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SW Arterial, IA 32 RISE GrantMEMORANDUM July 2, 2003 TO: FROM: SUBJECT: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager Application for RISE Grant For Highway 32 (Southwest Arterial) The City Council's number one surface transportation priority is completion of Iowa Highway 32 (the Southwest Arterial). This proposed highway connects U.S. 20 at Seippel Road to U.S. 61 and 151 to the south. The project is a key economic development project for the City, as it provides uncongested access to U.S. 61 and points south to many of our major industries. Companies like John Deero, Flexsteel, McGraw Hill, A.Y. McDonald, and Nordstrom Distribution are supporting our efforts to fund this project. Economic Development Director Bill Baum recommends City Council approval of an application for a Revitalize Iowa's Sound Economy (RISE) $10 million grant from the Iowa Department of Transportation for the construction of iowa Highway 32 (Southwest Arterial). I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council approval. Mich~ael C. van Milligen MCVM/jh Attachment cc: Barry Lindahl, Corporation Counsel Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager William J. Baum, Economic Development Director CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA MEMORANDUM July 2, 2003 TO: FROM: SUBJECT: Michael Van Milligen, City Manager INTRODUCTION The attached resolution provides for the approval of an application for a Revitalize Iowa's Sound Economy (RISE) $10 million grant from the Iowa Department of Transportation for the construction of Iowa Highway 32 (Southwest Arterial) DISCUSSION One of the City Council's highest priorities has been the completion of Iowa Highway 32 (the Southwest Arterial). This proposed highway connects U.S. 20 at Seippel Road to U.S. 61 and 151 to the south. The project is a key economic development project for the City, as it provides uncongested access to U.S. 61 and points south to many of our major industries. Companies like John Deere, Flexsteel, McGraw Hill, A.Y. McDonald, and Nordstrom Distribution are supporting our efforts to fund this project. The City has been successful in obtaining a commitment from IDOT of $21 Million for the project in the IDOT State Transportation Program. We have also been pleased with the support of our Congressional Delegation for an earmark of $1,898,602 for design and environmental mitigation. The consultant for the Environmental Assessment has submitted a detailed cost estimate ($59,265,000) for the design and construction of an interim two-lane highway with purchase Right of Way to support full build-out of a 4-lane freeway. Under the scenario prepared in the application, no local City funds would be required for the project. The attached RISE application anticipates using the existing IDOT commitment and the $10 Million of RISE funds as the local match on anticipated federal appropriations. I have been very pleased with the cooperation of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Dubuque Development Corporation, our partners in moving this project along. The Chamber has led the effort to obtain letters of support from our major benefiting industries. The GDDC has provided valuable information concerning the community's economic development efforts. RECOMMENDATION I recommend the City Council review, discuss, and approve the application for $10 Million to be submitted to the Iowa Department of Transportation. ACTION STEP The requested action is for the City Council to adopt the attached resolution approving the application, and authorizing the Mayer to sign the application. F:\USERS\WBaum\Memos to Mike -- General\Memo from Bill Baum to Mike Van Milligen on RISE App for SW.doc RESOLUTION NO. 232-03 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE FILING OF AN APPLICATION TO THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Whereas, the City Council of Dubuque, Iowa has identified the completion of Iowa Highway 32 (Southwest Arterial) as the City's number one transportation priority, and Whereas, the Iowa Department of Transportation has funding available through the Revitalize Iowa's Sound Economy (RISE) to assist the State of Iowa in design and construction of Highway 32, and Whereas, an application has been prepared for RISE funding in the amount of $10 Million. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA: Section 1. That the filing of an application for $10,000,000 of RISE funding for the Iowa Highway 32 project is hereby approved. Section 2. That the Mayor is hereby authorized to execute, and the City Manager is hereby directed to submit said application to the Iowa Department of Transportation, together with other attachments as may be required. Passed, approved, and adopted this 7t~ day of July. Attest: ~l'eanne F. Schneider, City Clerk F:\USERS\WBaum\SW Arterial - DMATS\Resolufion approving RISE app.doc Southwest Arterial Iowa Department of Transportation Pr~ ' Location l~llowa Department of Transportation APPLICATION for RISE: COMPETITIVE RATING FUNDING for Local Development Projects GENERAL INFORMATION Applicant Name: City or County of Dubuque Contact Person: Bill Baum Title: Economic Development Director Complete Mailing Address Dubuque City City Hall, 50 W. 13th Street, Street Address end/or Box No. Iowa 