HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-11-04 AgendaPacket-Transportation Commission Meeting-November 4, 2024 3.30 PM
TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION MEETING
City Council Chambers, 33 East Broadway Avenue Meridian, Idaho
Monday, November 04, 2024 at 3:30 PM
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Agenda
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ROLL-CALL ATTENDANCE
_____ David Ballard _____ John Wasson, Ex-Officio - ACHD
_____ Zachary Shoemaker _____ Lila Klopfenstein, Ex-Officio - COMPASS
_____ Ryan Lancaster _____ Miranda Carson, Ex-Officio - WASD
_____ Walter Steed _____ Alissa Taysom, Ex-Officio - VRT
_____ Tracy Hopkins _____ Justin Price, Ex-Officio - ITD
_____ Stephen Lewis _____ Sgt. Tara Smith - Police
_____ Jared Smith _____ Tishra Murray - Legal
_____ Tom LeClaire _____ Hether Hill – Community Development
_____ Lilly Miller _____ Caleb Hood – Community Development
INTRODUCTION OF NEW YOUTH COMMISSIONER LILLY MILLER
ADOPTION OF AGENDA [ACTION ITEM]
APPROVAL OF MINUTES [ACTION ITEM]
1. Approval of Minutes - October 7, 2024
1
OLD BUSINESS [ACTION ITEM]
2. Transportation Project Updates
3. Corporate Dr. / S. Progress Ave.
4. Tree Farm Way / Chinden Blvd.
NEW BUSINESS [ACTION ITEM]
5. Ex-Officio Updates
6. Staff Communications
FUTURE MEETING TOPICS
7. Franklin, McDermott to Black Cat Project Update
8. ACHD Master Street Map Changes – Arterial Corridor Preservation (Cherry Lane)
9. Capital Investments Citizens Advisory Committee (CICAC) Update
10. Baraya Subdivision
11. Transportation Commission Bylaws
12. ACHD Queuing Analysis
NEXT MEETING - December 2, 2024
ADJOURNMENT
2
Meeting Minutes
Meridian Transportation Commission
Monday, October 7, 2024
Council Chambers – Meridian City Hall 33 East Broadway Ave., Meridian, Idaho
Roll Call
MEMBERS
☒David Ballard ☒Walter Steed ☐Zach Shoemaker
☒Ryan Lancaster ☒Stephen Lewis ☒Tracy Hopkins
☒Jared Smith ☐Tom LeClaire
EX-OFFICIO
☒John Wasson (ACHD) ☒Lila Klopfenstein (COMPASS) ☒Miranda Carson (WASD)
☒Alissa Taysom (VRT) ☒Justin Price (ITD)
OTHERS PRESENT
☒Sgt. Tara Smith (Police) ☒ Tishra Murray (Legal) ☒Caleb Hood (Comm. Dev.)
☒Hether Hill (Comm. Dev.)
Adoption of the Agenda
No changes were made to the agenda by staff or commissioners. Motion to approve by
Commissioner Ballard, 2nd by Commissioner Hopkins - all ayes.
Approval of Minutes
1. August 5, 2024
Motion to approve by Commissioner Ballard, 2nd by Commissioner Hopkins - all ayes.
Old Business Items
2. Transportation Projects Update – Hether Hill
Ms. Hill began on Page 6 of the packet and recommended the Commission review the updates
provided in bolded text through page 13. Ms. Hill noted there were no significant updates month
over month and mentioned ITD will provide project updates for November’s meeting. There were
no further questions or comments from the Commission.
3. Traffic Impact Study Overview – Mindy Wallace (ACHD)
Ms. Wallace provided an overview of the Traffic Impact Study process at ACHD via PowerPoint.
Following Ms. Wallace’s presentation, there were questions and discussion ensued.
3
Item 1.
New Business Items [ACTION ITEM]
4. Corporate Dr. / S. Progress Ave.
John Wasson (ACHD) requested to address this topic at the November meeting and Chair Steed
agreed. This item will be continued in November.
5. Tree Farm Way / Chinden Blvd.
John Wasson (ACHD) and Justin Price (ITD) requested to address this topic at the November
meeting and Chair Steed agreed. Coordination with Meridian Police may also be required. This
agenda topic will be continued in November.
6. VRT Ridership Update – Alissa Taysom (VRT)
Ms. Taysom provided a verbal summary of Meridian ridership following the June 2024 Service
Change the demographics of riders on fixed route bus services. The agenda packet much of the
content and a report of Ms. Taysom’s discussion topics. Following the presentation, the
Commissioner’s had questions and discussion ensued.
