HomeMy WebLinkAboutStudy Session Agenda 12-16-13STUDY SESSION AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
7500 W. 29th Ave.
Wheat Ridge CO
December 16, 2013
6:30p.m.
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PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
1. Staff Report(s)
2. 38th Avenue Corridor
a. Implementation and Metrics Update
b. Streetscape Design Alternatives
3. Mayoral Appointments to the Housing Authority
4. Elected Officials' Report(s)
~~A~ ... ~ City of .. rct:Wheat~dge ~OMMUNilY DEVELOPMENT
TO:
FROM:
THROUGH:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
Introduction
Memorandum
Mayor and City Council
Kenneth Johnstone, Commun~fevelopment Director
Patrick Goff, City Manager .JIA}
December 9, 2013 (for December 16 Study Session)
38th Avenue Corridor Plan Implementation
The 38ih Avenue Corridor Plan establishes a long-term vision for the revitalization of 38th
Avenue between Sheridan and Wadsworth Boulevard into a vibrant, mixed-use Main Street. The
purpose ofthis memo and the study session on December 16 is to update Council on the
implementation steps that have been completed since the plan's adoption in October 2011 and to
report out on the various implementation metrics that staffhas been tracking.
Executive Summary
Much has been accomplished toward the long-term implementation of the recommendations on
the 38th Avenue Corridor Plan. A few highlights of accomplishments and status on tracking
metrics are summarized below with more detailed information provided in the attachments.
• On-going brand/identity of Ridge at 38 has been promoted, with accompanying
marketing/branding efforts.
• The corridor was rezoned to MU-N, facilitating a streamlined development review
process.
• Numerous new businesses have opened and sales tax and building vacancy trends are
positive.
• Traffic is generally functioning as predicted in the 2011 traffic study, with reduced
average vehicle speeds, slightly increased travel times when traveling 38th from
Wadsworth to Sheridan and some traffic diversion to parallel roadways.
• Bike and pedestrian activity has not seen a significant increase or decrease.
• Accident data does not reflect a significant increase or decrease and emergency vehicle
response times have not been negatively impacted.
• Certain components of the temporary road diet have received mixed reviews, including
differing viewpoints on the safety and ease of use of the back-in parking. Two of the
temporary pop-up cafes are seeing good use and one has been used less frequently. The
temporary planters have provided some visual appeal and interest, but they do not
provide the desired long-term impact of having significant landscape amenities along the
street. A concept design is being presented at this meeting for construction of a
38th Avenue Corridor Plan Implementation
December 9, 2013
Page2
permanent three-lane street section from Upham to Pierce streets with associated
sidewalks, landscaping and other streetscape amenities and features.
• Installation of two sets oflarge banner poles that support banners that span the street and
are used for marketing and branding and notification of events. Staff is working with the
banner company to fine-tune the installation technique to ensure long-term durability of
the banners.
• Two sets of pedestrian-activated signal crossings have been installed at the ends of the
corridor.
• In 2012, Ridge at 38 hosted two well-attended community special events with over 3500
guests. In 2013, Ridge at 38 hosted Clean Up Day, Wheat Fest, Trunk or Treat and the
recent Holiday Celebration, on Sunday, December 8. It is estimated that more than 3,500
guests attended events in 20 13.
• Ridge at 38 branding and corridor revitalization efforts have been featured in numerous
media outlets, including prominent feature stories in the Denver Business Journal, the
Denver Post and on the CBS4 evening news. Staff has also highlighted the project in
several regional and statewide professional publications and was featured at the state
CML conference last summer.
Overview of Accomplished Implementation Items
The Corridor Plan's implementation matrix called for many Phase I implementation items to be
achieved in 2011-2012 and additional Phase II implementation items to be completed in 2013-
2014. The following Phase VII action items, organized by guiding principle in the plan, have
been completed in the past 26 months, since adoption of the plan in October of2011:
Guiding Principle: Organization
Implementation Item (from Corridor Plan) Completion
Hold an open house for businesses on the Business open house held in December
corridor to provide information on business 2011 with over 30 attendees.
resources and recruit for the Leadership
Committee.
Create a 38th A venue Leadership Committee to The Leadership Committee was formed
meet on a regular basis and address relevant in January 2012 and continues to meet
implementation tasks, such as marketing and regularly. It has over 40 members
events. including business owners, property
owners, and residents. It has two active
subcommittees-events and marketing
Consider a permanent organization, such as a A task force of property owners has
Business Improvement District or similar begun to meet to explore long-term
organization as a way to obtain funding for district options, including a feasibility
ongoing operations and the ability to potentially study. A Denver-based consultant,
bond for larger physical improvements. PUMA, is under contract through
WR2020 to present options for district
formation to the Leadership Committee.
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38th A venue Corridor Plan Implementation
December 9, 2013
Page 3
Guiding Principal: Funding
Implementation Item (from Completion
Corridor Plan)
Explore local funding The Ridge at 38 businesses have used a variety of funding
mechanisms to support enhancements including the City's ESTIP and the BDZ
improvements and new program. Colorado Plus, a Wheat Ridge brew pub took
development on the corridor. advantage of both programs to assist in the opening of the
Funding tools may include site in the previously closed Valente's restaurant.
impact fees and/or tax
increment financing (TIF). Renewal Wheat Ridge approved of a TIF incentive to
Cross wire Investments for the future construction of 26
market-rate townhomes on a parcel located at 381h and
Depew Street. The TIF will be used for public portions of
the project including infrastructure, street improvements,
and enhancements to the structure fa9ade.
Identify/prioritize and include In the 2013 CIP, City Council funded two sets of
near and long term pedestrian-activated crossing signals and two locations for
improvements in City's poles to support promotional and branding banners
Capital Improvement Plan per spanning the roadway. All items have been installed.
the plan recommendations.
Guiding Principle: Identity
Implementation Item (from Completion
Corridor Plan)
Develop a branding/marketing The Leadership Committee, with assistance from WR2020
strategy and tagline to provide and funding from the City, adopted a new brand and
an identity and unique market marketing strategy for the Ridge at 38 in summer of2012.
niche from which the corridor A new web site "Ridgeat38.com" has been live since mid-
can capitalize. 2013 as well as a mobile phone "app". Promotional items,
branding and coordinated business marketing are also in
the works.
Host a 381n Corridor Grand The City, WR2020, and the Leadership Committee
Opening Ceremony successfully hosted "Celebrate Ridge at 38" on September
22, 2012 with approximately 2,500 in attendance.
Develop a Facebook page and The Ridge at 38 Facebook page is active with over 3,000
website devoted to the corridor views in the weeks before each big event and a reach of
that highlights existing over 59,000 the week before the recent Holiday
businesses, events, etc. Celebration. The website, Ridgeat38.com has been active
since the summer. Through the use of a Google grant and
Adwords, the site is already garnering more than 2,400
unique visits per month. The main purpose is to drive
visitors to local businesses and events.
3
38th A venue Corridor Plan Implementation
December 9, 2013
Page4
Encourage architecturally-Colorado Plus and Right Coast Pizza have both completed
appropriate building fa9ade major renovations on existing buildings. Chase Bank
renovations as well as new completed a new building. A 7-11 was completed earlier
infill development that this year at 38th and Harlan, with a strong street
provides the building form and orientation. Townhomes have been approved and will
placement that supports a Main soon be under construction for the vacant two-acre site at
Street environment. 38th and Depew. All have been done in a manner that
promotes a "main street" environment and are consistent
with the MU-N zoning.
Conduct a specific streetscape Permanent streetscape conceptual design
design that incorporates the recommendations for the portion of the street from Pierce
brand and includes signage, to Upham will be presented to the Council on December
wayfinding, materials palette, 16.
lighting, benches, etc.
Guiding Principle: Vitality
Implementation Item (from Completion
Corridor Plan)
Pursue a City-initiated City Council approved a City-initiated rezoning in
rezoning of the corridor to the October 2012.
Mixed Use-Neighborhood
(MU-N) zone district.
Work with Jefferson County The City successfully used the Green for the corridor
School District to consider grand opening. An IGA was negotiated with the school
utilizing the large green grassy district to allow events on the Wheat Ridge 5-8 middle
area (the Green) and parking school grounds. The IGA will permit up to four events in
lot in front of the school for 2013 on the grassy area in front of the school and allow
special events. the sale, use, and consumption of alcohol during the
events. IGA has been approved by JeffCo Schools. Wheat
Ridge 2020 will pay $750 per major event and hourly
rental costs for smaller events to JeffCo Schools to offset
the district's costs associated with watering and
maintenance of the grassy area.