52001 Daytime Phone: 563 589-4393 State Zip Area Code If mom than one local government is involved in this roadway project, please state the highway authority, contact person, mailing address, and telephone number of the second agency. (Attach an additional page if more than two agencies are involved.) City or County of Contact Person: Complete Mailing Address Street Address and/or Box No. Daytime Phone: City State Please complete the following: The proposed project is on the following type(s) of road: [] City Street [] Secondary Road [] Pdmary Road (Length of Project in feeb 31700 ) Zip Area Code If a primary read is involved, indicate the desired RISE funding soume: [] City [] County [] State This project involves [] Development of a New Road [] Improvement of an Existing Road [] Both Has any part of this development or roadway project been started? [] Yes [] No If yes, please explain. The Environmental Assessment of this project is near completion. This application is for RISE funding as a: [] Loan [] Grant [] Combination If this application is for a loan or a combination loan/grant, please state the proposed terms of repayment. (Include amount of principal to be repaid, proposed interest rate, length of repayment, etc.) If this application is for funding for two or three pregrem years, please specity the amount of funding requested for each year: First year $ 3,333,333 Second year $ 3,333,333 Third year $ 3,333,333 PROJECT INVESTMENT INFORMATION Estimated Total Capital Investment $ 49,265,000 ("Total Capital Investment" is defined in the Administrative Rules. Please attach a breakdown by major item, such as land, improvements to land, buildings, equipment and utilities. The cost of the roadway project, excluding RISE funds requested, should be included in these figures.) Private Investment $ Public Investment $ 49,265,000 Total Cost of Roadway Project $ 59,265,000 RISE Funds Requested for Roadway Project $ 10,000,000 Matching Funds Available for Roadway Project (Assured or Anticipated) Source Amount 1. Iowa DOT 21,000,000 2. FHWA/IDOT 1,898,602 3. FHWA/IDOT/Congressional 26,366,398 4. DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL INFORMATION This project involves [] Attracting a New Development [] Expanding an Existing Development [] Retaining an Existing Development [] Improving Access to an Existing Development [-]Other (Please describe.) Assured? Yes Yes Anticipated Please identify the type(s) of development to be supported with the RISE project. (Be as specific as possible.) See Narrative Attached Does the project involve relocation of economic activity from elsewhere in Iowa? [] Yes [] No If yes, please explain. What is the status of the economic development or activity to be supported by the RISE-funded roadway? (Please check the appropriate answer.) [] Applicant has a firm commitment for a new economic development, or expansion or retention of an existing development. (See "Required Documentation"- Item G.) I [] Applicant is negotiating with a specific firm(s) concerning a location, expansiog or retention decision. (See "Required Documentation "- Item G.) [] Negotiations are not underway, but applicant is seeking a specific type or typesiof economic development for the site. [] Applicant is preparing or improving access to a site where future, unspecified d~velopmant can occur. [] Applicant is improving access to an existing development which has no immediate plans for expansion. Other (Please describe.) ECONOMIC IMPACT INFORMATION Please estimate the number of permanent, direct jobs created and/or returned as a result of this project. (~l~ese numbers should not include construction or indirect "multiplier" jobs.) Total Direct Jobs Created Initial jobs (within first two years) Other furore jobs (beyond first two years) Total Direct Jobs Ret~med If this roadway project supports a tourism or recreational development, please estimate the armual number of v/sitors. Overnight Visitors Day Visitors from 100 or more miles away Day Visitors from less than 100 miles away Estimated Current Increase Please estimate the number of acres (by type ofdevelopmen0 which will be cF~rectly served by the RISE-funded roadway: Type of Development Served Industrial/manufacturing Commercial/office/retail/wholesale Park/tourist/reereational Other Unknown Acres Total Currently Usable Developed Acres 350 350 LOCAL COMMITMENT AND INITIATIVE INFORMATION Please indicate whether the following nonroadway factors intrinsic to the success of the development are in place: Land Assembled and Available for Sale or Lease ........................... Zoning Suitable for Proposed Use ................................................... [] Water ............................................................................................... [] Sanitary Sewer ................................................................................. [] Sewage Trealmaent Capacity ............................................................ [] Storm Drainage ................................................................................ [] Electricity ........................................................................................ [] Gas ................................................................................................... [] Telephone ........................................................................................ [] Permits (if applicable) ..................................................................... [] Labor Force Training (if applicable) ............................................... [] Rail Service (if applicable) .............................................................. [] Other (Please describe.) __ Yes No If"No" is checked for any of the above, please describe what arrangements are being made for providing land, utility or other necessary services. TRANSPORTATION NEED INFORMATION Is the need for the roadway improvement identified by local plans, capital improvement programs, or other adopted local priorities? (Please explain.) Iowa Highway 32 (Southwest Arterial) project has been designated by the Dubuque City Council and the Policy Board of the Dubuque Metropolitan Transportation Study (DMATS) as the Urban area's number one transportation priorty. The project is identified as critical in the long range transportation plan of DMATS. DOCUMENTATION INFORMATION The following documents must be attached to this application. In the upper right-hand comer of each document, write the letter (shown below) which the document supports. (Please refer to the general instructions for an explanation of each item.) Please check that the following items are attached: [] B. [] C. [] E. [] F. [] G. [] I. [] J. A NARRATIVE describing the proposed total econom/c development and how the RISE project will support the development. A RESOLUTION or resolutions approved by the participating local governments. A NARRATIVE assessing existing conditions, outlining the proposed concept of the roadway project, and providing adequate transportation justification. A MAP identifying the location of the roadway project. A SKETCH PLAN of the project. A TIME SCHEDULE for the roadway project, and other development as appropriate. A LETTER OF COMMITMENT from the business or developer if the applicant indicates a firm commitment exists or negotiations are underway. An ITEMIZED BREAKDOWN of total roadway project costs. The attached form must be used. A NARRATIVE describing the associated economic development and jobs. DOCUMENTATION that the proposed road project and economic development are consistent with any regional or metropolitan area long-range transportation plans in effect for the RISE project location. A NARRATIVE if the project involves the remediation or redevelopment of a brownfield site. CEglIFICATION 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 author/zed by the participating local government(s). I understand the attached RESOLUTION(S) binds the participating local governments to assume responsibility for adequate maintenance of any new or improved city streets or secondary roads. I hereby cert/fy, under penalty of perjury, that any award of RISE funds; any subsequent letting of contracts for design, construction, reconstruction, improvement or maintenance; or the furnishing of materials therefore; shall not involve direct or indirect interest, prohibited by Iowa Code Section 15A.2, 314.2, 362.5 or 331.342, of any state, county, or city official, elective or appointive. Any award of RISE funding or any letting of a contract in violation of the foregoing provisions shall invalidate the award of RISE funding and authorize a complete recovery of any fonds previously disbursed. I understand that, although this information is sufficient to secure a commitment of funds, a firm contract between the applicant and the Department is required prior to the authorization of funds. Representing the City of Dubuque, Iowa Signed: Terrance M. Du~an. Mavor Attested: Jeanne F. Schneider. City Clerk 7 The Art of the Comeback The Greater Dubuque Development Corporation, a private non-profit organization, was formed in 1984 to help wage the battle against double-digit unemployment rates that were crushing both the economy and the morale of Iowa's oldest city. Today, through the teamwork of Greater Dubuque Development, private sector companies, and public partners like the City of Dubuque, the Dubuque region has regained strength and is moving forward. Marquee projects like America's River in the Port of Dubuque and the renaissance of the historic downtown are turning heads across the Midwest. Or, as the Des Moines Reclisternoted in the headline of a December 2002 editorial, "Dubuque Shows How." Despite relatively stable population over the past decade, the number of jobs is up--more than 8,000 service sector jobs have been created in the last decade alone. In January 2003, it was reported that, for the first time in 25 years, Dubuque's year-end unemployment rate was lower than Iowa's overall rate. Moreover, year-end numbers for 2002 showed that Dubuque was only one of three metro areas in Iowa that experienced positive job growth. Complacency is Not an Option Despite these signs of progress, area leaders are committed to continued growth. The River Valley Initiative, a new community effort lead by the Greater Dubuque Development Corporation, recently surpassed its goal by raising $2.3 million dollars to fuel economic growth. These new resources will be used for the attraction of new industry, continued efforts with existing businesses, the formation of a venture capital fund, and updating and enhancing marketing and promotional materials. Over the