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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCommuter Rail Committee-Agenda Packets-8/25/2008c:,;ty o} -----.._ X11 _.._....._ texas PUBLIC NOTICE COMMUTER RAIL COMMITTEE Monday, August 25, 2008 7:00 P.M. Colleyville Center, 5301 Riverwalk Drive The agenda for this meeting will be as follows: 1. Call to Order 2. Approval of Minutes: August 11, 2008 and August 19, 2008 3. Report from Terry Leake, Finance Director regarding tax rate 4. Report from Doug Cooper, Lieutenant regarding crime statistics 5. Discuss EIS Review Preparation -Establish review team(s) in preparation for EIS receipt (See EIS Items listed in the packet) 6. Discuss Information Sharing Initiative -Using pending COG Input, and other established sources of information, prepare an informative presentation to be given to Service Clubs, Homeowners Groups, and other Colleyville citizen groups. 7. Discuss Economic Impact Study -Work with Colleyville City Council to assure funding and undertaking of a Colleyville "T" Station economic impact study 8. Discuss Restructure/Refocus of existing subcommittees 9. Final review and input of information for website 10. Adjournment 1 certify that this notice was posted on the City Hall Bulletin Board on Thursday, August 27, 2008, by 5:00 pm. Kelly Cooper Assistant City Manager c,;r y o f. ----- - Texas COMMUTER RAIL COMMITTEE Minutes -August 11, 2008 1. Call to order Mr. John Gooding, Chair called the meeting to order at 7:11 p.m. Present: John Gooding, Urmesh Shah, Fred Mills, Clif Davis, .Rich Hendler, James Day, Keath Hance, Michael Muhm, John Paul Burnett, John Leeper, Bartley Butler Absent: Linda Baker, Paul Vigiletti, Joyce,. Hammjll, ..David :Grimes, Roger Nelson, Kristen;O.'Regan. .: ~ f ~ "' 2. Approval of minutes: General committee -July 28, 2008 Finance subcommittee -August 5, 2008 Station Impact subcommittee -August 6, 2008 John Paul Burnett made a motion to approve the minutes for July 28, 2008, August 5, 2008, August 6, 2008; James Day seconded the motion. Motion approved. 3. Review and discuss the City Council presentation for August 19 Pre Council meeting a. Discuss any changes or additions b. Clarify key points c. Agree on content John Gooding reviewed the presentation. John Gooding made a motion to approve making a statement in the presentation that this committee does not support or oppose a station stop, the committee is searching for facts and public opinion regarding the matter. The motion was discussed and determined it should not be used. There being no second, a vote was not taken. Discussion regarding the last presentation slide took place. Rich Hendler suggested the final slide was not clear and should be renamed with points clarified. Discussion occurred regarding funding options, Fred Mills asked that the slide include information from recent newspaper article regarding vehicle registration fee. Discussion occurred regarding crime statistics. Urmesh Shah asked why this was not mentioned. John Leeper indicated it is difficult to find a true apples to apples. comparison but that the PD had indicated confidence in their ability to control crime if a station is built. Discussion continued regarding ridership and that the ridership projections should be included in the presentation John Gooding mentioned that the City Council will receive an additional supplemental packet with the presentation Additional discussion took place regarding the traffic slide and that the impact of traffic from the station is not mentioned. 4. Discuss and review additional research items from subcommittees Mona Gandy reviewed the narrative information and how it would be presented on the website with the exception of the Traffic Subcommittee. Indicated some issues with a few questions for example, north side of Fort Worth may mean demographics. It was discussed that subcommittee chairs read the narratives and make sure the information is correct and that there are no contradictions in responses with other subcommittees. Once each has approved, the subcommittee chair will notify Chairman John Gooding and Staff member Kelly Cooper. Fred Mills motioned to approve the process mentioned above; Keath Hance seconded the motion. The motion was approved. Urmesh Shah indicated that he had read the Public Information Subcommittee information and it was correct. Urmesh also asked how the public would be notified. It was discussed that information would be placed on the cable channel, website and disbursed through utility billing inserts. 5. Adjournment There being no further business to discuss, John Gooding made a motion to adjourn. Rich Hendler seconded the motion. The motion was approved and the meeting adjourned at 9:14 p.m. Minutes taken and prepared by Kelly Cooper. Gtty of ~ _ -:-:.. ~~~ .. ,~!~~ .~,~ z~y COMMUTER RAIL SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIR Meeting Minutes August 19, 2008 1. Call to Order: Mr. John Gooding, Chair called the meeting to order at 6:20 p.m. Present: John Gooding, Fred Mills, James Day, Michael Muhm, John Paul Burnett, John Leeper, Bartley Butler, Paul Vigiletti, Absent: David Grimes, Urmesh Shah 2. Review and discuss the results of the City Council presentation John Gooding opened the discussion asking for sub chair feedback. Fred Mills began with his summary with two point made by Mayor Kelly. First, the committee should not to let the finances weigh too much on future committee activities, and second zero in on projected ridership numbers (traffic should follow-upon this). Discussion continued on traffic and ridership issues. Where are cars coming from and where are they going. COG has indicated that the ridership is based on demographics. Discussion occurred regarding the financing of the rail. Paul Vigiletti included that this is a regional effort and rail is coming. Fred Mills continued with a summary of Councilmember Tony Licata comments of don't be discouraged. John Gooding continued the thought there will be people for and against and some issues will need to be worked with and some issues that may be a deal breaker. Go through and give us the issues that you as a committee are concerned about and what are your suggestions to mitigate. John Leeper added that he said a lot of important things, that the committee will hear little things that people will make big, you will hear big things that people aren't concerned with. As a committee we need to look at issues and determine that these are important and significant to address. Paul Vigiletti added another point is what is the economic impact to the City. John Gooding indicated that it boiled down to what the citizens of Colleyville want. Bart Butler began the discussion regarding the public meetings and what was found in those meetings, what are the issues and what are not, and what are the benefits. Fred Mills finalized Councilmember Licata's final two points. First the T's tardiness may cause us to go on and may not be done this December. The second point there may be no definitive answer in December, but you must do the best job you can base on what you know at that point. Mike Muhm continued the discussion regarding there is no magic date, base decisions on the inputs you have. Fred led discussion regarding Councilmember Mike Taylor's comments. He wants a citizen vote. He said he wasn't comfortable that this was the right thing for Colleyville but he indicated that we need rail service in the region and possible sharing a station on the south side of Grapevine. Discussion continued regarding the second Grapevine station and parking. John Gooding asked what are we going to do with this information. What direction did the city council give us? James Day commented that you don't need to worry about or focus on funding. Also keep in mind that we may have a majority of opinion and a minority opinion. Would like to see on August 25, what should we do in December. John Gooding discussed the transportation summit from last Friday and the changes that will occur regarding 58 trains passing by, 51,000 vehicles. We can't stop change, what are they, and what can we do to plan so changes don't impact us as much. Once understand change, take the presentation to HOA, Civic groups, etc. Inform the public; let them make up their own mind. John Paut Burnett indicated that the ball is in their court, if they want the train to go through there are going to have to get out here and give us some information, the EIS is holding us up and questions we asked are holding us up. The train station affects the portion of the residence that live out in that area, they need to know quicker than anybody what is going on, it's going to happen, what is the least impact to our citizens. John Gooding discussed the grant from the COG to discuss the impact and economic issues surrounding the station. The City has a list of consultants to use on this. Money not available until next May 2009. Doesn't cost the City anything to keep our name in the hat. Bart Butler said the T may want to press for an answer but it is in their best interest to keep us on the board. Discussion continued regarding regional funding and grants. Fred Mills summarized three key areas from tonight: 1. EIS -review and action items; 2. Information Sharing; 3. Economic Impact Study. Should we reallocate committee members to help in these other areas? Look at how we are structured Monday, August 25. James Day asked for more information/explanation on the study previously discussed. John Gooding answered with economic development for the area and residential property values. John Gooding discussed what he would like to see from the COG a presentation that the committee could take on the road and inform the public with the facts, not supporting or opposing. Discussion continued on ridership with Mike Muhm asking if The T can share information regarding THE ridership (i.e. Centre Port) and where are people traveling to. 3. Citizen Comments Lisa Bernardo, 7010 Shepherds Glen, spoke regarding need to educate. Pravin Raj, 7205 Thames Trail, spoke regarding need to discuss train station and investment. Keith Staudt, 7208 Belle Meade, spoke regarding positive aspects and benefits. Diane Hill, 7209 Thames, spoke regarding presentation and negatives aspects not addressed appropriately. 4. Adjournment There being no further business to discuss, John Gooding made a motion to adjourn. Fred Mills seconded the motion. The motion was approved and the meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m. Minutes taken from the tape and prepared by Kelly Cooper I certify that this notice was posted on the City Hall Bulletin Board on Friday, August 75, 2008, by 5:00 pm. Kelly Cooper Assistant City Manager Page 1 of 1 Kelly Cooper From: Doug Cooper Sent: Tuesday, August 19, 2008 1:18 PM To: Kelly Cooper Subject: Rail Station Crime Information Attachments: A170.pdf; A200.pdf; K300.pdf received data from the Research and Planning Section of the Ft. Worth Police Department. The data includes comparison of the crime rate for the three stations and surrounding areas for the year before the stations were built compared to crime r..ates for 2007. For the three stations in Ft. Worth the crime rates for major offenses including robbery, theft, burglary, assault, and auto theft generally remained the same or in some cases even declined. The data does not indicate that the building of a rail station had any significant impact on the crime rate for the reporting areas. An employee with the Planning Section advised that any increases in crime would be similar to raises in crime due to the building of a large parking lot for a business. Attached are the crime rate comparisons for the stations (A170-Lancaster station, A200-9th and Jones Station, K300-Centerport Station). A police commander at the Richland Hills Police Department advised that there is no comparative study for the specific area of the station in Richland Hills, comparing crime before and after the station was built six years ago. He advised they have very little crime at the station itself and that crime in the neighborhoods near the station has not been affected. A police sergeant over Crime Analysis at Irving P.D. advised that he is not aware of any study comparing crime before and after the two stations were built. He advised DART handles the crime at the station itself and that the crime at the station itself is minimal. He further advised that crime change was very minimal, if any, in neighborhoods near the stations. Lt. Doug Cooper Colleyville Police Department 817 503-1204 8/ 19/2008 PRA Comparison Report 0112007 to 12/2007 vs. 01 /2000 to 12/2000 For Requested PRA List PRA's A170, 01/2007 to 12/2007 01/2000 to 12/2000 % Change Murder 0 0 0.0% Rape 0 0 0.0% Robbery 2 1 100.0% Aggravated Assault 2 2 0.0% Burglary 1 2 -50.0% Larceny Theft 10 2 400.0% Auto Theft 1 1 0.0% Total Part I 16 8 100.0% Part I I 50 34 47.1 Total 66 42 57.1 Printed: 8/19/2008 11:10:18 AM Page 1 PRA Comparison Report 01/2007 to 12/2007 vs. 01/2000 to 12/2000 For Requested PRA List PRA's A200, 01/2007 to 12/2007 01/2000 to 12/2000 % Change Murder 0 0 0.0% Rape 0 0 0.0% Robbery 3 4 -25.0% Aggravated Assault 1 4 -75.0% Burglary 1 7 -85.7% Larceny Theft 49 46 6.5% Auto Theft 0 5 -100.0% Total Part I 54 66 -18.2% Part II 242 77 214.3% Total 296 143 107.0% Printed: 8/19/2008 11:11:05 AM Page 1 PRA Comparison Report 01/2007 to 12/2007 vs. 01/1999 to 12/1999 For Requested PRA List PRA's K300, 01/2007 to 12/2007 01/1999 to 12/1999 % Change Murder 0 0 0.0% Rape 1 0 100.0% Robbery 4 0 100.0% Aggravated Assault 0 4 -100.0% Burglary 33 32 3.1 Larceny Theft 154 155 -0.6% Auto Theft 22 30 -26.7% Total Part I 214 221 -3.2% Part II 319 269 18.6% Total 533 490 8.8% Printed: 8/19/2008 11:11:47 AM Page 1 Page 1 of 3 Kelly Cooper From: Doug Cooper Sent: Tuesday, August 19, 2008 3:10 PM To: Kelly Cooper Subject: RE: Rail Station Crime Information The FBI classifies offenses under Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) system. All departments nationwide report crime to the FBI the same way. Part I offenses are: Criminal Homicide Forcible rape Robbery Aggravated Assault Burglary Larceny- theft (property) Motor vehicle theft Arson Part II offenses are basically everything else: Other assaults Forgery Fraud Vandalism