Preserve and promote Healthy A cooperative market garden was installed on 38m A venue
Eating and Active Living in the Spring of2013 and a weekly produce stand operated
(HEAL) initiatives on the during the summer months. Urban agriculture was
corridor. featured at the Ridge at 38 grand opening event in
September 2012 and Wheat Fest in 2013. WR2020 has a
Live Local Harvest group of citizens that meets to
promote locally produced food and a Live Local Active
group that encourages active living through community
building events.
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381h A venue Corridor Plan Implementation
December 9, 2013
Page 5
Review City regulations to
ensure outdoor cafes
(including the serving of
alcohol) are permitted in the
ROW.
Right-of-way permits and liquor licenses were issued for
food and beverage service at Right Coast Pizza and The
Office.
Guiding Principle: Appeal
Implementation Item (from Corridor Plan) Completion
Implement small scale demonstration Three temporary "pop up" cafes were
projects, such as reclaiming a short span of a installed in the street in the summer of
travel lane and adjacent curb cuts to build 2012.
outdoor seating.
Guiding Principle: Mobility
Implementation Item (from Corridor Completion
Plan)
Complete retrofit road diet, which entails Construction completed in late May through
restriping the street to three lanes and mid-July 2012. Per Council direction,
making pedestrian-friendly improvements planters were consolidated in 2013 in the
including new planters, amenity zones (pop-Main Street section of the corridor.
up cafes), and access enhancements.
Conduct an assessment of the restriping for Assessment metrics are being monitored and
the Main Street and residential sub districts are covered later in this memo.
12-18 months after the restriping is
complete.
In conjunction with detailed streetscape As noted, recommendations will be
design, finalize a permanent roadway design, presented at the December 16th meeting.
including curb relocation.
Enhance pedestrian crossings of381n Enhanced pedestrian-activated crossing
Avenue. signals were installed in two locations in
summer 2013.
Identify properties in the short term, in Two property owners were able to complete
conjunction with the restriping of the street enhanced curb cut consolidation with
that can be used to demonstrate curb-cut additional landscape planters during 2012
consolidation. pilot road diet project.
Implement permanent road diet design, with Options for funding a permanent street
curb relocation, including an eight-foot reconstruction from Pierce to Upham, or
detached walkway and six-foot amenity portions thereof, will be presented by the
zone. City Manager in 2014.
5
38th Avenue Corridor Plan Implementation
December 9, 2013
Page 6
Project Assessment
The 38th A venue Corridor Plan calls for an 18-24-month evaluation period for the retrofit road
diet that was completed in July 2012. The physical changes to the street are part of a larger
revitalization strategy that is being implemented in an effort to make Ridge at 38 the
community's Main Street. Each component of the revitalization is designed to work in concert
with the other and one to two years was suggested as a minimum amount of time needed to
effectively assess a variety of metrics that can easily fluctuate by season or month. Moreover, it
takes time for economic impacts to be seen. Months and even years may be necessary for
businesses and developers to learn about 38th Avenue, find a property to lease or buy, and obtain
financing before a physical investment is witnessed on the corridor. As established in the
Corridor Plan, the long-term vision for a vibrant, mixed-use main street will likely take up to
twenty years to realize, although significant progress can be seen in a much shorter timeframe.
In June 2012, staff reported to Council with baseline data and a list ofmetrics that staffwould be
tracking to gauge the results of the road diet and related corridor redevelopment efforts. In
November 2012 and June 2013 , staff reported out on a second and third round ofthose same
metrics. This December 2013 report on the metrics represents the second round ofyear-over-year
measures, which are of particular interest as it relates to some of the traffic and economic
measures. These metrics include:
• Traffic volume on 38th A venue and on parallel streets -the counts on parallel streets
(including 44th Avenue, 41 st Avenue, 35th Avenue, and 32"d Avenue) will help measure
potential diversion.
• Pedestrian and bicycle counts on 38th Avenue.
• Travel time for 38th Avenue as well as diversion routes. Utilizing GPS software, staff
collected baseline data in the spring of2012 to measure how long it takes to travel 38th
Avenue as well as potential diversion routes. This will be repeated to assess how the
street reconfiguration has impacted travel times.
• Traffic speed on 38th A venue -staff has baseline data on the speed of cars prior to the
road diet (5-10 mph over the speed limit) and will be able to compare that to speeds after
the street reconfiguration.
• Accidents on 38th Avenue -with data from the Police Department, staff will compare
·accident rates on the corridor over time, pre-and post-road diet
• Emergency vehicle access -all emergency responders will give feedback on the project.
In particular, the Police Department and Wheat Ridge Fire have data on average response
times that they will be able to track over time. Wheat Ridge Fire indicated that their
response times vary throughout the year due to factors such as weather so at least one or
two years of data is needed to effectively compare pre-and post-road diet times.
• Vacancy rates on 38th Avenue -the City will monitor the number of vacancies on the
street over time.
• Building permit and business license activity -staff will utilize records on pennits and
licenses to track new investment and new businesses on the corridor.
• Sales revenue -utilizing sales tax data, staff will track sales revenue on the corridor over
time.
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38th A venue Corridor Plan Implementation
December 9, 2013
Page 7
Traffic Summary
The Traffic Volume and Speed Data Map is provided as an attachment summarizing the data that
has been collected pre and post project. When reviewing the data, please note that the road diet
was implemented in June/July 2012. In general the volumes east of Pierce are similar for the
major routes of 381h and 32"d with the exception of 441h A venue with an increase of 17%. The
volumes for 35th and 41 51 show slight reductions. The volumes west of Pierce show a steady
volume and an increase of around 700 trips or 12% on 32"d. Overall, the assessment ofthe 18
months post-project comparison shows that traffic volumes on 381h Avenue in the project area
appear to fluctuate with no apparent indication of a trend for increasing or decreasing. As noted
earlier, a similar change was not noticed east of Pierce. From a speed perspective, the road diet
has been very successful in reducing the speed of most of the vehicles to nearly the posted speed
limit.
A table is provided as an attachment summarizing the data that has been collected pre and post-
project for 38th Avenue for the travel time study for the 18-month span. The morning and
afternoon rush hour travel times have been impacted in line with what was predicted by the study
-less than 65 seconds of delay. Because of the slower school zone speeds west of Pierce, travel
time for the corridor is somewhat more impacted -up to 32 seconds of delay. Delay times were
observed to fluctuate widely based on traffic conditions.
Traffic accident numbers seems to hold steady for both pre and post-project, hovering around
historic averages for the duration.
Bike/Ped Summary
Charts are provided as an attachment summarizing the data that has been collected beginning in
April 2012 for bike and pedestrian activity. In staff's opinion, the data does not appear to
indicate any clear trend lines for either a significant increase or decrease in activity since the road
diet has been implemented.
Emergency Vehicle Access and Accident Summary
The Wheat Ridge Fire Protection District has been tracking response time for calls along the 38th
A venue corridor and they report a small decrease in their response time since the road diet has
been implemented. Staff has checked with Exempla Lutheran Hospital and they have indicated
verbally that they have not had concerns with the road diet impacting the ability of emergency
vehicles to arrive at their facility. The Wheat Ridge Police Department does not believe the road
diet has impacted their ability to provide public safety services to the corridor and anecdotally
they have witnessed drivers operating at more appropriate speeds along the corridor.
A bar chart is provided as an attachment summarizing the data that has been collected for
several years prior to and post-project for 38th A venue for the traffic accidents. For most
years, the accidents average around 70 per year. This has not changed significantly for
post project.
Economic Development Summary
Please refer to attached memo provided by Steve Art, Economic Development Manager.
7
38th Avenue Corridor Plan Implementation
December 9, 2013
Page 8
There are other more subjective metrics that will also factor into the assessment, such as
feedback from businesses, residents, and the 38th A venue Leadership Committee. The City is
attempting to track this over time through tools such as the Citizen Survey, which this year asked
questions about how often citizens frequent businesses on 3 81h A venue and whether they think of
the street as the community's main street. These questions were asked for the first time in the
2012 citizen survey, so no traclcing of trends is yet available.
Ridge at 38 Leadership Committee
The Ridge at 38 Leadership Committee continues to grow with new business owners getting
involved. One struggle has been a consistent meeting time. Initially, meetings were alternating
between evening, morning and afternoon as businesses have different rush times that often
prevent owners from leaving their business for a meeting. Now the group has consistent
meetings and those who cannot attend are engaged through email and personal visits. The group
has been moving forward on supporting the realization of objectives in the Corridor Plan and the
Ridge at 38 brand and marketing strategy. There are two subcommittees and most of the
Leadership Committee activity can be summed up in these two areas.
