Intermodal Transportation System Grant ApplicationsMasterpiece on the Mississippi
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Intermodal Transportation System Grant Applications
DATE: August 10, 2011
Dubuque
All-America City
2007
Economic Development Director Dave Heiar is recommending submittal of two grant
applications to provide funding for the Dubuque Intermodal Transportation System in
the Historic Millwork District.
The State of Good Repair application would include up to 500 parking stalls and the
proposed budget is approximately $24 million. This application proposes construction in
two phases of about $12 million each.
The Bus Livability application is for $17 million and would only fund about 250 parking
stalls. The City is committing a 30% match with these applications.
In both scenarios, it is anticipated that the project design would allow a train platform to
be added at a later date. City and ECIA staff will be preparing a Tiger Grant application
in October for this purpose.
Both of the grant applications include $1 million to allow the Jule to redesign its routes
based on route efficiency and optimization software developed by IBM through the
smarter city partnership. The software will determine the most efficient routes and
schedules based on travel demand, increasing the overall efficiency of the transit
system while reducing traffic congestion and vehicle emissions.
The State of Good Repair application requires a 30% or $7,233,900 local match, which
would come from TIF debt through the Downtown Urban Renewal District.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
Michael C. Van Milligen
MCVM:jh
Attachment
cc: Barry Lindahl, City Attorney
Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager
David J. Heiar, Economic Development Director
2
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
TO: Michael Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: David J. Heiar, Economic Development Director��
SUBJECT: Intermodal Transportation System Grant Applications
DATE: August 9, 2011
Dubuque
AH- Ame�lcacny
h r
2007
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this memorandum is to seek the City Council's approval of two grant
applications for funding the Dubuque Intermodal Transportation System (the Center) in
the Historic Millwork District.
BACKGROUND
In July 2010, the City Council hired IIW Engineers partnered with Desman Associates to
complete a site selection study and environmental analysis for an Intermodal
Transportation Center (ITC). The vision for the ITC is that it will support transit
connections, rail connections, vehicular parking, electric vehicle charging, bicycle
parking, intercity bus, a passenger waiting area, taxicab stands, public restrooms
(including lockers and showers /changing areas), a ticketing office along with the
potential for retail space, a daycare facility, and possibly commercial office space.
The consultants initially considered 11 potential sites that were quickly narrowed down
to two sites. The final two sites were in the Port of Dubuque and the Historic Millwork
District. IIW met with the selection committee to review the merits of each site.
Both sites still have some unknowns that could possibly create future obstacles.
Nonetheless, there was a need to move forward quickly to take advantage of the current
funding sources. After weighing the pros and cons of each site, the selection committee
unanimously recommended the Historic Millwork District for the Intermodal
Transportation Facility. Some of the major factors weighing in favor of the Historic
Millwork District are as follows:
1) Fills a need for parking in the Millwork District and will more likely create a
facility that can create revenue (parking fees) to make it more self- sufficient.
2) Can better provide a downtown transfer site for the Jule and will provide easier
and more reliable access for all buses including RTA and Burlington Trailways.
3) Is consistent with the Historic Millwork District with respect to sustainability,
complete streets, air quality and safety. The current momentum in this district
creates a greater opportunity for potential future funding for the construction of
the facility.
In July 2011, the City Council hired an Iowa City firm to begin the preliminary design of
the facility. Neumann Monson Architects has extensive recent experience with parking
structures and multi -modal facilities across Iowa. They are currently working with the
cities of Ames and Coralville on their Intermodal facilities. The Neumann Monson team
will be in Dubuque on a couple days this month to review track alignment and to get
public input on the anticipated needs of the intermodal facility.
The work completed in Phase I (site selection) and Phase II (design) is being funded by
two grants received by the City. The state of Iowa committed $300,000 from
transportation funds which will be matched by $236,000 of federal transit funding. No
local match will be required.
DISCUSSION
Recently the Federal Transit Administration announced grant opportunities for various
transit projects. After reviewing the application criteria, City staff met with the staff at
ECIA to discuss potential viable grant opportunities.
A couple of these grants (State of Good Repair and Bus Livability) seemed geared to
our proposed Intermodal Transportation System and would allow us to fund a
transportation facility for the Jule's new fleet. The application deadlines were July 28,
2011. The full grant applications are attached for City Council review and consideration.
The grant applications request funding for the construction of a new Dubuque
Intermodal Transportation System (the Center), which is a perfect example of a transit -
oriented development. The Center will replace a century-old, transit -only facility that
needs repairs in excess of $2 million, with a new one that will provide connections to all
modes of transportation. The Center will also house a brand new fleet of clean diesel
buses that were purchased with grant funds in the fall of 2010 from the Clean Fuels and
State of Good Repair programs. The Center will be located near the Historic Millwork
District (HMD), a mixed use housing and commercial development and adjacent to the
Washington neighborhood (WN), a low- income area that is undergoing an extensive
revitalization. The Center is a place where all modes of transportation, including bicycle
and pedestrians, will gather, change modes of transportation and disperse within the
community, region, and nation.
The Center will also be the station for the future Amtrak passenger rail line that will run
from Dubuque to Chicago. The Center will be a connector for Intercity bus services
operated by Burlington Trailways and Lamers Bus Lines with service to Chicago, Des
Moines, Indianapolis, Omaha, Madison, Milwaukee, and St. Louis.
Both of the grant applications include $1 million to allow the Jule to redesign its routes
based on route efficiency and optimization software developed by IBM through the
smarter city partnership. The software will determine the most efficient routes and
2
schedules based on travel demand, increasing the overall efficiency of the transit
system while reducing traffic congestion and vehicle emissions.
The State of Good Repair application would include up to 500 parking stalls and the
proposed budget is approximately $24 million. This application proposes construction in
two phases of about $12 million each.
The Bus Livability application is for $17 million and would only fund about 250 parking
stalls. The City is committing a 30% match with these applications.
In both scenarios, it is anticipated that the project design would allow a train platform to
be added at a later date. City and ECIA staff will be preparing a Tiger Grant application
in October for this purpose.
RECOMMENDATION /ACTION STEP
Action step is for the City Council to acknowledge and approve submittal of the grant
applications to the Federal Transit Authority for the State of Good Repair program and
the Bus Livability program.