Weapons violations Sex offenses Gambling DWI/DUI Drunkenness Alcohol violations Disorderly conduct Runaways Curfew Etc. I am available Monday 25th, let me know I will try and get data from Plano. Lt. Doug Cooper Colleyville Police Department 817 503-1204 8/19/2008 Page 2 of 3 From: Kelly Cooper Sent: Tuesday, August 19, 2008 13:46 To: Doug Cooper Subject: RE: Rail Station Crime Information Thanks for the information; I will pass along to the committee. Can you tell me what Part I and Part II mean? I may need you to report to the committee to answer any questions they may have, would you be available to do that this Monday August 25? And, is it possible for you to get in touch with Plano and see if they can give you similar types of crime reporting? I think they will be a closer match to Colleyville in terms of type of community..... Thanks .7Celly Cooper Assistant City Manager City of Colleyville 100 Main Street Colleyville, TX 76034 Phone: 817-503-111 5 From: Doug Cooper Sent: Tuesday, August 19, 2008 1:18 PM To: Kelly Cooper Subject: Rail Station Crime Information I received data from the Research and Planning Section of the Ft. Worth Police Department. The data includes comparison of the crime rate for the three stations and surrounding areas for the year before the stations were built compared to crime rates for 2007. For the three stations in Ft. Worth the crime rates for major offenses including robbery, theft, burglary, assault, and auto theft generally remained the same or in some cases even declined. The data does not indicate that the building of a rail station had any significant impact on the crime rate for the reporting areas. An employee with the Planning Section advised that any increases in crime would be similar to raises in crime due to the building of a large parking lot for a business. Attached are the crime rate comparisons for the stations (A170-Lancaster station, A200-9th and Jones Station, K300-Centerport Station). A police commander at the Richland Hills Police Department advised that there is no comparative study for the specific area of the station in Richland Hills, comparing crime before and after the station was built six years ago. He advised they have very little crime at the station itself and that crime in the neighborhoods near the station has not been affected. A police sergeant over Crime Analysis at Irving P.D. advised that he is not aware of any study comparing crime before and after the two stations were built. He advised DART handles the crime at the station itself and that the crime at the station itself is minimal. He further advised that crime change was very minimal, if any, in neighborhoods near the stations. 8/19/2008 Items to be included in the EIS Parklands Visual/Aesthetic Social/Economic Cultural, Historical,. Paleontological Soils Land Use Air Quality Water Quality Floodplains/Hydrology Biological/Threatened and Endangered species Wetlands Agriculture/Farmland Energy Hazardous Materials Utilities Traffic Transit/Transportation Safety/Security Rights-Of-Way/Property Cumulative Effects Community Facilities Environmental Justice Construction Noise/vibration Page 1 of 1 Kelly Cooper From: Mona Gandy Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2008 4:12 AM To: 'John Gooding ; 'Fred Mills ; 'urmeshs@yahoo.com'; CHOYAWON@aol.com; 'jburnett@ups.com'; 'bart.butler@gmail.com ; 'clifdavis@hntb.com'; 'Grimes David ; 'Joyce Hammill'; 'khance@mcrowd.com'; 'Rich Hendler ; 'John Leeper'; 'mike@rpsw.biz'; 'Roger H. Nelson ; 'Kristen ; 'paubervig@tx.rr.com' Cc: Kelly Cooper Subject: Commuter Rail Committee webpage: response section Attachments: Rail Responses.pdf; PROPERTY TAXES.doc; BENEFITS.doc; COSTS.doc; FUNDING.doc; GENERAL.doc; RAILROAD OPERATIONS.doc; TRESPASSER SAFETY.doc; GRADE CROSSING SAFETY.doc; TRAIN INCIDENT RESPONSE.doc; ENVIRONMENTAL ]MPACT.doc; STATION OPERATION.doc; LOCATION.doc; SAFETY.doc; ENVIRONMENT.doc; DEMOGRAPHICS.doc; RIDERSHIP.doc; TRAFFIC VOLUME.doc; TRAFFIC FLOW.doc; SIDE STREET IMPACT.doc; ANCILLARY TRANSPORTATION SERVICES.doc A mock-up of the Commuter Rail Citizen Committee webpage reflecting the layout for the responses to questions posed in the public meetings is attached. Responses are broken down into categories rather than by subcommittees to make it easier for the readers to find the topics that most interest them. Under the RESPONSES section, the reader can click a category to view the responses. Each category is attached in this email for your review. The next full committee meeting is scheduled Monday, Aug. 25. Please plan to have your revisions ready for that meeting for discussion and to give to Kelly Cooper. She'll provide direction to me and we'll continue development of this section of the website. Once approved by the committee, this process should only take a few hours. As much as possible, 1 have left responses unedited. Small edits were done for grammar or clarity. For responses that directed the reader to city staff, those questions/responses have been forwarded to the appropriate city staff to answer and return for inclusion on this webpage. Those questions do not appear in the category pages attached but will be added back once staff responses are received. At the bottom of each response, the responding subcommittee was listed, along with source information (when provided), and a date. The public's questions in large part have been omitted. The narrative responses are clear enough that inclusion of the questions was not necessary, especially when broken into categories. For the general reader, listing the questions would likely have caused confusion-taken out of the context of the meeting. One subcommittee provided their responses in a O&A format and those questions were retained as they provided clarity to the responses. I hope you'll find this layout satisfactory. As always, thank you for time and efforts in serving on this committee. MDVi,Gi GHQ v~.G{ l~ Communications & Marketing Director City of Colleyville 817.503.1120 (direct) 817.503.1129 (fax) ~/20/2OOR ~~ °': ~.~,,. W v~ _ _ ~b~:f Commuter Rail Citizen Committee Overview The Fort Worth Transit Authority (The T) is planning to expand commuter rail service from Fort Worth to Grapevine and DFW International Airport. The initial proposal includes a potential rail station in Colleyville, possibly at the intersection of John McCain Road and State Highway 26. The Colleyville City Council has established a Commuter Rail Citizen Committee to study the impact of the proposed commuter rail line, including whether it is in the best interest of Colleyville to have a station within Colleyville's city limits. The results of this study are to be presented to the City Council by December 2008. Committee & Subcommittees To access a roster of the full committee, please click here.To access the minutes of the Commuter Rail Citizen Committee, ~liGk here. Studies, Reports, and Information Commuter Rail Citizen Gommitt information Sheet as of Tun ~ 6 2008SW to NE Rail Station Plannino Process and Guid line pdfMaps:The T Proposed Commuter Rail Ro t MaDSouthwest-to-No heas Rail Corridor FA sitePresentations:PowerPoint presentation as presented in the Citizen Input meetings t~ .~ ~ Responses to Questions from Public Meetings While the Commuter Rail Committee's scope is limited to studying the impact of the proposed commuter rail and the possibility of a rail stop in Colleyville, many of the public's questions pertained to the Fort Worth T's plans. Understanding the Colleyville community's concerns, the committee has worked with the T to provide the most-up-to-date answers to those questions as well. Responses were grouped by category according to the questions posed. Some questions pertained to more than one subcommittee. In those instances, each subcommittee endeavored to answer the question as it pertains to the scope of that subcommittee's work, so there may be some duplication in the responses. This is intended to provide the general public with the most complete response possible. General Costs Benefits Funding Property Taxes, Development, and Economics Railroad Operations Trespasser Safety Grade Crossing Safety Tra"rn Incident Response Environmental Impact Station Operation Station Location Safety Environment Demographics Ridership Traffic Volume Traffic Flow Side Street impact Ancillary Transportation Services Links Southwest-to-Northeast Rail Corridor site South-to-North as Rail orrido~F~Q ~outhwe - n~Qrthest Rail Corridor Aerial Video Tour PROPERTY TAXES, DEVELOPMENT, AND ECONOMICS There has been a lot of concern and discussion regarding the effects of the rail line and the possible addition of a commuter rail station in Colleyville on property values, ad valorem (property) taxes, and economic development along the Highway 26 corridor. First, nothing is definite. Expectations are based on similar experiences of other cities, educated guesses, and information and facts currently available to the subcommittee. Property Values Available information regarding this subject usually comes from more densely populated areas and/or areas with more history of public transportation. Those instances generally indicate property values close to rail and rail stations are not hurt and are generally elevated, being in close proximity to such services. However, there is no exact information we can locate that has valuation comparisons based on the Colleyville situation of larger lots, upscale private residences and anon-urban location. It can be reasoned in instances described as such, there would not generally be a higher value for properties located close ("close" being within an undefined radius) and they could be adversely affected by the proximity to the rail tracks operating through the city and/or proposed commuter station. Property values outside of the trains immediate "close" vicinity would probably remain flat or otherwise not be directly affected (up or down) by its distance to the rail tracks and/or commuter station. The city does not currently have the obligation or responsibility to provide any special relief to property owners adversely affected by possible declining values or other negative financial impact related to the rail or station proposition. Any depreciation, decline in value, or resulting loss of desirability of the surrounding area is not anticipated to be remedied by the city. Any increase or decrease in property values will have a corresponding ad valorem tax change from taxing authorities. Colleyville ad valorem taxes will not be impacted by the rail and/or a station unless the city decides to raise the ad valorem tax rate (currently $.3559 per $100) to pay a portion of the commuter rail service as a possible means to fund the potential project. DISCLAIMER: The reference to a tax increase is provided by the committee only to describe a possible source of funding. This is not an option under current consideration by the City Council. Development We would expect and hope if a commuter station is completed there would be an increase in commercial development (preferably generating sales taxes) along the surrounding SH 26 corridor. Although there currently is limited development and a relatively small amount of available land for such development, the area is within the Colleyville TIF district that provides incentives for worthy commercial development. Economics If the station is built, hopefully economic development will accompany it and increase the tax base, ad valorem, and sales tax receipts to the city. Further, we hope additional general economic activity would occur in Colleyville, especially as it relates to higher visibility, more sales tax generating businesses, and more activity for existing businesses. Commercial development on the adjacent 25 acres (completed consistent with existing Colleyville build-out) could add over $150,000 in annual sales taxes and $140,000 in ad valorem taxes to the city. Commercial development on the adjacent 25 acres (if completed consistent with existing Colleyville build-out) could add more than $150,000 in annual sales taxes and $140,000 in annual ad valorem taxes to the city, which could be made available for commuter rail funding. Barnett Shale Currently, the city does not have an agreement with any gas company for any gas lease. This can be expected to change over the next 12 months or so. Surrounding cities are generally receiving in the $20,000 range per mineral acre for bonus and 25% for royalties. Based on industry estimates, royalties received per mineral acre (based on standard terms and average production for one well) could reach $105,000 over a 30-year period; however, 60% will be received during the first eight years. In shdrt, while gas royalties are a nice source of additional income, they are not a reliable, consistent, nor along-term source of funding, affected by gas prices and well production. Submitting subcommittee: Finance Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority and City of Colleyville Finance Department Date: Aug. 79, 2008 BENEFITS The benefit of the station for Colleyville citizens is the convenience of free parking; low fares to Fort Worth, Dallas and DFW Airport; and the cost benefits of not driving - in both time and money. Across the nation, federal, state, and local governments are addressing costs associated with road/highway infrastructure improvements, congestion and pollution issues, and funding these types of projects. Submitting subcommittee: Finance Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority and City of Colleyvi/le Finance Department Date: Aug. 19, 2008 COSTS Per the Fort Worth Transportation Authority (the T), Colleyville would be required to make a $942,000 (2008 estimated 3/8 of the $.01 sales tax; $970,000 in 2009; $1,050,000 in 2012) contribution for the right to have a commuter rail station within the city. This cost calculation/contribution was based on the agreement currently in place between the T and Grapevine for its commitment to help fund the project, which is approximately $7 million annually. Colleyville's contribution would go into the T's general fund to acquire, build, maintain and operate the entire commuter line, not just the Colleyville station. The annual fee covers land acquisition, station construction and maintenance, and some noise mitigation initiatives (such as developing quiet zones). The city does not receive any income from fares, parking, or any other revenues from the project. Most U.S. commuter rail operations are subsidized-this one would be no exception. Cities along the route, beyond Fort Worth, that have a station stop would pay the same 3/8 of a cent sales tax contribution to the T to fund the line. This would be in addition to any other state and/or federal government grants that are received. Rider fares only cover a minimal portion of the total costs. Colleyville would be required to fund a commuter station stop just as the city funds libraries, parks, etc.