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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPW SMART Central UpdateAgenda Item No: 5. c Meeting Date: January 20, 2015 SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT Department: Public Works l'_&_U�4 Prepared by: City Manager Approval A Director of Public Works File No.: 18.06.52 SUBJECT: Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART): Central San Rafael Update RECOMMENDATION: Accept the report BACKGROUND: Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) has started construction in San Rafael. To keep the City Council informed of current, proposed and future improvements associated with SMART construction, the Department of Public Works has prepared two updates. The first was presented to the City Council on December 15, 2014, and addressed construction north of the Puerto Suello Tunnel to the City limits near Smith Ranch Road. This report will address SMART construction from the Puerto Suello Tunnel to the downtown San Rafael rail station. Current Construction (2014 & early 201 S) SMART currently has one active construction contract in Central San Rafael: Contract Package #4 (CP4): SMART has hired Schimmick Construction to install the main rail system from just south of the Civic Center Station to the downtown San Rafael Station. There are five crossings in the section from the Puerto Suello Tunnel to the Downtown Station, located just north of Third Street. The majority of this work has already commenced. Track Reconstruction (SMART) The work performed by Schimmick Construction includes the installation of new rail and ballast. All existing rails will be removed. Significant excavation is needed to install new rail ties and ballast to support the train. Shorter 80 foot track segments are utilized in this section of SMART's line due to the curves and construction methods near the tunnel. In the past, rail was simply bolted together. This process led -to a clicking noise as the steel rail wheels crossed the connection. These sections of rail are now welded together which should reduce the clicking noise significantly FOR CITY CLERK ONLY File No.: -2 4S Council Meeting: . Disposition: Cµ SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 2 Track Crossinas at Roadways (SMART There are five crossings in the section of rail line from the Puerto Suello Tunnel to the downtown stations. Four remain to be completed: Paloma Avenue, Pacheco Street, Fifth Avenue, Fourth Street. The crossing at Mission Avenue was completed in the fall of 2014. The Department of Public Works and SMART personnel met with Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and Federal Rail Authority (FRA) staff to review the Pacheco Avenue and Paloma Street rail crossing locations. This diagnostic review meeting was necessary to evaluate the potential need for additional equipment at these crossings. The current design stipulates utilizing dual gates. Based on that meeting, these agencies as well as staff determined that dual gates are sufficient and that quad gates are not necessary at these two crossings. According to the PUC and FRA representatives, utilizing dual gates at this location will not preclude the City from pursuing a quiet zone. The City of San Rafael may request that SMART add additional pedestrian gates to the crossings within the City; however, SMART has noted that installation of additional safety measures in some locations may be difficult due to a limited right of way and limited room for foundations with significant potential for utility conflicts. Based on these factors, we do not recommend pursuing additional safety measures at this time. Flashing lights and bells are included on each rail signal arm, which should be sufficient to alert the public to a passing train. The cost for installing one pedestrian gate is estimated to be between $35,000 and $65,000 depending upon the amount of work necessary for their installation and does not include right-of-way purchase. Tunnel Reconstruction (SMART) The Puerto Suello Tunnel, which runs under a portion of Lincoln Avenue, has deteriorated over time and requires significant improvements. This work involves reinforcing existing structural systems within the tunnel as well as track improvements associated with emergency vehicle access. Station Platform Construction (SMART Contract Package #4 includes installation of the downtown station basic platform without amenities. The majority of the basic foundation for this station has already been installed. The top concrete slab will be installed with the station amenities such as benches, lights and kiosks. At this time, the work is limited to concrete placement and does not include final platform amenities. Rail Signal Operations (SMART) SMART is installing fiber optic cable to provide a rail communication backbone system that will assure the safety and functionality of rail crossing signal systems. This system will be installed simultaneously with rail reconstruction and at roadway crossings. Regional Transportation Enhancement Proiect (City of San Rafael) SMART's rail utilizes the existing alignment of the Northwest Pacific Railroad, which was installed prior to 1920. The infrastructure and area of San Rafael was much different at the time the rail was developed. Today, the downtown station area is crisscrossed by main roadways that