3
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Applicant and Proposal Profile
(Bus and Bus Facilities Program)
Section I. Applicant Information
Organization Legal Name:
FTA Recipient ID Number:
City of Dubuque - The Jule Transit
1832
Applicant Eligibility: (` State
(' Indian Tribe
(: Direct recipient of 5307 Urbanized Area Formula Program
Population served: fl Urbanized over 200,000
® Urbanized 50,000 - 200,000
Rural
Description of services provided:
Jule Transit provides safe and timely transportation for citizens within the Dubuque city limits on a fixed route system and
mini -bus paratransit services. Fixed route service provides transportation to access various services, shopping,
entertainment, community functions, and employment opportunities within the City. The mini -bus gives elderly and
disabled people independence by providing Origin to Destination transportation and passenger assistance when accessing
the demand response service.
Description of areas served:
Dubuque County is located in eastern Iowa bounded by the Mississippi River. The county covers a total land area of 620
square miles. The county seat is the City of Dubuque which lies at the junction of three states — Iowa, Illinois, and
Wisconsin. It stands as a metropolitan service area for seven surrounding counties and 2.9 million people live within 100
miles of Dubuque. Dubuque County has an approximate population of 93,653 people (2010). The overall population
density is approximately151 persons per square mile. The City of Dubuque's population is at 57,637 (2010). The City of
Dubuque serves as the main educational, industrial, tourism, and cultural center for the region. Other cities in the
communities in the Dubuque metropolitan area include Dyersville, Asbury, Farley, Peosta, Epworth and Cascade. The
Dubuque metro area is comprised of a variety of densities and neighborhoods, including downtown commercial, clustered
medical and shopping areas, historic residential neighborhoods, and new construction on the west end. Jule Transit
connects all of these areas, and provides vital connections as part of a Long -Range Transportation Plan and in coordination
with other forms of transportation including private vehicle, bike trails, and pedestrian corridors. The city of Dubuque is
pleased to submit a proposal for the Dubuque Intermodal Transportation System (DITS), which is a perfect example of a
transit - oriented development that will improve mobility for all citizens, offer flexibility in transportation choices, foster
sustainability, enhance economic competitiveness, and connect neighborhoods and communities.
Section II. Evaluation Criteria (This section repeats, per project)
Eligibility Information
Proposal Title:
(Descriptive Title of this
Proposal)
The Dubuque Intermodal Transportation System (The Center)
SF424 Supplemental Form - Bus and Bus Facilities Program
Page 1 of 7
Project Type:
BUS ONLY:
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❑ Purchase of replacement or rehabilitation of bases and vans
® Replacement or the modernization of bus maintenance, service, or administrative facilities
❑ Purchases of vehicles for service expansion
® Bus related equipment (including ITS, fare equipment, communication devices)
❑ Development and implementation of transit asset management system
❑ Other
If Other, Specify:
Average Fleet Age (In Years):
Average Fleet Age (In Miles):
Spare Ratio:
Planning and Local / Region Prioritization
Is this project in STIP or TIP? (i Yes C No (' N/A
Planning and Local Prioritization Justification:
* ** Note : Applicant should address all elements listed as part of the evaluation criteria in the Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA).
Project Scope: The proposed new Dubuque Intermodal Transportation System (The Center) is a perfect example of a
transit- oriented development. The Center will replace a dilapidated, transit -only facility with a new one that will provide
connections to all modes of transportation. The Center is a place where all modes of transportation, including bicycle and
pedestrians, will gather, change modes of transportation and disperse within the community, region, and nation.
The Center will be the station for Amtrak that will run from Dubuque to Chicago and will be a connector for Intercity bus,
serving major cities in the Midwest. Transit routes will be redesigned based on route efficiency and optimization software
developed by IBM, determining the most efficient routes and schedules based on travel demand, increasing the overall
efficiency of the transit system while reducing traffic congestion and vehicle emissions.
The following project scope includes specific tasks, who will be performing the task, anticipated outcomes, the task
timeline and the cost of the task.
Task A: PreDesign, Preliminary Programming, Regulatory Coordination, and Site Analysis with Schematic Design & Design
Development for intermodal facility - City of Dubuque engineering, consultant, DMATS staff - A centralized facility to
connect with multiple public and private transportation options, transfer point for inter city and county transit, new facility
for transit administration - Completed by December 2011 - $450,000 (funds secured).
Task B: Add on to Intermodal Facility Categorical Exclusion to perform environmental process on bus storage and
maintenance section of project. This process will be done soon as the site selected is same for both projects - City of
Dubuque engineering, consultant, DMATS staff - Environmental approval for depot from SHPO and FTA - Completed by
March 2012 - $30,000.
Task C: Amending the existing intermodal design to add bus storage and maintenance section of project - City of
Dubuque engineering, consultant, Jule Transit, DMATS staff - Preliminary design documents for the intermodal and bus
storage and maintenance facility - Completed by June 2012 - $264,000.
Task D: Construction documents for intermodal and bus facility - City of Dubuque engineering, Jule Transit, Iowa DOT,
FTA, DMATS staff - Project ready for bid approval and contract award - Completed by August 2012 - $165,000.
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1 ask L: Bid approval and contract award for intermodal facility and bus storage and maintenance facility - City of Dubuque
engineering, Jule Transit, Iowa DOT, FTA, DMATS staff - Ready for construction - Completed by November 2012 - no cost.
Task F: Construction of Phase I of the intermodal facility and bus storage and maintenance facility - City of Dubuque
engineering, Jule Transit, construction contractor, DMATS staff - Completed by December 2013 - $15,804,000.
Task G: Develop, test and launch route optimization software - IBM, Jule Transit - enhanced access and availability of the
Jule transit system, increased transit system efficiency - January 2012 to December 2012 - $1 million.
The Center is consistent with all City of Dubuque Planning documents and local priorities. The design process is listed as a
real project, and construction is listed as illustrative project in the DMATS Long Range Transportation Plan. The project was
recommended in the FY 2011 -2015 DMATS & RPA Passenger Transportation Plan. In the planning of this project, the Jule
has coordinated with, and has earned the support of area transportation modes and partners. Please see letters of support
for the full list of project partners.
Readiness Justification
Project Can Be Implemented Within:
3 Months I^ 6 Months (' 12 Months (: 18 Months
Project Can Be Obligated Within:
(' 3 Months G 6 Months ( 12 Months (' 18 Months
Project Readiness Justification:
***Note : Applicant should address all elements listed as part of the evaluation criteria in the Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA).