next five years, the bold program has some aggressive goals. Here's what it all means by the numbers: · Capital investment/construction- $200,000,000 ,, Number of new primary jobs - 2,500 ,, Primary wage rate paid (hourly) - $13.00 · Direct payroll impact - $67,600,000 · Calculated indirect jobs created- 2,600 · Total jobs created - 5,100 ,, Total payroll generated - $104,104,000 · New personal income - $72,872,800 · New disposable income - $61,584,803 · New personal consumption expenditures (net) - $57,544,840 · New deposit potential for area financial institutions - $10,280,556 The River Valley Initiative has already made an impact on the process of moving Dubuque's economy forward. Greater Dubuque Development hired a marketing director in March 2003 and has completed extensive work with a Chicago-based site location consultant. The organization is now making visits/recruitment trips to outside markets like Minneapolis and Chicago. Despite new financial resources to recruit companies, retaining and spurring the expansion of existing businesses will continue to be the cornerstone of Greater Dubuque's initiative. In fact, nine out of the nine projects highlighted in Greater Dubuque Development's most recent annual report were expansions by existing businesses. Moreover, in November 2001, the Dubuque region was ranked 2 in the United States for the retention of existing businesses. Greater Dubuque Development, the City of Dubuque, Dubuque County, and partners from the private sector have aIso contributed to some other recent projects and notable achievements: · In March 2003, Quebecor World Dubuque hosted an open house for their $24 million dollar expansion that wil~ create 110 new jobs. In September 2002, Terry McGraw, Chairman of the New York-based publishing giant, McGraw-Hill, visited Dubuque to see the completion of a new, 330,000 square foot distribution center in the Dubuque Industrial Center West. in October 2002, Governor Tom Vilsack was present for an open house for Dubuque- based insurance company, Cottingham and Butler/SISCO. The governor was on hand to congratulate the company for creating 60 new jobs and restoring its second, historic building in downtown Dubuque. in 2002, Greater Dubuque was ranked 20th in the United States for "job momentum" by Forbes Magazine/M#ken Institute. Greater Dubuque Development was also ranked as one of the "Top 20" economic development organizations in North America by S/re Selection Magazine in 2000. · Dubuque also ranked 14th in the United States of America for "High-Tech Growth Output" by the Milken Institute---Improving from a previous ranking of 18thfor the prior year. America's River and Related Success Stories · The Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark, a194-room hotel featuring Iowa's first 25,000 square foot indoor waterpark, opened its doors on December 3, 2002. A 174,000 square foot education and conference center is expected to open November 2003. Already the Dubuque Area Convention and Visitors Bureau has visits scheduled by 26,595 conference delegates, up from 12,000 delegates in 2002 and already eight conferences with more than 10,000 delegates have committed for 2004 in the Grand River Center. The Bureau has also developed a $750,000 marketing plan. · Work on the 65,000 square foot National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium is underway and a grand opening celebration is planned for June 2003. · Mississippi Riverwalk Phase I (River's Edge Plaza), 300 foot pier wall; and fishing steps are complete and the cascading stairs are currently under construction. Construction of the Alliant Energy Amphitheater was completed and dedicated in October 2002. This outdoor amphitheater provides musical and theatrical venues for the tri-State area and is already being scheduled for a Blues festival, Big Band festival and performances by the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra. Property acquisitions in the Port of Dubuque completed by the City include Miller Trucking (1.5 acres), Dubuque Hardwoods and Klauer properties (5.43 acres) and Peavy property (5.3 acres). The City has received an EDA grant for $2,000,000 to assist in acquiring and relocating the Adams Company from their Port of Dubuque location (4.55 acres). This project is undergoing the necessary environmental studies prior to being able to complete the acquisition. Other leveraged activity that is happening as a result of the America's River project includes renovation projects such as the $2.5 million Bdcktown building at 299 Main Street, Pepper Sprout restaurant at 378 Main Street, Fischer Companies office building at 280 Main Street, a new parking lot developed, a new wine store has opened at 123 Main Street, and an offer has been accepted for the sale and redevelopment of a five-stoW, 36,000-square-foot former Weber Paper Company building at 137 Main Street in the Historic Old Main District ($2.5 million project). A Request for Qualifications was issued June 17, 2002 for development of the former Dubuque Star Brewery structure that overlooks the Riverwalk and new Alliant Energy Amphitheater. Discussions are already underway with a national developer to redevelop the Dubuque Star Brewery, a $5.5 million project, that would involve a brewing operation, brew pub, restaurant, of'rices and outdoor beer garden