HomeMy WebLinkAboutTTAC 06-23-09
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Meeting Notice
JCCOG Transportation Technical Advisory Committee
Tuesday June 23,2009 -10:30 a.m.
Emma Harvat Hall
Iowa City City Hall
Agenda
1. Call to order; recognize alternates; consider approval of meeting minutes
2. Public discussion of any item not on the agenda
3. Consider a recommendation on the location of the future Amtrak depot for the Iowa City
Urbanized Area
4. Update on local measurement of fine particulates and air quality standards (Kent)
5. Discussion of the 2009 JCCOG Collision Study
6. Update and discussion of research on clear zone standards
7. Update on the I-JOBS Program
8. Other Business
9. Adjournment
S:\PCD\AGENDAS\JCCOG\TTAC\2009\TTAC-Agd06-23-09.DOC
PRELIMINARY DRAFT - SUBJECT TO APPROVAL
MINUTES
JCCOG TRANSPORTATION TECHINICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
THURSDAY, MAY 14th, 2009 -10:30AM
EMMA HARVAT HALL
IOWA CITY CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Coralville:
Iowa City:
Dan Holderness, Scott Larson,
Vicky Robrock
Brian Boelk, Rick Fosse
Ron Knoche, Chris O'Brien, Mark
Rummel
Tom Brase, Terry Dahms, Greg
Parker
Dean Wheatley
Royce Phillips
Louise From
Brian McClatchey, Larry Wilson
Cathy Cutler
Johnson County:
North Liberty:
Tiffin:
University Heights:
University of Iowa:
Iowa DOT:
STAFF PRESENT:
Kris Ackerson, Darian Nagle-Gamm, Brad Neumann, Kent
Ralston, John Yapp
1. CALL TO ORDER; RECOGNIZE ALTERNATES: CONSIDER APPROVAL OF
MEETING MINUTES
Neumann called the meeting to order at 10:32 AM. Scott Larson was recognized
as an alternate for Kelly Hayworth, Coralville. Motion to approve the October 16th
minutes was made by Knoche and seconded by Wheatley. The motion carried
unanimously.
2. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
There was no public discussion of any item not on the agenda.
3.
CONSIDER A RECOMMENDATION ON THE
TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM
FY10 JCCOG
Yapp explained the FY10 Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP) by
summarizing the contents and types of projects within the plan. Yapp noted that
the TPWP contains anticipated completion times for projects as requested by the
Iowa DOT. Yapp stated that a significant project contained in this work program
is the update of the JCCOG Long Range Multi-Modal Transportation Plan which
will need to be adopted in 2012. Yapp asked for any questions or comments on
the TPWP and there were none. Motion to approve the FY10 JCCOG
Transportation Planning Work Program was made by Fosse and seconded by
Holderness. The motion carried unanimously.
4. CONSIDER A RECOMMENDATION TO AMEND THE TRANSIT ELEMENT OF
THE FY09 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM TO ADD A
PROJECT TO PURCHASE DIESEL-ELECTRIC ENGINES FOR BUSES
Neumann explained the proposed amendment to the Transportation
Improvement Program (TIP) as necessary to allow the three local transit
agencies to apply for grants through the American Recovery and Reinvestment
Act (ARRA) that would fund new diesel-electric buses to be added to current bus
fleets.
Fosse asked about the potential payback time for investing in this new
technology. McClatchey answered that since much of this technology is very
new there has not been adequate time to study the benefits and accurately
provide payback information.
Dahms asked if the new engines would be retrofitted into current buses already
in the fleet. McClatchey answered that the hybrid engines would be included in
new buses. Holderness moved to approve the amendment to the FY09 JCCOG
TIP; the motion was seconded by Brase. The motion carried unanimously.
5. CONSIDER A RECOMMENDATION ON THE FY10-13 JCCOG
TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
Ackerson noted several projects included in the JCCOG TIP as well as the
inclusion of projects being funded by the ARRA. Ackerson noted that Illustrative
Projects have recently been allowed in local TIP's by the Iowa DOT and that the
JCCOG TIP contains four such Illustrative Projects. Several representatives
noted that minor changes in estimated project costs have occurred for projects
and that they would notify Ackerson of the changes as soon as possible. Fosse
moved to approve the recommended FY10 JCCOG TIP subject to the minor
funding changes noted; the motion was seconded by Holderness. The motion
carried unanimously.