2013 Marketing Successes
• Created a central website that integrates the new Ridge at 38 brand, and launched
RidgeAt38.com. With aggressive search engine optimization and Adwords, traffic has
dramatically increased with over 2,400 clicks, over 3,000 unique visitors and over 207,000
impressions in just the past month.
• Utilized Facebook in promoting Ridge at 38 businesses and events. Over 59,000 hits reached
in just the week before the Holiday Celebration.
• Developed a mobile phone app available on Android and iPhones. Numerous features have
been utilized to promote business such as loyalty programs and coupons available by phone.
• Placed traditional advertising in Arvada Center program and Neighborhood Gazette.
• Developed brand "swag" and promotional materials. The initial batch of Ridge at 38 t-shirts
were sold out. Subsequently more colors oft-shirts and polo's were added. Ridge at 38
stickers are popular and have received positive feedback.
• Partnered with Live Local Wheat Ridge to create Ridge at 38 banner bags that recycle worn
or expired banners.
• Enhanced the banner program with new designs and more banners. Designed and purchased
the first over-the-street banners welcoming visitors and promoting events and added lights to
poles.
• Pursuing grant funding for public art with application to be completed in 2014.
• Introduced mobile food vendors to Ridge at 38 events.
• Featured Ridge at 38 in articles in the Denver Post, the Denver Business Journal, the
Colorado Real Estate Journal, North Denver Tribune, and Wheat Ridge Transcript as well as
a news story on CBS4 Denver.
Events
In 2012 thousands gathered to Celebrate Ridge at 38 and participate in the Holiday Celebration.
In 2013 a Clean Up Day was held on May 11 with participation from business owners, residents,
8
381h Avenue Corridor Plan Implementation
December 9, 2013
Page9
elected official and City staff. Wheat Fest was held on July 20 and attended by approximately
1,200. Trunk or Treat was held on October 27 with over 1,000 children participating; and, most
recently, the Holiday Celebration was held on December 8 with over 1,200 participants on a
frigid yet festive night. Many smaller events were held on Ridge at 38 in partnership with local
businesses and Wheat Ridge 2020's Live Local program. One notable success was the website
and app launch party with over 65 guests.
In addition, as referenced above, a task force of property owners is working to identify feasibility
for a special district or mechanism for formal organization moving forward.
Next Steps for Implementation
The Corridor Plan contains an implementation matrix with implementation steps phased over
four different time frames:
Phase I: 2011-2012
Phase II: 2013-2014
Phase III: 2015-2020
Phase IV: 2021-2030
There are several steps, such as developing a civic center on the corridor, which would take
many years and the vision may not be realized for as long as twenty years.
While much has been accomplished, there are still many steps that lie ahead to successfully
implement the plan. A summary of the priority implementation steps that City staff, Wheat Ridge
2020, and the Leadership Committee will be working on in the upcoming year follows.
(1) Marketing/Branding Implementation: The Marketing and Leadership Committees
continue to implement the Ridge at 38 Marketing Plan. Some 2014 activities include:
enhancement of the banner and lights program including budgeting for more locations
once negotiations are settled with Xcel Energy, expanded brand promotions with
emphasis on place-making marketing such as public art and continued implementation of
the brand and marketing plan.
(2) Events: In 2014, the following events are being planned: Clean Up Day, Ridge at 38
Criterium (a short loop bicycle race, pending US Cycling sanctioning), Wheat Fest
(moved to Sept.), Trunk or Treat and the Holiday Celebration
(3) Permanent Streetscape Design: Options for a permanent street redesign from Pierce to
Upham Streets, with three lanes, on-street parking where feasible, enhanced sidewalks,
landscaping and amenities are being presented by the design consultant, Entelchy. Once
finalized with input from City Council, the next step will be to consider what funding
options are available to move the project forward and when such a construction project
might occur.
( 4) Economic Development Activities: Staff continues to reach out to the developers and
end-users to either occupy or redevelop sites and buildings on 381h A venue. This is a high
priority for the City's economic development division. The City and Renewal Wheat
Ridge are working actively with a developer at the SW corner of381h and Wadsworth.
Staffbelieves this site has the potential to be an anchor to the redevelopment of the
corridor in terms of generating activity and integrating the main street district with the
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38th A venue Corridor Plan Implementation
December 9, 2013
Page 10
Wadsworth Town Center. Staff is also working on two other development opportunities
on The Ridge at 3 8. The first is a private development of a parcel just east of Pierce
Street that includes the demolition of an existing non-conforming residential structure
and construction of a two-story mixed use building with retail on the first floor and
residential on the second. The second project would redevelop a multi-tenant retail
property located between Upham and Teller Streets. Staff is working with the property
owner on site development and longer range planning.
Staff continues to work with new businesses locating on The Ridge including a new
bakery that will be opening in a key area between the main street and the commercial
sub-districts of the Ridge in the fonner Lewis Fine Candies building.
(5) Civic Campus: One of the core recommendations of the 38th Avenue Corridor Plan was
to consider the development of some civic uses in the vicinity of the WR5-8 school
facility to serve as an anchor to the main street district. The plan was not specific as to
what civic uses would be considered, but those could range from cultural facilities to
educational facilities or possibly municipal buildings. Such facilities might be developed
by the City, other governmental entities or non-profit organizations. There has also been
some suggestion that creating an enhanced civic plaza and gathering place in the vicinity
of 38th and High Court would be worth consideration to solidify this space as a public
gathering space for the City and Ridge at 38. The plan recommends hiring a consultant to
further develop plans for civic uses in the vicinity of 38th and Upham/High Court. Staff
requests City Council direction whether to pursue this further in 2014.
Attachments:
1. Traffic Volume and Speed Data Map
2. Travel Time Study
3. Traffic Volume Comparisons
4. Traffic Speeds Comparison
5. Traffic Accident Review
6. Charts depicting bike and pedestrian counts
7. Summary memorandum regarding sales tax indicators
10
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UPDATED (W2112013
Attachment 1
38th Avenue, Sheridan to Wadsworth
Travel Time Study
.Time n • Qj Timeofdav ~2012_ Sept2012 4113 ls.t Ai.13 2nd
c. ---
Westbound Rush Hour 222 220 240
AM Westbound School Arrival 236
Eastbound Rush Hour 180 181 241
Eastbound School Arrival 269
Westbound Rush Hour 281 289 255 354
PM Westbound School Release 237 254 284 286
Eastbound Rush Hour 219 261 293 252
Eastbound School Release 332 256 327 361
AM Rush Hour 7-8AM
PM Rush Hour S-6 PM
School Arrival 9AM
School Release 4PM
Average
258 253 239
346 336 306
253 260 234
255 251 258
261 217 275
241 279 269
343 272 284
266 333 309
Chan~e
17
54
-6
32
65
-23
I
i
i
N .. c • E .c u
Cl .. c
20000
18000
16000
14000
12000
> ~
~ 10000 Ql u :.c ~
8000
6000
4000
2000
Traffic Volumes Comparison
0 ~------------------~---------------------r--------------------~
w/o Upham e/o Kendall
Count location
e/o Chase
(!')
I .. • Pre-chg c 4» •6 Mo. Pst I E •12 Mo. Pst .c
CJ •18 Mo. Pst ftl .. .. cc
so
45
40
35
~ 30
0 :J: ...