Building renovations also have occurred along upper Main Street, with the $2 million plus Town Clock Building renovated for office space and the Grand Opera House, which is completing exterior rehabilitation work. In July, Main Street through the Town Clock plaza was reopened to vehicular traffic. The multi-million dollar streetscape improvement opens Dubuque's downtown and creates better access and circulation for pedestrians and vehicles. A 400-car Fourth Street Parking Ramp opened in early June to serve the Main Street district's anticipated growth and development. Northeast Iowa Community College has purchased the former Tdlog building and is planning a $1,917,000 renovation project to make this facility into a new downtown business training center. In the past year, eight new retail establishments opened in the Old Main Street District, including two restaurants, and invested more than $2.5 million in physical improvements. This is on top of the $1.9 million construction of the new Chamber Building that houses the Iowa Welcome Center. America's River will be a major draw for the region and the nation. Total visitation for America's Riveris expected to exceed 500,000 people annually. An estimated 300,000 of these will come from more than 50 miles away, from every state in the Union, and well over 50 foreign countries each year. Further study by URS/BRW and Leland Consulting identifies, in addition to the $188 million America's Riverprojects, $150 million in development that will occur in the Port of Dubuque area over the next 10 years. Attachment A NARRATIVE describing the proposed total economic development and how the RISE project will support the development. The City of Dubuque has developed two industrial parks on the west side of the City: Dubuque Industrial Center and Dubuque Industrial Center West. These industrial parks contain 292 acres of developed property. These industrial parks are served by US 20 and Iowa 32 (Northwest Arterial). Unfortunately, access to the south, with connection to US61/151 and Interstate 80 is only available to industries in the parks via U.S.20 East which is a level of service D and F facility, especially during peak hours. This RISE project (Iowa State Highway 32) is an important regional route, connecting U.S. 20 with US61/151. The major employers served by this route include John Deere, the State of Iowa's largest employer, McGraw Hill, Nordstrom Distribution, A.Y. McDonald, Swiss Valley Farms, Flexsteel, Theisen Supply Company, Giese Manufacturing, and Kirchoff Distribution Company. Attached are tetters from these companies requesting RISE assistance for this project. Two companies are in the process of negotiating expansions in the Dubuque Industrial Center West. The Adams Company, manufacturer of transmission parts, is in the process of negotiating an agreement to move from the Port of Dubuque to the industrial park. The company needs good access to the south, and is requesting the continuation of design and construction of the IA32 Southwest Arterial project. Similarly, the City has reached a tentative agreement with Vessel Systems Inc, the manufacturer of steel tanks to relocate from an area near the river to the industrial park. Again, the company made this decision with the understanding the iA32 project was planned, funding commitments have been made, and design work will soon begin. Conversely, this IA32 project will provide access from the Dubuque Technology Center on the south side of Dubuque to US 20 West. A map identifying the locations is attached. F:\USERS\WBaum\SW Arterial - DMATS~AEachment A.doc Attachment C A NARRATIVE assessing existing conditions, outlining the proposed concept of the roadway project, and providing adequate transportation justification. The Dubuque Industrial Center and Dubuque Industrial Center West are the two major industrial parks in the City, home to such companies as McGraw Hill, Nordstrom Distribution, A.Y. McDonald, G/ese Manufacturing, Theisen Distribution Center, and Kirchoff Distribution Center. The Dubuque Industrial Center is served by existing State Highway 32, which runs from U.S. 20 north and east to U.S. Highway 52. This Highway is connected to Iowa 380, which serves the John Deere facility north of Dubuque. The community is working with two industries proposing to expand in the Dubuque Industrial Center West. The Adams Company and Vessel Systems are currently under serious negotiations on the acquisition of property in the DICW. The major problem the existing companies and the proposed expanding companies are having is the ten:ible access to the south for delivery of products to the Quad Cities and connection with Interstate 80. The only option available currently is the use of existing U.S. 20. U.S.20 carries 24,000 vehicles per day in stop and go traffic. Projections are that by 2015 the count will be 35,700 and by the year 2025:47,400 vehicles per day. The existing U.S. 20 highway system is currently a level of service D and even F during peak hours. After construction of Iowa 32, much traffic will smoothly be diverted off U.S. 20. Estimates are that as many as 12,600 vehicles per day are projected to use Iowa 32 rather than congested U.S.20. The Environmental Assessment of the IA 32 project provides detail outlining the proposed concept of the roadway: the full