-with no anticipation of a revenue stream coming from the project to offset costs. The city's estimated contribution of $942,000 may not be the only cost. If feeder transportation is necessary, such as a local bus service, the city would have to fund this on its own, without the T's participation. Equipment costs range from $105,000-$550,000 for a single hybrid bus with a 10 to 12 year lifespan. These costs do not include operating expenses such as drivers, fuel, maintenance, or other associated costs. Submitting subcommittee: Finance Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority and City of Colleyville Finance Department Date: Aug. 79, 2008 FUNDING Although Colleyville will incur some costs with commuter rail service simply operating through the city (costs which are not determined at this time), a rail station stop will require a funding commitment of approximately $1 million per year. Where would Colleyville derive an estimated $1 million annually? The city's sales tax cap is 2 cents (which is mandated and set by Texas law). Colleyville's sales tax revenues are currently maxed out-meaning of the 2 cents allowed, 1 cent is contractually committed until 2020 for the Crime District and the Colleyville Economic Development Corporation (CEDC). One cent goes to fund all other city obligations, for example, street improvements, public safety, parks and recreation, etc. The Texas legislature could increase the cap maximum of 2 cents a future legislative session. However, in the past the legislature, businesses, and lobbyists have not been favorable to allowing such an increase to fund local projects, advocating more interest in statewide projects, if at all. Without sales tax relief/increase from the Texas legislature, the city would not have excess capacity to fund the T from sales taxes. DISCLAIMER: The following tax-increase scenario is provided by the committee only to describe a possible source of funding. This is not an option under current consideration by the City Council. With no excess sales tax room to draw from, the City Council has few funding options. It could reallocate current spending. In 2008, about $1 million is spent on needed road improvements and repairs. The City Council could raise property taxes (the ad valorem tax rate is currently $.3559 per $100 of valuation). For example, a 3% rise in property taxes would net the city $336,730 toward an estimated annual $1 million station-funding requirement. A 3% property tax hike would result in an annual increase of $48.05 for a typical $450,000 home. As will be discussed later, the possibility of an estimated $290,000 could come from development of an area around the potential station stop in the form of generated sales tax and additional ad valorem taxes. The committee currently cannot identify any additional sources for the remaining $400,000-short of renegotiating with the T on the city's cost for a station stop. Other opportunities for the $1,000,000 a year the city would have to pay for a rail stop The City Council makes all decisions on where to spend city income. Our advisory committee was asked to look at the commuter rail option and assess necessary spending on rail. The City Council will make the final decision on which priorities and areas Colleyville's money is spent. Submitting subcommittee: Finance Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority and City of Colleyville Finance Department Date: Aug. 19, 2008 GENERAL The T is planning a commuter rail line from southwest Fort Worth through Colleyville to DFW Airport. To achieve this, they are planning to tear down the existing Cotton Belt rail tracks and replace them with an upgraded version in the same location, thereby leading to the conclusion that commuter rail service will be passing through Colleyville. DART currently owns the Colleyville portion of the Cotton Belt tracks, and the T is in current negotiations to acquire the rights to this section of rail. Their plans do not include building the new tracks in another right-of-way, thus making a stop location in the Village impossible. The T is in the process of applying for a federal grant for this project and has said that if approved for one, construction will begin around 2010. If Colleyville participates via allowing for a station to be built, the T has said the most likely location for the station would be at Hwy 26 and John McCain Road. It may be possible to postpone a station until after the project has already been completed. The closest proposed stations to this location are the Smithfield station in North Richland Hills (to the south) and the Main Street station in Grapevine (to the north). Continuing northeast, the rail is proposed to stop at a station just north of DFW Airport before ending at the airport itself. At this airport stop, there is also a proposed DART line that will extend from this point through Las Colinas and then end at the Bachman station in Dallas (slated to open in 2013). The Colleyville Commuter Rail Committee is studying various aspects of this project. Our mission is to study the possibility of having a station in Colleyville and also the impact of commuter rail coming through the city-station or not. We will then provide our feedback and recommendations to the Colleyville City Council in December 2008. To maximize efficiency, the committee was broken down into five subcommittees, each one charged with performing detailed analysis regarding an aspect of this project. One of these subcommittees is the Public Information Team. This team is in charge of gathering public comment regarding the project and disseminating information to the public. Earlier this summer, we held four public input meetings, primarily designed for us to gather comments and concerns from the public to be sure that our study focuses on information important to the public. Some confirmed information about the project was disseminated to the public, mainly by a fact sheet put together by the committee. The public should expect future meetings whereby more information about the project will be disseminated, and further comments from the public will be collected. The dates of these meetings, updated facts gathered about the project, and future committee activities can also be found on the Colleyville.com website, the city cable Channel (Channel 16 on Time Warner or Verizon), the Colleyville Courier, and selected places around the city including the library, city hall, and utility billing offices. In addition, the website also lists the minutes of the committee meetings and has links to various sites developed by the T. Comments from the public are always welcome and can be sent via the website, on forms at the city sites listed above, and also by contacting the Rail Committee members as well as your City Council representatives. Many questions addressed to the Public Information Team at the initial public input meetings cannot be answered by us and should be addressed to the T directly. These include the parking layout at the proposed Grapevine station, why the T is proposing the use of diesel-powered trains and not an electric train, how fuel prices affect future train schedules, the possibility of trains running past 10 p.m., and the percentage of riders proposed to use the Colleyville station who will come from cities outside Colleyville. In terms of the Committee's relationship to the City Council, we were appointed by the council in the spring of this year. We will give our findings and our recommendations to the City Council, but the final decisions on all rail issues (including whether or not Colleyville should have a station) will come from the council itself and not the committee. Submitting subcommittee: Public Information Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority, Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), research completed by the Commuter Rail Citizen Committee t Date: Aug. 19, 2008 RAILROAD OPERATIONS Route The proposed Southwest-to-Northeast Rail commuter route, recommended as the preliminary locally preferred alternative (LPA) in the T's 2006 Alternatives Analysis Report, would follow existing rail lines from Sycamore School Road in southwest Fort Worth, through downtown Fort Worth, northeast to downtown Grapevine and then into the north entrance of DFW Airport. The track enters Colleyville on the west at Precinct Line Road, just north of Glade Road, and extends approximately four miles northeast to the city limits located at Big Bear Creek, about one-half mile beyond John McCain Road. The rail line crosses: 1. Bransford Road, just south of L.D. Lockett Road, 2. Pleasant Run Road, just south of L.D. Lockett Road, and 3. John McCain Road, just west of Colleyville Blvd. To view a copy of the Alternatives Analysis Report Executive Summary, click here: httas://www.commentmgr.com/projects/swne/docs/AA ExecSumm copy pdf. Operating on existing tracks of the Fort Worth & Western, BNSF, and Union Pacific railroads, and the former Cotton Belt route now owned by DART, the route would provide direct access to all activity centers in the corridor and would connect with other transportation services, including the Trinity Railway Express (TRE) commuter rail service, AMTRAK, and the T's downtown bus transfer center at the downtown Fort Worth Intermodal Transportation Center (ITC) and T&P Station. The proposed commuter rail line would use existing rights-of-way that are publicly owned or owned by existing freight railroads. Therefore, it is not anticipated the T will need to acquire any other private property along the primary route of the line. In areas where stations are proposed, it is possible the T will need to acquire property in order to provide adequate station amenities and parking, where appropriate. The amount and location of any properties that may need to be acquired will be determined during the environmental impact study phase of the project. The T also will work with private railroad companies during this phase of the project to determine possible use of their rail tracks. The T will begin formal discussions with property owners once the final environmental document has been approved. This is expected to occur in mid-2009. The T will follow federal and state property acquisition regulations and processes. More information about the process will be available as the project moves forward. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Design /Construction The most current cost estimates indicate about $470 million will be needed to build the project between its proposed start in 2010 and its projected completion in late 2012 or early 2013. It is not intended that double tracks will be built along the entire corridor. Double tracks will be incorporated where needed to accommodate passing and operational safety. Selection of specific track component types will be made during the design phase of the project. Stations will always have two tracks for passing. Initial planning assumptions include two-way operation over the length of the corridor at all times, though that may change as specific operational plans are developed. The speed of train travel will be limited to the maximum speed allowed by the Code of Federal Regulations for the class of track associated with the T's level of track maintenance. In addition, it will further depend on the type of terrain, number of crossings, type of technology used, and other related factors. More information about the potential speeds the recommended train type can travel will be available as the design and construction phases of the project progress. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority and the Federal Railroad Administration Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Equipment The T's Alternatives Ana/ysis Report recommended using technology that is NOT light rail as seen in the DART system, which depends on overhead electric power. Instead, this proposed system is projected to use self-powered rail vehicles, which would be significantly less costly than electrified light rail. There are several options for rail vehicles in this corridor, ranging from traditional locomotive hauled (passenger) coaches (LHC) to self-propelled vehicles called diesel multiple units (DMUs). If used, diesel-powered vehicles will meet strict federal emission standards. Current planning assumptions show the need for a layover facility on the northern and southern ends of the system, which would provide a place to store trains and do light maintenance and cleaning. Heavy maintenance is expected to take place at the existing rail yard in Irving that currently serves the TRE. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Schedules The target date for beginning passenger rail service is late 2012 to early 2013, though a more precise timeline will be developed as the project proceeds. The 2030 operating plan assumptions are to operate seven days per week, 365 days per year, and 17 hours per day. The Alternative Analysis Report developed a conceptual operating plan for 2030 calling for three trains per hour in each direction during rush hours (weekdays, 5-8 a.m. and 3-6 p.m.), and one train per hour in non-rush hours (weekdays, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 6-10 p.m., and weekends /holidays, 6 a.m.-11 p.m.). Service hours could be extended later into the evening or early morning hours for special events. Those plans will be refined during subsequent phases of the project, and schedules will be adjusted to conform to ridership demands. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Onboard Issues Onboard issues will be addressed under the jurisdiction of the T. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority Date: Aug, 19, 2008 Freight Traffic Freight service on this line is conducted by the Fort Worth and Western Railroad (FWWR). The FWWR has indicated there are no plans to increase its freight traffic on the line. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth and Western Railroad Company Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Other -General The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) under the category of Safety/Security will document the anticipated impact the proposed Southwest-to-Northeast commuter rail may have on safety/security. The Colleyville Police Department has indicated that commuter rail traffic (with no station stop) presents no need for increased security activities. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority and the Colleyville Police Department Date: Aug, 19, 2008 TRESPASSER SAFETY Adjacent Environments The commuter rail project involves completing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). An EIS is the report of a study required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) whenever major new transportation projects are proposed. An environmental study also may be required by the federal government for major projects that use federal funds. The EIS will document the anticipated impact the proposed Southwest-to-Northeast Rail Corridor project may have on the nearby natural, cultural, and social environments. The EIS is scheduled for release in the fall of 2008, and will address safety along the right of way. The EIS, on Noise and Environmental Constraints Maps 7 and 8 (available on the T's website), identifies specific areas where varying degrees of mitigation may be required. The T will also specify their proposed mitigation that may be necessary to public safety for trains passing through Colleyville. This includes the proximity of the track to the bike/walking trail that runs along the western edge of the railroad right-of-way for approximately 2-~/a miles and is planned to access the station area. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Train Speed The speed of train travel will be limited to the maximum speed allowed by the Code of Federal Regulations for the class of track associated with the T's level of track maintenance. It will further depend on station locations (stopping/starting), type of terrain, number of crossings, type of technology used, and other related factors. More information about the potential speeds that the recommended train can travel will be available as the project progresses. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority and the Federal Railroad Administration Date: Aug. 19, 2008 GRADE CROSSING SAFETY General Safety of passengers and the general public is extremely important. A safety evaluation of the entire corridor will be made, with special emphasis on public crossings. Railroad roadway markings, flashing lights, and crossing gates are all typical safety features that can be installed to deter both vehicles and pedestrians from crossing the tracks when a train is approaching. Additionally, the T will continue its work with a program called Operation Lifesaver (http://www.oli.orq~), which provides rail safety education and training to the public and communities. Colleyville's three railroad crossings at grade (Bransford Road, Pleasant Run Road, and John McCain Road) currently have warning systems equipped with gates, bells, and flashing lights. The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and resulting recommendations may result in changes to those grade crossings to further enhance vehicular safety, especially if quiet zones are established to eliminate the requirement for train operators to provide a whistle signal as they approach public crossings. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority Date: Aug. 19, 2008 TRAIN INCIDENT RESPONSE Hazardous Materials Current freight operations over the Cotton Belt tracks are handled by the Fort Worth and Western Railroad (FWWR). At this time, no hazardous commodities are being handled. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth and Western Railroad Company Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Emergency Response Colleyville emergency responders believe they have the resources and/or access to the resources to handle train accident response. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Colleyville Office of Emergency Management Date: Aug. 19, 2008 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT Noise -Equipment Basic engineering is performed as part of the study for the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to allow more complete environmental analysis of the corridor. The EIS will include an assessment of the potential environmental impact, and it will include proposed actions to address the impact. The EIS is expected to be released in the fall of 2008. Using federal standards, the environmental analysis will determine if the noise impact is significant enough to require mitigation measures, such as options to avoid, minimize, or mitigate affected neighborhoods or other measures. One aspect related to train operations is the potential use of'quiet zones.' Under this plan, rail- street intersections would use additional crossing protection such as four-quadrant gates and raised medians to prevent automobiles from crossing tracks when trains are approaching. If such a system were used, trains would not be required to blow their horns as a warning when approaching quiet zone intersections. This issue will be investigated further during the environmental and design processes. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Noise -General The EIS will document the anticipated impact the proposed Southwest-to-Northeast Rail Corridor project may have on the nearby natural, cultural, and social environments. Impacts that affect noise and vibration will be investigated. The T has received several questions about how noise levels are measured and evaluated, and how mitigation recommendations are developed as part of the environmental impact analysis for the Southwest-to-Northeast Rail Corridor. A technical presentation about noise is being made available for those who wish to have more information about this issue. To view this presentation online, click here. (https://www.com mentmg r.com/projects/swne/dots/RailTransitNoiseVibration. pdf. ) If you have any questions or have difficulty downloading or viewing the presentation, please contact the T at 817.215.8785. The T invites those interested to view the initial draft Noise and Environmental Constraints maps (http://www.sw2nerail.tom/gallery2.asp?GroupID=12051) and provide your comments (https://www.commentmgr.tom/PCS/PublicGUI/QuestionsCustom.aspx?Public PID= 622&Level=Project&LevelNumber=622) about the environmental analysis process and initial results. You may also download PDF files of the maps. Please note that these are large files and may take a few minutes to download. Currently, there are no plans during initial phases of the commuter rail project to construct sound barriers along the line. The T may entertain a request made by the city of Colleyville regarding this matter. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Water The EIS will document the anticipated impact the proposed Southwest-to-Northeast Rail Corridor project may have. on nearby natural, cultural, and social environments. Impacts that affect floodplains, hydrology, and wetlands will be investigated. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority Date: Aug. 19, 2008 STATION OPERATION Operations at the Station The commuter rail line is planned as a single-track system with sidings for meet/pass train operations. It is not intended that double tracks will be built along the entire corridor. Double tracks will be incorporated where needed to accommodate passing and operational safety. Stations will always have two tracks for passing. Initial planning assumptions include two-way operations over the length of the corridor at all times, though that may change as specific operational plans are developed. If a Colleyville station is approved, the T would construct an unmanned station expected to look similar to those currently used by the Trinity Railway Express (TRE). At this time, no detailed station designs have been completed. The plans for a typical station propose a train platform, parking areas, and access to the station area. The T will provide the basic elements of the stations, but local cities can work with neighborhoods to incorporate and fund elements to represent each community, including any desired amenities not included in the basic design. Any upgrades would be at the expense of the city of Colleyville. All issues of liability will be negotiated between the T and the city of Colleyville prior to station construction. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Crime The Colleyville Police Department is prepared to deal with all criminal issues arising from commuter rail operations. The T will work closely with each jurisdiction in the taxing district to integrate station plans into local land use, economic development, and/or comprehensive plans. Several workshops regarding transit-oriented development (TOD) are being planned for this phase of the project to bring key development stakeholders together to discuss potential development relative to the proposed station locations. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority and the Colleyville Police Department Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Security and Associated Costs The T will provide the basic elements of the stations, likely including platform cameras and call boxes, but local cities can work with neighborhoods to incorporate and fund elements to represent each community, including any desired amenities not included in the basic design. These elements could include security enhancements that the Colleyville Police Department has identified as beneficial in their efforts to provide an optimal level of security to residents and others using the commuter rail service. It is anticipated that the Colleyville Police Department will require one additional patrolman to be added to the force to accommodate the additional workload due to commuter rail station security activities. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority and the Colleyville Police Department Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Auto Traffic Concerns If a station at the John McCain Road site is approved, the T and the city of Colleyville will work with the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT), which controls the Highway 26 expansion project, for station access from SH 26. The initial design for a potential John McCain Road station does not include a car entrance from John McCain Road. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Crime Increase This is the subject of ongoing research. To date, the Safety and Security Subcommittee has not found evidence that crime would potentially increase in Colleyville as the result of establishing a local commuter rail station. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Safety & Security Subcommittee of the Commuter Rail Citizen Committee Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Environmental Concerns Currently, no overnight parking is allowed at any rail station in the region. The T is responsible for providing lighting, maintenance, and ground keeping at the station. City staff will work with T staff to engineer the design of the station's grounds and lighting. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority and Colleyville City Staff Date: Aug. 19, 2008 Route The Locally Preferred Alternative recommends that this corridor connect directly with the THE (Trinity Railway Express) at the two existing downtown Fort Worth stations. In addition, the recommended corridor would connect with a future DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) light rail line at the north end of DFW Airport. This commuter rail service cannot run on the lines built by DART to run light rail. These are two different technologies. Light rail cannot run on rail tracks that also carry freight. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Source: Fort Worth Transportation Authority Date: Aug. 19, 2008 LOCATION What other destinations are being considered? No other destination sites are being considered because land is not available. Is John McCain the only choice? Yes. Can we charge for parking? No, the T does not charge for parking. Will there be adequate parking? Are there lights at night? For the initial startup, 304 spaces appear to be adequate. Lights will be provided for nighttime safety. Will bike racks be available? Yes, bike racks will be provided. The proposed station at the corner of Colleyville Boulevard/John McCain Road does not conveniently support the majority of Colleyville residents. A few more miles to Grapevine are immaterial. There are 5,976 people living within one mile of the John McCain site. The John McCain station would be too close to the Grapevine station. The Grapevine station is considered a main street station, with limited or no park and ride facilities, and is primarily awalk-up stop. The Colleyville station will be a community station with park and ride. These stations will serve different needs. As an added benefit, could Colleyville citizens park free at a Colleyville station? The T's policy is to provide free parking for all station users. Will there be overnight parking? Currently, the T does not allow overnight parking at their stations. Can there be compensation to Colleyville for other towns using Colleyville parking at the station? The T allows any rail transit user to utilize available station parking. The city of Colleyville and its residents would not receive compensation nor discounted rates. Can we increase parking if we go up? Certainly, building multi-level parking would increase parking spaces. Aren't the number of station overkill? There are 10 planned stations in Fort Worth, one in Haltom City, and four potential stations between Haltom City and Grapevine. How convenient will the trains be and where will the commuter line go? Besides going to Fort Worth, this commuter rail will connect at DFW Airport to the DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) rail system. Does a schematic drawing of the station exist? The T has made generic station schematics available. The specific Colleyville schematic is not currently available. A neighborhood is not the place for a station. It needs to be near commerce, such as the Grapevine station, which is already in operation. The T's station planning guide defines a neighborhood station as a needed and recognized station type. Wouldn't it make more sense to put this near something (The Village) or have a master plan making this a destination site like Mockingbird Station? The Village unfortunately is too far from the railroad tracks to be considered. The John McCain site has the potential to be atransit-oriented development but would require zoning changes and high-density residential development. As of now, there are 300 parking spots planned. What is the long- range parking plan? What will it cost? There currently is not along-range parking plan. This would only be developed if the Colleyville station plans move forward. Why not put the station close to Southlake? This location in Colleyville is as close as it can get to Southlake. The proposed commuter rail line will follow the Cotton Belt railroad tracks, which do not go into Southlake. Colleyville needs to consider a multilevel encapsulated station for noise control, a commerce zone, and a parking garage (double-rail). That option would have to be reviewed by the City Council and the T. If we don't do the station now, can we do it at a later date? Yes, the city of Colleyville will be able to discuss with the T to join the program at a later date. The T has stated that it will be more expensive if Colleyville waits. What about Grapevine station parking? There will be some parking in Grapevine, but how much is not known yet. The Grapevine Station is considered a main street station, offering only limited parking. Will there be bike or walking paths near the station? As we understand it, the conceptual plan for the Colleyville station provides for a bicycle and pedestrian path. Where will the double tracks be placed? How long will they be? Double tracks will occur at the stations, and at other locations along the commuter rail line (to be determined) to allow trains going in opposite directions to pass. Typically, these double-track locations are several hundred feet long. Is there any way to reconsider the rail location/route? The T has made this decision as a result of their studies of alternative alignments. Has the property up by the tank farm on SH 26, across from Mustang Drive, been considered for a commuter, rail station? This is within Grapevine's city limits. This geographical site is beyond the project scope of the Colleyville Commuter Rail Committee. What is the benefit of the station considering the small number of riders projected? The Colleyville station would be part of a regional rail system that may reduce highway traffic, improve emissions, and offer efficient alternative transportation for thousands of D/FW residents. Where are other stations slated to be built? Based on the current plan, North Richland Hills and Grapevine will be the closet stations. Why not put the station at Precinct Line and Glade in place of the Tarrant County Road Repair Shop? This geographical site is beyond the project scope of the Colleyville Commuter Rail Committee. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Date: Aug. 19, 2008 SAFETY As a safety measure, can quad gates and quiet zones be considered? The city of Colleyville has applied for government funds to support quad gates; matching funds of $300,000 will be required from the city. What is the advantage of quad gates? Quad gates provide for safer vehicular crossing of the tracks at intersections because they are configured to make it more difficult for a vehicle to go around the gates when they are down for a passing train. Does Colleyville need to have a station before the T will install quad gates at the Colleyville crossings? What is the cost of quad gates vs. regular gates? No, a station is not required before quad gates can be installed at the three Colleyville crossings. The city of Colleyville has already applied for government funding for quad gates. Colleyville's assessment would be approximately $300,000. City staff is currently researching the difference in costs between the two types of gates. What kind of track improvements are planned? The tracks will be improved to the specifications of the commuter rail. What kind of track will be used? Is there a possibility of an elevated crossing? There will be no elevated crossings. Most of the tracks will be single track; only where necessary will there will be double tracks, such as at every station. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Date: Aug. 19, 2008 ENVIRONMENT Are sound barriers being considered and who would pay for them? Depending on the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), the city of Colleyville would have to determine where quiet zones would be required and pay for any barriers. What efforts will be made for noise mitigation? Quad gates need to be installed and the city of Colleyville would need to establish agreements for quiet zones. Additionally, the EIS should identify other areas that may need noise mitigation. Will there be enough room for double tracks at all stations and what happens to the trees? There is enough room; the railroad right-of-way is 100 feet. The T determines if trees and vegetation along the right-of-way will need to be trimmed or eliminated. If your house is near the tracks, can trees be planted to prevent noise? That will be determined by the Colleyville City Council and the T at a later date. How close will the parking lot be to the adjoining houses? Are sound barriers being considered? The closest home is 450 feet from the planned station site. Parking will be on the SH 26 side of the tracks. Sound barriers will be addressed in the EIS. What will the station look like? The station will have aground-level concrete platform, at the level of the tracks, to allow passengers to get on and off the trains. There will be shade canopies at intervals along the platform with seating and ticket machines. The station is anticipated to look similar to the stations along the Trinity Railway Express (TRE), the commuter rail service operated by the Fort Worth T and DART between Dallas and Fort Worth. Who did the environmental impact study? The Fort Worth T is responsible for the environmental study. URS Corporation is the consultant that is preparing the study. How do we get the results of the environmental impact study? As we understand it, the draft Environmental Impact Study (EIS) will be released in the fall of 2008 for review and comment by the public. There will be a copy at the Colleyville Library, and in the city secretary's office. In addition, there will be a link on the T's website. A link to the study will also be provided on this website when the T makes the study available. What mitigation can be done to provide a better noise barrier between the trail and the railroad tracks? (Everywhere that is applicable.) Is the city concerned about this issue? The EIS will address necessary noise mitigation by geographical site. City Council may consider action to commit city funds to noise mitigation. What happens to drainage along the creek? Drainage, engineering, and tree removal/landscaping plans would be required prior to construction of the station. To date, no detailed construction plans have been received. The plans would have to meet all city codes, unless a waiver to these requirements is granted by the City Council as part of the approval of a special use permit. Can the train be a light rail train (LRT)? Trains operating under electric power would eliminate much noise and pollution. No, the T does not plan to have electric light rail trains. What is the pollution output of a diesel locomotive in car emissions? How many cars will one locomotive equal? Net result of the pollution output from the diesel locomotive is lower than any pollution coming from the output of the cars. A yard stick example is to estimate how many riders would be on the train. and that's how many cars would be eliminated from the road. Once the T is here, how do we stop it from imposing its will on the city, like in North Richland Hills? What if the city wants to develop but the T wants more parking? North Richland Hills has no opposition to the two stations they approved for their city. It was their choice to have the stations as they can see a major benefit to the economic development in their city. The T has not and will not impose their will on North Richland Hills nor Colleyville. If the station is built, the city will be fully engaged in the project in a jointly committed partnership with the T. How can houses within 200 feet not be impacted? First, there is a 100-foot easement around the track. The houses that are 200 feet away could be affected by the noise and the passenger diesel train; however, the homes that are within 200 feet fall into the noise mitigation area. The mitigation areas will be outlined in the EIS document. According to the T, any area flagged on the map as a mitigation area will be taken into special consideration. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Date: Aug. 19, 2008 DEMOGRAPHICS What percentage of Colleyville residents would use the station? Unknown at this time, based on changing environment. What are the projected rider ticket costs? The current ticket costs are listed below: IFARE TYPE ;ONE {WAY DAY ~PASS* MONTHLY PASS LOCAL/ 1 ZONE •$1 50 i$3 00 ~ 50.00 t$ . ~ ~ ~..~, _._~ ,~__-__~_ PREMIUM/ 2 ZONES ,~ _._~ '$2 50 ~ e ~. ~ ;$5 00 ._W .~ _t. ~0 00 _ _, .. ~..... -----__ !REDUCED/ 2 ZONES included _ __._a». $0.75 ~._ _.,._.,.M.~._ ,,$1.50 _~ ____ .,___..... ___ __. $25.00 ~___~_ * To qualify for a reduced fare, rider must be: a child between the ages of 5-14 (under 5, free up to 4 children accompanied by an adult); senior citizen (65+) or disabled rider (DART/T photo ID or Medicare card required); middle or high school student under 19 years of age (valid student photo ID required). Will the city care for permanent restrictions on undesirable establishments around the 450+ capacity parking area, i.e. taverns? Issues of this nature are reviewed by the City Council through the planning and zoning (P&Z) process. Who will use the station? The station will be used by patrons of the commuter rail service and will provide parking for patrons and any future bus service. By 2030, ridership projection at the Colleyville station is 900 daily (boarding and disembarking). What is the household density in the area surrounding the John McCain Road site? There are 5,967 residents within one mile of the proposed John McCain station, and 2,001 total housing starts within one mile. Within ~/a mile, there are 101 homes. The 2007 Colleyville population was 23,261. What is the employee/employer density in the city? The employment density for Colleyville is approximately 455 persons employed in the city per square mile, or 0.71 persons employed in the city per acre. Total employment is approximately 6,000 persons. How can we mitigate risks/train schedule/noise/traffic, etc.? The EIS will address these questions. The Commuter Rail Committee will review the EIS report and make general recommendations for City Council consideration. Why is the Caldwell Creek Drive corridor not included in the environmental impact study? This project involves completing an environmental review called an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). An EIS is the report of a study required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) whenever major new transportation projects are proposed. An environmental study also may be required by the federal government for major projects that use federal funds. Basic engineering is performed at this time to allow a more complete environmental analysis of the corridor. All impacted areas are included in the EIS. Has a study been done on the impact on the neighborhoods on the rail line or near the proposed station? The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will document the anticipated impact of the proposed Southwest-to-Northeast Rail Corridor project on all nearby natural, cultural, and social environments. Impacts that affect the following situations will be investigated including: parklands; visual/aesthetics; social/economic; cultural, historical, paleontological; soils; land use; air quality; floodplains/hydrology; biological/threatened and endangered species; wetlands; agriculture/farmland; energy; hazardous materials; utilities; traffic; transit/transportation; safety/security; rights-of-way/property; cumulative effects; community facilities; environmental justice; construction; and, noise/vibration. Where is the P&Z Committee in this process? Why did they let houses be built near the station site if they were aware of this project? The proposed commuter rail station at John McCain Road and SH 26 is simply a possibility at this point in time. There has been no official commitment with regard to approval by the T, and with regard to funding and construction. Additionally, the location of a commuter rail station on this site would require the approval of a special use permit by the City Council, in which case a public hearing would be held. All homes located within close proximity to the rail station were built in 2003. The addition of a potential rail station in Colleyville was not proposed by the T until early in 2008. Therefore, when these homes were built in 2003, there was no station proposed for the site at John McCain Road and SH 26. Any future approval of a rail station on this site would undoubtedly take into account the potential impact upon neighborhoods that would be close to the station. Why does it cost $10 million for a parking lot? $10 million is the approximate cost of the entire station. There is a cost associated with land for parking, as well as lighting, ticket machines, canopies, station platform, etc. Submitting subcommittee: Safety & Security Date: Aug. 19, 2008 RIDERSHIP