:. 25
Ill ~
~ 20
15
10
5
0
Pre-chg
Traffic :speeds Com,parison
Posted Soeed Limit
-w/oUpham
-efo Kendall
e/o Chase
6 Mo. Pst 12 Mo. Pst 18 Mo. Pst
~ ... c a. E .c u ca ... c
30
ci z
ii .... 0 1-
38th Avenue Lane Configuration Project
ents Rev
Year
8 2007
8 2008
8 2009
" :..~. 8 2010
y
8 2011
I -2012
2013
Reviewed Period: May 25th to September 31st
Study Segment: Wadsworth to Sheridan
II)
~ c G)
E .c c,)
&a ~ c
250
200
150
100
50
0
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
236
High Ct
• Spring 2012
weather: low 70s
88
82
High Ct
• Spring 2012
weather: low 70s
Saturday Pedestrian Counts
Saturday from llam to 2pm
Pierce Harlan Benton
Fall 2012 • Spring 2013 • Fall 2013
high 70s mid 50s mid 60s
Saturday Bicyclist Counts
Saturday from llam to 2pm
Pierce Harlan Benton
Fall 2012 • Spring 2013 • Fall 2013
high 70s mid 50s mid 60s
Attachment 6
400
350 322 323 328
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
0
High ct•
• Spring 2012
weather: 50 to 60•
115
0
High ct•
• Spring 2012
weather: 50 to 60•
146
Weekday Pedestrian Counts
Fall2012
65 toSS•
From Gam to 9pm
0
Pierce
• Spring 2013
50 to 70•
Harlan•
• Fall2013
60 to83•
Weekday Bicyclist Counts
Fall2012
65 to 85•
From Gam to 9pm
0
Pierce
• Spring 2013
SO to 70•
Harlan•
• Fall2013
60 to83•
90
341 329 328
Benton
• Zero counts indicate
thot video was not
avolloble for that
intersection and date
Benton
• Zero counts indicate that
video was not available
for that intersection and
date
Executive Summary
Sales Tax Data
The Ridge at 38
July-September 2013
The following summary reports the sales tax data for The Ridge at 38 as identified as the area
from Upham Street to Sheridan Boulevard for the months of July through September 2013 versus
the same time periods for 2012,2011, and 2010.
Additionally, the report breaks out and compares sales tax data, during the same time period, for
businesses along the corridor that have been operating and paying sales tax during all four of
those points in time.
The data for both reports is broken down into categories that include the aggregate sales tax for
the entire corridor; food, dining, grocery and gaming; auto related and; miscellaneous retail.
Sales Tax
Overall, the corridor's sales tax revenues have increased this time period each year since 2010.
In 2013, sales tax revenues increased 11.9% from 2012,20.5% from 2011 and 25.9% over 2010.
Sales tax revenues for businesses from Upham to Newland, identified as the Main Street District
of 38th Avenue Corridor Plan (the Plan), indicates an increase in sales tax from 2012 by 12.8%.
Compared to 2011 and 2010, the sales tax figures in the same district are up by 29.8% and
30.7%, respectively.
Tax revenues from Newland to Benton; which incorporates the Neighborhood and a portion of
the Commercial Districts of the Plan indicates a decrease in same period sales tax from 2012 by
1.1% but shows an increase of3.3% compared to 2011 and 15.9% compared to 2010.
Sales tax revenues from Benton to Sheridan had significant growth in sales tax generation in the
time period from July to September of2013 compared to the previous years. Located within the
Plan's Commercial District, this section witnessed a 14.8% increase when compared to 2012;
20.5% increase over 2011 and 25.9% increase compared to 2010.
Overall sales tax generation along The Ridge at 38, broken down into industry segments, reflect
that for the time period of July to September 2013 the Dining, Food, Grocery, Liquor, and
Gaming segment of the corridor has increased by 16.9%, 22.4% and 29.9%, respectively, over
the three previous years.
• When the data is correlated for business activity that has been in operation for all 4-years,
the revenues continue to increase each year since 2010 during the study months. Sales
tax has increased 11.8% over 2012, 14.6% over 2011 and 21.3% over 2010.
Attachment 7
Auto related services had an increase of I 0.4% during the same period in 2013 compared to
2012. The 2013 revenues are up 8.1% and 34.9% respectively to 2011 and 2010.
• When the data is compared to those auto related businesses that have operated along the
corridor for the 4-year time period, those numbers reflect approximately the same trend
with a 9.1 %, 7.6% and 35.3% increase over the three month period the previous three
years.
Miscellaneous retail sales indicate an increase in 2013 compared to 2012 by 3.8%, and 18.9%
compared to 2011 and 17.8% compared to 2010.
• When the data is compared to those miscellaneous retail sales businesses that have been
open for the 4-year period, sales figures are up 5. 7% in 2013 compared to 2012, 20.5%
compared to 2011 and 18.6% when compared to 2010.
Overall sales tax generation along the corridor for all businesses that have been in operation all
4-years indicate an increase in overall sales tax generation by 9.6% compared to 2012, 16.1%
compared to 2011, and 21.0% compared to 2010 during the months indicated.
~~·~ ... ~ r City of • .. fP("WheatRi_dge ~PUBliC WORKS
Memorandum
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Scott Brink, Public Works 9i\§tor
THROUGH: Patrick Goff, City ManagerW
DATE: December 5, 2013 (for December 16 Study Session)
SUBJECT: 38th Avenue Corridor Conceptual Streetscape Design Alternatives
Introduction:
The 38th Avenue Corridor Plan establishes a long-tenn vision for the revitalization of 38th
Avenue between Sheridan and Wadsworth into a vibrant, mixed-use Main Street. The purpose of
this memo and the study session on December 16 is to present to Council the conceptual
streetscape design alternatives that have been developed by Entelechy and City staff, per
direction from Council in June, 2013.
The goal is to obtain direction on which alternative, or combination of elements from the two
alternatives, Council may wish to proceed with into conceptual design. If direction is given to
proceed, the timing of the design completion needs to be discussed.
Background:
The City has been working for many years to redevelop 38th Avenue between Wadsworth and
Sheridan Boulevards as the City's "Main Street." The 38th Avenue Corridor Plan was adopted in
October 2011 and provides the framework for revitalizing the street into an attractive focal point
for the community. Building on valuable input from stakeholders and the public at-large, the plan
creates a vision for the future of the street which focuses equally on transportation, land use,
urban design, and economic development.
Since the 38th Avenue Corridor Plan's adoption, many of the plan recommendations have been
implemented. During the summer of 2012, a road reconfiguration or "road diet" was
implemented as a pilot project to evaluate the impact of reducing most of the corridor from a
four or five-lane section to a three-lane section. Parking was added on the south side of the street
along with placement of several temporary planters and "pop-up" cafes. In October 2012, most
of the corridor was rezoned to Mixed Use -Neighborhood to facilitate redevelopment. Also in
2012, the brand, "Ridge at 38" was developed to enhance the corridor's identity. In 2013, street
banner systems were added to facilitate branding and public messaging. Also in 2013, the
temporary planters were consolidated to the western portion of the corridor between Upham and
Pierce streets.
381h A venue Corridor Streetscape Design Alternatives
December 5, 2013
Page 2
As the corridor pilot traffic project approaches its conclusion, City staff is preparing for the next
phase of implementation of the Corridor Plan, which is the development of the streetscape
concept for the Main Street sub-district between Upham and Pierce streets. On July 8, 2013,
Council approved a contract with Entelechy to finalize the street cross-sections and to prepare
two alternatives for the conceptual streetscape design. The alternatives include options for the
amenities, including street furniture, landscaping, public art, way finding signage, etc.
Design Process
The design process included the following activities to insure that input from key stakeholders
and the public was obtained:
• Public Meeting -July 25 -A public meeting was held at the Recreation Center. City staff
made a brief presentation summarizing the infonnation that was presented to Council on
June 17 on the implementation of the Corridor Plan. Entelechy and City staff then
discussed the purpose of this project with the audience. The meeting was well-attended,
with 41 people signing in.
• Image Preference Survey -July 25 thru August 11 -An online survey, along with hard
copies, was made available at the public meeting so that attendees could rank their
preferences on the appearance of the various elements, or kit-of-parts, for the streetscape.
The online survey was kept active until August 11 and widely publicized by e-mail and
word of mouth to gain additional input from the public. The survey was completed by
330 people.
• Block-by-Block Meetings -September 5 -Meetings were held with property owners and
tenants, who were invited by mail or direct contact, to review the conceptual design. Four
sessions were held with a total attendance of over 25 people. Conversations focused on
the impacts to parking and access. There was also some discussion concerning the loss of
the bike Janes.
• Leadership Committee -September 11 -A meeting was held with this stakeholder group
to review the conceptual design and to share the feedback from the above activities.
There was additional discussion concerning the loss of the bike Janes during this meeting.
• Staff Meetings -City staff from the Public Works, Community Development, Economic
Development, and Parks and Recreation Departments conducted internal meetings to
guide the process and ensure the street cross-sections and conceptual design alternatives
adhere to the adopted Corridor Plan and that the future maintenance of the streetscape
elements would be reasonable.
Conceptual Design
The final street cross-sections that were developed were established through the Corridor Plan
process. The cross-sections consist of two travel lanes with a center turn lane, six-foot wide
amenity zones, and eight-foot sidewalks. In addition, areas with wider available rights-of-way
could have on-street parking on one or both sides of the street. During the Corridor Plan
outreach, the public was asked to prioritize three options:
1) Sidewalks and streetscape amenities
2
381h A venue Corridor Streetscape Design Alternatives
December 5, 2013
Page 3
2) On-street parking
3) Bike lanes.