build-out of project will be a 4-1ane divided highway, with a design speed of 60 MPH. Initial construction of a two-lane facility will be completed, along with grading for full four lanes. Construction of proposed interchanges at U.S.61/i51, North Cascade Road, and U.S. 20 will be deferred until full build-out. F:\USERS\WBaum~SW Ar~eriaI - DMATS~Attachment C.doc RISE COMPETITIVE RATING APPLICATION Roadway Project Description and Cost Estimate (RISE-Eligible Items) LEAD APPLICANT NAME: City of Dubuque Date: 6/13/2003 ROAD PROJECT DESCRIPTION: New 2 lane highway proposed southwest of Dubuque. Location: Dubuque County Length (ft.): 31700 (6.0 mi) Pavement Type: PCC TRAFFIC INFORMATION: Present AADT (2001): 0 Design Year AADT (2015): COST ESTIMATE: 10,300 Pavement Width: 26 f~ ROW Width: Varies Depth: to be determined % Trucks: 0 % Trucks: 12 Total Cost $2,621,000 $7,563,000 $2,669,000 $6,728,000 $150,000 $109,000 $2,512,000 $5,679,000 Item Description PC Concrete Pavement Excavation Rock Excavation Shale Excavation Traffic Signals Removal of Pavement Other Construction Items Bridges - Slab Right-of-Way Archaeological Mitigation Mobilization Units & Unit Cost 109,210 SY ($24.00/SY) 2,750,200 CY ($ 2.75/CY) 166,790 CY ($16.00/CY) 672,790 CY ($10.00/CY) 2 ($75,000 EA) 31,060 SY ($ 3.50/SY) Lump Sum 87,375 SF ($65.00/SF) (Windshield Appraisal Per IaDOT ) Lump sum Lump sum $20,103,000 $1,800,000 $1,118,000 SUBTOTAL Engineering, Legal, Administration Contingency $51,052,000 $4,860,000 $3,353,000 GRAND TOTAL $59,265,000 Note: Cost Estimate in Year 2003 dollars and based on construction of interim two-lane highway (Alternative E-Design Variation I) and purchase of ROW to support full build-out of 4-1ane freeway. EducaUon Order Fulfillment 7500 Chavenelle Road Dubuque, Iowa 52002 563 589 2864 Tel 563 589 1340 Fax April 17, 2003 Mr. Mark E Wandro, RE., ES. Director Iowa Department of Transportation 8oo Lincoln Way Ames, IA 5oolo Dear Mr. Wandro: I am writing to express my strong support for the Rebuild Iowa's Strong Economy grant application submitted by the City of Dubuque for IA 32-the Southwest Arterial, connecting U.S. 2o to U.S. 6~/~5~. The completion of IA 32 to the southern part of Dubuque will allow The McGraw-Hill Companies to receive shipments of new product in a timelier manner and also prov!de exceptional turnaround service on outbound orders shipping to customers all ever wodd. Also, and more importantly, the IA 32 will provide relief to many of our ~oo ~mployees who must negotiate the busy interchange at Hwy 2o and Seippel Road and improve the drive time for many who live to the south of the city. In addition to that, the IA 32- Southwest Arterial will improve the drive times of employees, customers, and visitors who fly into the Dubuque Regional airport and then must find their way to our new facility. I support the RISE application of the City of Dubuque. Sincerely, Sr. Director of Operations The McGraw-Hill Companies 75oo Chavenel[e Road Dubuque, IA 52ool I of 1 K. Bruce Lauritsen President & Chief Executive Officer April 21, 2003 Mr. Mark F. Wan&o, P.E., L.S. Director Iowa Department of Transportation 800 Lincoln Way Ames, IA 50010 Dear Mr. Wandro: On February 14, 2002, I wrote to Governor Vilsack in support of the development of the Southwest Arterial project in Dubuque. Today I am writing you to support the RISE application for the $10 million grant over three years for IA 32. ff grant money is awarded by the IDOT, that money can be used as matching funds for a federal earmark for IA 32 that may be in the works with reauthorization of the federal highway bill later this year. Flexsteel continues to be a healthy and vibrant manufacturer in Dubuque, employing over 750 associates. Trucking is very important as we continue to offer our retailers timely and damage-free seating products. I urge you to provide support for lA 32 for this project to the IDOT. Thank you for your continued commitment to the Dubuque area and for your consideration of this initiative. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Sincerely, K. Bruc$ La~ri~se'h~ ..... KBL:jkz FLEXSTEEL® INDUSTRIES INCORPOKATED POST O*HCE BOX 877 · DUBUQUE, IOWA 52004-0877 · 56_3.556 . 7730/TELEPHONE · 563 . 556 . 8345/Fax Q JOHN DEERE Worldwide Construction & Forestry Division 18600 S. John Deere Road, Dubuque, IA 52001 Phone: 563-589-5233 Fax: 563-589-6744 E-rnail: WiegmanRonaldC @ JohnDeere.com Ron Wiegman Manager, Facilities Construction Operations 11 April 2003 Mr. Mark F. Wandro, P.E., L.S. Director Iowa Department of Transportation 800 Lincoln Way Ames, IA 50010 Dear Mr. Wandro; On behalf of John Deere Dubuque Works, I am writing to express our support for the Rebuild Iowa's Strong Economy grant application submitted by the City of Dubuque for the Southwest Arterial. While the completion of the Northwest Arterial expansion to U.S. 52 provides our employees and suppliers a safe and efficient road by which to access our plant from the west side of Dubuque, we still face considerable difficulties in receiving raw goods and distributing our products in a time sensitive manner to the south via U.S. 61 and 151. The development of the Southwest Arterial is even more important to our company as it would allow for our products and people to move back and forth between our Moline headquarters and the