Estimated ridership (as forecast by the Fort Worth Transportation Authority and required by the Federal Transportation Association) is estimated to be 450 riders daily at the proposed Colleyville station. The Colleyville population is estimated to consist of 25,304 people (8,300 households) by 2030. Ridership would represent approximately 1.8% of the city's 2030 population. The Fort Worth Transportation Authority has worked with the North Texas Council of Governments (NTCOG) to model the future commuter traffic. Per the Fort Worth Transportation Authority, the modeling does not reflect the origin of passenger traffic. According to Julie Dunbar of Dunbar Transportation Consulting (who is working with the Fort Worth Transportation Authority), "this [the number of riders expected from areas outside of Colleyville) is difficult to quantify, given the way the NCTCOG Travel Demand Model works. But we are working on trying to estimate what the share is for Colleyville and elsewhere and Paulette will get back to you (or whoever it was that raised the question) as soon as we can get the information developed." The best forecasts available are those projections currently available from the Fort Worth Transportation Authority. However, recent trends show that ridership is increasing. According to Railway Age, "Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) light rail service and Trinity Railway Express (TRE), serving Dallas and Fort Worth, both notched their highest weekday ridership numbers during June 2008. DART averaged 69,861 trips per day, up 14.2% from June 2007, and notched 10.3 million trips during the month. The THE commuter rail service averaged 11,105 trips per day, up 19.8% over year-ago average ridership, and totaled 251,522 trips for June 2008. Including bus and high-occupancy vehicle customers, DART recorded 10.3 million passenger trips for the month, its highest total ever, and up from the prior record of 10.28 million trips set in May, a DART spokesman said." Information regarding the destination of Colleyville riders is still currently under research by the Traffic Subcommittee and is expected to be answered via (a) the ridership estimates provided by the Fort Worth Transportation Authority and (b) a brief survey of Colleyville residents regarding their destination should they choose to ride the commuter train. Submitting subcommittee: Traffic Date: Aug. 19, 2008 TRAFFIC VOLUME Traffic Volume -John McCain Road The crossing arms at the railroad crossing are anticipated to be down for 45 seconds when the train passes through Colleyville, absent the presence of a station. With the presence of a station, anticipated on-boarding and off-boarding of passengers is anticipated to take 90 seconds. Per the Fort Worth Transportation Authority, the train will be approximately 250 to 300 feet in length and would not require extending across the John McCain/Highway 26 intersection nor require that the crossing arms to remain down for the on-boarding/off-boarding period. The anticipated duration that the crossing arms would be in a down position with the presence of a station is expected to be 45 seconds -the same duration absent the presence of a station. As such, the presence of a station alone is not expected to negatively impact traffic congestion on John McCain Road. Traffic Volume -Highway 26 According to the North Central Texas Council of Governments, traffic on Highway 26 (at the intersection with John McCain) is anticipated to experience 51,000 vehicles/day in 2025 and 54,000 vehicles/day in 2030. The estimates reflect substantial increases above the most recent and historical traffic counts on Highway 26. In 1995, 1999, and 2004, traffic counts on Highway 26 between Brumlow and John McCain were 21,842, 26,920, and 29,924 respectively. In 1999 and 2004, traffic counts on Highway 26 between Hall Johnson and Church Street/Pleasant Run were 25,690 and 27,817, respectively. All figures are available at the NCTCOG's web site - http://www.nctcog.org/traps/data. Highway 26 is scheduled for expansion to six (6) lanes (3 northbound and 3 southbound) with financial assistance from TXDOT beginning in 2010. If Highway 26 is not expanded to six lanes, the crossing arms at John McCain and Highway 26 could result in some backup traffic in the southbound right-hand lane (turning on to John McCain) and northbound left-hand turn lane (turning on to John McCain). However, these potential delays would exist with or without the station (as crossing arm timing is anticipated to be the same with or without a station). In addition, the Highway 26 expansion is still in the concept phase, and the Fort Worth Transportation Authority would have to work with TXDOT to mitigate traffic issues in conjunction with the Highway 26 expansion project. Traffic Volume -Mitigation The light at Highway 26 and John McCain is controlled by a signal, and signalization is regulated by TXDOT. The objective of the City of Colleyville is to remove the maximum number of cars from John McCain while maintaining the regulations defined by TXDOT. Currently the signalization is designed for the Highway 26 expansion. However, if a station were approved, the signalization at the intersection would have to be re-evaluated. Expansion of John McCain to 4 lanes (2 eastbound and 2 westbound) was considered several years ago and was rejected by city residents. An expansion of John McCain to address traffic volume needs is not being considered as a potential solution to alleviate traffic congestion. Submitting subcommittee: Traffic Date: Aug. 19, 2008 TRAFFIC FLOW The preliminary station design (as drawn by the Fort Worth Transportation Authority) shows an access area to the station from John McCain. According to the Fort Worth Transportation Authority, this lane is depicted to reflect the bike path along Highway 26, and is not to be used for vehicle or bus access to the station. Including a station, the current approach by the Fort Worth Transportation Authority would be to have ingress and egress solely from Highway 26. The current design of the Highway 26 expansion, which is very preliminary, does not reflect access to a station. Station access from Highway 26 would be incorporated into both the expansion project and station design as both projects progress. Submitting subcommittee: Traffic Date: Aug. 19, 2008 SIDE STREET IMPACT According to the Tarrant Regional Transportation Coalition, the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex added 162,250 residents in 2007 -more than any other region in the United States. In less than 25 years, the population of the Metroplex will increase from 6M to 9M. Although the population of Colleyville is not expected to increase significantly between now and 2030, the population of rapidly growing surrounding areas (e.g., Keller) and residents requiring access to major highways and thoroughfares (e.g., Highways 114 & 121) will increase the number of vehicles on roads through the city of Colleyville. These additional vehicles will have a more significant impact on side street and main street traffic through Colleyville than traffic delayed by the incorporation of a station or the passing of the commuter train through the city. The City of Colleyville has not performed traffic counts at the other two train crossings in Colleyville (Pleasant Run & Bransford Road) to assess the impact of the train. Traffic counts will be performed as the date of operation draws closer, however traffic volumes are significantly lower at these two locations relative to the intersection of John McCain and Highway 26. Submitting subcommittee: Traffic Date: Aug. 19, 2008 ANCILLARY TRANSPORTATION SERVICES The Fort Worth Transportation Authority currently has no plans to offer or provide local feeder transportation within the city to transport citizens to and from the proposed rail station. Currently, the city has obtained some estimates regarding the costs of a feeder system: The cost for equipment only range from $105,000 fora 40 passenger bus, $300,000 fora 35 passenger diesel bus, $350,000 for a CNG bus, and $550,000 for a hybrid bus. The projected life of these assets is approximately 10-12 years. Vehicle maintenance, operating personnel, insurance, fuel, and other operating costs are not included in these estimates. As part of ongoing research, the subcommittee plans to inquire with the Fort Worth Transportation Authority regarding overall cost and operating alternatives to further estimate overall costs associated with a feeder system. Submitting subcommittee: Traffic Date: Aug. 19, 2008 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Kelly Cooper From: Kelly Cooper Sent: Tuesday, August 19, 2008 8:55 AM To: 'John Gooding ; 'Fred Mills ; 'urmeshs@yahoo.com ; CHOYAWON@aol.com; 'jburnett@ups.com ; 'bart.butler@gmail.com ; 'clifdavis@hntb.com ; 'Grimes David'; 'Joyce Hammill ; 'khance@mcrowd.com ; 'Rich Hendler'; John Leeper; 'mike@rpsw.biz; 'Roger H. Nelson ; 'Kristen ; 'paubervig@tx.rr.com' Subject: FW: cbs11tv.com -Proposed Colleyville "T" Stop Causing Controversy Greetings rail committee, Below is the link to the channel 11 news story regarding commuter rail that ran last night at 5:00 p.m. I wanted to pass this along to you, in case you hadn't seen it. Thanks Kelly Cooper Assistant City Manager City of Colleyville 100 Main Street Colleyville, TX 76034 Phone: 817-503-1115 -----Original Message----- From: Mona Gandy Sent: Tuesday, August 19, 2008 8:39 AM To: William Lindley; Kelly Cooper Subject: cbslltv.com - Proposed Colleyville "T" Stop Causing Controversy http://cbslltv.com/local/Colleyville.the.T.2.798090.html Proposed Colleyville "T" Stop Causing Controversy Reporting Carol Cavazos COLLEYVILLE (CBS 11 News} - There's controversy brewing in Colleyville over the Fort Worth Transportation Authority's proposed southwest to northeast commuter rail line. Some worried Colleyville residents don't want the "T' to stop in their city. The proposed station would look similar the one at Bell Spur Road and Hurst Boulevard. The line would start in Fort Worth and end at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport -making stops in cities along the way. The "T' already runs from Fort Worth to Dallas. The new rail line proposed by the "T' would run southwest from Fort Worth, then northeast to DFW Airport, along the current Cotton Belt Railway. Highway 26 at John McCain Road is one of 13 proposed stops along the way. "We don't see the need for it," explained Colleyville resident Lisa Bernardo, who is against the proposed stop. "And we don't want the city spending money on this that can be spent for other things that the city needs." Colleyville mayor David Kelley encourages community input. "I wholly encourage that people speak their opinion. The one way we can make the best decision is to know the citizen's sentiment on that." One of the major issues concerning the line is cost. Colleyville officials say it'll cost around $1 million a year, to build and maintain the line. "We have to look at our legislators to fund this," Kelley says. "There are five cities involved along this "T" rail and three of the cities do not have the funding available." Colleyville is one of those three cities. Besides funding there are other concerns about building a rail station in the city. Residents in a nearby residential neighborhood are worried about an increase in crime. "We don't want our property values to take a dive or change," Bernardo said. The Colleyville City Council formed a citizen's committee to Zook into the issue. The group will present their findings Tuesday at apre-council meeting at 5:30 p.m. Page 1 of 2 Kelly Cooper From: Mona Gandy Sent: Tuesday, August 19, 2008 9:20 AM To: Kelly Cooper Subject: Star-Telegram editorial 081908 Posted on Tue, Aug. 19, 2008 Tuesday, Aug 19, 2008 North Texas officials still struggling to pay for rail transit system There's no way raising $5.6 billion could ever be easy. North Texas officials are trying to do exactly that to pay for an expanded public rail transit system for the region. The Star- Telegram and The Dallas Morning News challenged them five years ago to take on the task. Lawmakers had notable failures in two sessions of the Texas Legislature. Now they're making some progress, and for that they are to be commended. But they still have far to go. It will require a Herculean effort to put a new plan into shape before the Legislature meets again in January. Accomplishments Previous plans relied on increasing local sales taxes by up to a penny on the dollar. Those plans went down in flames under determined opposition from powerful business interests. Even sympathetic local lawmakers didn't want to take on the fight. A committee of officials, members of the Regional Transportation Council led by Fort Worth City Councilman Jungus Jordan, began meeting again in late January to come up with a new plan. This time, they were determined to work with rather than against those big businesses. They have accomplished that goal. By backing away from such heavy reliance on sales taxes, they have received business support in looking for other ways to pay for a rail system. Even before finalizing their plan, they are beginning to get some backing from legislators -not necessarily support for specific new taxes or other measures to raise money, but at least for the idea of putting a plan up for voter approval. If the Legislature agrees, that vote could be held in November 2009. Work needed Jordan says that legislators want the committee to bring them a menu of revenue options to consider. The committee has come up with a list of choices that, in certain combinations, could provide the needed money. None of them is likely to be greeted with cheers, but everyone involved must remember that there is no perfect tax. An expanded rail transit system is essential if the region is to solve its congestion and air pollution problems. North Texas has 6.5 million people; 3 million more will live here by 2030. In the end, the plan has to be good enough that people will vote for it. The committee has yet to decide how the vote should happen -city by city, county by county or one election covering the region as a whole. The options The committee's proposals include: A 3/8-cent increase in the sales tax. o i~ ni~nno Page 2 