The assumption was that no additional rights-of-way or easements would be acquired to
implement the redesign, so not all of those components would be possible. The clear priority was
to emphasize sidewalks with streetscape amenities.
Based on the input received from the stakeholders and public, the design focused on mid-century
modem design that would be more welcoming to people and families and would be unique to
both the City and the surrounding area. Two alternative kit-of-parts were developed that were
then incorporated into the two alternative designs. Alternative A uses flexible furniture, planters,
tree grates, curved/angular light fixtures, and lighter colored accent paving. Alternative B uses
fixed furniture, raised planting beds around the trees, vertical light fixtures, and darker accent
paving.
Both alternatives have the following similarities:
• On-street parking -In areas with wider rights-of-way, basically west of High Court, the
back-in parking would be eliminated in favor of parallel parking on both sides of the
street. For the remainder of sub-district, the on-street parking on the south side would be
eliminated to allow for a wider sidewalk and amenity zone on the south side.
• Bike lanes -For the entire sub-district, the bike lanes would be eliminated to allow for a
wider sidewalk and amenity zone on the north side. The bike lanes were added as a
temporary element for the duration of the pilot project because adding on-street parking
on the north side was not feasible with just the restriping.
• Access Enhancement -The number of driveways and width of some driveways would be
reduced in order to enhance the pedestrian environment. This is mainly accomplished by
sharing driveways between properties and reconfiguring on-site parking to eliminate
backing into the street. The conceptual design that was presented at the block-by-block
meetings included these driveway reconfigurations. City staff will continue to work with
the affected property owners during the subsequent phases of design to resolve any issues
and minimize impacts.
Also included with the conceptual designs are several options for signage, including entry signs,
parking signs, and various kiosk options for wayfinding. Based on feedback from the Leadership
Committee, several locations for public art were identified. A comparison of the parking counts
has also been included, which reflects the parking counts prior to 20 12, the current parking
counts, with the pilot project in place, and the proposed parking counts if the conceptual
streetscape design is implemented.
Next Steps for Implementation
While much has been accomplished, there are still many steps required to successfully
implement a permanent streetscape plan. A summary of the implementation steps that will need
to be accomplished is as follows:
3
381h Avenue Corridor Streetscape Design Alternatives
December 5, 2013
Page4
(1) Conceptual Streetscape Design: Entelechy would be directed to finalize the conceptual
design with the preferred alternative, or combination of elements from the two
alternatives. Depending upon whether a phased approach or full implementation is
desired, the design fee would likely range between $15,000 and $35,000. This could be
done in early 2014, with the final concept design being presented to Council in April
2014.
(2) Street Width Designation: Because the flowline width of the street will be changing,
Council will need to designate the street width at a public hearing as outlined in Section
5.20 of the Charter and Section 21-3 of the Code of Laws. This process would require at
least two-and-a-half months. If Council approves the street width, and a petition is
successfully filed against the street width designation, then several more months would
be required for an election to be held by the voters of Districts I and II to designate the
street width.
(3) Survey and Design: City staff could complete the survey and design through the
remainder of2014. Assistance would be required from a consultant on the selection and
implementation of the various streetscape elements. Potential consultant costs will
depend on whether or not a phased approach is used, which would determine the ultimate
scope of the project.
( 4) Construction: Construction could be accomplished in 2015 provided that funding would
be available. The estimates for the two alternatives range between $5.3 and $5.6 million.
This assumes that a full reconstruction of the street is done.
Attachments:
1. Summary Booklet
4
--
Wtst 38th Avtnut
Alttrnativt (onctpt Strtttscapt DtsiCJn
Summary Bookltt
Whtat Ridgt, (0 Novtmbtr Z013
-
AcknowltdCJtmtnts
City of Wheat Ridge
The following departments were involved with
the process:
-Public Works
-Community Development
-Economic Development
-Parks and Recreation
Consultants
Entelechy -Denver, CO
Thanks to the Ridge at 38 Leadership
Committee, property and business owners,
Wheat Ridge 2020, and the general public for
their input through this process.
Tablt of (onttnts
Introduction
Public Input Process
Design Inspiration
Alternative !<it-of-Parts
Alternative Concept Designs
Signage
Public Art
Parking
1
2
10
14
17
37
39
40
Introduction
Purpose
The West 38th Avenue Streetscape Concept Design Project (Project) is intended
to refine the ideas presented in the 38th Avenue Corridor Plan adopted by the
City of Wheat Ridge in 2011. The Project focuses on 38th Avenue between
Pierce Street on the east and Upham Street on the West within the "Main Street
Sub-District" identified in the Corridor Plan.
The Project provides alternative conceptual streetscape designs for full rebuild
of this section of 38th Avenue to support the continued renewal along this street
as the hub of the community's downtown. The Project's starting point was the
preferred street sections identified in the Corridor Plan. These preferred street
sections presumed a three-lane roadway section and significantly improved back
of curb environment that accommodated a continuous sidewalk and provided for
an amenity zone along the street. The three-lane roadway section has been in
place in a retrofit condition (restriping of the street without moving the curbs)
since summer of 2012.
West 38th Avenue Corridor Plan
AdopiH Oelobo< 201 I
w~~
60' Right-of-Way Preferred Section from the Corridor Plan
The West 38th Avenue "Main Street"
Commercial District Brand and Marketing
Strategy process completed in 2012, and
recommended in the Corridor Plan, resulted
in the" Ridge at 38" brand, which was
acknowledged and utilized in this design process.
dlJr:l.ae lTm~ -I
=-
Final Logo from the Brand and Marketing Strategy
Process
The design process began in July of 2013
and was a partnership between a consulting
firm (Consultant) and City staff, led by the
Public Works department and in collaboration
with the Community Development, Parks
and Recreation and Economic Development
departments. The process included a public
meeting, an online image preference survey,
several work sessions with City staff, block-
by-block meetings with property and business
owners, and a presentation and discussion with
the Ridge at 38 Leadership Committee. The
alternative streetscape designs, related design
concepts (such as signage) and input from this
process will be considered by City Council for
determination of next steps.
When a preferred design direction and schedule
for desired implementation is established, a
formal civil survey of the Project area needs
to be completed. This survey will provide the
detailed existing conditions base from which
schematic design, design development and
construction documentation of the street and
streetscape design can take place.
Public Input Proctss
Public Meeting
Approximately 41 individuals attended a public
meeting held on Thursday, July 25th, 2013
from 5-7 pm at the Wheat Ridge Recreation
Center. At the meeting. City staff provided an
overview of mobility and economic statistics
of the corridor since the retrofit road diet
(street restriping) and other improvements
such as retrofit amenity zones (temporary
patios in front of the curb) have been
installed. Next, City staff and the Consultant
provided an overview of the purpose and
focus of this Conceptual Streetscape Design
Project, solicited questions from the audience,
and provided answers. More one-on-one
conversations with participants also took
place and attendees were asked to complete
an image preference survey (see next section).
Generally, the verbal feedback included both
attendees that were supportive of the changes
and direction for 38th Avenue, and attendees
that were not.
The following written comments were received
during the public meeting:
-I like the plan as it is now on 38th best. The
prototypical plan for 60' and 70' w/ parallel
on 1 side is better than the old 5 lane 38th.
The old 38th 5 lane was worst.
Love the bike lanes! Go by bike ! Make it and
they will come : more bike/ped facilities. No
congestion, no pollution. Health = wealth.
-Bike lanes are awesome.
-I like the revitalization I am seeing on 38th.
However it is extremely difficult crossing
38th on foot. I cross at Newland St.
-I support current change on 38th. Bike
lanes are critical to what is trying to be
accomplished. Make them a permanent
part of 38th Ave . Connect them to Pierce.
Encourage walkability I bikeability.
-I use the bike lanes on 38th twice per day
and would love them to stay, but realize the
amenity zones are a higher priority.
-Regarding the butterfly bench (image from
image preference survey), which was my least
favorite ... ! actually like the idea of unique
benches, which could be a trademark of a
new 38th Ave., but not that butterfly. Maybe
leaves or wheat on an artsy bench .
-It seems what we are lacking a fundamental
anchor for the main street corridor -no
public gathering areas.
-Surely the huge parking lot at the middle
school could be used as a public area? Food
-check. Shopping -check. Free community
fun -lacking (Park? Water features for kids?
Gazebo/town square?)