Dubuque facility on the recently completed four-lane U.S. 61 without considerable delays or congestion. Even though the Dubuque area has many costly, yet critical transportation needs, the City of Dubuque and the Dubuque area businesses are united behind the construction of the Southwest Arterial as the most critical transportation priority for economic development purposes. As development in our area continues to move to the west, new four-lane corridors must be opened to allow for that development. The Southwest Arterial will allow companies many new opportunities to expand and create good paying jobs for the Dubuque arsa. The John Deers Dubuque Works supports the RISE application of the City of Dubuque. Our area is committed to this rsad, and we anxiously await its completion. Thank you for your consideration of this letter. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, Ron Wiegman A.Y Don l( TRUSTED QUALITY · DEPENDABLE SERVICE · SINCE 1856 April 13, 2003 Mr. Mark F. Wandro, P.E., L.S. Director Iowa Depattment of Transportation 800 Lincoln Way Ames, IA 50010 Dear Mr. Wendro: On behalf ofA. Y. McDonald Mfg. Co., I am writing to express our strong support for the Rebuild Iowa's Strong Economy grant application submitted by the City of Dubuque for IA 32 - the Southwest Arterial. Highway 20 West is an excellent route for us. While this road opens up safe and efficient routes for oar products to the west, we still face considerable difficulties in receiving raw goods and distributing our products in a time-sensitive manner to the south via U.S. 61 and 151. The completion of IA 32 to the southern part of Dubuque will allow our Company to continue to produce our great products and service while also opening up markets of opportunity in currently difficult-to-reach areas. Ill additiol~ orr Company recently invested in a new hangar at the Dubuque aixport. Not only do we have frequent flights with our plane, but routinely we have persounel utilizing the Dubuque airport. We bring customers to and fi.om the airport many fumes. Over 50 of our employees who live south of Dubuque and all of our business trips to the airport or south go over residential streets. The Dubuque area has many costly yet critical transportation needs. However, the City of Dubuque and the Dubuque area business community are un/ted behind the construction of the Southwest Arterial as the most critical transportation priority for economic development purposes. As development in our area continues to move to the west, new four-lane corridors must be opened to allow for that development. The Southwest Arterial will provide companies like ours new opportunities to expand and create good- paying jobs for the Dubuque area. It will also help to make our area even more attractive to outside companies. A. Y. McDonald Mfg. Co. supports the RISE application of the City of Dubuque. Our area is committed to this road, and we anxiously await its completion. I appreciate your consideration of this letter, and I welcome your response. Yours truly, LJS/ch Water Worl{s Brass Plumbing Valves and £iffings Pumps and Water Sy~erns Disffibution Gas Valve~/Meter Bats Mailing Address P.O. BOX 508 · DUBUQUE, iA 52004-0508 ShippingAddress 4800 CHAVENELL£ ROAD · DUBUQUE, IA 52002 PHONE 563/583-7311 · FAX 563/588-0720 · WEBwww.aymcdonald.com T'HEISEN SUPPLY I1%1 . April t0, 2003 Mr. Mark F. Wandro, P.E., L.S. Director Iowa Department of Transportation 800 Lincoln Way Ames, IA 50010 Dear Mr. Wandro: On behalf of Theisen's Supply, I am writing to express our strong support for the Rebuild Iowa's Strong Economy grant application submitted by the City of Dubuque for IA 32-- the Southwest Arterial. The Southwest Arterial will be more efficient for us to serve our stores in Maquoketa, DeWitt, Tipton, Anamosa, Monticello, Cedar Rapids and Marshalltown, which means 20 semi loads per week that do not have to travel through towns on Hwy 20. That makes 40 loads because of the round trip! Plus, we have 20% of our staffthat would use the road on a daily basis coming from the 61 south corridor--Bernard and Monmouth areas. We expect to expand our stores to the south in the future, which will enhance our continued support of jobs for Dubuque. The DUbuque area has many costly, yet critical transportation needs. However, the City of Dubuque and the Dubuque area business communities are united behind the construction of the Southwest Arterial as the most critical transportation priority for economic development purposes. As development in our area continues to move to the west, new four-lane corridors must be opened to allow for that development. The Southwest Arterial will provide companies like ours new opportunities to expand and create well paying jobs for the Dubuque area. It wi!! also help to make our area even more attractive to outside companies. Theisen Supply supports the RISE application of the City of Dubuque. Our area is committed to this road, and we anxiously await its completion. I appreciate your consideration of this letter, and I welcome your response. Sincerely, Yrm Theisen, President 4949 Chavenelle Road. Dubuque lA 52002-2634 PHONE 563 · 556 · 4738 FAX 563 · 556 · 7959 MANUFACTURING CO. April I 1, 2003 Mr. Mark F. Wan&o, P.E., L.S. Director Iowa Department of Transportation 800 Lincoin Way Ames, IA 50010 Dear Mr. Wandro: I am writing to express our strong support for the Rebuild Iowa's Strong Economy grant application submitted by the City of Dubuque for IA 32- the Southwest Arterial. With the completion of the IA 32 from U.S. 52 to Asbury Rd, our company is now able to move goods and services on a four-lane highway from U.S. 52 to U.S. 20. This road opens up safe and efficient routes for our products to the west, yet over 65% of our company's business is south. We still face considerable difficulties in receiving raw goods and distributing our products in a time sensitive manner to the south via U.S. 61 & 151. Having just completed our new 30,000 square ft. manufacturing plant in Dubuque's west side industrial park, completion of IA 32 to the southern part of Dubuque will allow our company to continue to produce our great products while also opening additional markets of opportunity in current difficult to reach areas. The Dubuque area has many costly yet critical transportation needs. The Dubuque area business community is united behind the construction of the Southwest Arterial as the most critical transportation priority for economic development purposes. As development in our area continues to move to the west, new four-lane corridors must be opened to allow for that development. The Southwest Arterial will provide companies like ours new opportunities to expand and create good paying jobs for the Dubuque area. It will also help to make our area even more attractive to outside companies. Giese Manufactmdng supports the RISE application of the City of Dubuque. Our area is committed to this road, and we anxiously await its completion. I appreciate your consideration of this letter and I am open to your response. Sincerely, CTURING CO.~ Vice President Administrative Office 2125 Kerper Blvd., Dubuque, IA 52001-2239 Phone (563) 588-2023 FAX (563) 556-8422 www.gJeseoo,oom Physical Plant 7025 Chavenelle Rd,, Dubuque, IA 52002 Phone (563) 5884772 FAX (563) 588-8947 April 14. 2003 Mr. Mark F. Wandro. P.E., L.S. Director iowa Department cf Transportation 800 Lincoln Way Ames, IA 50010 Dear Mr. Wandro: On behalf'of Swiss Valley Farms Co., I am writing to express our strong support fbr the Rebuild Iowa's Strong Economy' grant application submitted by the City' of Dubuque tbr IA 32 the Southwest At-tcrial. With thc completion of thc IA 32 from U.S. 52 to Asbury Rd, our company is uow able to move goods and services on a fnur-Ianc highway from U.S. 52 to U.S. 20. While this road opens up safc and efficient routes for our products to the west, we still t:ace considerable difficulties in receiving raw goods and distributing our products in a time sensitive manner to thc south via U.S. 61 and 151. The COlnpletion of IA 32 to the southern part of Dubuque will allow our company to continue to produce our great products and service while also opening up markets of opportunity in currently difficult to reach areas. The Dubuque area has many costly yet critical transportation needs. However. our the City of Dubuque are the Dubuque area business contmtmity are united behind the construction of the Southwest Arterial as the most critical transportation priority for economic development purposes. As development in our area continues to move to the west, new fbur-lane corridors must be opened to allow lbr that development. The Southwest Arterial will provide companies like ours new opportunities to expand and create good paying jobs for the Dubuque area. It will also help to make our area even more attractive to outside companies. Swiss Valley Farms Co. supports the RISE application of the City of Dubuque. Our area is committed to this road, and we anxiously await its complefiorx. 1 appreciate your consideration of this letter, and I welcome your response. Sincerely. Joe Holbrook General Manager Phone: 1-800-397-9477 cxt: 227 / Chris D. Hoeger District Sales Manager ext: 352 PO Box 692 Dubuque, IA 52004-0692 563-556-8911 fax563-556-8973 Apfil14,2003 Mr. Mark F. Wandro, P.E., L.S. Director Iowa Department of Transportation 800 Lincoln Way Ames, IA 50010 Dear Mr. Wandro: I am writing to express our strong support for the Rebuild Iowa's Strong Economy grant application submitted by the City of Dubuque for IA 32- the Southwest Arterial. With the completion of IA 32 from U.S. 52 to Asbury Rd, our company is now able to move product on a four-lane highway from U.S. 52 to U.S. 20. While this road has greatly improved movement to the west, we still straggle with efficient product movement to the south via U.S. 61 and 151. The completion of IA 32 to the southern part of Dubuque will not only allow us better access to our southern markets, it will also lighten the traffic on U.S. 20, already a congested route. Even though our community has many critical transportation needs, none could be more important than the Southwest Arterial. As development in this area continues west new four-lane corridors must be opened to allow for efficient and effective movement of goods and services, not to mention attracting new business and industry. Kirchhoff Distributing Company supports the RISE application of the City of Dubuque. Our area is committed to this road and anxiously awaits its completion. I appreciate your consideration of this letter, and I welcome your response. Sincerely, Ronald J. Kirchhoff President & CEO