The City's plan for a smart, intermodal transportation system located in the urban core of Dubuque fits well with the
consolidated vision to be a cleaner, healthier, more livable community. Dubuque has received national attention within the
last two years. As part of IBM's "Smarter Planet" campaign, IBM announced their intentions to make Dubuque one of the
first "smarter" sustainable cities in the United States. Also, Dubuque topped Forbes Magazine's list for job growth in a small
city, and was named as the "Most Livable City in America" by the US Conference of Mayors. Additionally, three cabinet
secretaries, (DOT, HUD and EPA) visited the city and Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood proclaimed Dubuque, the
"definition of livability." Finally, Blueprint America — with PBS NewsHour — featured Dubuque's success of transforming
from an old factory town in the Midwest to a "Greenlab" and a model for others in the nation. The proposed Dubuque
Intermodal Transportation System (the Center) has a site location study done with approved Documented Categorical
Exclusion from the FTA in June 2011. The City hired a consultant to do a Pre Design, Preliminary Programming, Regulatory
Coordination, and Site Analysis with Schematic Design & Design Development. This portion is in progress and is expected
to be done by December of 2011. With funding availability the project can be obligated within 6 months and Phase I can be
completed in 18 months. Please see the FTA Categorical Exclusion approval letter attached to the application package.
This project is consistent with local transit priorities. The City Council has made improved public transportation one of five
"high priority" items on its policy agenda and among the five items on its five year goals list are "a diverse, strong
economy," "sustainable city," "planned and managed growth," and "improved transportation connectivity" all of which are
closely connected to an efficient, effective public transportation system. The Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportation
Study (DMATS), the regional MPO, endorses the project. The project is already listed in the TIP and TEAM WEB for Phase I &
II design. Many others, including the developers of new transit oriented developments downtown and elsewhere in town
also support the project (Please see letters of support attached to the application package.). The local match is available in
the general budget from the city of Dubuque.
The City is ready to proceed with Phase I of the project which is the intermodal facility and the route optimization pieces
and is requesting $12,063,100 of the total Phase I project cost. Phase II which is additional auto storage will be completed
at a later date. Total cost of both Phases is $24,113,000.
Technical, Legal and Financial Capacity
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Description of Technical Capacity to Implement Project:
* ** Note : Applicant should address all elements listed as part of the evaluation criteria in the Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA).
The City of Dubuque has the technical capacity to implement the proposed Dubuque Intermodal Transportation System.
The City has successfully administered federal and state grant programs in the past. The transit system (recently renamed
"The Jule ") has been under the umbrella of the city of Dubuque since the 1970s and is a fundamental and necessary
community service. The Jule Transit System is administered by a Director of Transit Operations who reports to the City of
Dubuque Economic Development Director and City Manager. Policy is provided by the Dubuque City Council acting on the
advice of the Dubuque Transit Trustee Board. From 2005 to June 30, 2010, service management of the system was
contracted to First Transit. However, as of July 1, 2010, the East Central Intergovernmental Association located in Dubuque,
has managed the transit system, with the Jule Director of Transit reporting directly to the ECIA Executive Director. ECIA has
long standing partnerships with local, state and federal organizations and staff experienced in grant writing, grant
administration, financial management, and technical analysis. All Jule finances are tracked and managed by the City of
Dubuque Budget Office. An independent annual audit is completed by the City of Dubuque. The City and ECIA have
extensive experience implementing and managing large capital projects such as recent awards from the Clean Fuels and
State of Good Repair grant programs and works well together when administering grants. The City has on staff a full -time
administrator for various funding programs to monitor our compliance with all regulatory requirements, submit timely
drawdowns and payouts for expenses associated with each grant. This position is supported by an accountant and account
clerk in our Finance department who monitor all grants received for entry into accounting system and for coordination
with our annual auditing process.
Description of Legal Capacity to Implement Project:
* ** Note : Applicant should address all elements listed as part of the evaluation criteria in the Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA).
The chief legal officer of the city of Dubuque is the City Attorney, who provides counsel and direction to the City by
attending meetings of the City Council and selected boards and commissions. The City Attorney will provide any legal
guidance through the duration of this project where legal expertise is necessary. The City Attorney represents the City in all
cases before the federal and state courts and administrative agencies where the City has an interest. The City Attorney
processes all claims and suits for and against the City and provides written opinions to the City Council, boards and
commissions, the City Manager and City departments. The City Attorney assists in the preparation and review of legal
documents, legislation, and other matters in which there is a City interest. The City Attorney is assisted by a full time
Assistant City Attorney, a part -time Assistant City Attorney, and two Administrative Assistants. Assignments of work to the
Assistant City Attorneys and Administrative Assistants are made by the City Attorney.
Description of Financial Capacity to Implement Project:
* ** Note : Applicant should address all elements listed as part of the evaluation criteria in the Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA).
The City of Dubuque will be the fiscal agent for the grant and will manage all grant funds. The City's Finance and Budget
Offices will ensure compliance with all federal regulations and guidelines. The City has a well - established record of
compliance with the submittal requirements of all State and Federal funds received. One example of the City's strong fiscal
management and compliance is Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding, received since 1974. These federal
funds are received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Community Development (HUD) with an annual entitlement
of over $1.2 million dollars. The City prepares appropriate quarterly, semi - annual and annual reports, including the
Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plans, Federal Cash Transaction reports and the year -end Consolidated Annual
Performance and Evaluation Reports.
Staff prepares and conducts, as needed, environmental assessments and monitors contractor compliance with Davis -Bacon
wage regulations, affirmative action and equal opportunity requirements. Staff also prepares all sub recipient contracts and
disburses CDBG funds. Annual HUD review has determined that program administration has satisfactorily met federal
requirements. A performance outcome measurement system which meets HUD requirements is in place to document and
report progress towards achieving the expected results as defined in our Annual and Consolidated Plans.
The City has also received numerous State, Regional and Federal grants for various projects including: trail development,
transient boat slips, public safety equipment and programming, economic development initiatives, historic preservation
and public infrastructure. The City has never lost a grant due to monitoring failure. Because of our success with grant
compliance, the City has received numerous awards including the 2008 & 2007 Distinguished Budget award from GFOA,
the 2006 CAFR award from GFO and, the 2006 Audrey Nelson Community Development Achievement.
SF424 Supplemental Form - Bus and Bus Facilities Program
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Are there any outstanding Technical, Legal, or Financial issues with respect to FTA Funding?
(` Yes (: No
If Yes, explain:
Demonstration of Need
Description of asset to be replaced or rehabilitated in age or mileage (if applicable):
The asset to be replaced is the Jule facility which was built in 1902. The brick structure requires substantial repairs that are
not cost effective due to technology upgrades and energy efficiency.