7. Ex-Officio Updates
Justin Price – ITD is compiling feedback and comments received from the open houses held for
the Eagle Road Safety Pilot Project. A summary will be shared when available.
Alissa Taysom – Valley Connect 3.0 update has launched.
Miranda Carson – WASD is working with campuses to improve traffic flow; the new school bus
badge system is up and running; student ridership is up.
Lila Klopfenstein – The public comment period is open for the Let’s Ride Treasure Valley transit
study and COMPASS has recently launched the “Good Move” campaign.
John Wasson – Mr. Wasson has been working on traffic assessments and discussion ensued
between the Commission and Mr. Wasson regarding the traffic calming process.
8. Staff Communications
Ms. Hill provided three updates not included in the packet : 1) ACHD adopted the IFYWP on
September 25th; 2) ACHD also adopted the Linder Road Concept Study #2 at the same public
hearing on September 25th; 3) a youth commissioner will be appointed to the Transportation
Commission by resolution at the October 15th City Council Meeting.
Staff Communications began on page 75 of the packet. Chair Steed went through each of the
correspondence items (eight total),which prompted discussion with the Commission, Ex-Officios
and City staff.
FUTURE MEETING TOPICS
9. Franklin, McDermott to Black Cat Project Update
10. ACHD Master Street Map Changes – Arterial Corridor Preservation (Cherry Lane)
11. Capital Investments Citizens Advisory Committee (CICAC) Update
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Item 1.
12. Baraya Subdivision
13. Transportation Commission Bylaws
Next Meeting Date: November 4, 2024
Adjournment; 5:24pm – Motion by Commissioner Ballard, 2nd by Commissioner Lewis - all ayes.
(AUDIO RECORDING AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST)
APPROVED:
_______________________ _______________
WALTER STEED, CHAIR DATE
ATTEST:
________________________ _______________
CHRIS JOHNSON (City Clerk) DATE
5
Item 1.
MEMO TO CITY COUNCIL AND
TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
From: Hether Hill, Coordination Planner Meeting Date: November 4, 2024
Topic: Transportation Project Updates
Below is a summary/update on some of the transportation and roadway City Staff has been involved
with recently. This is not an exhaustive list, but rather highlights some of the more important activities
that have recently transpired (or are about to occur) in the tr ansportation realm. Staff will be at the
Transportation Commission meeting to discuss some of these topics in more detail. Please feel free to
contact staff should you have any comments, concerns, or questions on any of these projects. New
information is in bold.
KEY ACHD PROJECTS
ACHD Integrated Five-Year Work Program: The 2025-2029 IFYWP can be found here:
https://engage.achdidaho.org/integrated-five-year-work-plan-ifywp-2025-
2029?utm_campaign=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govDelivery The IFYWP was adopted on
September 25th.
Amity Rd and Locust Grove Rd & Amity Road, Meridian to Locust Grove: These projects were
presented to the ACHD Commission on September 13th to discuss the projects status, questions and
concerns from the public, and the letters the City has submitted. Project future is currently unknown
with indefinite pause pending new direction from t he ACHD Commission. Project Website:
https://engage.achdidaho.org/amity-road-and-locust-grove-road-intersection
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
Eagle Road, Lake Hazel to Amity: Landscaping within the roundabout at Taconic will be included in the
Cost Share Permit. 95% design is complete. Widen Eagle to 5 lanes with curb, gutter, sidewalk and a
multi-use pathway. Includes a multi-lane roundabout at Eagle Rd and Taconic Dr. Road closure starting
September 16th, removing asphalt pavement on September 17th with expected completion
November 2025. Project website: https://engage.achdidaho.org/eagle-road-lake-hazel-road-to-amity-
road.
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
Fairview, Jericho Road to Eagle & Locust Grove/Fairview Signal: Widen intersection to 9 lanes on
Fairview and 7 lanes on Locust Grove. Widen Fairview to 7 lanes with curb, gutter, sidewalk and Level 3
bike facility. Currently in ROW phase; construction is expected to start 2029. This project is
exceptionally complex with multiple curbs, materials, and elevations. Z-crossing just west of
Fairview/Webb in design. Here is a link to the project website: https://engage.achdidaho.org/fairview-
6
Item 2.
avenue-jericho-road-to-eagle-road
City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
Franklin, McDermott to Black Cat: Widening Franklin Rd to 5 lanes between McDermott Rd and Black
Cat Rd, and improving the intersection of Franklin Rd and McDermott Rd. The Franklin Rd and
McDermott Rd intersection is a joint project with Nampa Highway Dis trict No. 1. City/ACHD
partnership on landscaping in the medians/buffers and future location for a “Welcome to Meridian”
sign being considered. Stormwater swales envisioned behind curb. 95% design plan-in-hand scheduled
for August 28th. Design in FY24-25, Right of Way in FY28-29, notice to proceed scheduled for future.