6. CONSIDER A RECOMMENDATION ON AN UPDATED JCCOG TRAVEL
DEMAND MODEL
Nagle-Gamm stated that new land use and trip generation information has been
applied to the 2035 model for the Iowa River Landing site in Coralville. In
addition, updates to the number of dwelling units and number of employees per
traffic analysis zone (TAZ) as requested by JCCOG entities. Nagle-Gamm noted
that the traffic demand model will continuously be updated and upon the release
of 2010 census data the model will undergo more involved revisions, including
changes in traffic analysis zone boundaries and a more thorough socio-economic
data update.
Knoche asked how future road capacity was determined for proposed roads not
yet designed. Yapp answered that JCCOG consults each entity in order to
obtain the best estimate for road capacity. Holderness moved to accept the
recommended JCCOG Travel Demand Model; the motion was seconded by
Knoche. The motion carried unanimously.
7. UPDATE AND DISCUSSION OF JCCOG BICYCLE MASTER PLAN
Ackerson gave an update on the progress of the JCCOG Bicycle Master Plan
noting that JCCOG has presented the draft plan to multiple city councils and the
Johnson County Board of Supervisors. He then asked the committee for input on
the draft plan, especially the section on engineering and recommendations.
Fosse asked if the plan contained recommendations or references to pavement
conditions. Ackerson stated that the plan does not specifically mention
pavement conditions but it does address cleaning and some maintenance of
roadways used for bike facilities.
8. UPDATE ON PASSENGER RAIL ACTIVITY
Neumann stated that the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce has recently
undertaken several efforts to promote passenger rail service between Iowa City
and Chicago including a train ride from Iowa City to the Quad Cities on May 5
that included local representatives and political leaders. Neumann noted the
State Passenger Rail Committee met on April 1 st in Ames; Mayor Regina Bailey
is the local representative on the committee.
Parker asked Neumann if he had an estimate on when passenger rail service
could start in Iowa City. Neumann replied that approximately 3-5 years is the
most plausible estimate based on the issues of funding and coordination with the
Illinois Department of Transportation.
9. UPDATE ON SURFACE TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM AND
TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM FUNDING TARGETS
Ackerson stated that JCCOG recently received updated funding targets for
Surface Transportation Program (STP) and Transportation Enhancement (TE)
program funds from the Iowa DOT due to a change in obligation limitations.
Ackerson stated that JCCOG will keep member entities apprised of any
additional changes and asked for additional questions or comments to which
there were none.
10. UPDATE ON I-JOBS BONDING PROGRAM
Yapp explained the proposed I-JOBS bonding program expected to be signed by
Governor Culver on May 14th would provide over $700 million in State bonding
authority for a variety of projects. Yapp mentioned that funds would be available
for an assortment of projects that would potentially be of interest to local
agencies including disaster related projects, sewer systems, housing, energy,
broadband, vertical infrastructure, University repairs, and Transportation
Improvements. Yapp recommended that agencies who apply for funding from
this program pay attention to specific requirements as they may add significant
administrative efforts to projects.
11. UPDATE ON RECENT ACTIVITIES
Boelk stated the McCollister Boulevard extension and Bridge project is
progressing well and may be completed ahead of schedule by mid-August.
Knoche stated his department is busy with flood related issues and is currently
addressing bidding issues with the replacement of the Burlington Street
Pedestrian Bridge deck.
O'Brien noted that Iowa City is tentatively scheduled to receive six new buses
using AARA funds.
From mentioned that construction of the wide sidewalk along Melrose Avenue is
on track to begin in 2010.
Phillips stated that a guide for Comprehensive Planning in Tiffin has recently
been accepted.
McClatchey stated that CAMBUS is scheduled to receive five new buses using
AARA funds.
Parker noted that environmental issues relating to the Oakdale Boulevard
extension are ongoing and that the Dubuque Street Trail extension has been
scaled back to now only extend from West Overlook Road to 275th Street.
Holderness stated that Coralville is busy with flood recovery issues and that the
Clear Creek Trail extension phase 4 is ready to be paved.
Larson stated that stabilization of the Iowa River bank behind Heartland Inn will
begin soon which will allow reconstruction of the damaged trail.
Wheatley noted that North Liberty is set to begin a transportation survey of its
citizens to determine demand for additional services and that city staff are busy
with engineering work relating to the Highway 965 expansion.