Demonstration of Need:
***Note : Applicant should address all elements listed as part of the evaluation criteria in the Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA).
An award from this grant program will allow us to complete the first Phase of the Center so we can proceed to the next
Phase; therefore money for this portion represents a one -time need. The Dubuque public transit service holds the
distinction of being the second oldest public transit system west of the Mississippi. In 1867, Dubuque the first franchise for
street cars was granted to the Dubuque Street Railway. Thirty seven years later, the present bus barn facility at 24th and
Central Avenue was constructed in 1902. That facility and service was acquired by the City of Dubuque from Interstate
Power Company in 1973, and continues to be operated out of the same location today. In 1988, the city completed a
number of renovations to the current facility that included roof replacement, replacement of flooring and lighting,
relocation of the administrative offices and other essential upgrades. Today the facility is more than a century old and is
operating beyond its useful life in FTA and practical standards. The City applied for TIGER funding in 2010 but was denied.
The 43,000 square foot structure requires substantial repairs in excess of $2 million that are simply not cost effective given
the age of the structure and the transit service has changed greatly due to the changes in technology, energy efficiency
and growth of the city's urban population. In 2002 the City moved the maintenance functions of the transit service to a City
Operations and Maintenance facility, rendering the bus barn to the status of a storage facility. Hundreds of thousands of
dollars have been spent maintaining and operating the outdated facility, and a list of estimated future repairs of over $2
million has been compiled, prompting the City to seek funding to construct a new and more cost efficient facility providing
a connection for all modes of transportation. Additionally, the existing facility is not conducive to an intermodal
environment providing a hub for connecting Amtrak and inter -city bus.
In the downtown area, the Millwork district, Port of Dubuque and Washington Neighborhood are all designed to
accommodate public transit, walking and biking. Dubuque is served by Intercity Bus service from Chicago, Des Moines and
Madison. The City will also be served by Passenger rail in 2013. However, with this transit intensive focus and limited
funding, the community has been forced to spend its available resources on maintaining its internal, public transit system
which has led to a lack of connectivity with regional and national transit carriers. The existing transit depot is located on
Central Avenue which is nearly 5 miles from other modal connections. The Intercity bus service arrives in Dubuque after the
transit service schedules end, and passengers must wait for or be dropped off in undesignated locations often in extremely
cold or hot weather conditions with no access to public transportation. This disconnect has prompted Dubuque residents
SF424 Supplemental Form - Bus and Bus Facilities Program
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and officials to come up with a plan to replace the current bus depot with a more energy efficient and practical Intermodal
facility which will provide connections to other modes of transportation and strengthen the urban core with increased
housing and commercial opportunities, job creation and tourism. The City of Dubuque is a nationally recognized leader in
sustainability, discouraging sprawl and promoting a strong urban core. The city has an exciting housing and commercial
development located in the historic Millwork district and a strong downtown and Port of Dubuque revitalization area with
10,700 jobs and 1.8 million visitors annually. One of the most important goals for City of Dubuque is to keep local talent in
the area and to make the urban core a strong transit, walk and bike friendly area.
Project Budget
Description
Add on to preliminary design
Preparation of construction documents
Construction of bus storage facility & transit offices
Transit equipment within the facility
Construction of staging /transfer area
Construction of waiting rooms, ticketing and
conference hall for general public usage
ITS for Route optimization and Intermodal Center
Parking for Phase I first 250 spaces
QTY
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Federal Amount Total Requested
184,800
115,500
4,368,000
630,000
932,400
932,400
700,000
4,200,000
Total Amount:
184,800
115,500
4,368,000
630,000
932,400
932,400
700,000
4,200,000
12,063,100
Matching Funds Amount:
Source of Matching Funds:
Matching Funds Information
5,169,900
The matching funds will be provided by the City of Dubuque general funds.
Supporting Documentation of Local Match:
Letter from city of Dubuque attached to application package.
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Project Timeline
Timeline Item Description
PreDesign, Preliminary Programming, Regulatory Coordination, and Site
Analysis with Schematic Design & Design Development. Work in progress will
be done by December 2011
Add on to Intermodal Facility Categorical Exclusion
Amending the existing intermodal design to add bus storage and maintenance
Construction documents for intermodal and bus facility
Bid approval and contract award for intermodal facility and bus storage and
maintenance facility
Construction of Phase I of the intermodal facility and bus storage and
maintenance facility
Develop, test and launch route optimization software
Timeline Item Date
12/30/2011
3/30/2012
6/29/2012
8/31/2012
11/30/2012
12/27/2013
12/28/2012
Congressional Districts (Place of Performance)
Congressional District
IA -001
Congressional Representative
Braley, Bruce L.
SF424 Supplemental Form - Bus and Bus Facilities Program Page 7 of 7
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Applicant and Proposal Profile
(Bus and Bus Facilities Program)
Section I. Applicant Information
Organization Legal Name:
FTA Recipient ID Number:
City of Dubuque - The Jule Transit
1832
Applicant Eligibility: (" State
(' Indian Tribe
(i Direct recipient of 5307 Urbanized Area Formula Program
Population served: fl Urbanized over 200,000
® Urbanized 50,000 - 200,000
0 Rural
Description of services provided:
Jule Transit provides safe and timely transportation for citizens within the Dubuque city limits on a fixed route system and
mini -bus paratransit services. Fixed route service provides transportation to access various services, shopping,
entertainment, community functions, and employment opportunities within the City. The mini -bus gives elderly and
disabled people independence by providing Origin to Destination transportation and passenger assistance when accessing
the demand response service.
Description of areas served:
Dubuque County is located in eastern Iowa bounded by the Mississippi River. The county covers a total land area of 620
square miles. The county seat is the City of Dubuque which lies at the junction of three states — Iowa, Illinois, and
Wisconsin. It stands as a metropolitan service area for seven surrounding counties and 2.9 million people live within 100
miles of Dubuque. Dubuque County has an approximate population of 93,653 people (2010). The overall population
density is approximately ? ?? persons per square mile. The City of Dubuque's population is at 57,637 (2010). The City of
Dubuque serves as the main educational, industrial, tourism, and cultural center for the region. Other cities in the
communities in the Dubuque metropolitan area include Dyersville, Asbury, Farley, Peosta, Epworth and Cascade. The
Dubuque metro area is comprised of a variety of densities and neighborhoods, including downtown commercial, clustered
medical and shopping areas, historic residential neighborhoods, and new construction on the west end. Jule Transit
connects all of these areas, and provides vital connections as part of a Long -Range Transportation Plan and in coordination
with other forms of transportation including private vehicle, bike trails, and pedestrian corridors.