Posted speed to be 35 MPH but no design elements contemplated to support. Here is a link to the
project website: https://engage.achdidaho.org/franklin-road-mcdermott-road-to-black-cat-
road?utm_campaign=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govDelivery
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
Lake Hazel and Eagle Signal: The design includes significant grade changes of the existing intersection
and will integrate large retaining walls. Widen and signalize intersection to 4/5 lanes on Eagle and 3/4
lanes on Lake Hazel with multiuse pathway connections. Project will be constructed as part of Eagle
Road, Lake Hazel to Amity widening. On 90-day construction bid list for June 2024 with notice to
proceed in September. Project website: https://engage.achdidaho.org/lake-hazel-and-eagle-
intersection.
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
Lake Hazel Road, Locust Grove Road to Meridian Road: Brighton owns multiple parcels of land between
S Apex Avenue and S Meridian Road. Per their requirements from the City of Meridian they are
required to complete a significant utility upgrade that will require the roadway be reconstructed. ACHD
Commission has approved a Cooperative Development Agreement for the reconstruction and widening
of E Lake Hazel Road between S Apex Avenue and S Meridian Road to 5 -lanes, with 10-foot wide
concrete multi-use pathways on both sides of the road. Lake Hazel is currently closed in this section for
related improvements.
Lake Hazel Road, Eagle to Cloverdale: Widen Lake Hazel Rd to five 11’ lanes with curb gutter and 10’
detached multiuse path on both sides. Bridge improvement included to remove and replace the
existing bridge over the Ten Mile Creek. Project will include swales adjacent to the roadway. Design is
complete. Design 2022-2023; ROW; 2024; Construction 2027. City to cost share on continuous lighting
within Meridian City limits (not Boise). Project Website:
https://engage.achdidaho.org/lake_hazel_eagle_cloverdale.
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
Linder, Overland to Franklin (Overpass of I-84): Widen Linder Rd to 5 lanes with a bicycle and
pedestrian facility from Overland Rd to Franklin Rd. Project includes a new I -84 overpass,
improvements to the Overland and Franklin intersections, and connection of W Verbena Dr across
Linder. The City is funding design; design is complete. ROW is programmed at ACHD for 2024-2025 and
construction is programmed for 2026-2027 in the IFYWP. https://engage.achdidaho.org/linder-road-
overpass-franklin-road-to-overland-road The City has been awarded $4.3M from ITD towards
completion of this project. The City and ACHD have entered into an agreement to spend the Strategic
Initiative Funds in 2025. City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
7
Item 2.
Linder, Ustick to Pine (concept): The project team met to review concepts. Also, the ACHD Pedestrian
Advisory Group (PAG), ACHD Commissioners, and City staff did an onsite review of the existing
conditions on this stretch of road. In all concepts impacts to some properties would have left
substandard conditions for parking and exacerbated backout parking concerns for all users. New
concepts discussed include 3 and 5-lane designs with shared roads, roundabout couplets for improved
safety/access with turning restrictions, and enhanced speed mitigation features to promote school and
park access. A traditional 5-lane design with the most property acquisitions is also being considered.
The Transportation Commission recommended a 5-lane option to Council. On June 18th, 2024 City
Council gave general support for a traditional 5-lane option. Project Website:
https://engage.achdidaho.org/linder-road-pine-avenue-to-ustick-road.
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
McMillan/Black Cat Roundabout: Multi-lane roundabout with truck apron, curb, gutter, and 10-foot-
wide multi-use pathways. Crosswalk at each leg with two stage pedestrian crossings and rectangular
rapid flashing beacons (RRFBs) at each pedestrian crossing. City is partnering with ACHD on Tier 1
landscape improvements in the RAB (conduit for now, landscape in the future), splitter is lands and 4-
foot buffer areas. 99% designed. Construction is planned for 2029 in the IFYWP.
https://engage.achdidaho.org/mcmillan-and-black-cat-intersection
City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
Overland and Linder, Linder Rd. Overpass – Phase 1: Reconstruct and widen the intersection and
construct the new lanes north of the intersection. Additionally, this project will include APS, MUP’s,
bulb-outs and small retaining wall. On 90-day construction bid list for November 2024 with Notice to
Proceed (construction) in February 2025.