Wilson noted that the University is conducting studies on transportation in the
Oakdale Campus and that an independent firm is studying potential sites for a
new Hancher-Voxman performing arts center.
12. OTHER BUSINESS
Yapp distributed a recently received e-mail from the Iowa DOT that states if
ARRA funds are unused due to lower than expected bids then JCCOG will be
allowed to reallocate those funds to different projects so long as the funds are let
by January 20th 2010.
Carol Spaziani with the League of Women Voters asked if recommendations
from the Exploratory Transit Expansion Taskforce were included in the JCCOG
FY10 Work Program. Yapp stated that the intent is to include the transit
expansion issues as part of the Long Range Transportation Plan update.
13. ADJOURNMENT
Fosse moved to adjourn the meeting; the motion was seconded by Wheatley.
The meeting was adjourned at 11: 26 AM.
~JCCOG
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Date: June 15, 2009
To: JCCOG Tran~on Technical Advisory Committee
From: Brad Neumann, Assistant Transportation Planner
Re: Agenda item #3: Consider a recommendation on the location of the future Amtrak depot
for the Iowa City Urbanized Area
Iowa DOT has asked the JCCOG Urbanized Area Policy Board to formally designate the Amtrak
depot location for future Amtrak service in our urbanized area. Iowa DOT is requesting this
commitment to a depot location due to a funding request by Iowa DOT for an environmental
study associated with the track upgrade. The environmental study will include depot locations
and is one of the first steps toward passenger rail service to the area.
In the feasibility study conducted by Amtrak for passenger rail service to Iowa City, Amtrak
based their ridership projections on being close to the University of Iowa campus and has
indicated that they would prefer to be located close to the main campus to maximize ridership,
and to be within walking distance of the student population. The old Rock Island Railroad Depot
in Iowa City fits Amtrak's location needs. Iowa City is exploring the purchase of the old Rock
Island Rail Depot for Amtrak use; there are other potential locations in the same vicinity east of
the Iowa River.
There has also been discussion of a potential depot location near Highway 6 and Coral Ridge
Avenue; either as the main depot location or a secondary location. A second stop in the same
urbanized area, while not out of the question, would have to be justified.
JCCOG staff is requesting that TT AC discuss this issue and make a recommendation to the
JCCOG Urbanized Area Policy Board on the general Amtrak depot location. The Board would
take formal action on the depot location at their meeting on June 24. Amanda Martin, of the
Iowa DOT's Office of Rail Transportation division, will be at the June 23rd TTAC meeting to
participate in the rail depot discussion.
Let me know if you have any questions or comments. I can be reached at 356-5235 or by email
at brad-neumann@iowa-city.org.
cc: John Yapp
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Date: June 15, 2009
~JCCOG
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To: JCCOG Transportation Technical Advisory Committee
From: Kent Ralston; Assistant Transportation Planner~
Re: Agenda item #4: Update on local measurement of fine particulates and air quality
standards
In August 2008, staff reported to the Committee that the level of fine particulates (PM 2.5~
measured in Johnson County was nearing the National Ambient Air Quality Standard of 35ug/m
(micrograms per cubic meter of air). If all or a portion of Johnson County exceeds the standard,
we would be labeled as 'non-attainment', which has implications for transportation capital
funding and industrial development.
Measurements of PM 2.5 are based on a three-year, 24-hour average, and fluctuate regularly
depending on weather patterns and atmospheric conditions. We indicated at that time that
although the Johnson County three-year average had not yet exceeded the 35 ug/m3 threshold,
future readings could jeopardize Johnson County's attainment status. Staff indicated that we
would continue to monitor the issue and keep the Committee apprised. We are happy to report
that PM 2.5 levels in our area were reduced in 2008, so we remain an attainment county.
The following summarizes this issue:
. The National Ambient Air Quality Standard threshold for fine particulates (PM 2.5) is 35
ug/m3 (micrograms per cubic meter of air).
. The three-year average for Johnson County in 2007 was measured at 34 ug/m3; the three-
year average for Johnson County in 2008 was measured at 29 ug/m3; the monitor is located
at Hoover Elementary School.
. PM 2.5 is particulate matter including dust and pollutants smaller than 2.5 microns.
. Measurements are based on a three-year, 24-hour average. Winter readings are typically
higher than summer readings and vary from year to year.
