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Bee Branch Watershed Application, Tab B, Appendix A, (G) IDOT SRT Award and ApplicationIowa Department of Transportation Er 800 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50010 515 -239 -1252 Fax: 51 33 -7857 „1,1, ! ! OCT 1 7 201 J October 14, 2011 Laura Cartstens, Planning Services Manager City of Dubuque 50 W. 13th Street Dubuque, IA 52001 Dear Ms. Cartstens: Oyettn::q• 1;20,) (;l i Y OF !'; ; i.i?-- � Pl.AP! ^!;!•; ; {_,)_r$;, ngi`!T Re: July 1, 2011 State Recreational Trails Program Funding Applications Congratulations and thank you for submitting your State Recreational Trails Program funding appiication for the July 1, 2011 funding cycle. We received 29 applications for review. On October 11, 2011, the Iowa Transportation Commission approved funding assistance for the following 12 projects. You will be required to sign a project agreement with the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) prior to incurring reimbursable costs. Bee Branch Creek Trail -MRT Route (Dubuque) $100,000 Bluff Creek OHV Park Development Plan (Iowa DNR) $ 60,000 Buffalo to Wild Cat Den Road Mississippi River Trail (Buffalo) $108,500 Cedar Valley Nature Trail Bridge at McFarlane Park (Black Hawk County Conservation Board) $396,516 Central Iowa Trail Loop - Chichaqua Valley Trail to Gay Lea Wilson Trail (Polk County Conservation Board) $753,750 Dickinson County Spine Trail- Henderson Woods to U.S. 71 in Arnolds Park (Arnolds Park and Dickinson County Trails Board) $115,850 Gray's Lake Neighborhood Connecting Trail & SW 14th Quiet Street (Des Moines) $439,920 Gypsum City OHV Park (Webster County Improvement Corporation and Webster County Wheelers) $211,500 Iowa DNR Trails Program (Iowa DNR) $262,500 NW Beaver Drive Trail (Johnston) $181,464 Turkey River Recreational Corridor Trail - Elkader to Motor Mill (Clayton County Conservation Board) $250,000 Water Trails Planning, Design, and Construction Activities 2011 -2013 (Iowa DNR) $120,000 The next State Recreational Trails Program grant application cycle is scheduled for July 1, 2012. Application forms and information are available on the Iowa DOT's Website at: www.iowadot.gov /systemsplanning /fedstate_rectrails.htm. You can also contact me at 515- 239 -1252 or yvonne.diller @dot.iowa.gov. Sincerely, Y one i ler Federal and State Recreational Trails Programs Manager YD:plr Form 240002wd 09 -09 General Information Iowa Department of Transportation PROJECT APPLICATION IOWA STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM Applicant Agency: City of Dubuque e-Mail: Icarsten @cityofd ubuque.org Contact Person (Name & Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager Title): Complete Mailing Address: City Hall -- 50 W. 13th Street Street Address and /or Box No. Dubuque Iowa 52001 563/589 -4210 City State Zip Daytime Phone If more than one agency or organization is involved in this project, please state the name, contact person, mailing address, and telephone number of the second agency. (Attach an additional page if more than two agencies are involved.) Applicant Agency: e -Mail: Contact Person (Name & Title): Complete Mailing Address: Street Address and /or Box No. City State Zip Daytime Phone Project Information Project Title: Bee Branch Creek Trail -- MRT Route Project Description (including length): This 1 -mile project is part of Phase 2 of the Bee Branch Creek Restoration Protect. The Bee Branch Creek Trail -- MRT Route involves converting an on- street bike route to an off -road bike /hike trail section in a linear park along the restored Bee Branch Creek. The Bee Branch Creek Trail -- MRT Route will be on a designated main route segment of the national Mississippi River Trail (MRT). The trail project also will provide connections to tri -state trails, including the 26 -mile Dubuque County Heritage Trail, and the 18 -mile City of Dubuque trail system along the Mississippi River. Economic Impact Information Type of Project: ❑ Acquisition — Number of Acres ® Development 0 Combination — Number of Acres Exhibit A -2 Required Documentation and Narrative Information The following documents and narratives must be attached to this application. In the upper right -hand corner of each document or narrative write the corresponding letter shown below. ® A. A NARRATIVE assessing existing conditions, outlining the concept of the proposed project, and providing adequate project justification. The narrative must show that the concept is reasonable from a transportation engineering and/or recreational standpoint and is part of an area -wide, local, regional, or statewide plan. ® B. A MAP identifying the location of the project — An optional mapping application tool is available for your use at the following website address: www.sysplan. dot. state .ia.us /fedstate_rectrails.htm ® C. A CROSS - SECTION of the proposed trail project. ® D. A SKETCH -PLAN of the trail project. • E. An ITEMIZED BREAKDOWN of the total project costs. ® F. A TIME SCHEDULE for the total project development. ® G. An OFFICIAL ENDORSEMENT of the trail proposal from the authority to be responsible for the maintenance and operation. The authority must provide written assurance that it will adequately maintain the trail for its intended use and maintain the total trail used to justify the project in public use for a minimum of 20 years following project completion. • H. A NARRATIVE discussing the extent to which adjacent property owners have been informed of the proposed project and an assessment of their acceptance. ® I. Completed Minority Impact Statement attached to application The award of State Recreational Trails funds; any subsequent funding or letting of contracts for design, construction, reconstruction, improvement, or maintenance; and the furnishing of materials for this project shall not involve direct or indirect interest of any state, county, or city official, elective or appointive. All of the above are prohibited by Iowa Code Sections 314.2, 362.5, or 331.342. Any award of funding or any letting of a contract in violation of the foregoing provisions shall invalidate the award of State Recreational Trails funding and authorize a complete recovery of any funds previously disbursed. Certification To the best of my knowledge and belief, all information included in this application is true and accurate, including the commitment of all physical and financial