Star Road Bridges: Replace two bridges over the Five Mile Creek and Five Mile Feeder. Bridge width will
support future widening to 5-lanes and a type 3 bike facility (MUP). This project is substantially
completed.
Ustick, Ten Mile to Linder: Widen Ustick Rd to 5 lanes with curb, gutter, cen ter medians, and multi-use
pathway from Ten Mile Rd to Linder Rd. Right-of-way is scheduled for 2025 in the adopted IFYWP and
construction is planned for 2026. Median landscaping is being explored by the project team. Concept
includes pedestrian bridge crossing over Five Mile Creek with a signalized crossing at Ustick. Design will
include multiuse pathways. A retaining wall will be necessary along Five Mile Creek. No
sidewalk/pathways along Five Mile Creek where retaining wall to be located; connection will rely on
City pathway on north side of creek (in Bridgetower).
https://engage.achdidaho.org/ustick_ten_mile_linder
City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
Ustick, Black Cat to Ten Mile: Widen to 5-lanes with center medians. Signalized crossing at Naomi
(location of new ACHD maintenance facility, south of City wastewater facility. Anticipated Notice to
Proceed is November 7, 2024. Pre-construction meeting is October 24th.
https://engage.achdidaho.org/ustick_black_cat_ten_mile
City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
Ustick, Owyhee Storm to Black Cat: Widen to two lanes in each direction, with a center turn lane and
median islands where the center turn lane is not needed for access. Project includes 10 -foot wide
8
Item 2.
multi-use pathways on each side, curb and gut ter. ROW planned for 2026; construction 2027 in the
current IFYWP. Project cost is estimated at $11M. https://engage.achdidaho.org/ustick-road-owyhee-
storm-avenue-to-black-cat-road
City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
ACHD CAPITAL MAINTENANCE
Residential Capital Maintenance includes conducting field reconnaissance and collecting survey data to
determine an improvement strategy for deteriorated/non-compliant facilities such as: pavement,
drainage, pipes, sidewalks, ramps. ACHD aims for bringing the segments up to Complete Streets
standards where possible. Existing non-compliant pedestrian ramp and driveway access points located
along each roadway segment will be identified to be upgraded to meet ADA compliance. Reasonable
attempts will be made to improve each pedestrian ramp as directional, not diagonal.
Meridian Downtown Pavement and Pedestrian Improvements (2025): Formerly named: “FY2022
Residential Capital Maintenance”. The project goal is to rehabilitate pavement and add pedestrian
improvements including sidewalk and bulb-outs. Segments include: W 3rd St, W Pine to north end; E
Broadway Ave, E 3rd to E 6th; W Cherry Ave, NW 4th St to Meridian Rd; W Idaho Ave, W 8th St to N
Meridian Rd; W Maple Ave, W 1st St to N Meridian Rd; W 2nd St, W Cherry Ave to W Cherry Ln; NW 4th
S, W Broadway Ave to Maple Ave. https://engage.achdidaho.org/2022-residential-capital-maintenance
Segments E Washington Ave, NW 7th to Meridian Rd; NW 7th St, W Washington St to middle school
micro-path (currently adding sidewalk, no pavement rehab, could change); and W 6th St, W
Washington St to W Carlton Ave are also part of this project, but have a separate web page:
https://engage.achdidaho.org/washington-street-and-6th-street On 90-day construction bid list for
October 2024 with Notice to Proceed (construction) in January 2025.
City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
Arterial and Collector Capital Maintenance: Pavement rehabilitation and upgraded pedestrian
ramps. Segments include Hubbard Rd, Ten Mile Rd to Meridian Rd and includes filling select sidewalk
gaps along the corridor. On 90-day construction bid list for November 2024 with Notice to Proceed
(construction) in February 2025.
Residential Pavement and Pedestrian Improvements (2026): Segments included: 1st St W, south end to
Franklin Road; Rose Circle; Country Terrace Way S, south end to Overland Road; Blossom Pl, south end
to W McGlinchey Ave; McGlinchey Ave, Blossom Pl to NW 8th St; Interlachen Ct, west end to
Interlachen Way; Laurel Ct, south end to Verbena Dr; Tobago Ct. E., west end to SE 5 th Way; Larkspur
Ct, south end to Verbena Dr; Lilac St, south end to Waltman St; Lavender Ct, south end to Verbena Dr;
Sugar Creek, south end to Sugar Creek Dr; Lawndale Dr, McGlinchey Ave to Crestmont Dr; Cruser Dr,
west end to Five Mile Rd; and Francine Pl S, Victory Rd to S Francine Ln. ACHD project number: 521060.