Although the Johnson County three-year PM 2.5 average decreased from 2007 to 2008, it is
important that we continue to monitor this issue. Should Johnson County become designated as
a non-attainment area, there would likely be implications for how and where state and federal
transportation capital funds may be spent. The State may also begin requiring major industries
to test for fine particulates and limit growth in the industrial sector through the DNR permitting
process.
States with designated nonattainment areas are required under the Clean Air Act to develop a
State Implementation Plan and submit it to EPA within three years; the plan must include
enforceable measures for reducing air pollutant emissions and provide steps to attain the PM
2.5 standards as quickly as possible. Emissions reduction programs for vehicles and power
plants are commonly used tools used to attain PM 2.5 standards. The role of JCCOG would be
in the transportation sector.
Please bring any questions you have to the June 23rd meeting.
jccoglp/mem/ttac-airqualily09.doc
~JCCOG
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Date: June 15, 2009
To: JCCOG Transportation Technical Advisory Committee
From: Kent Ralston; Assistant Transportation Planner
Re: Agenda item #5: Discussion of the 2009 JCCOG Collision Study ~
Staff has revised the current version of the JCCOG Urbanized Area Collision Analysis Report
for 2009. The report contains an analysis of all intersections and midblocklocations in the
urbanized area with three or more collisions from 2006-2008.
The collision data used to craft the report was provided by the Iowa DOT and analyzed by
JCCOG staff. We have attempted to make the document more user friendly by providing better
visual aids and detailed collision information for each community. We have also included a set
of potential countermeasures that may be useful when redesigning road features to minimize
future collisions.
JCCOG intends to analyze the top 10 highest collision intersections in the Urbanized Area and
provide potential countermeasures to the appropriate jurisdiction. JCCOG staff is available to
perform more detailed collision analysis for locations upon request.
Copies of the 2009 JCCOG Urbanized Area Collision Analysis Report will be distributed at your
June 23rd meeting.
jccogtp/mem/ttac-09collisionreport. doc
~JCCOG
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.......
Date: June 15, 2009
To: JCCOG Tral)sportation Technical Advisory Committee
From: Kent Ralston; Assistant Transportation Planner ~
Re: Agenda Item # 6: Update and discussion of research on clear zone standards
This past winter the Midwest Transportation Consortium, a research group administered by the
Institute of Transportation at Iowa State University, published a study on the effectiveness of
clear zones on Iowa's urban roadways. A clear zone is defined as the distance between the
roadway edge and fixed objects adjacent to the roadway such as trees, signs, and buildings.
In Iowa from 2004 to 2006, fixed object collisions made up 15% of fatal urban collisions while
only 6% of urban collisions involved a fixed object. The Iowa Department of Transportation
currently recommends a minimum 10ft. clear zone for most roadways. Expanding clear zones
in urban areas to meet this 10ft. standard can be difficult since roadways often have limited
amounts of right-of-way and large amounts of neighboring infrastructure. As a result, it is often
difficult for communities to weigh the cost of purchasing additional clear zone right-of-way
against the risk of fixed object collisions. In contrast to the Iowa DOT standard, the American
Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) design guidance currently
recommends a minimum setback of 1.5 ft.
The Midwest Transportation Consortium's research included a survey sent to 20 states with
road characteristics similar to Iowa, as well as an evaluation of 13 urban corridors - 11 in Des
Moines and 2 in Waterloo.
Results of the research are as follows:
. A 5 ft. clear zone is the most effective setback distance when the goal is to eliminate 90% of
collisions involving a fixed object.
· A 3 ft. clear zone is the most effective setback distance when the goal is to reduce 90% of
the economic loss resulting from a fixed object collision.
. There is little benefit to increasing the fixed object setback more than 5 ft. from the curb.
. A uniform setback distance for fixed objects allows motorists to establish appropriate speeds
and focus on the roadway edge.
. Consistent fixed-object setbacks, regardless of the distance from the road, can result in a
reduction in the number of fixed object collisions.
The Iowa DOT has indicated that they intend to develop a new set of standards for fixed object
setbacks for urban roadways. We will keep you apprised of any changes.
I will be available at the June 23rd meeting to answer any questions you may have.
jccogtp/mem/ttac-clearzones.doc
Pollutants degrade
quality of Iowa's air
By PERRY BEEM.AN and CHASE DAVIS
pbeeman@dmreg.com
he air across Iowa i~ so
polluted that the state is
perilqusly close to viola~i,ng
new federal limits aimed at
protecting h1.lma:h health.