-In general -love the concept. Please change
the back-in parking! Eliminate pop-up cafes
where it is actually dangerous. Only concern
is how to make 38th a consistent cohesive
corridor -not the same all thru but consistent.
-We need available parking for business. What
turns me off is when I can't find a place to
park to go to a business so at times I will
skip that shop.
-More advance notice for the meeting would
be nice. Starting at 5pm is more difficult for
working people. Thanks!
-
,.....
Image Preference Survey
As a follow-up to the public meeting, the same
image preference survey was available for 17
days, from July 25th to August 11th, 2013. In
addition to the online survey, the information
was made also available in hard-copy format.
Of the 360 participants who started the online
survey, 330 people completed it.
The first nine questions related to 'kit-of-parts'
images-the components typically seen in a
streetscape, such as pedestrian lighting or
benches. Participants were asked to rank the
images in each category from most to least
desirable. The survey results were utilized
to identify preferred themes for conceptual
designs (e.g. traditional v modern), rather than
to select specific fixtures.
The last question in the survey related to
parking preferences, and asked if respondents
preferred back-in angled parking on one side
of the street or parallel parking on both sides.
Sixty-six percent (66%) preferred parallel
parking.
The following pages show the kit-of-part
images that were included in the image
preference survey. The ranking results are
indicated by the blue numbers; 1 and 2
represent the first and second highest preferred
element within a category, while number 6
represents the least preferred.
''lP; 1 ' ' · ... ' ' ' ' • . . 1 ' ' ""y 1• ' i
' .. ' : -.J·~ "' ~ ' :. ,j~·~,
~ ·~, -. t ~·· ' -if ~ ~
1
0
~--·-' ---.,
0
J J
Block-by-Block Meetings
Block-by-block property owner and tenant meetings were held on
Thursday, September 5th, 2013. Four sessions were scheduled to
provide more intimate conversations between participants, City staff
and the Consultant. Over 25 participants attended.
Comments/questions from the block-by-block meetings included:
-Question about bike lanes being removed.
-Question about moving banner poles west in the future to attract
traffic from Wadsworth.
-Thinks the curb cut consolidation at (their) property is a good idea;
noted that there is a lot going on in that area and it was better/
cleaner/less confusing with fewer distractions/options.
Wanted to maximize the sidewalk area in front of 7200 to allow
outdoor cafes, including potentially removing parallel parking.
-Question about how existing trees will be handled.
Wanted to ensure that new trees don't block businesses.
-Hates cutting mature/healthy trees, but sees there may be merit in
removing older trees in order to achieve the desired aesthetic and
cadence.
-Supports the design and wants to make sure the pedestrian crossings
are as safe as possible (sees kids using the new beacon).
-Question about the timeline for the project.
-Question about pre-striping parking counts compared to proposed
parking counts.
Question regarding snow plowing.
-Treasure Trunk has donations that come in the east entrance and
go to the east side of the building; she's okay with the reconfigured
parking lot if the donation truck can still navigate; current striping in
the parking lot is unusual.
-Comment about liking the Aspen Grove planters in Littleton.
-Comment regarding Dave's Auto; tow trucks come into the site so the
proposed curb cut consolidation may not work as shown.
-Compass likes the parking/curb reconfiguration in front of their
property.
-Richard Squire wants to know if the reduction in vehicular traffic
affected business; The City acknowledged a minor reduction largely in
through traffic; City staff further addressed offline
Invitation Created for the Block-by-Block Meetings
~~ ''. City of
Save the Date:
~f?'WlieatRi9ge ~PUBLI C WORKS
381h Avenue Block-by-block Meetings
You are receiving this invitation because you are a property owner or business owner on the Ridge at 38
between Upham and Pierce Streets. The City of VI/heat Ridge Public Works Department invites you to join us
to discuss the next phase of the 38" Avenue plan implementation and the potential improvements to the street
frontage at your property.
Over the course of the morning, we will focus on one block at a time to review initial design concepts adjacent
to your property. Please consider attending in order to provide Input related to the parking, sidewalk, amenity
zone, and potential opportunities for curb cut consolidation. Please refer to the schedule below for your
appropriate meeting time:
MEETING
LOCATION
*
Where Vectra Bank (the NEW office location of VI/heat Ridge 2020)
7391 W. 38" Avenue, Suite 130
When Thursday, September 5, 2013
Meeting time based on property/business location:
Address Meeting Time
7100-7340 W. 38" Ave 8:00 am -9:00 am
7000-7085 W. 38" Ave 9:00 am-10:00 am
6900-6995 W. 38" Ave 10:00 am -11:00 am
6800-6875 W. 38"' Ave 11 :00 am -12:00 pm
If you are unable to attend during your scheduled time slot, we have a few
15-minute time slots that can be reserved between 12 and 1 pm.
RSVP Requested
Please RSVP to
Mark Westberg or lauren Mikulak
Public Works. Project SupeNisor Community Development, Planner II
mweslberg«!ja.whealridge.co us lmikulak@d whealridge.co.us
hone 303-235-2863 phone· 303-235-2845
-Question about bike lanes; if they are removed can the sidewalk be treated more
like a multi-use trail to allow bikes? Similar to how multiuse trails around lakes
are striped to separate bikes and peds.
-A-1 needs loading spaces; feeling frustrated that his parking spaces are used by
customers of other businesses (eg Right Coast> and the spaces are full all day.
Could they be signed 30min loading zone during the day? Likes the back-in spaces
for loading.
-Russ asked about getting on -street spaces on High Court.
-The Bartas have two vacant store fronts and residents above; residents park in
back, businesses used four spaces in the front.
-Request from both parties to redesign the parking to preserve more spaces along
the front of the building.
-The reason for curb cut consolidation is to minimize conflicts with pedestrians;
comment was made that the senior population doesn't prioritize walkability and
wants better vehicular access to parking area.
-Wants to reconsider the road diet; return to four lanes?
-Question about emergency vehicle response times; they like having the middle turn
lane which has helped with response times.
-Tom uses the eastern curb cut on 38th for tow trucks who pull in then out
on Pierce; he is okay with an entrance only there, but doesn't want it closed
permanently.
-Isabel would welcome a reconfiguration of her parking since there are safety issues
with her clients backing into the street.
-Open to considering shared drive access if it improves circulation/parking.
,......
Ridge at 38 Leadership Committee
A meeting with the Ridge at 38 Leadership
Committee, which was created after adoption
of the Corridor Plan, was held on Wednesday,
September 11th, 2013. In order to obtain
feedback from this important group, the
City provided an overview of the purpose of
the Project and this meeting, and then the
Consultant provided details on each of the two
alternative conceptual streetscape designs and
related design materials.
Specific questions asked during the meeting
are listed below along with a written answer
provided by the City after the meeting:
-Q: Do business owners know they will be
losing parking on the south side of the street?
A: The block-by-block meetings held to review
the conceptual designs in detail with owners/
tenants revealed parking impacts.
-Q: Will there be a plaza or public area? Does
the plan show a public park or green space?
Does it show the school as a gathering space?
We need a gathering space. A: This project
is focusing on the existing public right-of-
way and easement along 38th Avenue. The
Corridor Plan does recognize the need for
gathering areas on private property, but that is
outside the scope of this streetscape project.
Q: Can we provide parking reservoir signage?
Will the middle school parking lot be public
parking? A: Parking signage and wayfinding
will be part of a final streetscape design.
Some shared use of the school parking lot
has occurred to-date. Generally, shared use
agreements are needed between the affected
agencies that stipulate conditions surrounding
use of parking.
-Q: Comment that bicyclists spend more
money; can a parking space be dedicated
to bike parking? A: Since there is minimal
on-street parking opportunities it is probably
better in this context to provide bicycle
parking back of curb.
-Can the sidewalk be a multi-use trail? A: It
is not appropriate in this context to have the
sidewalk zone treated as a multi-use trail.
-Q: Can bike wayfinding be improved? If
bike routes end at 38th can there be signs to
connect bikers to parking, downtown, routes?
A: Signage and wayfinding as well as bike
parking reservoirs at the points where a bike
facility connects with 38th will be addressed
as part of the final design .
-Q: Is the plan discouraging cycling? A:
No the alternatives are not discouraging
cycling. While the City has experimented
with bike lanes on 38th during the restriping
pilot project, there is limited right-of-way
width, and the results of the Corridor Plan
prioritized sidewalk amenity zones and on-
street parking over bike facilities.
-Q: Is the plan showing bike reservoirs? A:
Bike parking will be accommodated.