Project team meeting held April 12th.
City Staff Contact: Hether Hill, Community Development
9
Item 2.
ITD PROJECTS (Updated by ITD Staff October 2024)
ChindenWest Corridor: This project will result in 4 travel lanes (two in each direction). Widening will
take place to the south of the existing alignment and be constructed to accommodate future widening
to 6 travel lanes (three in each direction) with high -capacity intersections at roads with river crossings.
Project website: US-20/26 ChindenWest | ITD Projects (idaho.gov)
Star Road to ID-16: Project is entering final acceptance and closeout process.
ITD Project Manager: JD Lewelling, JD.Lewelling@itd.idaho.gov
Middleton Road to Star Road: Final design for east and west sections was completed in September and
October 2023, respectively. PS&E is scheduled for mid to late 2025 for both the east (Key No. 24310)
and west (Key No. 24309) packages. Construction expected to start in fall of 2025 depending upon
right-of-way acquisition. Construction funding has yet to be identified.
https://chindenwest.com/middletontostar/
City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
ITD Project Manager: Jeff Nettleton, jeff.nettleton@itd.idaho.gov
Idaho Highway 16 extension, I-84 to U.S. 20/26
Project website: itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/sh16corridor
I-84 to Franklin: Contract completion date is Winter 2024. Construction is nearing completion on the
new I-84 interchange between Garrity and Ten Mile and widening Franklin Road.
ITD Project Manager: Jeff Ryan, Jeff.Ryan@itd.idaho.gov
Ustick to Chinden: Contract completion date is Fall 2026. Work started on the US20/26 and SH 16
Interchange Bridge. McDermott Bypass at Ustick is now open, and the McDermott and Ustick
intersection is now shifted east. This intersection has temporary signals and will soon have
permanent signals. US20/26 (Chinden) will have 4 lanes including the use of north ramps before
winter. For the next 18 months expect some US20/26 restrictions in this area for construction of the
bridge. Construction for widening Ustick at SH 16 will begin this winter. The new Ersatz road north
of McMillan is complete. Large trucking operations continue is this area for construction of the
roadway.
ITD Project Manager: Dan Gorley, Dan.Gorley@itd.idaho.gov
Franklin to Ustick: Contract completion date is Fall 2026. Work on the railroad bridge north of Franklin
continues and girders should be placed in the next few months. Crews continue working on the
Cherry Lane Bridge overpass, Quasi Place Bridge over Ten Mile Creek, and SH 16 Bridge over Ten Mile
Creek. Large trucking operations continue is this area for construction of the roadway.
ITD Project Manager: Dan Gorley, Dan.Gorley@itd.idaho.gov
Interstate 84 Eastbound Auxiliary Lane, Meridian Interchange to Eagle Interchange: This project will
add a second on-ramp lane eastbound at Meridian Interchange, an auxiliary (fifth) lane between
Meridian Interchange to Eagle Interchange, and a second off-ramp lane at Eagle Interchange. A virtual
public open house was held February 13-28, 2024. Work continues on the environmental
documentation and the Interchange Modification Report. The new FY 2025 – FY 2031 ITIP shows $14.5
10
Item 2.
million in construction funding in the year 2031. https://itdprojects.org/projects/i-84-meridian-
interchange-to-eagle-interchange-auxiliary-lane/
ITD Project Manager: Mark Wasdahl, Mark.Wasdahl@itd.idaho.gov
FY24 Surface Treatments US 20/26 & SH 44: Sealcoat approximately 107 lane miles of US 20/26 and
SH-44 this summer. Some patching remains to be completed. Contractor is currently working through
punch list items.