Section II. Evaluation Criteria (This section repeats, per project)
Eligibility Information
Proposal Title:
(Descriptive Title of this
Proposal)
The Dubuque Intermodal Transportation System (DITS)
Project Type: fl Purchase of replacement or rehabilitation of bases and vans
® Replacement or the modernization of bus maintenance, service, or administrative facilities
SF424 Supplemental Form - Bus and Bus Facilities Program
Page 1 of 8
BUS ONLY:
v1.0
❑ Purchases of vehicles for service expansion
Bus related equipment (including ITS, fare equipment, communication devices)
❑ Development and implementation of transit asset management system
❑ Other
If Other, Specify:
Average Fleet Age (In Years):
Average Fleet Age (In Miles):
Spare Ratio:
Planning and Local / Region Prioritization
Is this project in STIP or TIP? (: Yes (` No ( N/A
Planning and Local Prioritization Justification:
* ** Note : Applicant should address all elements listed as part of the evaluation criteria in the Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA).
Project Scope: The city of Dubuque is pleased to submit a proposal for the construction of a new Dubuque Intermodal
Transportation System (The Center), a perfect example of a transit - oriented development. The Center will replace a decade -
old, transit -only facility with a new one that will provide connections to all modes of transportation and house a brand new
fleet of clean diesel buses that were purchased with prior grant funds. The Center will be located near the Historic Millwork
District (HMD), a mixed use housing and commercial development and adjacent to the Washington neighborhood (WN), a
low- income area that is undergoing an extensive revitalization. The Center is a place where all modes of transportation,
including bicycle and pedestrians, will gather, change modes of transportation and disperse within the community, region,
and nation.
The Center will be the station for Amtrak that will run from Dubuque to Chicago and will be a connector for Intercity bus,
serving major cities in the Midwest. Transit routes will be redesigned based on route efficiency and optimization software
developed by IBM, determining the most efficient routes and schedules based on travel demand, increasing the overall
efficiency of the transit system while reducing traffic congestion and vehicle emissions.
The following project scope includes specific tasks, who will be performing the task, anticipated outcomes, the task
timeline and the cost of the task.
Task A: PreDesign, Preliminary Programming, Regulatory Coordination, and Site Analysis with Schematic Design & Design
Development for intermodal facility -City of Dubuque engineering, consultant, DMATS staff-A centralized facility to connect
with multiple public and private transportation options, transfer point for inter city and county transit, new facility for
transit administration - Completed by December 2011- $450,000 (funds secured).
Task B: Add on to Intermodal Facility Categorical Exclusion to perform environmental process on bus storage and
maintenance section of project. This process will be done soon as the site selected is same for both projects -City of
Dubuque engineering, consultant, DMATS staff - Environmental approval for depot from SHPO and FTA, - Completed by
March 2012 - $30,000.
Task C: Amending the existing intermodal design to add bus storage and maintenance section of project- City of Dubuque
engineering, consultant, Jule Transit, DMATS staff - Preliminary design documents for the intermodal and bus storage and
maintenance facility - Completed by May 2012 - $264,000.
Task D: Construction documents for intermodal and bus facility- City of Dubuque engineering, Jule Transit, Iowa DOT, FTA,
DMATS staff- Project ready for bid approval and contract award - Completed by August 2012 - $165,000.
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Task E: Bid approval and contract award for intermodal facility and bus storage and maintenance facility -City of Dubuque
engineering, Jule Transit, Iowa DOT, FTA, DMATS staff -Ready for construction - Completed by November 2012 -no cost.
Task F: Construction of Phase I & II of the intermodal facility and bus storage and maintenance facility- City of Dubuque
engineering, Jule Transit, construction contractor, DMATS staff - Completed by December 2013 - $22,684,000.
Task G: Develop, test and launch route optimization software -IBM, Jule Transit- enhanced access and availability of the Jule
transit system, increased transit system efficiency- January 2012 to December 2012 -$1 million.
The Center is consistent with all City of Dubuque Planning documents and local priorities. The design process is listed as a
real project, and construction is listed as illustrative project in the DMATS Long Range Transportation Plan. The project was
recommended in the FY 2011 -2015 DMATS & RPA Passenger Transportation Plan. In the planning of this project, The Jule
has coordinated with, and has earned the support of area transportation modes and partners. Please see letters of support
for the full list of project partners.
Readiness Justification
Project Can Be Implemented Within:
( 3 Months C 6 Months (' 12 Months (: 18 Months
Project Can Be Obligated Within:
(' 3 Months (: 6 Months (` 12 Months C 18 Months
Project Readiness Justification:
* ** Note : Applicant should address all elements listed as part of the evaluation criteria in the Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA).
The City's plan for a smart, intermodal transportation system located in the urban core of Dubuque fits well with the
consolidated vision to be a cleaner, healthier, more livable community. Dubuque has received national attention within the
last two years. As part of IBM's "Smarter Planet" campaign, IBM announced their intentions to make Dubuque one of the
first "smarter" sustainable cities in the United States. Also, Dubuque topped Forbes Magazine's list for job growth in a small
city, and was named as the "Most Livable City in America" by the US Council of Mayors. Additionally, three cabinet
secretaries, (DOT, HUD and EPA) visited the city and Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood proclaimed Dubuque, the
"definition of livability." Finally, Blueprint America — with PBS NewsHour — featured Dubuque's success of transforming
from an old factory town in the Midwest to a "Greenlab" and a model for others in the nation.
The proposed Dubuque Intermodal Transportation System (the Center) has a site location study done with approved
Documented Categorical Exclusion from the FTA in June 2011. The City hired a consultant to do a Pre Design, Preliminary
Programming, Regulatory Coordination, and Site Analysis with Schematic Design & Design Development. This portion is in
progress and is expected to be done by December of 2011. With funding availability the project can be obligated within 6
months and Phase I can be completed in 18 months. Please see the FTA Categorical Exclusion approval letter attached to
the application package.
This project is consistent with local transit priorities. The City Council has made improved public transportation one of five
"high priority" items on its policy agenda and among the five items on its five year goals list are "a diverse, strong
economy," "sustainable city," "planned and managed growth," and "improved transportation connectivity" all of which are
closely connected to an efficient, effective public transportation system. The Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportation
Study (DMATS), the regional MPO, endorses the project. The project is already listed in the TIP and TEAM WEB for Phase I &
II design. Many others, including the developers of new Transit Oriented Developments downtown and elsewhere in town
also support the project (Please see letters of support attached to the application package.). The local match is available in
the general budget from the city of Dubuque.