-Q: Is the plan showing preferred locations
for public art? A: A diagram illustrating
potential locations for public art is included
in this document.
-Q: Is the plan showing bus pullouts? A: Bus
pullouts are accommodated at all locations
in this sub-district except at the eastbound
stop at Reed Street.
-Q: Is the plan proposing curb cut
consolidations? A: Yes.
-Q: Can the proposed improvements take place
within existing right-of-way? A: Based on the
non-survey base information utilized for this
conceptual planning process, it appears that
nearly all elements of the preferred street
section will be accommodated within either the
existing right-of-way and/or existing easements.
-Q: Will the flexible design result in theft
or vandalism of street furniture? A: Any
streetscape design/elements in the public
realm are susceptible to vandalism. The
'flexible' seating idea doesn't necessarily
mean they are totally loose and movable -
they could be secured.
Additional comments made during this meeting
and submitted afterwards by attendees included:
-Prefers raised planter beds.
-Prefers pots to planter beds.
-It's a shame they are doing away with them
(bike lanes) on 38th Avenue.
-I would strongly encourage you to consider
maintenance and upkeep costs and risks of
theft and vandalism. While I did like the look
of the "flexible" option, I think there are risks
of it costing more long term.
-.. .I like the raised planters, they are different
than the grates that everyone already has,
and allows landscaping under the trees.
-I also think the fixed furniture would be a
better idea, they would stay organized and
would not be stolen. Any event that I can
think of can work around the fixed pieces.
-I like the eclectic design of the (mid) modern
and the old mixed together.
-I am VERY excited about what they put
together. They are on the right track for sure!
-Wants to preserve bike friendliness if bike
lanes are being removed; cited example of
Denver's new 15th Street Bikeway.
DtsiCJn Inspiration
The creative design process began with a
review of the Ridge at 38 Brand summary
book, the 38th Avenue Corridor Plan, the
City's Streetscape Design Manual, and other
relevant documents. These processes resulted
in the following five key design goals that the
Consultant utilized for this Project:
1. Modern/contemporary
2. Recall Mid-Century
3. Forward thinking
4. More welcoming to younger people/families
5. Unique -like no other place in Wheat Ridge
and no other main street
As a starting point, the Consultant focused on
the first two points and collected images that
represent or evoke mid-century modern design.
Some of those inspiration images are shown
here and on the following pages.
Design Inspiration: Shapes and Angles
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Alttrnativt Kit-of-Parts
Based on public input and the five design goals,
two alternative kit-of-parts were compiled.
They both focus on recalling mid-century design
themes and have a modern/contemporary and
forward thinking flavor. The kits explore items
such as different finishes, color palettes and
approaches to lighting.
The images in the kits represent a general
'family' or character of streetscape features
being considered for the street. Final fixtures,
materials, colors, and finishes will be
determined in the next phase of the project.
Alternative A Kit-of-Parts: A Focus on Sloping Lines, Use of Wood, Lighter Toned or Saturated Paving Colors, and More Streamlined Detailing
, ~~"""'~ ... ,.,~\~.:. ~ ., .. , ,'·. . ' "' ' . • _ ":.,.C. '-: -~-
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*Note: The Images he~ ~p~sent a general 'family' or character of st~tscape featu~s being conslde~d for the street. Final fixtures, materials, colo~, and finishes will be determined In the next phase of the project.
Alternative B l<it-of-Parts: A Focus on Angular Lines, Use of Metal, Darker Toned or More Saturated Paving Colors, and More Embellished Detailing
·' -~-,
• Note: The images here represent a general 'family' or character of streetscape features being considered for the street. Final fixtures, materials, colors, and finishes will be determined in the next phase of the project.
-
Alttrnativt Strtttscapt (onctpt DtsiC)ns
Overview
Two Alternative Streetscape Concept Designs were completed for 38th Avenue. Both designs share the
following fundamental similarities:
1. Address access enhancement
Existing conditions on the corridor include a poorly defined sidewalk and a substantial number of
curb cuts, some of which are very wide. Access enhancements would be mainly accomplished by
sharing driveways between properties and reconfiguring off-street parking to eliminate backing
into the street and across the sidewalk. This would also improve the pedestrian environment. The
proposed access enhancement strategy:
-Provides for a continuous sidewalk
-Accommodates an amenity zone for nearly the entire length of the Project area
-Provides greater predictability for drivers entering and exiting private parking areas
2. Identify conceptual changes to on-and off-street parking configurations
On-street parking is only feasible west of approximately 7060 W. 38th Avenue (approximately two
parcels east of High Court), where a wider right-of-way exists. East of this point the available right-
of-way narrows prohibiting the provision of on-street parking.
3. Enhance and highlight bus stop locations
The following street layout plans (pages 18-20) illustrate the common elements between the
alternative concept designs.
The major differences between the two Alternative Concept Designs include:
Item Alternative A Alternative B
Seating Flexible/chair and bench mix Fixed/bench approach to seating
Planting Planting in pots at bulb outs and Planting in raised planters
along the amenity zone/tree grates typically around trees and at bulb
around trees outs
Lighting Curved/angular fixtures 90 degree perpendicular fixtures
Special paving-amenity zone Lighter paving reminiscent of the Darker paving color
(both proposing a running bond, 'blond' colors found mid-century
linear placement approach
reminiscent of the clean lines of
mid-century masonry)
Informational Kiosk Multi-pole/more horizontal board Single pole/more vertical board
concept concept -------------
The differences between the two alternatives
are illustrated with plans, sections and three-
dimensional renderings beginning on page 21.
These alternatives are not mutually exclusive,
specific elements within one design may be
combined with an element of the other to reach
a preferred direction.
Conceptual level cost estimates show that
to complete full street reconstruction and
streetscape improvements of West 38th Avenue
from Upham to Pierce would cost an estimated
$5.3 to $5.6 million.
Conceptual Layout -West Segment: 7400 to 7100 West 38th Avenue (Approximately Upham Street to High Court>
lo..
7420 w. 38th 7390W. 38th
~ ~ ~ I lL:z:: ~-"-====~-~-----~1
Note: This segment has the wider right-of-way. The west limits of the project are at Upham Street.
Conceptual Layout-Central Segment: 7100 to 6980 West 38th Avenue (approximately High Court to Reed Street)
__ j
1_~U.~.
7000 w. 38tlt
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Note: This segment has the narrower right-of-way starting just east of High Court. On-street parking is not included from this point to the east.
Conceptual Layout-East Segment: 6980 to 6790 West 38th Avenue (approximately Reed Street to Pierce Street>
...W_ _ ;;.cw: ;a:wa:.. S:::: I I
Note: This segment has the narrower right-of-way. The east limits of the project are at Pierce Street.
mlA l-::j -EJ 6720 to 6770 w. 38th
Alternative A: Flexible
Pages 21-28 include plans, sections and three-
dimensional renderings of Alternative A. The
imagery illustrates the following elements.
Common Elements:
-the proposed continuous sidewalk and
amenity zone
-special crosswalk treatments at High Court
and Pierce and Upham Streets
-special informational signage
-the location of the existing over-the-street
banner
-how outdoor cafes can be accommodated
-locations for bicycle parking
-the concept of an additional special paving
band crossing the sidewalk (in plan view
only)
-regularly placed street trees
-locations for bulb outs that provide for:
seating, landscaping, signage/wayfinding, art,
and other amenities
-the narrower and wider road sections
Unique to Alternative A:
-the more 'flexible' approach to seating and
landscaping via a combination of chairs and
benches and a variety of planter pots
-the amenity zone treated with a lighter toned,
elongated, running bond paver
-street trees in grates
-a curvilinear pedestrian and high level light
pole with a rounded or oval luminaire
Looking East Near Upham Street
'
Looking West at Pierce Street
Alternative A: Flexible
These Prototypical Plans and Sections Show Alternative A Kit-of-Parts Applied in the Existing Wider and Narrower Right-of-Way Sections
a .... L .J£ .&&M -~ .. =~·
Alternative A: Flexible
Looking East at Upham Street
--~-'\ ---~~ ~~ ~ ' --
This view highlights parallel parking along both sides of the street, ftexible seating and planting options within the amenity zones, and kiosk signage.
Alternative A: Flexible
Looking West Near Teller Street
This view shows how a wider sidewalk can accommodate an outdoor cafe and hardscape amenity zone. This alternative includes grates around the street trees.
~
Alternative A: Flexible
Looking East at High Court
This view highlights the intersection treatment with special paving in the crosswalk.