of 2 A 1 percent gasoline sales tax. A 1.75 percent increase in the motor vehicle sales tax. A $65 to $105 increase in motor vehicle registration fees. A 4-cent local-option increase in the gasoline tax. A "new resident impact fee" of $100 per vehicle. A transportation property tax of 2 cents for each $100 of assessed value. stir gi~nnsz CITIZEN COMMENTS Page 1 of 1 Kelly Cooper From: John Gooding [comrailcom@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, August 11, 2008 12:45 PM To: Joan Losey; Kelly Cooper Subject: Re: Proposed Rail Station Joan -Thanks for your input on the subject. Kelly -can you please see that Joan's letter is put in out Commuter Rail file. Thanks Again John On Mon, Aug 11, 2008 at 11:57 AM, Joan Losey wrote: To: John Gooding Dear Sir: I would like to go on record as opposing the Proposed Rail Station at this time. It's a luxury we can't afford, after loss of a lot of our commercial tax base. A plan for payment by higher property taxes already ignores current property overvaluation due to the crash of the housing market. The station can be authorized at some future date when passenger requirements dictate, and the train system is established. Sincerely, Herb `,` and Joan Losey Rii i i~nnQ Kelly Cooper From: Ron Ruthven Sent: Monday, August 11, 2008 5:15 PM To: Kelly Cooper Subject: FW: Rail for Colleyville Kelly, Please see message below. I noticed an add in the Colleyville Courier listed me as a principal staff contact so I may be forwarding more to you. Ron Ruthven, AICP, Development Coordinator City of Colleyville 100 Main Street Colleyville, TX 76034 (817)503-1052 fax(817)503-1059 www.colleyville.com -----Original Message----- From: Sent: onday, August 11, 2008 4:48 PM To: Mike Taylor; Tom Hart Cc: Ron Ruthven Subject: Rail for Colleyville Mike and Tom, I strongly agree with the rail proposal ,f or Colleyville. I have been waiting for 12 years to get my street fixed. An underground spring has made it a mess in front of my house, but we do not have the money to fix it. The rail station is only something to be realized after basic needs are met. We are not there yet. Thanks, Chuck Thomas 6603 Charleston Dr. 817-421-6451 1 Page 1 of 1 Kelly Cooper From: John Gooding [comrailcom@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, August 11, 2008 6:12 PM To: Jay Berman; Kelly Cooper Subject: Re: Colleyville Light Rail Jay and Denise -Thanks for your comments on this issue. Kelly Please put this in our commuter rail file. Thanks Again John On Mon, Aug 11, 2008 at 4:03 PM, Jay Berman wrote: Mr. John Gooding I just wanted to share my feeling on the consideration of a Light Rail station in Colleyville. Since there will be one in Grapevine, it is not necessary to plan one in Colleyville. The costs to build and maintain far outweigh the benifits that the citizens of Colleyville will receive. Do one in N. Richland Hills if there are to be others. Don't put this in Colleyville Thank You Jay and Denise Berman Colleyville, TX Get Windows Live and get whatever you need, wherever you are. Start here. '~. Ri> > i~nnR Page 1 of 3 Kelly Cooper From: John Leeper [leeper2@verizon.net] Sent: Monday, August 11, 2008 10:18 PM To: Tony Spaeth Cc: Kelly Cooper Subject: Re: Commuter Rail Committee Update Hello Tony The Commuter Rail Citizen Committee is essentially at the midway point in preparing to provide recommendations to the City Council in December, 2008. As you are aware, a series of four public meetings was held for the purpose of gathering input and questions from Colleyville residents in connection with the Commuter Rail Project. This resulted in questions from more than 200 Colleyville citizens. The five subcommittees have developed responses that will appear on the Colleyville website http://www.Colleyville.com/content/blogcategory/48/569/ under Public Meetings. In addition, copies of the information will be available at City Hall, the public library, and Colleyville Senior Center. On August 19, 2008, the Committee will present amid-project update to the City Council in apre-Council meeting open presentation. Although no recommendations will be made at this time, it will provide an opportunity for the Committee to brief the Council members on the issues currently being addressed and ask for any assistance that may be required in order to develop the final recommendations. Again, the Texas Open Meetings /Open Records Act requires committee members to forward any correspondence we receive from Colleyville citizens to the City Manager's office where it becomes a public record. John ----- Original Message ----- From: Tony Spaeth To: John Leeper Sent: Friday, August 08, 2008 4:38 PM Subject: RE: Commuter Rail Committee Update Hi John. Can you provide some insight into how things are going here? From my vantage point it appears that there is strong opposition to light rail stop in Colleyville; especially because of the predicted costs, and that this isn't looking like it will be approved at this time. Am I correct? Tony SpaetFi Managing Director Greystone Servicing Corporation, Inc. 222 W. Las Colinas Blvd., Suite 1925N Irving, Texas 75039 Tel: 469-221-2929 Fax: 469-221-2921 Mobile: 817-676-4676 8/12/2008 Page 2 of 3 From: John Leeper [mailto:jleeper2@verizon.net} Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 10:36 AM To: Subject: Re: Commuter Second attempt. For some reason,. Windows Mail. is removing the attachment of the original document. I'll try creating a new document and attaching it. ----- Original Message ----- From: John Lee er To: $ent: ues , 2008 8:22 PM Subject: Commuter Rail Committee Update Pebble Hill Neighbors Attached is the agenda for the next CRC meeting on Friday, May 9. Also attached, find the unapproved minutes from last night's meeting. Aside from a brief presentation on the Texas Open Meetings /Open Records Act, the meeting was devoted to identifying the (30 something) issues that the committee would need to address before rendering recommendations. By the way, we have learned that the Texas Open Meetings /Open Records Act requires committee members to forward any correspondence we receive from Colleyville citizens to the City Manager's office where it becomes a public record. John Leeper .NOTICE: This e-mail and any attachments contain confidential information that maybe legally privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, you must not review, retransmit, print, copy, use or disseminate it. Please immediately notify us by return e-mail and delete it. If this e-mail contains a forwarded e-mail or is a reply to a prior email, the contents may not have been produced by the sender and therefore we are not responsible for its contents. This notice is automatically appended to each e-mail. It is the recipient's responsibility to take measures to ensure that this e-mail is virus free, and no responsibility is accepted by Greystone for any loss or damage arising in any way from its use. 8/12/2008 Citizen Centric Solutions -Printable Issue Issue ID: 6001 Currently Assigned To: Creator: Online User Time Entered: Status: New Escalation Date: Department: City Manager's Office Receive Type: Priority: NORMAL Issue Category: Escalation Level: 1 Visibility: Common Issue: Commuter Rail Public Input Address: Page 1 of 1 Kelly Cooper Wednesday August 13,2008 1:37 PM 8/17/2008 Online Non-Emergency I Everyone City: Colleyville State: TEXAS Zip: 76034 Comments I would oppose the commuter rail station at John McCain and 26. I would especially oppose a station where buses would be coming and going. I saw what buses did to Irving, TX and do not want them here. I feel the money would be better spent on improvements to Hwy 26 given the recent development with business and residential entrances off 26. (Especially between Hall-Johnson and Tinker!!!!!) History Date Modified: Wednesday August 13,2008 1:37 PM Modified By: Online Creator Previous Priority Level: NORMAL Previous Status: New Previous Visibility: Everyone Previous Escalation Level: 1 Previously Assigned To: Cooper, Kelly New Comments: ISSUE WAS CREATED Citizen Comment History i Date Modified: Wednesday August 13,2008 1:37 PM .,d'M, !Modified By: Online Creator 'Previous Priority Level: NORMAL 'Previous Status: New 'Previous Visibility: Everyone 'Previous Escalation Level: 1 Previously Assigned To: Cooper, Kelly '..New Comments: Attachments: Citizen Information Name Address City State Zip Phone Number Email Address Josey Jones 6301 Emerald Drive Colleyville TX 76034 (817) 329-5964 ~~ http://colleyville.ccentric.net/FindIssueBvPrimarvKevActi~n.d~ Page 1 of 2 Kelly Cooper From: John Gooding [comrailcom@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2008 7:16 PM To: Keith Staudt; Kelly Cooper Subject: Re: commuter rail Keith -Thanks for your comments and suggestions. I will see that your letter is included in the packet for our next rail meeting. (also I am attending the meeting in Las Colinas tomorrow ) Thanks Again John On Thu,. Aug 14, 2008 at 6:21 PM, Keith Staudt *..~' wrote: John Gooding, I attended your committe meeting several weeks ago and wanted to get back with you with some comments. It appears that the major objection is the cost of the station. And it seems much of the cost is in the form of a "Robin Hood" type transfer to the "T". As citizens of Colleyville, I belive we need to know the specific costs of operating and maintaining the proposed Colleyville station and how much money goes to the "T". For example, are the specific Colleyville operating costs $500,000 with the other $500,000 going to general operating costs? And the same goes for building the station--what is our specific cost? And how do our "Robin Hood" payments compare with NRH, Haltom City, etc.? Depending on what you find, there may be some negotiating room. I am sure the "T" would rather get something from Colleyville than nothing! Second, I heard a comment that Barnett Shale revenues were too speculative to rely on as a means of financing [in part] the train station. I can personally attest [with a substantial check in hand] that this resource is not speculative but very real and very lucrative. With around 200 acres [determined from City brochures] and latest bonus payments of $25,000 an acre, the City can look to $5 million immediately with royalties to follow. Yes, it may ebb and flow but it is substantial money that is not speculative. On the other hand, I believe it is way too speculative to include the cost of a feeder bus system and parking garage in the proposed costs. Based on City demographics and overall need, I don't believe anyone thinks we will need a bus system. If we have a station, citizens will use their own cars or be dropped off by a family member. A feeder bus system is not mandatory--it is only an option based on need and we simply have no need for it [I am sure every household in Colleyville has at least 2 cars]. Third, at the meeting someone mentioned a study that indicated that living close to commuter rail can actually increase property values. A committee person responded that such data was not valid for affluent communities such as Colleyville. I would ask the committe to consider Chicago's METRA system. It travels north along Lake Michigan and past Northwestern University through affluent suberbs such as Wilmette, Winnekta and Highland Park all of which have stations. Winnekta is listed as the 4th most affluent city in the U.S. It has a median income of $196,000 and home values that average $1,500, 000. Highland Park and Wilmette are similarly very wealthy and they boast of being home to Michael Jordon, Ann-Margret, Bill Murray and Christie Heffner [Playboy exec]. Clearly having commuter rail stations have not had a negative impact on those cities [in fact, if you look them up on Wikipedia, they prominently feature their train stations. Next, I think we need to take a hard look at what turning this rail opportunity will mean for Colleyville in the greater Tarrant County area. It appears that all local politicians [including Vicki Truet] and most cities are behind more rail as a way to ease traffic congestion and pollution. If Colleyville [the second most affluent City in Tarrant County] says "no, we can't afford it," I am sure it will not be well received by the "powers that be." You have to ask yourself what that might mean in the future when Colleyville wants state or federal funds. Finally, 1 hope the committe noticed the commuter rail meeting this Friday at the Omni Mandalay in Las Colinas. Topics to be discussed include new ideas for funding rail such as increased vehicle registration fees. A/15/20OR Page 2 of 2 So at the end of the day whether we want a station or not, we all might end up paying for it anyway. You are certainly free to pass my comments on to your committee. Keith Staudt 7208 Belle Meade 817-488-5184 8/15/2008 Page 1 of 1 Kelly Cooper From: John Gooding [comrailcom@gmail.com] Sent: Saturday, August 16, 2008 2:47 PM To: MICHELLE PALMER; Kelly Cooper Subject: Re: Please...just say "no" to Colleyville Station..there's an alternative 3 miles away. Michelle and Lane -Thanks for your input on the subject. Kelly can you please enter this in our commuter rail file. Thanks Again John On Sat, Aug 16, 2008 at 10:16 AM, MICHELLE PALMER ~ r wrote: All, We moved to Colleyville 2 years ago after almost 6 years in Grapevine. One of the main factors in our decision to relocate was the proposed 121 / 114 / 635 Highway project. We were worried about the additional noise during both the project implementation, and increased traffic noise after completion. We thought Colleyville seemed like a "quieter" place to move. Although the property taxes are higher, we weighed "renting our house" from the both City and State governments with the services provided by both entities. The quality of education is excellent and with 2 small children that's very important. Colleyville doesn't appear hampered by fiscal irresponsibility, a shortage of Police officers and Firefighters, as the case in other neighboring communities. Certainly a byproduct of lower than average crime. Again, a another great reason to live in Colleyville. With those reasons and many others, I'm mystified by your willingness to increase my property taxes, and without question, based on the facts I gathered, that is the only avenue available, for a Rail Station that I'm able to reach driving 3 additional miles to ride. Moreover, as a majority of our community travels Easton 114 towards Dallas each morning, and with significantly less traffic congestion at the Grapevine location, again I don't understand the benefit to my community. Certainly when considering there's an alternative 3 miles away -Grapevine station If the Grapevine station was not proposed, and we did not have a "choice", then we would be more open to the concept. Even then, I'd ask for better traffic control, sound barriers, police engagement, etc. Remember there's a much less intrusive alternative 3 miles away -Grapevine station. In a time where being "fiscally responsible" is often times the last consideration, we'd ask each of you to make the "right choice."