The project will improve environmental quality through sustainable design such as efficient lighting, HVAC, and energy
recovery systems, low flow facilities, large windows that allow in day light, and efficient construction materials and
practices. Annual utility costs at the existing bus maintenance facility average $1.16 per square foot. With the efficiency
components described above, average utility costs would be reduced to $0.43 per square foot. In addition, the buses that
will be stored and operate out of the Center are clean diesel and low emissions vehicles, helping reduce Dubuque's
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environmental impact, which helps set the city apart as a leader in energy efficiency.
The City is ready to proceed with this project and is requesting $16,879,100 of the total project cost of $24,113,000.
Technical, Legal and Financial Capacity
Description of Technical Capacity to Implement Project:
* ** Note : Applicant should address all elements listed as part of the evaluation criteria in the Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA).
The City of Dubuque is in fundable status for the FTA grant program and has the technical capacity to implement the
proposed Dubuque Intermodal Transportation System. There are no outstanding technical issues and the City has
successfully administered federal and state grant programs in the past. The transit system (recently renamed "The Jule ")
has been under the umbrella of the city of Dubuque since the 1970s and is a fundamental and necessary community
service. The Jule Transit System is administered by a Director of Transit Operations who reports to the City of Dubuque
Economic Development Director and City Manager. Policy is provided by the Dubuque City Council acting on the advice of
the Dubuque Transit Trustee Board. From 2005 to June 30, 2010, service management of the system was contracted to First
Transit. However, as of July 1, 2010, the East Central Intergovernmental Association located in Dubuque, has managed the
transit system, with the Jule Director of Transit reporting directly to the ECIA Executive Director. ECIA has long standing
partnerships with local, state and federal organizations and staff experienced in grant writing, grant administration,
financial management, and technical analysis. All Jule finances are tracked and managed by the City of Dubuque Budget
Office. An independent annual audit is completed by the City of Dubuque. The City and ECIA have extensive experience
implementing and managing large capital projects such as recent awards from the Clean Fuels and State of Good Repair
grant programs and works well together when administering grants. The City has on staff a full -time administrator for
various funding programs to monitor our compliance with all regulatory requirements, submit timely drawdowns and
payouts for expenses associated with each grant. This position is supported by an accountant and account clerk in our
Finance department who monitor all grants received for entry into accounting system and for coordination with our annual
auditing process.
Description of Legal Capacity to Implement Project:
* ** Note : Applicant should address all elements listed as part of the evaluation criteria in the Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA).
The City has no outstanding legal issues that would impede the capacity to implement the proposed project. The chief
legal officer of the city of Dubuque is the City Attorney, who provides counsel and direction to the City by attending
meetings of the City Council and selected boards and commissions. The City Attorney will provide any legal guidance
through the duration of this project where legal expertise is necessary. The City Attorney represents the City in all cases
before the federal and state courts and administrative agencies where the City has an interest. The City Attorney processes
all claims and suits for and against the City and provides written opinions to the City Council, boards and commissions, the
City Manager and City departments. The City Attorney assists in the preparation and review of legal documents, legislation,
and other matters in which there is a City interest. The City Attorney is assisted by a full time Assistant City Attorney, a part -
time Assistant City Attorney, and two Administrative Assistants. Assignments of work to the Assistant City Attorneys and
Administrative Assistants are made by the City Attorney.
Description of Financial Capacity to Implement Project:
* ** Note : Applicant should address all elements listed as part of the evaluation criteria in the Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA).
The City of Dubuque will be the fiscal agent for the grant and will manage all grant funds. There are no outstanding
financial issues that would impede the capacity to implement the proposed project. The City's Finance and Budget Offices
will ensure compliance with all federal regulations and guidelines. The City has a well - established record of compliance
with the submittal requirements of all State and Federal funds received. One example of the City's strong fiscal
management and compliance is Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding, received since 1974. These federal
funds are received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Community Development (HUD) with an annual entitlement
of over $1.2 million dollars. The City prepares appropriate quarterly, semi - annual and annual reports, including the
Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plans, Federal Cash Transaction reports and the year -end Consolidated Annual
Performance and Evaluation Reports.
Staff prepares and conducts, as needed, environmental assessments and monitors contractor compliance with Davis -Bacon
wage regulations, affirmative action and equal opportunity requirements. Staff also prepares all sub recipient contracts and
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disburses CDBG tunds. Annual HUD review has determined that program administration has satisfactorily met federal
requirements. A performance outcome measurement system which meets HUD requirements is in place to document and
report progress towards achieving the expected results as defined in our Annual and Consolidated Plans.
The City has also received numerous State, Regional and Federal grants for various projects including: trail development,
transient boat slips, public safety equipment and programming, economic development initiatives, historic preservation
and public infrastructure. The City has never lost a grant due to monitoring failure. Because of our success with grant
compliance, the City has received numerous awards including the 2008 & 2007 Distinguished Budget award from GFOA,
the 2006 CAFR award from GFO and, the 2006 Audrey Nelson Community Development Achievement.
Local match for the project has been identified and is coming from the City.
Are there any outstanding Technical, Legal, or Financial issues with respect to FTA Funding?
C Yes (: No
If Yes, explain:
Demonstration of Need
Description of asset to be replaced or rehabilitated in age or mileage (if applicable):
The asset to be replaced is the Jule facility which was built in 1902. The brick structure requires substantial repairs that are
not cost effective due to technology upgrades and energy efficiency.
Demonstration of Need:
***Note : Applicant should address all elements listed as part of the evaluation criteria in the Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA).