Alternative A: Flexible
Looking East Near Reed Street
-----
-----------
. ----------------------
This view shows possible elements within the hardscape amenity zone, such as planters, bike racks, and seating.
Alternative A: Flexible
Looking West Near Quay Street
This view also highlights amenity zone elements and shows an example of parking lot screening across the street.
Alternative A: Flexible
Looking West at Teller Street
This view highlights the flexible seating and planting options at the bulb outs.
Alternative B: Fixed
Pages 29-36 inc I ude plans, sections and three-
dimensional renderings of Alternative B. The
imagery illustrates:
Common Elements:
-the proposed continuous sidewalk and
amenity zone
-special crosswalk treatments at High Court
and Pierce and Upham Streets
-special informational signage
-the location of the existing over-the-street
banner
-how outdoor cafes can be accommodated
-locations for bicycle parking
-the concept of an additional special paving
band crossing the sidewalk (in plan view
only)
-regularly placed street trees
-locations for bulb outs that provide for:
seating, landscaping, signage/wayfinding, art,
and other amenities
-the narrower and wider road sections
Unique to Alternative B:
-the amenity zone treated with a darker toned,
elongated, running bond paver
-the more 'fixed' approach to seating and
landscaping via benches and partially raised
planter beds
-street trees in partially raised planter beds
-a perpendicular pedestrian and high level
light pole with a rectangular luminaire
Looking East Near Upham Street ' ...,
Looking West Near at Pierce Street
Alternative B: Fixed
These Prototypical Plans and Sections Show Alternative B !<it-of-Parts Applied in the Existing Wider and Narrower Right-of-Way Sections
pt-::r:t A& *? :;;_ • -· !!_ .. _....__&SIL1Sa.L_ ·-•--. --~' W4l:i-'&l'dl'ai--JtiiiEi~
, ..... .......-+' ,
Alternative B: Fixed
Looking East at Upham Street
\
This view highlights parallel parking along both sides of the street and fixed seating, raised planting beds, and a different style of kiosk signage within the amenity zones.
Alternative B: Fixed
Looking West Near Teller Street
This view shows how a wider sidewalk can accommodate an outdoor cafe and hardscape amenity zone . This alternative includes raised planting beds around the street trees.
Alternative B: Fixed
Looking East at High Court
This view highlights the intersection treatment with special paving in the crosswalk.
Alternative B: Fixed
Looking East Near Reed Street
---------
. ----------------
This view shows possible elements within the hardscape amenity zone, such as raised planting beds, bike racks, and seating.
•·:·a~ .... w
,....
Alternative B: Fixed
Looking West Near Quay Street
This view also highlights amenity zone elements and shows an example of parking lot screening across the street.
Alternative B: Fixed
Looking West at Teller Street
This view highlights the fixed seating and raised planting beds at the bulb outs.
-
SiCJDICJf
Conceptual designs for branding and local
wayfinding signage on the corridor was
provided as part of this process. The concepts
do not address directional signage to the
corridor. The options could work with either
of the Alternative Concept Designs, however
some elements might be more appropriate to
be integrated into one design over another.
For instance, integration of a low wall with
ingrained lettering may be more appropriate for
Streetscape Concept Design Alternative B.
The conceptual signage was cognizant of the
Ridge at 38 Brand, including existing light pole
banners, planter banners and over the street
banners that have previously been designed and
implemented on the corridor.
Existing Signage Along 38th Avenue
Conceptual Signage Ideas for 38th Avenue
10' 10'
.. 8'
6' 6'
~ ..
7 7
0' -------.. ~~ Monument
Note: Simple concrete finish
Low Wall Parking Sign Options
10'
8'
6'
..
7
------.. 0' Thin Sign Pole Kiosk -3 Piece Kiosk -Vertical Board Kiosk -Parallelogram Board Kiosk-Horizontal Board
Noll!: Dtviatts from Brand Guidelines Note: Individual pant4s could be angltd
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Public Art
The image below identifies possible locations
for public art within the right-of-way.
Opportunities to collaborate with private
property owners may allow for larger art
installations than would otherwise be able to fit
within the current right-of-way.
Potential Locations for Public Art in the Right-of-Way
7155 w. 38111
•
..;: .~
:X::
ParkinCJ
The conceptual streetscape design shown on pages
18-20 does have an impact on parking within the
study area. The diagram below illustrates those
areas that could be affected.
The blue bubbles show the public, on-street
parking counts at three points in time:
-Previous -The parallel on-street parking spaces
prior to 2012
-Current -The back-in diagonal and parallel
parking spaces that currently exist
-Proposed -The proposed parallel parking
spaces that are shown in the conceptual design
Parking Impact Analysis
Compared to the previous conditions, the proposed
streetscape design will have 12 additional on-
street spaces. This increase is largely attributed to
the additional on-street parking proposed on the
north side of the street between Upham and High
Court in front of the school.
The orange bubbles indicate the potential
impact to private, off-street parking lots. The
two numbers indicate the current and proposed
parking counts. The conceptual streetscape
design proposes access enhancements which
would reduce the size and number of curb cuts.
The design would result in the loss of 7 off-street
parking spaces.
These parking impacts were discussed at the
block-by-block meetings. City staff will continue
to work with the affected property owners during
the subsequent phases of design to resolve any
issues and minimize impacts.
... ~'~
... # -r City of • .. ~Wheat&_dge ~OFFICE OF THE CnY MANAGER
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
Memorandum
Mayor and City Council r'\\
Patrick Goff, City Manager ';JJ-
December 11, 2013
Mayoral Appointments to the Housing Authority
::(+em i
On November 30, 2013 , Councilmembers DiTullio and Urban requested that the subject
of Mayoral appointments to the Wheat Ridge Housing Authority be added to the next
available study session before the appointments are made and brought to the dais for
Council ratification. Attached is Councilmember DiTullio's application for appointment
to the Housing Authority.
Attachment
1. Councilmember DiTullio Board & Commission Application
Board & Commission Application
City of Wheat Ridge
PLEASE APPLY ONLY FOR ONE BOARD OR COIIMI$SION
APPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT TO THE:
WJ!Mt Bielat Hftllna Authority fWRHAl ·Council Rttrwntltlyt
(BOAROJCOMMISSIONICOMMIITEE)
DATE:._ __ ~111Rt~· ~·u·~13~----DISTRICT_.L...-. _____ _
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A RESIDENT OF WHEAT RIDGE: JO+ nara
ARE YOU A REGISTERED VOTER?_VE.~oo~:.:~S"----
WHY ARE YOU SEEKING THIS APPOINTMENT? lly background. and expeMra with
localgovammant and 1M WRHA wiD benefit the WRHA and the City In moving new
houalng projecta forward In a pro.ectlve m.nner. lwaa on City Council when the
WRHA was formed and Mrvecl on the HA for ve ,..,. aa the Chair/City Council
epNUntatlve. lwae • founcU mem of the WRHA when It was crutlld by City
Councll1n 2000. During my tenure we rehabllltatM and sold SO+ units to new
homeowner~ In t Rlclge. The times hllv. changed .and we nMd to focus on
Nha lltiatlng slngle..famlly ~ or scraping and building new hcx.lngstock,
•peclally on the m part of town while the Eat Wheat Ridge Initiative Is In
prog by the WRPD. Aa mayor, I nvolved with the purch of the Fruitdale
School with the school d•trict and I can bit the ground runnJng on that luue •• wtll.
DO YOU HAVE EXPERIENCE IN THIS AREA? _ _..YE:..:.:S.___ ______ _
HAVE YOU EVER SERVED, OR ARE YOU CURRENTLY ON A
BOARDICOMMtSSIONICOMMITTEE AND IF SO, WHlCH ONE? HOW LONG?_
YES-WRHA-ftvt,..,. tt Chair gd Counc;ll Rtpnttntatiyt
ARE THERE ANY CONFLICTS WHICH WOULD INTERFERE WITH REGULAR
ATIENDANCE OR DUTIES?_....:;NO:.:..----~=----------
SIGNATURE lzr. l2:Zii.4.:
PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE NAME:. __ J=errviilolo&oo=o:DI~.~.Tu=::l,;,;;;llo.... ---------
ADDRESS: J250 Ntwllnct SL, W'h!at 81dM. CO IQOU
HOME PHONE: On file
BUSINESS PHONE:._~O~nu.:fi~le:...---------------
E-MAIL ADDRESS:. __ ..:::;O~n.:.::file:::;_.. _____________ _
APP ICATION WILL BE KEPT ON ·FILE FOR ONE YEAR.
Attachment 1