Body
Department of Streets and Fleet
Reference: US 85 Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL Study)
To: Mayor Richard N. McLean and Members of City Council
Through: Clint Blackhurst, Acting City Manager
Prepared By: Kimberly Dall, PE, Streets and Fleet Director
Date Prepared: July 10, 2017
PURPOSE
Consider a resolution authorizing the signing of a letter indicating participation in the creation of the US Highway 85 Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) study dated April 2017.
BACKGROUND
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has conducted a Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) study for the segment of United States Highway 85 (US 85) between Interstate 76 (I-76) and Weld County Road (WCR) 100. The objective of the US 85 PEL study is to develop a strategic vision for US 85 that addresses safety, mobility, and access concerns. The goals of the project are to:
• Identify the transportation needs along US 85 from I-76 to WCR 100
• Create a vision for development improvements that address the needs
• Determine the short-term and long-term transportation priorities for US 85
• Position the corridor for successful and streamlined implementation of improvements
Short-term and long-term improvements have been identified and prioritized through a collaborative process with stakeholders and the public along the corridor. The US 85 Access Control Plan (ACP) (1999) serves as a foundation for the PEL study; Brighton staff have utilized the ACP as a guiding document for the US Highway 85 corridor since 1999.
Brighton staff and elected officials have participated in the creation of the PEL through the Technical Advisory Committee as well as Executive Committee. Updates were provided to City Council and made available to the public throughout the project; the PEL is representative of Brighton’s vision for the US 85 corridor.
The attached signature page indicates the PEL was developed with the participation of Brighton and information was made available to all interested parties. It will be included in the final PEL document.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There are no financial commitments included in the PEL; rather it represents an approach to transportation decision-making that considers environmental, community, and economic goals early in the planning stage and carries them through project development, design, and construction. This leads to a seamless decision-making process that minimizes duplication of effort, promotes efficient and cost-effective solutions and environmental stewardship, and reduces delays in project implementation.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval of the resolution.
OPTIONS FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
1. Approve the resolution as presented.
2. Postpone and request further information.
3. Approve a modified resolution.