provide access east and west of Highway 101. The reactivation of the train system will impact vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle circulation along these roadways in the downtown area. In response, the Department of Public Works has initiated the Regional Transportation System Enhancements (RTSE) project. RTSE involves two major components: traffic signal upgrades, and civil improvements near the future SMART rail station. SAN RAFALL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 3 Improvements include updating a total of 20 signal system controller cabinets to allow the traffic signal system to communicate with the rail signal system and to coordinate with trains entering and exiting the downtown station. Connecting these traffic signal systems to SMART's controller system is vital to ensure the efficient flow of traffic through this area of San Rafael. Civil improvements include the installation of curb ramps and accessibility improvements to allow better access to the SMART station area. These civil improvements are not being proposed on SMART's right of way but along adjacent roadways. The cost of these improvements is estimated to be $3.1 million. The Department of Public Works has applied for and received a Federal Congestion Management and Air Quality (CMAQ) grant through the One Bay Area Grant (OBAG) process, in the amount of $1.9 million. Additional funding for this project is available from City Traffic Mitigation fees as well as City Construction Vehicle Impact fees. Although federal funding for this work benefits our community, the additional work required to receive these funds is time consuming. This is especially so when the actual improvements must be in place prior to day one rail system operations. The design for the project is well underway and the Department of Public Works is taking all necessary steps for construction to commence as soon as possible. Staff is working diligently to receive the design and environmental approvals necessary to bid this project. The Department of Public Works will purchase traffic signal cabinets, controllers, railroad preemption equipment, etc., within the next month. Purchasing this equipment in advance saves time and is more cost effective as it eliminates costly contractor markups. Because we expect the implementation of the rail service to significantly impact traffic, additional and more reliable traffic monitoring capabilities are needed. In order to actively monitor and respond to conflicts or other issues in a timely manner, a new traffic operations center system is required. Tile Department of Public Works has been researching the various systems available for this use and will soon move forward on the purchase of this item. Puerto Suello Hill Path to Transit Center Connector Project (City of San Rafael) In 2007, the City was notified that the County of Marin had received $25 million for the construction of various non -motorized transportation improvements throughout the County. In response to this grant opportunity, the City applied for and received funds to construct a ten foot wide multi -use path on Hetherton Street between Mission Avenue and Fourth Street. Improvement alternatives were developed and presented to stakeholders, including the San Rafael Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC), the San Rafael Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Access Advisory Committee, and the Marin County Bicycle Coalition (MCBC). In 2009, the City Council directed staff to proceed with the preparation of construction plans and specifications of the preferred alternatives. As part of the environmental clearance phase of design, the City coordinated with the Caltrans Office of Local Assistance regarding the high sensitivity for prehistoric and historical archaeological resources. Caltrans directed the City to conduct extensive subsurface exploration to identify and catalog cultural resources which might be located within the project limits. That exploration was completed in early 2012. The City received environmental clearance on March 16, 2012. SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT 1 Page: 4 The entire length of Hetherton Street is located within the State right-of-way. Although the San Rafael has a maintenance agreement for this street, Caltrans required the City to obtain an encroachment permit because the project will include installation of new permanent street improvements. Between June 2012 and March 2014, the City coordinated multiple rounds of comments and revisions with the Caltrans Office of Permits. The encroachment permit was issued on March 24, 2014. On August 18, 2014, the San Rafael City Council authorized the Public Works Director to award the construction contract to Ghilotti Brothers, Inc. The construction commenced the following fall with the removal of trees in the project area. The remaining construction should be completed by the end of summer of 2015. San Rafael Downtown Integrated Traffic Center Study (City of San Rafael) The City's Economic Development Department received, in conjunction with the Golden Gate Bridge and Highway District, a $255,000 planning grant from the Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM). TAM grant funding will be used to study and develop a report for an integrated transit center that accommodates existing and future bus