Yet Iowans have no way
of knowing what chemicals they are
breathing because of a limited - and
often inaccurate - system ofmonitor-
ing pollution statewide, a Des Moines
Register investigation found. .
Catharine Fitzsimmons, Iowa's top
air-quamy official, defended Iowa's
existing air-monitoring system. Yet
she said the state is under orders -from
IOWA'S ~\ .
BJ..g.gest (if Polluters
the federal gliJvernmenfto bettermoni:
torfiJ;le-particleand ozone pollution,
among Iowa's most pressing ai.r-quality
problems.
"Both of those pollutants affect
respiratory systems, particularly in
the young, the elderly and those with
compromised lung function," Fitzsim- .
mons said. "They trigger heart attacks
and other health problems."
Iowans should know better in a
c.ouple of years what is coming o~t
of the stacks of Iowa's greatest pollut-
ers. The state's Department of Natural
Resources will begin requiring major
industries to do more thorough testing
for fine particles after the U.S. Environ-
mental Protection Agency releases a
long-awaited protocol.
But a top environmental advocate
~ said what Iowans are breathing today
is worse than people think.
"It's surprisingly bad," said Donna
Wong-Gibbons, a physiologist with
Plains Justice, an environmental ad-
vocacy group. "It's sort of a paradox
in the sense that Iowa is thought of as
this great state with farm c,ountry and
oPen land, and at. the same time there
AIR, PAGE 6A
AIR
FROM PAGE lA
ate serious prol:>lems with
airpollutiqn." .
Htindtl:!ds ,of chemical
compounds waft through
Iowa's air. Most have not
reach~d dangerous levels,
and many plants emit less
pollution than they did
years ago.
Still, fine particles now
blow acrpss the state in
such high concentrations
they are approaching
levels that could force the
state to mandate expensive
improvements for business-
es, the Register's examina-
tion found. Concentrations
of ozone, an ingredientdf
smog, are not asconsis-
tently poor, but they, too,
are pushing federal limits
across the state.
The Register's air~quality
analysis fou.nd finEl,particle
levels in Iowa violated fed-
eral limits q9 times from
2006to 2008, often trigger-
ing warnings that -advised
people with lung problems
to stay inside. Ozone topped
the federal limits twice.
The newspaper's three-
month examination focused
on six pollutants regulated
through the Clean Air Act
that are considered among
thE;!~r:eatest threats to
publiG~~~lth.partiQle pol- .
lution, gtoul)d~tevel ozone
c$"pon ~onoxid.e,;' stufut
oxidt;ls, - nitrQgen oxides
and. lead. 0 ,
I .' Th,eih\Testlgation - which
included an an;liysis of five
years of emissions data
froni'.1,600 facilities,' a de-
o tai~~d review bfcoIllplian,~e
filesfrl'llU' mote tna.n .1m)
Iowa facilities, and other
reporting on Iowa's biggest.
air polluters - found:
. The highest emissions
of the siX chemical com-'
pounds came from Wood-
bury, Muscatine, Pottawat-
tamie, I."inn a,p.d Clinton
cqllntiE;!s.1ih'P$E;! counties
_7 . .- "'---.__.._u_.._
are home to a. combination
of power plants, grain pro-
cessors, manufacturers and
other industries.
Franklin, Adams . Van
Buren, Taylor and' Lucas
counties, whicb are mostly
rural, had the lowest emis-
sions.
. Th~ limited air-monitor~
ing network that does exist
shows 15 cities across the
state have J;ecorded ozone
or particul~te readings that
exceeded federal limits dur-
ing the past three years,
Muscatine and Daven-
port have been cited by
th.,e federal government for
repeatedly violating limits
on' small particle pollu-
tion, in lar~e part becallse
of emissions from foul1d-
ries, cement pVlIits and
. power plants,. along with
vehicles.
o. Polk County, 0 borne of
the state capital, . ranked
23rd among the counties.
The top facility in Polk
County, ADM's Des Moines
soybean plant, ranked 58th
among the state's top emit!
tel's.
. In 25 counties, the top
emitters were manufactur-
. ers making generators;
veterinary pharmaceuti-
cals or bricks, for example.
In 19 other counties, the
top emitters were power
plants.