ITD Project Manager: Walter Olin, Walter.Olin@itd.idaho.gov
SH-55 Eagle Road Safety Review: An inter-agency team was assembled to discuss a safety review of
Eagle Road, I-84 to SH-44. The safety review, which included a speed study, was completed at the end
of February 2023. ITD has presented to City Council several times, the last time was on September 5,
2023. ITD shared what was found in the safety review and showed what sign and striping
improvements were made as a result. They also shared that the speed study showed that no change
to the enforceable speed limits on Eagle Rd were recommended. ITD recognizes the city’s concerns
regarding the daily congestion on Eagle Rd and proposed implementing advisory speed limit signage
with flashing beacons. These would be activated during the busiest times of the day. The purpose
would be to alert the public of times when congestion is most likely. After the presentation there were
concerns from the mayor and at least one council member due to advisory speeds not being
enforceable. ITD and the city continue to engage to find the best solution for the traveling public on
Eagle Rd. An additional inter-agency team with law enforcement, the city, ITD, and other agencies will
be put together in the coming months to continue discussions. While different agencies may have
different goals, the main goal we all agree on is keeping the public safe and ensuring drivers can get to
where they need to go as efficiently and safely as possible. An inter-agency team was assembled to
discuss a safety review of Eagle Road, I-84 to SH-44. The safety review, which included a speed study,
was completed at the end of February 2023. ITD has presented to City Council several times, the last
time was on September 5, 2023. ITD shared what was found in the safety review a nd showed what sign
and striping improvements were made as a result. They also shared that the speed study showed that
no change to the enforceable speed limits on Eagle Rd were recommended. ITD recognizes the city’s
concerns regarding the daily congestion on Eagle Rd and proposed implementing advisory speed limit
signage with flashing beacons. These would be activated during the busiest times of the day. The
purpose would be to alert the public of times when congestion is most likely. After the presentation
there were concerns from the mayor and at least one council member due to advisory speeds not
being enforceable. ITD and the city continue to engage to find the best solution for the traveling public
on Eagle Rd. An additional inter-agency team with law enforcement, the city, ITD, and other agencies
was put together. They met to look at other options on how to make it a safety corridor with warning
signs, closing some unsignalized left turns, and potentially adding variable speed limits. After the law
enforcement meeting, there were two public open houses. Currently the comments from the open
houses have been reviewed, and a proposal from ITD taking the comments into consideration will be
forthcoming. While different agencies may have different goals, the main goal we all agree on is
keeping the public safe and ensuring drivers can get to where they need to go as efficiently and safely
as possible.
ITD Contact: Justin Price, Justin.Price@itd.idaho.gov
I-84 Mobility Improvement Study: This study will determine whether additional auxiliary lanes and
other improvements are needed to smooth merge hesitations, achieve better traffic distribution, and
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Item 2.
achieve lane balance for the 11-mile section of Interstate 84 between the Garrity Interchange in
Nampa and the I-84/I-184 Wye Interchange in Boise. Existing traffic counts will be collected, future
traffic counts will be developed, existing conditions will be reviewed along with all previous
environmental and operational studies, traffic will be modeled, an origin-destination study will be
conducted, and a phasing plan developed. A scope of work is being developed with HDR following a
Request for Proposals consultant selection process.
ITD Project Manager: Mark Wasdahl, Mark.Wasdahl@itd.idaho.gov
SH-69 Traffic Study: This study will identify roadway improvements necessary to accommodate traffic
through 2050. Corridor vision and project status update will be presented to the Idaho Transportation
Board at its December 2024 meeting.
ITD Project Manager: Mark Wasdahl, Mark.Wasdahl@itd.idaho.gov
PATHWAYS (Updated by City Parks Staff April 2024)
Nine Mile Creek, Linder to Meridian: In initiating the land trade, parks staff discovered a strip of
easement belonging to Nampa and Meridian Irrigation District that can accommodate the pathway,
rendering a land trade unnecessary. The current (funded) project phase will run from NW 3rd Street
along the Ninemile Creek as far as approximately 8th Street. In April, staff received approval to
request additional funding from LHTAC for construction of this segment, as costs have risen
significantly since funds were originally allocated. Staff is currently working with an engineering
consultant, with plans expected to be complete in 2025, and project construction in 26/27. A future
City project (not yet funded) proposes to extend the Rail With Trail Pathway west as far as Li nder Road.
Five Mile Creek Pathway: This project, which includes 2/3 of a mile of newly paved pathway along the
south bank of the Fivemile Creek, and a pedestrian bridge crossing of the Ninemile Creek, is now
complete. It connects 3 miles of existing pathway in northwest Meridian with more than 4 miles of
existing pathway to the east, allowing for approximately 8 miles of continuous multi-use pathway
through Meridian, primarily along the Fivemile Creek.
OTHER PROJECTS
MDC, Downtown Parking Efforts: MDC is working on an update to Destination Downtown. Part of this
is parking analysis. The MDC consultant is wrapping-up the Parking Management Strategies &
Implementation Guide. MDC and City Staff met in late January to discuss next steps.