operations and coordinates with other transit operations in the area such as SMART. The study will include: • Assessing the options for a full or partial relocation of the existing Bettini Transit Center, which will be impacted when SMART service is extended from San Rafael to Larkspur through a portion of the existing transit center • Analysis of current operations of the Bettini Transit Center • Ascertaining the physical footprint needed to accommodate current and future operations • Providing site options for the potential full or partial relocation of the transit center to a nearby location • Financial modeling based on highest and best use of the potential sites and physical and operational constraints will also be examined. City staff anticipates that the consultant team will be hired in March 2015 after approval by the City Council. The work will commence in April 2015 and be completed within 9- 12 months. Downtown Parking and Wayfinding Study (City of San Rafaell The City of San Rafael has also received a $222,500 federally funded grant from the Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM) to analyze current public and private parking patterns and needs. A consultant will be hired to develop recommendations for parking needs within a Ralf -mile radius of the Bettini Transit Center and to explore future parking needs that factor in SMART ridership. In addition, the study will provide recommendations on upgrading the current wayfinding signage program for downtown San Rafael. This project is being administered by Parking Services and is expected to commence within the next few months. Transportation Authoritv of Marin Transit Studv (City of San Rafael/Fairfax/San Anselmo) The Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM) is developing a concept study investigating the provision of transit services west of San Rafael to San Anselmo and Fairfax. The City of San Rafael, Golden Gate Transit, Marin Transit, and the towns of San Anselmo and Fairfax staff are participating in this study by providing technical advice to TAM. Proposed Camstrurtion (To be completed Prior to rail operations) SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 5 Regional Transportation Enhancement Project — Construction (City of San Rafael) The Department of Public Works is currently developing design and procurement standards for the specialized equipment needed for this project. Once approvals for this federally funded project are in place, the Department of Public Works will bring the project to the San Rafael City Council for authorization to move forward with a construction contract. We anticipate this work to occur prior to the start of day one rail operations. Rail Signal Installation (SMART) Rail signal equipment at the rail crossings will be installed in 2015. Quad gates are planned for three roadway crossings south of Puerto Suello Tunnel. Currently, SMART's design shows dual gates at Pacheco Street and Paloma Avenue. A pedestrian gate crossing system is proposed to be installed on the south side of Fourth Street next to the SMART station. Station Architectural Finish Construction (SMART & San Rafael Council Subcommittee) Station finishes will be finalized prior to rail operation. The City's SMART Subcommittee is working with an architectural firm to develop options to present to the City Council within the next year to recommend a preferred alternative on behalf of the City of San Rafael. In addition to the architectural features for the station, more safety measures are needed along the north side of Third Street to prevent pedestrians from jaywalking across this busy street. The Department of Public Works will address this issue with SMART to pursue the installation of a pedestrian barrier in this area. Train Testing_(SMART) The new train will be tested throughout the rail corridor in 2015 and 2016. While most of the testing will occur north of San Rafael, we expect some testing prior to day one operations. Per SMART, testing should occur in late 2015 and early 2016. Regulatory_ Approvals (SMART) SMART is working with regulatory agencies to secure all necessary safety approvals prior to the initiation of rail service. The amount of time required to secure regulatory approval is not known at this time. However, SMART is communicating with the Federal Rail Authority, California Public Utilities Commission and many others to secure approvals. Ouiet Zone (City of San Rafael) City Council approved staff to proceed with the Quiet Zone process at its December 1, 2014 meeting. The City Attorney's office is working with SMART to develop the necessary agreements prior to submitting the paperwork needed to move forward with the Quiet Zone through San Rafael. SMART Stations Bicycle Parking Investment Plan (SMART) The SMART Stations Bicycle Parking Investment Plan will engage local partners to analyze what bicycle parking types are available, what markets need to be served along the rail corridor and what investments would be desired and appropriate. SMART rail cars will accommodate bicycles, and ongoing station construction will allow some flexibility to build out future bicycle parking facilities. This is a $100,000 project supported by a grant to study the entire rail line. Taxi, Shuttle and Transit Connectivity (City of San Rafael & Other Agencies) SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 