Dubuque Main Street, the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Dubuque Development Corporation, local businesses and manufacturers, and neighborhood leaders. EPA Region 7 officials will also be invited to engage in technical assistance opportunities. Engaging traditionally underrepresented communities: The City will conduct an extensive outreach effort to encourage community participation. Dubuque will work with neighborhood groups, churches, business associations, educational institutions, non-profit groups, and other organizations to attract interested stakeholders. Newsletter mailings, web sites, social media, and other communication tools will be employed to reach underrepresented communities. This outreach has proven effective in Dubuque's brownfields engagement efforts within the Washington, North End, and Point Neighborhoods. Primary point of contact: Steve Sampson Brown, Project Manager, City of Dubuque -Engineering Dept., 50 W. 13th St., Dubuque, IA 52001; Phone: 563-589-4272; Email: sbrown@cityofdubuque.org As Mayor, I affirm that the City is ready to handle all logistical details, including marketing, stakeholder recruitment, and other preparations. I also plan to personally attend and participate in the workshop. Thank you for your consideration of this technical assistance request. Please contact me with any questions. Sincerely, " " P, 4--� Roy D. Buol Mayor