12
Item 2.
MEMO TO TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
Agenda Topic on the Transportation Commission Agenda
From: Hether Hill Meeting Date: November 4, 2024
Topic: Staff Communications
Below are summaries of relevant correspondences received by City Staff since the last TC meeting.
CORRESPONDENCE #1:
Good afternoon Dayna,
Thank you for your email, it has been received by the Mayor’s Office, we appreciate you contacting us and
sharing your concerns about traffic and speeding vehicles in your neighborhood.
Our Transportation Commission and supporting staff review these types of concerns and issues. I have copied
Hether Hill, the Long Range Associate Coordination Planner, and ask that she reach out to you to discuss the
issues and get some additional details so she can help determine the best path forward.
Additionally, I have copied our Police Chief, Tracy Basterrechea on this email so he is aware of your experiences
and I will ask that he look into traffic enforcement in that area, and what options there may be from an
enforcement standpoint, and coordinate with Hether as well.
As the Ada County Highway District (ACHD) regulates the local roads in Meridian and are the lead agency that
manages traffic calming measures, I want to be sure you also have their information. There is a link (found HERE)
on ACHDs webpage at the bottom of the Traffic Calming page that allows you to complete a Traffic Investigation
Report form their team. I encourage you and Hether to talk first before entering a ticket as Hether can help
identify the best first steps as our Transportation Commission and staff regularly engages with ACHD as well.
Again, thank you for reaching out, as we appreciate you sharing your thoughts and bringing this to our attention.
Josha Iverson| Executive Assistant
City of Meridian | Mayor’s Office
33 E. Broadway Ave., Meridian, Idaho 83642
Phone: (208) 489-0529
Built for Business, Designed for Living
All e-mail messages sent to or received by City of Meridian e-mail accounts are subject to the Idaho law,
in regards to both release and retention, and may be released upon request, unless exempt from disclosure by law
13
Item 6.
From: daynamarie627@gmail.com <daynamarie627@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, October 9, 2024 3:12 PM
To: Mayor Office Feedback <MayorOfficeFeedback@meridiancity.org>; citycouncil
<citycouncil@meridiancity.org>
Subject: Request for Mayor and Council
Name: Dayna Clough
Email: daynamarie627@gmail.com
Address: 3496 North Cooper Ave, , Meridian, Idaho, 83646, United States
Subject: Unsafe Traffic on Ustick
Message: Hello,
I am writing to start a converstation about the stretch of road between Meridian and Linder on Ustick. I live just
off this road down Venable and travel multiple times a day on this stretch. I personally have seen 2 car accidents
right in front of me from people turning left onto Ustick, multiple close calls, and car speeds of up to 55 mph if I
were to guess. My thought is that once people pass Settler's Park heading west they pick up speed and create a
very unsafe intersection for people turning left onto Ustick. Not only that, but the increase in housing has
created even more traffic on these side streets, and drivers (in my opinion) are feeling pressure to take risks in
response to the frequent backups. There are only 2 speed limit signs on this stretch and not very noticeable in
my opinion. I have a new driver and 2 soon-to-be drivers and it's scary as a parent to have them on the road
with so many distracted and speeding drivers, especially on this road. I hardly ever see it being patrolled either.
Perhaps putting up more signage, a speed radar sign, or even a light at Venable to create a safer intersection
would be helpful. Thank you for your time and reading my email. You may contact me if you wish.
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Item 6.
CORRESPONDENCE #2:
From: Hether Hill
Sent: Tuesday, October 15, 2024 1:04 PM
To: Greg Agius <greg.agius@gmail.com>
Cc: Liz Strader <lstrader@meridiancity.org>
Subject: RE: Bike Lane Issues
Good afternoon,
Thank you for reaching out. As Councilwoman Strader mentioned, I am the staff liaison to the Meridian
Transportation Commission and to partner agencies on transportation related issues. I will present your
concerns to the Commission, which also includes representation from our partner agencies (ITD, ACHD, West
Ada School District and Police) during November’s Transportation Commission Meeting. I will also include your
correspondence as part of the agenda packet for their review. This is common practice for correspondence
received regarding traffic and/or safety concerns on our local road network.
In response to your question about contacting ACHD, I recommend reaching out them directly
at tellus@achdidaho.org or by going to their site: https://www.achdidaho.org/community-resources/report-an-
issue. ACHD also has several bicycle resources on their website: https://www.achdidaho.org/my-
commute/bicycle-resources I will coordinate with ITD specific to the concerns with road debris on Chinden.