· Neither' regulat~rs.. nor.
polluting indllstrie'i! can teU
for certain whichcheIl),icals
Iowa residents are breatb-
ing. Tblit's because, 'like
other states, Iowa. has a lilli,
ited network (If 'rlioilltors;
~nd companiest;ypical1y es-.
tlIllate and ,self~reportdatG!
us~g fbqnulas tli~t m~hY
experts C9iiflsidev. inacpu-
rate. (See a related article
in Monday's Register.)
. No government regula-
tor is measuring emissions
of mercury, a toxic chemi-
cal produced primarily by
the state's coal-fired power
plant~. Cbal plants are
CONfUllur:o ON Nr:)(TPME
FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
toms. Areas that can't
meet federal air-pollution
limits can be forced to
reduce emissions or else
turn away new businesses
or expansions.
Many of Iowa's prob-
len:s ~tem not from rising
emiSSIOns but from tighter
standards: Federal health
workers have detennined
that smaller amounts of
pollution are enough to
do damage, triggering the
lower air-pollution limits.
IQwa does have this go-
ing for it: Problems here
still pale in comparison to
those of many larger, urban
areas with heavier industry
especially east of the Mis:
sissippi River.
~ American Luhg Asso-
CiatIOn report released in
April found no Iowa cities
Were among the nation's
worst for ozone or particu-
late pollution.
Yet NIuscatine and Scott
younties were among 211-
counties 0 nationally ~that
the EPA declared in cnronic
~olat~o~ of federal fine-par-
tIcle lImIts in December.
~JCCOG
rrii__ m e m 0
Date: June 15, 2009
To: JCCOG Transportation Technical Advisory Committee
From: John Yapp, Executive Director 7~ I~
Re: Agenda Item #7: Update on I-JOBS Legislation
On June 10, the City of Coralville and the Chamber of Commerce hosted a meeting to
provide the latest information on the I-JOBS legislation, including the initial proposed I-JOBS
Board administrative rules. The information was provided courtesy of Avenson, Oakley and
Cope Consulting. This memo is a summary of the initial proposed rules for I-JOBS Local
Infrastructure Program; some of these rules will likely evolve as we work toward final rules.
A summary of frequently asked questions about the I-JOBS programs is attached which
includes commentary on the other I-JOBS programs.
I-JOBS LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM
Funds Available: $165 million available-awarded by the I-Jobs Board
· $118.5 million for competitive grants for local infrastructure projects
· Remaining funds ($46.5 million) are designated for specific projects, primarily in Linn
County
· The maximum size of one grant is $50 million
. All funds must be expended within three years
Iowa Jobs Board: 11 member Board consists of 6 members of the public
1. Jeff Pomeranz, chair-City Manager of West Des Moines
2. Pat Baird, vice-chair-CEO of AEGON USA
3. Willard "Sandy" Boyd-former President, University of Iowa
4. Joni Dittmer-Kraft Foods, Davenport
5. Kate Gronstal, engineer, Council Bluffs
6. Toi Sullivan-architect, Sioux City
o The other 5 members include the Directors of IDED, IFA, RIO, Workforce
Development, and the State Treasurer
C:\Documents and Settings\jyapp\Desktop\MemoForm-newJCCOG.doc
Types of Projects which are eligible:
. The focus is on development and completion of public construction projects relating
to disaster relief and mitigation, and to local infrastructure
. Local Infrastructure includes projects relating to disaster rebuilding, reconstruction
and replacement of local public buildings, flood control and flood protection, and
future flood protection
. A City, county or public organization is eligible to apply for the funds. 'Public
organization' includes nonprofits which support to public needs of the local
community
Criteria:
A point system will be developed. As of this writing, the criteria and points are preliminary;
final rules will be posted at www.iiobsiowa.qov.