Money for this project represents a one -time need. The Dubuque public transit service holds the distinction of being the
second oldest public transit system west of the Mississippi. In 1867, Dubuque the first franchise for street cars was granted
to the Dubuque Street Railway. Thirty seven years later, the present bus barn facility at 24th and Central Avenue was
constructed in 1902. That facility and service was acquired by the City from Interstate Power Company in 1973, and
continues to be operated out of the same location today. In 1988, the city completed a number of renovations to the
current facility that included roof replacement, replacement of flooring and lighting, relocation of the administrative offices
and other essential upgrades. Today the facility is more than a decade old and is operating beyond its useful life in FTA and
practical standards. The City applied for TIGER funding in 2010 but was denied. The 43,000 square foot structure requires
substantial repairs in excess of $2 million that are not cost effective given the age of the structure and the transit service
has changed greatly due to the changes in technology, energy efficiency and growth of the city's urban population. In 2002
the City moved the maintenance functions of the transit service to a City Operations and Maintenance facility, rendering
the bus barn to the status of a storage facility. Hundreds of thousands of dollars have been spent maintaining and
operating the outdated facility, and a list of estimated future repairs of over $2 million has been compiled, prompting the
City to seek funding to construct a new and more cost efficient facility providing a connection for all modes of
transportation. The existing facility is not conducive to an intermodal environment and the current downtown transfer
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111.0
point in Dubuque tor the fixed route system is located several blocks away with three unheated bus shelters that provide
inadequate protection from inclement weather, lack a safe buffer from heavy downtown traffic, provide no bicycle parking,
and lack passenger amenities. The Center will provide Jule riders with a centralized, easily accessible, and weather - proofed
location to transfer among routes.
In the downtown area, the Millwork district, Port of Dubuque and Washington Neighborhood are all designed to
accommodate public transit, walking and biking. Dubuque is served by Intercity Bus service from Chicago, Des Moines and
Madison. The City will also be served by Passenger rail in 2013. However, with this transit intensive focus and limited
funding, the community has been forced to spend its available resources on maintaining its internal, public transit system
which has led to a lack of connectivity with regional and national transit carriers. The existing transit depot is located on
Central Avenue which is nearly 5 miles from other modal connections. The Intercity bus service arrives in Dubuque after the
transit service schedules end, and passengers must wait for or be dropped off in undesignated locations often in extremely
cold or hot weather conditions with no access to public transportation. This disconnect has prompted Dubuque residents
and officials to come up with a plan to replace the current bus depot with a more energy efficient and practical Intermodal
facility which will provide connections to other modes of transportation and strengthen the urban core with increased
housing and commercial opportunities, job creation and tourism. The City of Dubuque is a nationally recognized leader in
sustainability, discouraging sprawl and promoting a strong urban core. The city has an exciting housing and commercial
development located in the historic Millwork district and a strong downtown and Port of Dubuque revitalization area with
10,700 jobs and 1.8 million visitors annually. One of the most important goals for City of Dubuque is to keep local talent in
the area and to make the urban core a strong transit, walk and bike friendly area.
Project Budget
Description
Add on to preliminary design
Preparation of construction documents
Construction of bus storage facility & transit offices
Transit equipment within the facility
Construction of staging /transfer area
Construction of waiting rooms, ticketing and
conference hall for general public usage
Passenger Rail Platform
ITS for Route optimization and Intermodal Center
Parking for Phase I first 250 spaces
Parking for Phase II first 300 spaces
QTY
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Federal Amount Total Requested
184,800
115,500
4,368,000
630,000
932,400
932,400
700,000
700,000
4,200,000
4,116,000
Total Amount:
184,800
115,500
4,368,000
630,000
932,400
932,400
700,000
700,000
4,200,000
4,116,000
16,879,100
Matching Funds Amount:
Matching Funds Information
7,233,900
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Source of Matching Funds:
The matching funds will be provided by the City of Dubuque general funds.
Supporting Documentation of Local Match:
Letter from city of Dubuque attached to application package.
Project Timeline
Timeline Item Description
PreDesign, Preliminary Programming, Regulatory Coordination, and Site
Analysis with Schematic Design & Design Development. Work in progress will
be done by December 2011
Add on to Intermodal Facility Categorical Exclusion
Amending the existing intermodal design to add bus storage and maintenance
Construction documents for intermodal and bus facility
Bid approval and contract award for intermodal facility and bus storage and
maintenance facility
Construction of Phase I of the intermodal facility and bus storage and
maintenance facility
Develop, test and launch route optimization software
Timeline Item Date
12/30/2011
3/30/2012
6/29/2012
8/31/2012
11/30/2012
12/27/2013
12/28/2012
Congressional Districts (Place of Performance)
Congressional District
IA -001
Congressional Representative
Braley, Bruce L.
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Project Description: The city of Dubuque is pleased to submit a proposal for the construction of a new
Dubuque Intermodal Transportation System (The Center), which is a perfect example of a transit -
oriented development. The Center will replace a century-old, transit -only facility that needs repairs in
excess of $2 million, with a new one that will provide connections to all modes of transportation. The
Center will also house a brand new fleet of clean diesel buses that were purchased with grant funds in
the fall of 2010 from the Clean Fuels and State of Good Repair programs. The Center will be located near
the Historic Millwork District (HMD), a mixed use housing and commercial development and adjacent to
the Washington neighborhood (WN), a low- income area that is undergoing an extensive revitalization.
The Center is a place where all modes of transportation, including bicycle and pedestrians, will gather,
change modes of transportation and disperse within the community, region, and nation.
The Center will be the station for the future Amtrak passenger rail line that will run from Dubuque to
Chicago. The Center will be a connector for Intercity bus services operated by Burlington Trailways and
Lamers Bus Lines with service to Chicago, Des Moines, Indianapolis, Omaha, Madison, Milwaukee, and
St Louis.
Through the proposed project, the Jule will be redesigning its routes based on route efficiency and
optimization software developed by IBM through the smarter city partnership. The software will
determine the most efficient routes and schedules based on travel demand, increasing the overall
efficiency of the transit system while reducing traffic congestion and vehicle emissions.
The City is requesting $12,410,200 for Phase I which is the intermodal facility and the route optimization
pieces of the total Phase 1 project cost. Phase II, which is additional auto storage will be completed at a
later date. Total cost of Phases I and II is $24,113,000.
Linkage to Livability Principles
In 2010, Dubuque received the FY 2010 HUD Preferred Sustainability Status for our application to the
HUD Sustainable Communities Regional Planning Grant Program. The Center enhances user mobility
through the creation of more convenient transportation options for travelers because it will feature rail,
transit (inter -city, county and regional), taxi service, private corporate transportation, rental bicycles,
specialized para- transit vehicle service, excursion boat access nearby, and a walking /bicycling trail point
and will be located adjacent to the HMD and WN. The Center will enhance the lives of over 2 million
residents, employees, employers and visitors by offering multiple transportation options to Dubuque's
major employment centers, industrial and commercial business parks, and tourist centers. Nearby low
income neighborhoods will benefit from increased mobility options and all motorized transportation
choices will accommodate persons with disabilities as well as senior citizens because of the specially
equipped modes available. The Center is the result of a planning process with coordinated
transportation and land -use planning in mind and is listed as a priority project in the DMATS Long Range
Transportation Plan, the DMATS and RPA 8 Passenger Transportation Plan, and the City's CIP. The public
has commented extensively on all plans through open public meetings, surveys, and public input
workshops.