6 City staff will coordinate with other transit agencies prior to the onset of rail operations. Shuttle service between the Downtown Rail Station and the Larkspur Ferry Terminal will need to be pursued with the Golden Gate Bridge and Transportation District. Setting aside space for loading zones and taxi areas must also be explored. Tamalpais Avenue, between Second and Third Streets, appears to be a viable area for taxi and shuttle services; however, further examination is needed based on possible congestion in tile, area. Future Cottsirtictioti To be Constructed after Rail Operafloid Tamalpais Avenue Operational Modifications •— Study (City of San Rafael) On April 4, 2011, the City of San Rafael's Bicycle/Pedestrian Master Plan was approved by the City Council. This plan included the approval of the NTPP Puerto Sucllo Pathway to Transit project along Hetherton Avenue, which is currently under construction. The San Rafael City Council has received comments from the public that the main bicycle and pedestrian access running north and south through downtown should be located on Tamalpais rather than Hetherton. There have been additional comments from the public that West Tamaipais Avenue could be made into a promenade for a separated multi -use path as well as for other amenities such as landscaping and pedestrian features. If SMART rail service does eventually extend to Larkspur, the Department of Public Works will initiate a study to determine what modifications to this area are feasible. Due to Tamalpais Avenue's close proximity to the SMART station, it is important to pursue this study after the rail operation has begun to allow more accurate analysis of all the impacts in the area. Ramp Metering (Caltrans) The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), along with the Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM), are pursuing ramp metering on Highway 101 in Marin County. The current northbound on- ramp near Mission Avenue and the south bound on-ramp at Second Street are just some of the highway ramps under consideration for ramp metering. Both ramps are exceptionally short. The Department of Public Works has consistently communicated with Caltrans that metering these on -ramps will significantly impact all the traffic patterns in this area of downtown San Rafael. Caltrans and MTC continue to move forward with these metering systems. At this time, we do not know when Caltrans will install and activate ramp metering throughout San Rafael. Public Works staff will continue to work with MTC. Caltrans and TAM staff to keep apprised of this work and convey our concerns regarding the local ramifications of ramp metering throughout the City. SMART Rail Extension to Larkspur The original ballot measure for the train stipulated termination of the rail system in Larkspur. At this time, SMART has a funding shortfall and will not construct the rail system from downtown San Rafael to Larkspur. SMART is currently seeking additional funding for the construction of this extension. The extension of the rail service to Larkspur includes a rail crossing at Andersen Drive. The Department of Public Works is working with SMART and has been in communication with the California Public Utility Commission (CPUC) regarding this intersection. When Andersen Drive was constructed in the 1990's, the rail tracks were paved over. There have been no safety concerns about this crossing since that time due to the lack of train operations. However, if SMART does pursue service to Larkspur, the SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT 1 Page: 7 City of San Rafael will be required to make the necessary improvements to allow for a safe crossing. Preliminary discussions with CPUC have been favorable regarding an at - grade crossing. The Department of Public Works will continue to work with SMART, as well as all regulatory agencies, to be ready when SMART has the ability to extend service to Larkspur. At present, SMART has not submitted any plans to show their proposed work south of downtown San Rafael. The Department of Public Works anticipates working with SMART to discuss other modifications, such as changing the alignment of Francisco Boulevard West near Second Street to provide fewer grade crossings. Other modifications to crossings at Rice Drive and Irwin Street may also be possible. We will wait for a submittal from SMART to initiate these discussions. The Mahon Creek crossing just south of Second Street is also a challenge that will need to be examined by SMART. ANALYSIS: NIA FISCAL IMPACT: NIA OPTIONS: 1. Accept the staff report 2. Accept the staff report and direct staff to address additional items discussed at the City Council meeting and report back at a future Council meeting. CITY OF SAN RAFAEL ROUTING SLIP 1 APPROVAL FORM INSTRUCTIONS: USE THIS FORM WITH EACH SUBMITTAL OF A CONTRACT, AGREEMENT, ORDINANCE OR RESOLUTION BEFORE APPROVAL BY COUNCIL /AGENCY. SRRA / SRCC AGENDA ITEM NO. . DATE OF MEETING: January 20, 2015 FROM: Nader Mansourian DEPARTMENT: Public Works DATE: January 5, 2015 TITLE OF DOCUMENT: Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART): -.�San Rafael Update Department Head (signature) (LOWER HALF OF FORM FOR APPROVALS ONLY) APPROVED AS COUNCIL /AGENCY AGENDA ITEM: r City ffanager (signature) NOT APPROVED REMARKS: 18.06.52 APPROVED AS TO FORM: City Attorney (signature)