Job creation: Based on the number and quality of jobs to be created and the benefits to
accrue to areas of high unemployment - 40 points total
1. Wages and hours associated with the jobs reasonably projected to be created- up to
30 points
2. How project ranks when compared with job-creation ability of other projects will be
taken into account
3. Work conditions and safety may be considered as well(of the 40 points)
4. Worker benefits-up to 5 points
5. Is project taking place in area distressed by high unemployment-up to 10 points
6. Project must score at least 20 points in this criteria to receive award
Financial feasibilitv: including the ability of projects to fund depreciation costs or
replacement reserves, and the availability of other federal, state, local and private
sources of funds
1. Financial Analysis of project, including sources of funding, budget, and detailed
projection of project's revenues and expenses for projected useful life of project-up to
15 points
2. Analysis of operational plan, including detailed information on how proposed project
will be operated and maintained, including time-line for implementing project-up to
15 points
3. The availability of other federal, state, local, and private sources of funds for project-
up to 15 points
4. Project must score at least 20 points in this criteria to receive award
Sustainabilitv: Up to 20 points
C:\Documents and Settings\jyapp\Desktop\MemoForm-newJCCOG.doc
1. Efficient and effective use of land resources and existing infrastructure by
encouraging compact development, or ability to avoid costly duplication of services
and costly use of land-up to 3 points
2. Provision for variety of transportation choices, including public transit-up to 3 points
3. Conservation of open space, farmland, and preservation of critical environmental
issues-up to 3 points
4. Promotion of the safety, livability, and revitalization of existing urban and rural
communities-up to 3 points
5. Construction and promotion of developments, building, and infrastructure that
conserve natural resources-up to 3 points
6. Capture, retention, and infiltration of rainfall using storm water best practices-up to 3
points
7. Extent to which project design, construction, and use incorporate renewable energy
sources-up to 2 points
Enerqy Efficiency: Up to 20 points
1. Meeting current state building energy code-5 points
2. Exceeding the energy requirements in currently adopted energy code may make
project eligible to receive up to 15 additional points
Benefits for disaster recovery:
1. Whether proposed project replace or repairs a structure or facility damaged by the
disaster-Lip to 10 points
2. Whether the proposed project would help achieve the community and/or region's
overall post-recovery disaster vision-up to 8 points
3. Whether the proposed project contributes to community identity, sense of place, and
quality of life-up to 8 points
4. Whether the proposed project incorporates best practices for reducing future disaster
losses-up to 6 points
The proiect's readiness to proceed:
1. Whether all engineering and architectural work required for construction to begin has
been completed-up to 8 points
2. Whether all financing for the project, with the exception of competitive grant funds
awarded under this chapter, has been committed and is available-up to 8 points
3. Whether all real property interests necessary for the construction of the project have
been acquired-up to 8 points
4. Whether all necessary governmental approvals, including federal government
approval, have been obtained-up to 8 points
5. Whether the project has demonstrated a reasonable likelihood of expending at least
10 percent of the project's total projected development cost within 6 months of
execution of the grant award agreement-up to 8 points
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Local support for proiect (as defined bv rule ):
. Draft rules require a demonstration of local public support (along the same lines of
how support has been demonstrated for a Vision Iowa award), but do not allocate
points based on this criteria
General ScorinQ Criteria:
1. "In instances where a given criteria is not applicable to a proposed project due to the
nature of the project, the review committee members may adjust scoring so that the
project is not disadvantaged as a result of inapplicable criterion. For example, if an
earthen levee is proposed as a means of flood control, it should not lose points
relative to other proposed projects because it does not comply with the current state
building code (which does not apply to earthen levees)."
2. Projects that are identified in a Great Places agreement shall receive an additional
two points
Limits on Financial Assistance:
. Up to 75% of the total cost of a project for replacing or rebuilding existing disaster-
related damaged property
. Up to 50% of the total cost for all other projects
Capital Fund General Timeline:
. June 10-web site should be operational at www.iiobsiowa.Qov.
. June 15--IFA will post on web site a "notice of intention to apply" form that they will
ask each potential applicant to submit.
. June 15-28-I-Jobs board will hold meetings around the state to educate Iowans and
potential applicants about the program
. June 29-Full I-Jobs board to meet in Cedar Rapids; expected to approve $46.5
million in non-competitive grants
. July 1-August 3-Applications can be submitted for competitive pool of I-Jobs
restricted capital funds
. August 14-Review Committee will meet to review all applications
. August 31-Fulll-Jobs board will meet and make first round of awards from
competitive grant pool of funds
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CULVER/JUDGE
JOBS
IOWA'S INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT INITIATIVE
Frequently Asked Questions
What is I-JOBS?
Governor Culver's signature initiative, I-JOBS will strengthen Iowa's economy, help our state recover from the
natural disasters of 2008, and preserve or create thousands of jobs. The $830 million three-year program
includes several parts but focuses on public infrastructure, transportation, disaster recovery & prevention,
environment & water quality, telecommunications & renewable energy and housing.. I-JOBS is funded with
existing state gaming revenue, meaning no increase in taxes.