...Just say "no", we simply can't afford it. Additionally, there's an alternative 3 miles away - Grapevine station. Ultimately, it's your job to represent the community in which you serve. In this case, the answer seems clear -the risk in damaging this city and the population within through increased taxes, noise, crime, pollution, etc. is far greater than the potential benefit for 500 passengers. Especially when considering there's an alternative 3 miles away -Grapevine station. Thanks again for all each of you do to serve our community, and in advance for what each of you will do to preserve it....and please remember, there's an alternative 3 miles away -Grapevine station. Regards, Lane Palmer 8/18/2008 Page 1 of 1 Ron Ruthven From: Connie McBroom ~~ Sent: Saturday, August 16, 2008 7:55 PM To: David Kelly; ajersj@ci.colleyville.tx.us; Carol Wollin; Tony Licata; Stan Hall; Tom Hart; Mike Taylor; Ron Ruthven Subject: Proposed Commuter Rail Station I agree wholeheartedly with the recent ad by Concerned Citizens of Colleyville in the Grapevine paper regarding the proposed rail station! Colleyville citizens should not be required to pay for something we neither need nor want. Connie McBroom 8/18/2008 Ron Ruthven From: J. C. and Vicky Bartolomei ~ . Sent: Saturday, August 16, 2008 To: David Kelly; Jon Ayers; Ron Ruthven; Carol Wollin; Tony Licata; Stan Hall; Tom Hart; Mike Taylor; William Lindley Subject: Opposed to Rail Station Ms. Wollin and Gentlemen: My husband and I are Colleyville residents/taxpayers. We will not be able to attend the scheduled 8/19th Counsel meeting but want to voice our very strong opposition to the proposed rail station. We bought our home in 2005, choosing Colleyville over Southlake because of the apparent tranquility and safety of its neighborhoods. We are beginning to question the wisdom of our choice. Why on earth would the city government even consider building a station within its [very small] city limits, when the mayor "hub" of the line -Grapevine station- would only be a few miles away? Who is pushing this, and with whose interest at heart? It doesn't seem to make economic sense, but I'll let others voice that issue. My main concern is the impact that the station would have on the character of our city. It doesn't take experts or expensive studies to conclude that rail stations can and DO have a negative impact on nearby residential neighborhoods, the heart and soul of Colleyville. And "nearby" is a relative term. Many years ago, my parents owned a home in Takoma Park, Md. in a peaceful, beautiful residential area. A commuter rail station was built about 3 miles from the entrance to their neighborhood. From then on strangers wandered the streets at all hours, my siblings could no longer play safely outside. City streets became congested with the added traffic of NON-RESIDENTS driving to and from the station. They sold their home about 2 years later when break-ins became commonplace in the area. The character of the city had been irrevocably changed. It took years for property values to rebound, and by then the close knit, well -cared -for neighborhoods were largely a thing of the past. Don't do this to Colleyville!! We can't do much about the commuter trains rushing by, but we DO NOT NEED/WANT the added aggravation of the station. Respectfully submitted, Victoria Gregory Bartolomei 1 Page 1 of 1 Ron Ruthven From: MICHELLE PALMER~ Sent: Saturday, August 16, 2008 10:17 AM To: David Kelly; Jon Ayers; Carol Wollin; Tony Licata; Stan Hall; Tom Hart; Mike Taylor; Ron Ruthven; William Lindley; comrailcom@gmail.com Subject: Please...just say "no" to Colleyville Station..there's an alternative 3 miles away. All, We moved to Colleyville 2 years ago after almost 6 years in Grapevine. One of the main factors in our decision to relocate was the proposed 121 / 114 / 635 Highway project. We were worried about the additional noise during both the project implementation, and increased traffic noise after completion. We thought Colleyville seemed like a "quieter" place to move. Although the property taxes are higher, we weighed "renting our house" from the both City and State governments with the services provided by both entities. The quality of education is excellent and with 2 small children that's very important. Colleyville doesn't appear hampered by fiscal irresponsibility, a shortage of Police officers and Firefighters, as the case in other neighboring communities. Certainly a byproduct of lower than average crime. Again, a another great reason to live in Colleyville. With those reasons and many others, I'm mystified by your willingness to increase my property taxes, and without question, based on the facts 1 gathered, that is the only avenue available, for a Rail Station that I'm able to reach driving 3 additional miles to ride. Moreover, as a majority of our community travels East on 114 towards Dallas each morning, and with significantly less traffic congestion at the Grapevine location, again 1 don't understand the benefit to my community. Certainly when considering there's an alternative 3 miles away -Grapevine station If the Grapevine station was not proposed, and we did not have a "choice", then we would be more open to the concept. Even then, I'd ask for better traffic control, sound barriers, police engagement, etc. Remember there's a much less intrusive alternative 3 miles away -Grapevine station. In a time where being "fiscally responsible" is often times the last consideration, we'd ask each of you to make the "right choice."...Just say "no", we simply can't afford it. Additionally, there's an alternative 3 miles away - Grapevine station. Ultimately, it's your job to represent the community in which you serve. In this case, the answer seems clear -the risk in damaging this city and the population within through increased taxes, noise, crime, pollution, etc. is far greater than the potential benefit for 500 passengers. Especially when considering there's an alternative 3 miles away -Grapevine station. Thanks again for all each of you do to serve our community, and in advance for what each of you will do to preserve it....and please remember, there's an alternative 3 miles away -Grapevine station. Regards, Lane Palmer Qii Qi~nnQ Page 1 of 1 Kelly Cooper From: John Gooding [comrailcom@gmail.com] Sent: Sunday, August 17, 2008 8:15 PM To: Herb Trisler; Kelly Cooper Subject: Re: Rail Station Concern Herb -Thanks for your input on this subject. Kelly -please put this letter in our Commuter Rail file. Thanks Again John Gooding On Sun, Aug 17, 2008 at 3:59 PM, Herb Trisler wrote: ? Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to express my concern about the proposed rail station in Colleyville. Asa 3.5-year resident of Colleyville, f do not believe that we can afford nor do we need the rail station in Colleyville. We do not have the budget to fund it; I do not wish that my taxes be raised to support this station, when there will be one a few miles away in Grapevine. I believe that the ridership from the City of Colleyville will be minimal, considering the wide variety of Metroplex locations where residents currently are employed. If this issue is brought to a vote in the City of Colleyville, my vote will be NO. Thank you for your consideration of another Colleyville resident who has grave concerns about extending our obligations beyond our budget. Herbert E. Trisler 4013 Southwood St. East Colleyville, TX 76034 8/18/2008 Page 1 of 1 Kelly Cooper From: John Gooding [comrailcom@gmail.com] Sent: Sunday, August 17, 2008 8:56 AM To: J. C. and Vicky Bartolomei; Kelly Cooper Subject: Re: Opposed to Colleyville Rail Station J.C. and Vicky -thank you for your comments on this issue. Kelly -please put this in our Commuter Rail file. Thanks Again John On Sat, Aug 16, 2008 at 8:51 PM, J. C. and Vicky Bartolomei .wrote: I' Gentlemen: My husband and I are Colleyville residents. We will not be able to attend the scheduled 8/19th Counsel meeting but want to voice our very strong opposition to the proposed rail station. We bought our home in 2005, choosing Colleyville over Southlake because of the apparent tranquility and safety of its neighborhoods. We are beginning to question the wisdom of our choice. Why on earth would the city government even consider building a station within its [very small] city limits, when the mayor "hub" of the line -Grapevine station- would only be a few miles away? Who is pushing this, and with whose interest at heart? It doesn't seem to make economic sense, but I'll let others voice that issue. My main concern is the impact that the station would have on the character of our city. It doesn't take experts or expensive studies to conclude that i rail stations can and DO have a negative impact on nearby residential !' neighborhoods, the heart and soul of Colleyville. And "nearby" is a relative term. My parents owned a home in Takoma Park, Md for many years, in a peaceful, beautiful residential area. A commuter rail station was built about 3 miles from the entrance to their neighborhood. From then on strangers wandered the streets at all hours, my siblings could no longer play safely outside. City streets became congested with NON-residents driving to and from the station. They sold their home about 2 years later when break-ins became commonplace in the area. The character of the city had been irrevocably changed: It took years for property values to rebound, and by then the close knit, well -cared -for neighborhoods were largely a thing of the past. Don't do this to Colleyville!! Respectfully submitted, Victoria Gregory Bartolomei 8/18/2008 Page 1 of 1 Ron Ruthven From: Kaye Perkins Trisler Sent: Sunday, August 17, 2008 3:40 PM To: David Kelly; Jon Ayers; Carol Wollin; Tony Licata; Stan Hall; Tom Hart; Mike Taylor; Ron Ruthven; William Lindley; comrailcom@gmail.com Subject: Rail Station Concerns Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to express my concern about the proposed rail station in Colleyville. Asa 10-resident of Colleyville, I do not believe that we can afford nor do we need the rail station in Colleyville. We do not have the budget to fund it; I do not wish that my taxes be raised to support this station, when there will be one a few miles away in Grapevine. I believe that the ridership from the City of Colleyville will be minimal, considering the wide variety of Metroplex locations where residents currently are employed. If this issue is brought to a vote in the City of Colleyville, my vote will be NO. Thank you for your consideration of another Colleyville resident who has grave concerns about extending our obligations beyond our budget. Cynthia K. Perkins Trisler 4013 Southwood St. East Colleyville, TX 76034 R/1 R/~(1(1R Page 1 of 1 Ron Ruthven From: Solomon Dauglas Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 7:09 PM To: kellyd@cicolleyville.tx.us; Carol Wollin; Mike Taylor; Jon Ayers; Tony Licata; Ron Ruthven; comrailcom@gmail.com; Stan Hall; William Lindley; Tom Hart Subject: Commuter Rail Station at John McCain and Highway 26 Mayor and City Council Members: As a resident of Colleyville, I would like to vigorously oppose the building of a Commuter Rail Station anywhere in the city of Colleyville. I would hope that you will not make any decisions on this matter without the approval of those living in Colleyville. Solomon Dauglas 811 Laurel Oaks Lane Colleyville, Tx 76034 8/21 /2008 Page 1 of 1 Kelly Cooper From: John Gooding [comrailcom@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 9:08 PM To: Solomon Dauglas; Kelly Cooper Subject: Re: Commuter Rail Station at John McCain and Highway 26 Solomon -Thank you for your input on this matter. Kelly -please enter this in our Commuter Rail File. Thanks Again John Gooding On Mon, Aug 18, 2008 at 7:08 PM, Solomon Dauglas .--wrote: Mayor and City Council Members: As a resident of Colleyville, I would like to vigorously oppose the building of a Commuter Rail Station anywhere in the city of Colleyville. I would hope that you will not make any decisions on this matter without the approval of those living in Colleyville. Solomon .Dauglas 81.1 Laurel Oaks Lane C;ollcvville, "l'Y 70()34 8/ 19/2008 Page 1 of 1 Kelly Cooper From:.. John Gooding [comrailcom@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 19, 2008 10:32 AM To: Bruce.Freeman@tx.rr.com; Kelly Cooper Subject: Re: Commuter Rail Station Bruce and Nancy -Thanks for your input on this issue. Kelly -please put this in our commuter rail file. Thanks Again John On Tue, Aug 19, 2008 at 10:08 AM, Bruce Freeman wrote: Colleyville can NOT afford and does NOT need a commuter rail station!!!!!!! It would NOT benefit many, if any, '; residents. Operating costs would be nothing but an increasingly expensive money pit, not to mention the initial investment cost. '' My vote is overwhelmingly NO! NO! NO! Citizens: Bruce E. and Nancy L Freeman 308 W. Covington Way :Colleyville, TX 76034 8/19/2008 Colleyville Commuter Rail Citizen Committee Public Input Form J ~ ~/~ ~'~ i y' `~ -.- ~- ~ ~- ,3a % ~ ~ Return form to any city hall office, library, senior center. Forms can also be faxed to 817.503.1129. To help us get information about the commuter rail plans to you, please tell us where you typically look for information on issues concerning Colleyville? Check all that apply. ^ Colleyville Courier ^ City Website - Colleyville.com Fort Worth Star-Telegram ^ City Cable Channel ^ Dallas Morning News ^ City Newsletter (in water bill each month) ^ Local News Only ~1 Other