Provide more transportation choices. According to the US Census Bureau, transit makes up a very small
percentage of total trips in Dubuque. In 2009, 81.6% of Dubuque residents drove alone to work; 5.0%
walked; 0.7% used public transit. Survey data collected through Dubuque's Passenger Transportation
Plan suggests that commuters do not use transit because of limited service hours, long wait and ride
times, difficulty transferring between modes, and limited geographic coverage. The Center addresses
these issues by providing a central transfer point, optimizing transit routes, and providing a state of the
1
art bus maintenance and storage facility. The current downtown transfer point does not provide
adequate shelter from the weather or adequate parking for bicycles and is not located near the intercity
bus station. The Center will provide a central location where all modes can meet and disperse through
the community. One component of this project is redesigned Jule routes using consumer travel demand -
based route optimization software developed by IBM through the Smarter City partnership. The
redesign will focus on providing coverage to underserved areas, increased efficiency, and reduced wait
and ride time. The updated maintenance facility will improve access to transit by allowing Jule staff to
perform maintenance and repairs in a timely fashion, reducing downtime and delays in service.
Promote equitable, affordable housing. According to the Center for Neighborhood Technology's H +T
Affordability Index, 50.3% of Dubuque households spend more than 45% of their annual income on
housing and transportation. Auto dependence is the primary cause of a region's affordability problem. In
recent years, most commercial and industrial development occurred on the western edge of the city
while low- income residents reside in the city's core. As transit does not serve many of these new
developments, a car is required. The Center will provide low- income residents with an alternative to
single occupant vehicles. The Center will help lower the combined cost of housing and transportation
through its proximity to existing and new affordable housing units in the WN and HMD and connections
to local and regional transportation for employment and recreational trips.
Enhance economic competitiveness. The Center is part of a comprehensive plan to promote economic
development in the HMD and surrounding neighborhoods. With the Center in place, the HMD area will
serve as a central hub for local and regional transportation. The Center will provide the necessary foot
traffic to draw tenants to the planned commercial space in the HMD. The Center will provide multi -
modal, intra- and intercity access for employees and businesses located in the HMD. These options will
reduce congestion and commute times, improving the attractiveness of the area for economic
development. The IBM software will evaluate true travel demand through data from various sources
providing improved access to local businesses, specifically areas currently not accessible by transit. The
Center will help make Dubuque more accessible for tourists by connecting intercity bus or Amtrak
passengers to the Jule. The route optimization software and smarter IT components of the project will
enhance the Jule's ability to evaluate and respond to changes in transit demand, providing connections
to expanding commercial corridors.
Support existing communities. The Center is essential for revitalizing the HMD through investment in
complete streets, adaptive reuse, mixed -use development, and transit - oriented development. The
Center will be constructed on an existing brownfield site within the HMD and will act as a catalyst for
future residential and commercial redevelopment in the district. The HMD will be a mixed -use, high -
density urban neighborhood where owning a vehicle is unnecessary. The district must offer residents
and businesses access to and from the district through multiple modes of transportation including
transit, walking, and bicycling. This work has begun with the TIGER funded complete streets project, but
the center will serve as the central location for transfers between modes. The HMD without transit
connections will either have vacant residential and commercial space due to lack of access or the
residential and commercial space will be filled, but the district will continue the current pattern of auto
dependence. Both outcomes are not consistent with the HMD Master Plan or the City of Dubuque's
Sustainability Policy.
Coordinate policies and leverage investment. The Center is part of a comprehensive strategy for
redevelopment of the urban core of Dubuque including investments in economic development, housing,
and transportation. The project will be located near the Port of Dubuque, a $500 million transformation
2
of industrial space to a commercial and entertainment district, and adjacent to the HMD, a $200 million
mixed use redevelopment of historic warehouse properties. A $5.6 million TIGER grant will be used to
design and reconstruct the street network in the HMD to a complete streets model, connecting the
Center to the central business district, Port of Dubuque, and WN, a low- income neighborhood
undergoing revitalization near the site. The maintenance and storage component of the project will
house buses purchased using a $2.3 million State of Good Repair grant. The Center will provide vital
transportation connections required for the success of the existing investment and will be instrumental
in leveraging additional investments required to achieve the long -term goals for downtown Dubuque.
Value communities and neighborhoods. The Center will help revitalize downtown neighborhoods by
providing improved transit access for low- income populations, facilitating transitions between modes,
and improving the transit experience for transit dependent residents. The Center will be located within
walking distance of the WN, a disinvested residential neighborhood that has been targeted for
revitalization by the City of Dubuque. In 2009, median household income in the WN is approximately
$19,000 below the county median. Proximity to the project will improve access to destinations within
and outside the region for the residents of the WN and serve as a catalyst for private investment in the
neighborhood.
Linkage to Environmental Sustainability
Dubuque is a community that has made a commitment to environmental sustainability. The project
strengthens this commitment by reducing resident dependence on automobile travel and encourages
walking, bicycling, and transit ridership. By encouraging travelers to reduce their automobile use,
Dubuque's air quality will improve. The project will also improve environmental quality through
sustainable building design including efficient lighting, HVAC, energy recovery systems, low flow
facilities, passive solar, and renewable construction materials. The annual utility costs at the existing
bus maintenance facility will be reduced from $1.16 per square foot to $0.43 per square foot due to the
efficiency components described above. In addition, the buses that will be stored and operate out of the
Center are clean diesel, low emission vehicles, reducing Dubuque's carbon emissions and setting the city
apart as a leader in environmental sustainability. The IBM software will enable the city to design and
implement a more responsive transit system that will aid in reducing green house gas emissions,
encouraging multimodal transit use and making the community more livable.
Leveraging of public and private investments
The City supports this project by committing over $4 million from CIP funds. The Iowa DOT supports the
project and contributed $300,000 toward the feasibility study, environmental study, and preliminary
engineering for a portion of the project. Other supportive partners ranging from tourism industries to
private businesses and organizations, stand behind this priority project. Please see the application
package for letters of support from organizations such as the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce,
McGraw Hill, Greater Dubuque Development Corporation, etc. and matching documentation.
The MPO for the region, the Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportation Study (DMATS), endorses this
project, and it is part of the DMATS Long Range Transportation Plan area. The Center is supported by
Local, State, and Federal partners, including private partners like the HMD owners.
3