What is the role of the I-JOBS Board of Directors?
The Iowa Legislature charged the I-JOBS Board of Directors with establishing, overseeing and providing
approval of the I-JOBS Local Infrastructure Program. The Board will encourage and support public
construction projects related to disaster relief and mitigation. I-JOBS includes $165 million for this purpose:
· $46.5 million in grants targeted to Linn County, Cedar Rapids, Palo, Elkader and Charles City
· $118.5 million in competitive grants to be awarded to cities, counties, and nonprofit organizations
Who administers the I-JOBS programs that the I-JOBS Board does not?
I-JOBS includes several components; public infrastructure, transportation, disaster recovery & prevention,
environment & water quality, telecommunications & renewable energy and housing. Various state agencies will
administer these programs. The I-JOBS Board will oversee only disaster recovery, prevention and local
infrastructure.
When will Linn County, Cedar Rapids, Palo, Elkader and Charles City receive the funds that are
earmarked for them?
The I-JOBS legislation states that these entities must submit a plan to the I-JOBS Board no later than September
1,2009, detailing a description of the project, a plan to rebuild, and the amount or percentage of federal, state,
local or private matching moneys that will or have been approved for the project. Those plans may be submitted
to:
Iowa Finance Authority
Attn: Joseph Jones
2015 Grand Ave.
Des Moines, Iowa 50312
joseph.jones@iowa.gov
Funds not utilized in accordance with this rule shall revert to the I-JOBS competitive grant program for disaster
recovery, prevention and local infrastructure.
When can my community/county/nonprofit organization apply for competitive funds for disaster
recovery & prevention?
A Notice ofIntent to Apply for the noncompetitive funds is available now at www.IowaFinanceAuthority.gov.
The program's application will be available on July 1. The first deadline for the funds is August 3. Additional
funding rounds will follow. The I-JOBS Board will review and approve competitive grant applications for
disaster recovery, prevention and local infrastructure.
How are I-JOBS funds appropriated and who administers each I-JOBS program?
Funding For Veterans Home, Community Colleges, And Other Public Improvements: $285 Million
. $185 million to improve public facilities across Iowa, such as the Iowa Veterans Home, correction
facilities, and our community colleges.
. $100 million for further investments in state public infrastructure, including state parks.
o These funds are direct appropriations
Continuing Flood Recovery And Rebuilding: $165 Million
. $118.5 million in competitive grants available for reconstruction of local public buildings and flood
control prevention in communities hit by last year's disasters.
o Administered by: I-JOBS Board of Directors
. $46.5 million in grants targeted for help to Linn County, Cedar Rapids, and to rebuild fire stations in
Palo, Elkader, and Charles City.
o Administered by: I-JOBS Board of Directors
Improving Iowa's Transportation Infrastructure: $115 Million
. $50 million to improve the safety ofIowa's bridges.
. $55 million to cities and counties to improve local roads, including many roads still damaged by last
year's natural disasters.
. $10 million invested in airports, rail and trails.
o These programs are administered by the Iowa Department of Transportation
Rebuilding Iowa's Universities: $115 Million
. $100 Million to rebuild 10 buildings destroyed by flooding at the University of Iowa, which will allow
the use of nearly $500 Million in federal funds
. $15 Million to build a veterinary hospital lab at Iowa State University
o These funds are direct appropriations
Improving Our Environment And Water Quality: $80 Million
. $35 million to help construct sewers in communities under 10,000.
o Administered by: Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship
. $20 million in competitive grants for communities of any size for water improvement projects.
o Administered by: Iowa Department of Natura I Resources
. $25 million to water-quality projects, including flood prevention, as well as soil conservation practices.
o Administered by: Iowa Finance Authority
Meeting Iowa's Housing Needs: $35 Million
. $20 million invested in affordable housing for elderly, disabled, and low-income Iowans.
. $10 million to construct or improve shelters for domestic abuse, emergencies, and the homeless.
. $5 million to repair homes damaged by last year's floods.
o These programs administered by the Iowa Finance Authority
Investing In Telecommunications And Renewable Energy: $35 Million
. $25 million invested in improving access to technology throughout Iowa.
o Administered by: Iowa Energy Center
. $10 million to create a revolving loan program to support alternative energy projects to support both
new jobs and energy independence.
o Administered by: Iowa Telecommunications & Technology Commission