resources. This application has been duly authorized by the participating local authority. I understand the attached OFFICIAL ENDORSEMENT(S) binds the participating local governments to assume responsibility for adequate maintenance of any new or improved trails. I understand that, although this information is sufficient to secure a commitment of funds, an executed contract between the applicant and the Department is required prior to the authorization of funds. Representing the City of Dubuque Signature Lynn V. Sutton, Mayor Pro—Tern Typed Name and Title June 21, 2011 Date June 21, 2011 Date Exhibit A -3 PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA POINT SYSTEM IOWA STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM A. NARRATIVE: Add sheets as needed. Existing Conditions and Project Concept The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route is a component of the comprehensive Bee Branch Creek Restoration Project on the north end of Dubuque from 24th Street to Garfield Avenue along Kniest Street. The Bee Branch Creek Restoration Project will re- introduce the Bee Branch Creek, now confined in a storm sewer, to daylight. This project will replace the underground piping with an open waterway. The project means a complete re- emergence of natural waterway and development of surrounding lands — to a similar status as what existed when the community was settled. The Bee Branch Creek project connects parks, commercial districts, entertainment districts, schools, daycare centers, and neighborhoods together. The landscaped creek will include the Bee Branch Creek MRT Route, as well as lighting, benches, trees, sustainable landscaping, parking, a bike /pedestrian bridge over the creek, a waterfall overlook, public open space, an amphitheater that will serve as an outdoor classroom, and a railroad underpass for connections to trails, The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route convert an on- street bike route to an off -road bike /hike trail section of the national Mississippi River Trail MRT) through Dubuque. The MRT is a 2,000 -mile bike trail system being developed through the river cities and river landscapes in the 10 states along the Mississippi River from Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will extend the North End Neighborhood Trail, an off -road trail from 24th Street to 32nd Street in a former railroad right -of -way along Elm Street. The project will be built on a currently vacant and level site that will be accessible from sidewalks and bike /hike trails that will link to existing neighborhood streets. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will be part of a linear park along the restored I3ee Branch Creek from 24th Street to Garfield Avenue in Dubuque's historic north end. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route has 10 -foot paved bike /hike trails at both the street level and the creek, with lighting, benches, trees, and sustainable landscaping throughout. A public urban orchard and community gardens are included. There will be off - street parking for the resident and the visitor. The project will connect to a bike /pedestrian bridge over the creek in line with Lincoln Avenue, which will be closed to vehicles. Lincoln Avenue provides access to Audubon Elementary School, which will be adjacent to the project's amphitheater/ outdoor classroom. The amphitheater will have cut limestone seats in a semi - circular shape to provide permanent seating' for this accessible venue for environmental education and historical interpretation. A waterfall overlook of cut limestone at 24th Street near Comiskey Park will provide a view of the creek outfall and the linear park. The project also will connect to a railroad underpass for safe bike /pedestrian connections to tri -state trails, community attractions, and recreational facilities. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route is ready to implement, having complied with all state and federal regulations. The properties assembled for the Bee Branch Creek MRT Route were acquired by the City of Dubuque in accordance with the Uniform Relocation Act. The City has title to these properties through fee simple ownership. The City has a Programmatic Agreement (PA) for the Bee Branch Creek Restoration Project in accordance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. The PA is between the State Historic Preservation Office, Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the City of Dubuque. The City has been issued a Corps 404 permit for the project. The IDNR is the lead agency on the project for design review of construction plans and will issue the construction permit for the project. Project Benefits and Needs The project will be on the principal route of the MRT through Iowa, and will provide an off - street trail connection between the 26 -mile Dubuque County Heritage Trail and the Mississippi River that does not exist at this time. The project will be part of the City's I4 -mile network of on- street routes and off -road trails connecting the north end of the city with the riverfront, the downtown area, City parks, and the Mines of Spain State Recreational Area on the south end of Dubuque. The project will allow bicyclists and pedestrians opportunities to safely access a variety of recreational uses, including hiking, biking, jogging, picnicking, and other recreational facilities at City parks and recreational facilities. Enclosed are maps depicting primary bicycle and pedestrian destinations and links to the existing bike /hike trail network in the Dubuque area. The Dubuque County Heritage Trail, the City's Heritage Trail Riverfront System, and the Bee Branch Creek MRT Route form a bicycle and pedestrian network that will be used by both tourists and local residents. As an off -road trail, the Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will accommodate experienced riders, casual or new adult and teenage riders, pre -teens and young children monitored by parents. NARRATIVE on Existing Conditions, Project Concept, and Project Justification (cont.) A. Project Justification The Dubuque County Heritage Trail and the City of Dubuque's Heritage Trail Riverfront System are accessible to the rural areas north of Dubuque, to Dubuque's north end neighborhood and central business district, and to the south end of town. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will improve connections to the County /City Heritage Trail network and other community attractions. Dubuque County Heritage Trail The Dubuque County Heritage Trail is a 26 -mile bicyeling/hilting path linking the communities of Dubuque, Dyersville, Farley, Epworth, Graf, Durango and Sageville in Dubuque County. The trail surface is crushed limestone with a one percent maximum grade. The Dubuque County Conservation Board has received federal funding for an extension of the Heritage Trail along the former Chicago -Great Western Railroad right -of -way from its current terminus at Heritage Pond 3 miles north of Dubuque, across U.S. 52 via a bike /pedestrian bridge, under Iowa 386, to its intersection with the City's Heritage Trail Riverfront System at 23nd Street. City of Dubuque Heritage Trail Riverfront System The City of Dubuque's Heritage Trail Riverfront System connects the north end of the city with the riverfront, the downtown area, and the Mines of Spain State Recreational Area, south of Dubuque. The City of Dubuque has established this urban trail system using signed routes on City streets and several off -road trail segments where possible. The City has also completed several trail connections to City parks and attractions along the riverfront. Users of the Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will be able to link with this 14- mile riverfront trail system. Trail users will be able to travel on the Heritage Trail Riverfront System to attractions like Lock and Dam No. 11, City parks, the Mississippi River, the America's River project at the Port of Dubuque, and the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route provides an important link to a major off -road trail within the City's Heritage Trail Riverfront System -- the North End Neighborhood Trail along the former Chicago -Great Western Railroad right -of -way from 24th Street to 32nd Street. The Mines of Spain Recreation Area is a 1,387 -acre recreation area located along the southern edge of Dubuque. The State Park is a designated National Historic Landmark, a National Wildlife Federation Nature Area, and a Watchable Wildlife Area. The Mines of Spain is located on the MRT main route. America's River at the Port of Dubuque boasts the Grand River Center -- an education and conference center, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, the Grand Harbor Resort and Indoor Water Park, and the Mississippi Riverwalk Recreational Trail, a one -mile promenade along the riverfront and historic Ice I- Iarbor. The Port of Dubuque is an important MRT side trip. State and National Trails The County and City sections of the Heritage Trail are part of the backbone system of the State Recreational Trail Plan. The Dubuque County Heritage Trail is a National Recreation Trail. Portions of the Dubuque County Heritage Trail and the City's Heritage Trail Riverfront System are part of the designated route for the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) through Iowa. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will improve this MRT connection to neighborhoods on Dubuque's north end by converting an on- street signed route to an off -road trail with amenities as an extension of the North End Neighborhood Trail. Relationship to State and Local Plans The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route is consistent with many state and local plans and studies. Dubuque County 5 -Year REAP Plan 1 NARRATIVE on Existing Conditions, Project Concept, and Project Justification (cont.) A. The Dubuque County 5 -Year REAP (Resource Enhancement and Protection) Plan states that "it is the goal of the City of Dubuque's Leisure Services Department to develop...a safe, clean, functional and attractive system of parks and recreational facilities to meet the passive and active leisure needs of all residents and visitors ". The Bee Branch Creels MRT Route will help to achieve these goals by extending the off-road trail through the community's historic north end. It will be a plus for residents as well as visitors to the Dubuque area. Iowa Open Spaces Program The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route addresses the overall goals of the Iowa Open Spaces Program to "educate the citizens of the state about the needs and urgency of protecting the state's open spaces, plan for the protection of the state's significant open space areas, and acquire and protect those properties on a priority basis through a variety of appropriate means ". The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will add value to the area by connecting the neighborhoods to a natural, open creek that furthers the use and enjoyment of Dubuque's river - connected heritage and quality of life for residents and visitors. Iowa Statewide Comprehensive Recreation Plan The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route is closely tied to many of the priorities and issues of the Iowa Statewide Comprehensive Recreation Plan (SCORP). The SCORP comments that the three most important values for quality trail experience are: health and fitness, aesthetic beauty, and natural area preservation of open space. The SCORP calls for the "expansion and acquisition, development and management of existing...wetlands, recreation and wildlife areas and a need to increase awareness of wildlife diversity programs and non - consuming enjoyment of wildlife on all lands ". The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will provide ready opportunities for health and fitness, aesthetic beauty and appreciation of open space. Statewide Recreation Trails Usage Study In the 1989 Iowa Statewide Recreation Trails Usage Study, elements that were mentioned that contributed most to the trail user's enjoyment were: the trail traverses a variety of landscapes; the presence of water; the trail corridor is separate from the roadway; and historical markers are present. The existing Heritage Trail and proposed Bee Branch Creek MRT Route fall into these categories of enjoyment. Ultimately, the City of Dubuque envisions the Heritage Trail as the focal point of a city -wide bicycling and pedestrian system. Links along Iowa 32, 32nd Street, Loras Boulevard, Dodge Street/Highway 20 and Catfish Creek will form a safe, scenic full -city and riverfront loop. Annual use on the Dubuque County Heritage Trail exceeds 60,000 people with an estimated 30% from out -of -town. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will add to Dubuque's reputation as a tourist destination for both the State of Iowa and the connminity. Statewide Trails Vision According to the Statewide Trails Vision, the ultimate goal is to "connect communities, parks, natural resources, shopping, employment and other amenities with a comprehensive, multi-modal, easily accessible trails system ". The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will connect with other attractions 177 the community and offer ready access to the Dubuque County Heritage Trail and the City of Dubuque's Heritage Trail Riverfr ont System. DMATS Long Range Transportation Plan The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route is included in the Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportation Study (DMATS) 2031 Long Range Transportation Plan. DMATS is the Tri -State area where Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin meet. In Iowa, DMATS includes the urbanized areas of Dubuque County. The City of East Dubuque and Jo Daviess County in Illinois and Grant County in Wisconsin are served by DMATS. The DMATS Plan includes the comprehensive Bicycle and Pedestrian Network as an example of multi -modal transportation for the Dubuque area. The DMATS Plan calls for hiking and biking trails for recreational 2 NARRATIVE on Existing Conditions, Project Concept, and Project Justification (cont.) A. purposes and as alternative modes of transportation that will help reduce pollution and highway congestion. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will help to achieve these goals. City of Dubuque Comprehensive Plan The 2008 City of Dubuque Comprehensive Plan contains goals for bike /hike trails, riverfront enhancement and increased accessibility to the river as well as the development of neighborhood parks and open space. The Bee Branch CreekN[RT Route will help to realize these goals. Tri -State Area Trail System Plan The proposed Tri -State Area Integrated Walking, Biking, Hiking Network Plan encompasses the DMATS area. This Plan was approved by the DMATS Board in 2008 and by the City of Dubuque in 2009. The goals of the Tri -State Trail Plan are: 1. Create an integrated trail system throughout the Tri -State are to encourage recreation, wellness, alternative transportation, energy conservation, heritage tourism, environmental education and air quality. 2. Provide connections to regional, state and national trail systems, including the MRT. 3. Connect all of the trail systems to the Port of Dubuque River Walk, Heritage Trail, E.B. Lyons and the Mines of Spain. 4. Provide connections from neighborhoods to schools, parks and other points of interest. 5. Develop safe paved trails, with a corresponding website and maps, plus restrooms, benches and bike racks. 6. Advocate for adoption of "Complete Streets" policies by cities and counties in the Tri -State area. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will help accomplish all of these goals. The Tri -State Trail Plan identifies existing network needs and recommends projects that will further enhance and improve the conditions for walkers, bikers, and hikers in the Tri -State area. Projects identified in this Plan were evaluated according to priority criteria including safety, connectivity, and network needs. These priorities emphasize providing a network that makes connections to destinations such as neighborhood districts, major employers, schools, recreational areas, and commercial areas, along with enhancing regional connections. The Bee Branch Creels MRT Route clearly addresses all these Plan objectives. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route is listed among the approved planned facilities in the Tri -State Trail Plan. The Implementation section of the Tri -State Trail Plan lists the Bee Branch Creek MRT Route as a High Priority Project. 3 KEY .40.1 Great River Road Mississippi River Trail ==G= Byway Connection City Trail System 0 (1) 0 O 0 as w CO 0 U 0 w 0 B % ?7 1 311 iy 1 sb [j 21 vilillifflla ®®®®o®®®,® p; • i. R41,, c7 1;9 w w cu Manicured 0 Jai 0 2 0 E o_ 0 14 O 0 0 0. 4) o cn 4) cc U 2 0 a U 'EL) U .b.% U 0 c al •cc5 ML IL- ^W r� coW D 1 0 0 co 9 D 0 I 0r I w D ai1 o 4= o W W w 0 c C6 w cn ITEMIZED BREAKDOWN The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will extend the 10 -foot wide paved North End Neighborhood Trail approximately 1 mile from 24111 Street to Garfield Avenue along the west side of Kneist Street. Below is the itemized breakdown for the development costs for the project. Development Costs Site Preparation and Excavation $ 46,000 Pavement, including base course 448,000 Trail Signs and Markings 12,100 Project Total $506,000 TIME SCHEDULE F. The time schedule for the Bee Branch Creek MRT Route is as follows: Project Activity Design* Land Acquisition* Initiate project bidding Award construction contract Finalize contract and bonding Preconstruction Conference Construction of Trail Start September 1, 2009 September 1, 2009 November 7, 2011 December 19, 2011 January 16, 2012 January 31, 2012 February 6, 2012 Completion November 1, 2011 September 1, 2011 December 7, 2011 January 2, 2012 January 30, 2012 January 31, 2012 May 6, 2013 *Design and Land Acquisition have been initiated by the City at City expense These project activities are not part of the project cost for the Bee Branch Creek MRT Route. G. CERTIFICATE of the CITY CLERK STATE OF IOWA ) SS: COUNTY OF DUBUQUE ) I, Kevin S. Firnstahl, do hereby certify that I am the duly appointed, qualified, Acting City Clerk of the City of Dubuque, Iowa, in the County aforesaid, and as such Acting City Clerk I have in my possession or have access to the records of the proceedings of the City Council. I do further state that the hereto attached Resolution No. 194 -11 is a correct copy of the original Resolution No. 194 -11 approved and adopted by the City Council of the City of Dubuque, Iowa, at a session held by said Council on the 20th day of June, 2011. In Testimony Whereof, I hereunto set my hand and official seal of the City of Dubuque, Iowa. Dated at Dubuque, Iowa, on this 27th day of June, 2011. (SEAL) Kevin S. Firnstahl Acting City Clerk G. Prepared by Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager Address: City Hall, 50 W. 13th St Telephone: 589 -4210 Return to: Jeanne Schneider, City Clerk Address: City Hall, 50 W. 13th St Telephone: 589 -4210 RESOLUTION NO.194 -11 RESOLUTION APPROVING AN APPLICATION FOR STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS FUNDING TO THE IDOT FOR THE BEE BRANCH TRAIL — MRT ROUTE. Whereas, the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) has announced the availability of State Recreational Trails (SRT) funding for pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and Whereas, the City has adopted the Tri -State Area Integrated Walking, Bicycling, and Hiking Network Plan that identified the Bee Branch Creek Trail as an segment of the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) Route through the city of Dubuque. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA: Section 1. The Mayor is authorized to sign and submit this application to the IDOT for SRT Funding for the Bee Branch Creek Trail -- MRT. Section 2. That in the event said application is approved, the City Council hereby provides its written assurance that the trail will be adequately maintained for its intended public use for a minimum of twenty (20) years following the project. Passed, approved and adopted this2oth day of June 1 2011. Attest: ton, Mayor Pro -Tem Kevin S. Firn ahl, Acting City Clerk F: \USERS \LCARSTEN \WP \Grants for Trails \IDOT State Rec Trails \Bee Branch \Bee Branch Trail SRT Grant Resolution.doc PUBLIC NOTIFICATION AND PARTICIPATION H The City of Dubuque has received interest in and support for a community-wide bicycle and pedestrian network for over 15 years. In 1996, the City of Dubuque developed a Heritage Trail Master Plan with trail users, neighborhood associations and other interest groups. The Master Plan lays out an 18 -mile extension of Heritage Trail through Dubuque, and identifies linkages to other trail systems and the riverfront. The City has completed 14 miles of this planned trail network The Tri -State Area Integrated Walking, Biking, Hiking Network Plan encompasses the Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportation Study (DMATS) area. DMATS is the metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for the tri -state area. Tri -State Trail Vision, a non -profit group, worked with DMATS and City staff to host a public input session on the draft Trail Plan. Over 200 people attended, and their comments were incorporated into the Plan. This Plan was approved by the DMATS Board in August, 2008 and by the Dubuque City Council in May, 2009. The Bee Branch Restoration Alignment Study was concluded in November, 2004. Following its presentation at a City Council work session, the City Council adopted the alignment recommended by the 16- member citizen advisory committee. The Bee Branch Citizen Advisory Committee helped establish the visual concept for the restored creek shown to the right as part of the 2004 Bee Branch Creek Restoration Alignment Study. In the fall of 2008, the City hired the consulting team of Strand & Associates (Madison, WI), IIW Engineers (Dubuque, IA), and Ken Saiki Design (Madison, WI) to develop the final design. The landscape design is one of the important elements of the project. The Strand team worked with the City and IIW Engineers and Ken Saiki Design to come up with final restoration plans and, in particular to gather and utilize citizen input for final landscaping and design. Another citizen conunittee — the Bee Branch Landscape Design Advisory Committee — was formed by the City and put to work. In order to develop the community's vision for the project, the design team held a series of public workshops. Public Workshop Series #1 (October 2008) At the first workshop, citizens were asked to identify their hopes and fears. In addition, they were asked to provide input on the various potential landscape features, bridges, and secondary uses (paths, park benches, playground equipment, etc.). Public Workshop Series #2 (November 2008) Based on citizen input from the first workshop, the design team presented conceptual drawings that begin to address hopes and fears as well as the citizen's landscape preferences. Public Workshop Series #3 (February 2009) Based on citizen input from the previous workshops, the design team developed a creek corridor concept and presented it for comment at a third workshop series. The concept for the creek restoration project splits the creek into two distinct sections, each with different characteristics. The Commercial Section stretches from the 15th and Sycamore Streets north to Garfield Avenue. The Neighborhood Section spans from Garfield Avenue to 241h and Washington Streets. The Neighborhood Section would have a green landscaped creek that accommodates low intensity recreational use. A multiuse trail would be provided on the northeast side for the full length of the creek. Sidewalks, walking paths, lighting, and benches would line the creek corridor. A stepped amphitheater between 22nd Street and Lincoln Avenue would provide a venue for teaching and neighborhood gatherings. Summary information on the public workshops was made available to the public for review and comment. This information is posted on the City of Dubuque website. ( Iowa Department of Transportation Form 105101 (03 -09) MINORITY IMPACT STATEMENT Pursuant to 2008 Iowa Acts, HF 2393, Iowa Code Section 8.11, all grant applications submitted to the state of Iowa that are due beginning January 1, 2009 shall include a Minority Impact Statement. This is the state's mechanism for requiring grant applicants to consider the potential impact of the grant project's proposed programs or policies on minority groups. Please choose the statement(s) that pertains to this grant application. Complete all the information requested for the chosen statement(s). Submit additional pages as necessary. N The proposed grant project programs or policies could have a disproportionate or unique positive impact on minority persons. Describe the positive impact expected from this project. The project lies at the juncture of three neighborhoods: Washington Street, Point, and North End The majority of the residents in these neighborhoods are low to moderate income. These neighborhoods also encompass significant racial and ethnically diverse minority populations. The Washington Neighborhood has a 23.1% minority population. The Point Neighborhood has a 15.9% minority population. The North End Neighborhood has a 12.5% minority population. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will improve economic conditions and quality of life for area residents while creating a tourist attraction and regional trail connection free of charge. Indicate which group is impacted: n Women n Persons with a disability N Blacks N Latinos N Asians N Pacific Islanders N American Indians N Alaskan Native Americans N Other n The proposed grant project programs or policies could have a disproportionate or unique negative impact on minority persons. Describe the negative impact expected from this project. Present the rationale for the existence of the proposed program or policy. Provide evidence of consultation with representatives of the minority groups impacted. Indicate which group is impacted: ❑ Women ❑ Persons with a disability ❑ Blacks ❑ Latinos ❑ Asians ❑ Pacific Islanders n American Indians ❑ Alaskan Native Americans ❑ Other The proposed grant project programs or policies are not expected to have a disproportionate or unique impact on minority persons. Present the rationale for determining no impact. I hereby certify that the information on this form is complete and accurate, to the best of my knowledge: Name: Laura Carstens Title: Planning Services Manager Definitions "Minority Persons," as defined in Iowa Code Section 8.11, means individuals who are women, persons with a disability, Blacks, Latinos, Asians or Pacific Islanders, American Indians, and Alaskan Native Americans. "Disability," as defined in Iowa Code Section 15.102, subsection 7, paragraph "b," subparagraph (1): b. As used in this subsection: (1) "Disability" means, with respect to an individual, a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of the individual, a record of physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of the individual, or being regarded as an individual with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of the individual. "Disability" does not include arty of the following: (a) Homosexuality or bisexuality. (b) Transvestism, transsexualism, pedophilia, exhibitionism, voyeurism, gender identity disorders not resulting from physical impairments or other sexual behavior disorders. (c) Compulsive gambling, kleptomania, or pyromania. (d) Psychoactive substance abuse disorders resulting from current illegal use of drugs. "State Agency," as defined in Iowa Code Section 8.11, means a department, board, bureau, commission, or other agency or authority of the state of Iowa. PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA POINT SYSTEM IOWA STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM Evaluation and Approval The Department shall evaluate each complete application primarily on the basis of whether the predicted use of the trail justifies the construction and maintenance costs including, but not limited to, the following criteria: 1. Define need, in terms of the population to be served and existing trails in the area (25 points). The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route is a component of the comprehensive Bee Branch Creek Restoration Project. The creek restoration will incorporate: bike /hike trails, lighting, benches, trees, sustainable landscaping, parking, a bike /pedestrian bridge over the creek, a waterfall overlook, an amphitheater /outdoor classroom, and a railroad underpass for connections to tri -state trails. The project will serve as a focal point of aesthetics, environmental education, outdoor recreation, and cultural interpretation for the resident and traveler. The trail project will be in a linear park along the restored Bee Branch Creek, re- connecting area neighborhoods to a restored waterway that will further the use and enjoyment of Dubuque's river - connected heritage and quality of life for residents and visitors throughout the day and throughout the year. A key to this cultural enjoyment is the system of trails that visitors and residents can access at no charge. This project will convert an on- street bike route to an off -road bike /hike trail section of the national Mississippi River Trail (MRT) through Dubuque. The project will be on the principal route of the MRT, a national recreational trail through 10 states. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will provide an off - street trail between the 26 -mile Dubuque County Heritage Trail and the Mississippi River that does not exist at this time. The Dubuque County Heritage Trail links Dubuque to Dyersville. The project will be part of the City's 14 -mile network of on- street routes and off -road trails connecting the north end of the city with the riverfront, the downtown arca, City parks, and the Mines of Spain State Recreational Area on the south end of Dubuque. The project will create a recreational amenity easily accessed by residents and students in the Washington Street, Point and North End Neighborhoods as well as the community at large. The circulation pattern and condition of the streets and sidewalks in these e neighborhoods provide safe, reliable access to work, schools, shopping, hospitals, churches, and residences as well as the MRT. The Washington Street, Point and North End Neighborhoods retain a high level of their historic character and a strong pedestrian scale and character, making them very walkable and livable. The majority of the residents in these neighborhoods are low to moderate income. These neighborhoods also encompass significant racial and ethnically diverse minority populations as follows: Washington Neighborhood -- 23.1 %; Point Neighborhood -- 15.9 %; North End Neighborhood -- 12.5 %. While the Bee Branch Creek MRT Route is adjacent to Audubon Elementary School, it also is within a few blocks of the service areas for Fulton, Prescott and Marshall Elementary Schools and Jefferson Middle School. 2. Describe the compatibility with local, area -wide, regional, or statewide plans (15 points). The Dubuque County and City of Dubuque sections of the Heritage Trail are part of the backbone system of the State Recreational Trail Plan. The Dubuque County Heritage Trail is a National Recreation Trail. Portions of the County and City trail systems are part of the designated route for the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) through Iowa. The MRT is a 2,000 -mile national bike trail system being developed along both sides of the Mississippi River from Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico. The project supports the Iowa Great River Road's Corridor Management Plan. It will create a unique recreational trail along a restored creek, converting an on -street bike route to an off -road bike /hike trail section of the MRT through Dubuque. The project will be accessible from sidewalks and bike /hike trails that link to existing neighborhood streets and the Great River Road, just 4 blocks away on Central Avenue (Business U.S. 52). It also will be accessible from tri -state MRT routes in Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois that follow or parallel the Great River Road Scenic Byways in all 3 states. Dubuque's Comprehensive Plan contains goals for bike /hike trails. Many of these goals were accomplished with implementation of the Dubuque Heritage Trail Master Plan. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will become one with the City of Dubuque Heritage Trail Riverfront System, an 18 -mile network of on -street routes and off -road trails connecting parks and the riverfront. In the 1989 Iowa Statewide Recreation Trails Usage Study, elements that were mentioned that contributed most to the trail user's enjoyment were: the trail traverses a variety of landscapes; the presence of water; the trail corridor is separate from the roadway; and historical markers are present. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will have all four. According to the Statewide Trails Vision, the ultimate goal is to "connect communities, parks, natural resources, shopping, employment and other amenities with a comprehensive, multi - modal, easily accessible trails system ". Users of the Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will be able to reach attractions like the Lock and Dam No. 11, the Mississippi River, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, the Port of Dubuque, and the Mines of Spain State Park. The Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportation Study (DMATS) 2031 Long Range Transportation Plan includes a Bicycle and Pedestrian Network element, which calls for hiking and biking trails for recreational purposes. The 2008 Tri -State Area Integrated Walking, Biking, Hiking Network Plan encompasses the DMATS area and was adopted by the City of Dubuque. The Plan identifies existing network needs and recommends projects that will further enhance and improve the conditions for walkers, bikers, and hikers in the Tri -State area. The Plan lists the Bee Branch Trail as a high - priority project. PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA POINT SYSTEM IOWA STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM 3. Define the benefits of multiple uses and recreational opportunities (20 points). The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will join with miles of other trails that line Dubuque neighborhoods, skirt the Mississippi River, and wind through steep hills all within the city limits. The project will be in a linear park along the restored Bee Branch Creek from 24th Street to Garfield Avenue in Dubuque's historic north end. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route enhances connections to the pedestrian grid via vehicular and pedestrian bridges — links to public spaces, like Comiskey Park, and the Great River Road. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Routs will add value to the area by re- connecting the neighborhoods to a natural, open creek that furthers the use and enjoyment of Dubuque's river- connected heritage and quality of life for residents and visitors to the Byway. A key to this cultural enjoyment comes through the system of trails that visitors and residents can use regularly and at no charge that will be built as part of the project. The project will be set in a linear park with a landscaped creel. The project will provide open space where people will be able walk and bike, to gather at the water's edge, relax along the trail, enjoy the view of the creek from a bridge and an overlook, or learn more about the area's history and culture through interpretive signage and programs at the amphitheater /outdoor classroom. The project also will provide an interactive opportunity for students and adults to learn about stream improvements and riparian habits through a hands -on experience. The project links to bike/pedestrian bridge to maintain connectivity for neighborhoods, public transit, and school routes at Lincoln Avenue. It also links to a bike /pedestrian railroad underpass at Garfield Avenue. The landscaped bike /hike trail along the creek will replace the signed on- street bike route, making the Bee Branch Creek MRT Route safer and more inviting for walkers and bicyclists and encouraging alternative transportation choices . The project also will connect to the 26 -mile Dubuque County Heritage Trail, which links Dubuque to Dyersville. The project will be on the principal route of the MRT, a national recreational trail through 10 states. The 14 -mile City of Dubuque Heritage Trail Rvverfront System connects the north end of the city with the riverfront, the downtown area and the Mines of Spain State Recreational Area on the southern tip of Dubuque. Connections take trail users to other City parks and attractions along the riverfront. 4. Define the quality of the site (25 points). The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will connect parks, commercial districts, entertainment districts, schools, daycares and neighborhoods together. It will allow for recreational, environmental and educational use by children and adults, residents and visitors. The project will highlight environmental sustainability efforts for which Dubuque is well- known. In support of livable communities, the project demonstrates e value -added livability component. The project promotes principles and projects that integrate land use, transportation, housing, and conservation of open green space and natural resources. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route creates open space in the form of a linear park where people will be able to gather at the water's edge, exercise along the bike /hike trail, or simply sit and read poetry on a bench overlooking the restored creek. The project is located with ready access to existing roads and other infrastructure within or contiguous to existing residential, commercial and industrial development. The project balances open space and environmental preservation with the community's development needs — by expansion of urban green space in a suitable location to encourage livability and enhance aesthetics, by adding trails and similar park/open space uses easily accessible to residents at neighborhood level, and by supporting protection and enhancement of riverfront and related waterway corridors. While the Bee Branch Creek MRT Route is adjacent to Audubon Elementary School, it also is within e few blocks of the service areas for Fulton, Prescott and Marshall Elementary Schools and Jefferson Middle School. These schools serve the Washington Street, Point and North End Neighborhoods. The majority of the residents in these neighborhoods are low to moderate income. These neighborhoods also encompass significant racially and ethnically diverse minority populations. Residents as well as visitors to Dubuque will be able to enjoy the recreational amenities of the project and benefit from this new community attraction along Iowa's Great River Road Scenic Byway. No fees are charged to use and enjoy the opened natural waterway once completed. It becomes the pleasant component in area residents' days as well as part of destination activity for enjoying all of the river amenities in Dubuque. The connection to multiple river attractions and the activities to be carried out at the amphitheater will indeed enhance lives without out -of- pocket costs. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route will provide an off -road bike/hike trail linking to regional trails and the MRT, offering spectacular views of the Dubuque area's scenic wooded limestone bluffs and Mississippi River Valley. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route project itself will offer respite, recreation, and cultural enrichment along the street -level bike /hike trail and via several scenic locations in the project boundary: a waterfall overlook at the creek's oetfall, an amphitheater, a creek -side trail, and a bike /pedestrian bridge. PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA POINT SYSTEM IOWA STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM 5. Describe the economic benefits to the local area (10 points). The project creates an off - street trail connection between the Dubuque County Heritage Trail and the Mississippi River that does not exist at this time. Easy highway access makes it a convenient destination for travelers to visit and enjoy. More than 3 million visitors travel to the area where three states (Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois) meet and share the culture of the Mississippi River and family activities. Dubuque itself is host to more than 1.5 million visitors annually, the most in the tri -state area. Tourism in Dubuque has expanded dramatically in the last decade. The Iowa Department of Economic Development lists Dubuque as outpacing rates of visitor spending of many larger metro -based Counties. Each new attraction adds to visitor spending and travel within and from outside a 50 -mile radius. The Bee Branch Creek Restoration Project will attract visitors from at least 50 miles away from the community as it: • Enhances the already popular trail connection through older, historic neighborhoods to the City and county trail systems. • Further connects new recreational opportunities with known attractions and facilities of our river community. Dubuque attractions have demonstrated cooperation in marketing efforts targeting visitors, both in state and out of state. • Develops partnerships between the City of Dubuque, the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, and regional tourism groups to promote the project's outdoor recreational opportunities that are physically interrelated. • Focuses on attracting people of all ages while promoting the health and wellness benefits of new outdoor recreational facilities. The Bee Branch Creek MRT Route advances the overall vision for the Iowa Great River Road Scenic Byway, as articulated in the Corridor Master Plan. The project "presents opportunities for protecting and promoting the scenic, natural, historic, archeological, cultural, and recreational resources of the Mississippi River so that the quality of life enjoyed by Iowans and all Midwesterners can be sustained and a unique destination can be provided for travelers from across the world." Dubuque has established travel and visitor partnerwships, which will impact inclusion of the Bee Branch Creek Trail as an area attraction. Recently, 15 organizations in Iowa and Illinois came together to jointly promote the middle Mississippi River Valley, often through a shared website, www.travelmississippiriver.org. The partnership creates a new marketing and promotional effort with a local voice in the two states and is sponsored jointly by Convention and Visitor Bureaus and Chambers of Commerce in communities from Dubuque south to Quincy, Illinois. The City of Dubuque, in cooperation with the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce and its Convention & Visitors Bureau, has already undertaken a marketing effort for the regional and national trails in the area. Within two years, the Bee Branch project will become a part of the overall tourism and local resident marketing efforts of City, County and tri -state regional groups. This marketing effort will be expanded to local and area educational institutions. 6. Describe special facilities for disabled users (5 points). The City of Dubuque gives full consideration to minorities, the elderly, and persons with disabilities in all its bike /hike trail projects. The City has a long- standing commitment to a citywide bike/hike network that is accessible to all segments of the general population, including minorities, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. The City of Dubuque has adopted, by Ordinance, the Iowa Accessibility Code. All City bike /hike trail projects comply with Americans with Disabilities (ADA) guidelines and American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials (AASIITO) guidelines for recreational trail facilities. All City bike /hike trails are open to the public free of charge. A physically separated pathway like the Bee Branch Creek MRT Route accommodates the greatest number of user groups, by taking into consideration the differing abilities of the potential trail users. This paved off -road trail will facilitate access by youth, older adults, persons with disabilities, and similar special needs populations — as well as the avid hikers and bicyclists in the tri -state area.