You are correct in that a roundabout is being designed for McMillan and Black Cat. Construction is currently
programmed for 2029 and may be subject to change. ACHD has a webpage specific to this project, including the
proposed improvements, which you may find informative: https://engage.achdidaho.org/mcmillan-and-black-
cat-intersection
I hear you and appreciate you sharing your concerns. I’ll be in touch with you following the November 4th
meeting. If you don’t hear from me, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Hether Hill | Long Range Associate Coordination Planner
City of Meridian | Community Development
33 E. Broadway Ave., Suite 102
Meridian, Idaho 83642
Phone: 208-489-0319
Built for Business, Designed for Living
www.meridiancity.org
All e-mail messages sent to or received by City of Meridian e-mail accounts are subject to the Idaho law, in regards to both release and
retention, and may be released upon request, unless exempt from disclosure by law.
From: Greg Agius <greg.agius@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, October 15, 2024 8:38 AM
To: Liz Strader <lstrader@meridiancity.org>
Cc: Hether Hill <hhill@meridiancity.org>
Subject: Re: Bike Lane Issues
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Item 6.
External Sender - Please use caution with links or attachments.
Thanks both. Is there a good way to communicate these issues to achd?
I will look at the plans you sent. I know a traffic circle is coming to Black Cat and Mcmillian and hopefully that
will include some accommodation for cyclists and pedestrians. Currently it’s impassable even for pedestrians.
My my frequent issues for cycling access involves either Ten Mile or Linder. Ten Mile has a bike lane but the area
between mcmilliam and Ustick frequently has construction debris.
Linder has an inconsistent bike lane and considerable debris running north into Eagle from Chinden. The closure
of Eagle Island has made it impossible to avoid.
Greg Agius
310-923-5313
On Mon, Oct 14, 2024 at 10:24 PM Liz Strader <lstrader@meridiancity.org> wrote:
Hi Mr. Agius,
The pedestrian and bike facilities on Black Cat have been a huge source of frustration for us, so I share in your
comments!
The ACHD controls our roads and bike lanes, but thank you for reaching out because these are all important
comments for us! While the City of Meridian doesn't control the bike lanes directly, we do have a liason who
works closely with ACHD. We also have a Meridian Task Force that is focused on these crossings and so forth
and elevating the highest priority items.
I am cc'ing Heather our liason for transportation issues to see if she can follow up on this feedback. Heather - let
us know please if we can make sure to get some remediation of Chinden going as well as feedback on this
crossing issue as soon as possible.
My other suggestion which I'm not sure if it will help or not, is to make sure you have a copy of the master
pathways plan for the City of Meridian. The connectivity isn't perfect, but we are adding to it all the time and
there are some great routes where you can avoid the roads almost entirely on the multi-use pathways along the
canals. The master pathways plan is located here, but if you have a specific way you are trying to go we can
probably find someone to advise...
https://meridiancity.org/media/xtbi4402/mpmp_chapter_4_revised_optimized_1-10.pdf
Thank you again, we hope to have some feedback on these items soon.
Liz
From: Greg Agius <greg.agius@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, October 14, 2024 1:26 PM
To: Liz Strader <lstrader@meridiancity.org>
Subject: Bike Lane Issues
External Sender - Please use caution with links or attachments.
Hi Liz - I could use help figuring out whom to address some bike lane issues with. I have a few issues:
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Item 6.
1) The debris left in the bike lanes (and sidewalks) on Chinden from the sealing is a hazard to both cyclists and
motorists. There are piles of small rocks now in the bike lanes and the work was done weeks ago.
2) There are now bike paths in the neighborhoods along Black Cat between McMillian and Ustick. However, the
crossing point on black cat is a hazard. That is a 40 mph road and there isn't even a sign calling out the bike
crossing. One of the paths has poles to block cars, but they are down, the other side has no protection.
3) I also wanted to revisit the general haphazard nature of bike lanes in Meridian, which is still a
persistent problem. The bike paths I mentioned above are great, but one thing that is frustrating is that unless
you live in those areas, you can't get there safely on a bike. Black Cat has no bike lane and not even a sidewalk.
Between Mcmillan and Chinden there is some bike lane on part of Black Cat, but not the whole road and
seemingly without reason.
As you may be aware a cyclist was recently killed on Black Cat in South Meridian last month in an area with no
bike lane.
--
Greg Agius
310-923-5313
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