2021-04-05
TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION MEETING
City Council Chambers, 33 East Broadway Avenue Meridian, Idaho
Monday, April 05, 2021 at 3:30 PM
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Agenda
VIRTUAL MEETING INSTRUCTIONS
Limited seating is available at City Hall. Consider joining the meeting
virtually: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81980576415
Or join by phone: 1-669-900-6833
Webinar ID: 819 8057 6415
ROLL-CALL ATTENDANCE
_____ David Ballard _____ Luke Cavener, Ex-Officio
_____ Zachary Shoemaker _____ Shawn Martin, Ex-Officio
_____ Ryan Lancaster _____ Toni Tisdale, Ex-Officio
_____ Walter Steed _____ Ian Updike, Ex-Officio
_____ Tracy Hopkins _____ Alissa Taysom, Ex-Officio
_____ Stephen Lewis _____ Justin Price, Ex-Officio
_____ Jared Smith
_____ Tom LeClaire
_____ Joseph Leckie
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. March 1, 2021
OLD BUSINESS [ACTION ITEM]
2. Transportation Projects Update - Miranda Carson
NEW BUSINESS [ACTION ITEM]
1
3. Meridian Police Department Update - Sgt Brandon Frasier
4. Washington St, Meridian to Main Parking Complaint - Miranda Carson
5. Staff Communications - Miranda Carson
6. Prioritization Subcommittee Update - Jared Smith
7. Ordinance and Development Subcommittee Update - Tom LeClaire
FUTURE MEETING TOPICS
8. Subcommittee Evaluation - May
9. ACHD Bike and Pedestrian Treatment
10. Comprehensive Plan and Master Mobility Map
11. Harvest Service Update
NEXT MEETING - May 3, 2021
ADJOURNMENT
2
Meeting Minutes
Meridian Transportation Commission
February 1, 2021
Virtual Meeting Information
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87803346531
Or join by phone: Dial 669-900-6833 and enter Webinar ID: 87803346531
Roll Call
(Meeting called to order at 3:30 p.m.; Zoom Meeting started and roll taken)
x Walter Steed x Stephen Lewis (via-zoom) x Shawn Martin (ex-officio via
Zoom)
x David Ballard
(arrived late 3:32)
x Jared Smith (via-zoom 3:37) x Toni Tisdale (ex-officio-via
Zoom)
x Ryan Lancaster
(via zoom)
x Zachary Shoemaker (via-
zoom)
x Ian Updike (ex-officio-via zoom)
x Tom LeClaire
(via-zoom)
x Joseph Leckie (via-zoom) x Alissa Taysom (ex-officio via
Zoom)
x Tracy Hopkins
(via-zoom)
x Luke Cavener (ex-officio via
zoom-arrived late 3:37) x Justin Price (ex-officio via
zoom-late 3:37)
Others Present: Kristy Inselman (zoom), Lindsey Bowshier (zoom), Edinson Bautista (zoom),
Sgt. B Frasier (zoom), E. Kane (zoom), T. Baird (zoom), C. Hood (zoom), and
M. Carson (chambers)
Adoption of the Agenda
Chairman Steed noted there were no changes to the agenda and called for a motion to adopt.
Commissioner Hopkins motioned to adopt as written; second by Commissioner LeClaire - all-
ayes – motion carried.
Approval of Minutes
1. February 1st, 2021
Chairman Steed called for any comments or edits to the February 1, 2021 minutes. A question
was asked/answered regarding a tally of the comments for/against the proposed UTV/ATV
ordinance. Noted corrections are: Commissioner Ballard was present at the February meeting,
and on page 2 Chairman Steed introduced Sgt. Fraiser not Sgt. Arnold. With the noted changes
Chairman Steed called for a motion to approve the February 1, 2021 minutes.
A motion by Commissioner Ballard was made to approve with the noted corrections; second by
Commissioner Hopkins - all ayes-motion passed.
3
Item 1.
Old Business Items
2. 2020 Report to Council (W. Steed)
Chairman Steed provided a brief update on the presentation he made to the City Council and
that he shared the round-about presentation that Commissioner Lancaster had previously
presented to the Commission. Chairman Steed shared the thanks and appreciation to the
Commission for their dedication, passion for transportation and desire for increased involvement
to serve the community from Council President Bernt.
3. Ordinance & Development Subcommittee Update (T. LeClaire)
Commissioner LeClaire noted that the subcommittee met twice in February. The subcommittee
reviewed the feedback that was received after the first draft of the ordinance presented at the
February meeting. Based off the feedback received, the subcommittee met and diligently worked
to come up with a revised ordinance, that addressed the concerns of the public and provide the
needed support for MPD to enforce any approved ordinance. Commission LeClaire noted that
the revise ordinance is in the packet and is asking the Commission to consider this second draft
for consideration for recommendation to City Council. Commissioner LeClaire provided some
clarifying comments regarding the definitions used and the streets of concern noted in the revised
proposed ordinance. Commissioner LeClaire also noted that MPD felt the revisions were suitable
to support their ability to enforce the ordinance if approved.
Chairman Steed offered Ms. Kane and Sgt. Fraiser the opportunity to comment, prior to general
discussion, which took place. Chairman Steed opened the topic for discussion and Commissioner
LeClaire stood for questions, which took place.
Commissioner LeClaire motioned to postpone consideration of the draft proposal and hold this
topic to be discussed under old business at the April 5th meeting and decide at the April meeting
what action should be taken (forward to City Council, kill the proposed ordinance, or conduct
another hearing); second by Commissioner Lancaster – discussion took place and a vote was
called for – 8-ayes, 1 nay – motion passed.
4. Transportation Prioritization Sub Committee Next Steps (J. Smith)
Commissioner Smith will be the Chair for the Transportation Prioritization subcommittee, but
at this time there is no update to provided. The subcommittee will meet in March and provide
an update in April.
Chairman Steed asked Ms. Carson to keep this item on next month’s agenda. Chairman Steed
also noted that ACHD invited Valley Regional Transit to provide prioritization input for projects.
VRT met this morning and covers many jurisdictions, there is currently only one project in
Meridian on their list and Chairman Steed can provide the list if anyone is interested in reviewing
it.
5. Transportation Projects Update (M. Carson)
4
Item 1.
Ms. Carson addressed the Commission and noted that all new items are in bold. Ms. Carson will
not review all items but will highlight a few notable updates and will stand for questions at the
end.
Ms. Carson directed the Commission to page 16 of the packet and began with an update on the
Integrated Five-Year Work Plan (IFYWP). The Council reviewed the proposed priorities
recommendations and sent off to ACHD with minor revisions. The document can be found here:
https://www.achdidaho.org/Departments/PlansProjects/IFYWP.aspx.
Ms. Carson moved onto the Eagle Road, Amity to Victory and roundabout at Amity and updated
that ACHD will include ‘shark-teeth’ striping along with additional signage at the Rome Dr.
crossing. ACHD will reach out to the Tuscany HOA to discuss options to improve visibility
obstructions.
Ms. Carson then noted that construction began in February at the Ten Mile/Amity Intersection
and the installation of an interim traffic signal at Ustick and Black Cat. Next month Ms. Carson
will add the McMillan and Black Cat which will be getting a signal as well.
Ms. Carson highlighted the Ten Mile, Victory to Overland and that the bike facility is changing to
sidewalk level bike lanes behind the back of the curb. Moving onto the Fairview, Locust Grove to
Eagle & Locust Grove Signal on page 18, design discussions are still occurring and ACHD has
hired a consultant to assist in the design process for bike crossings.
Ms. Carson wanted to highlight the Amity Road and Locust Grove Road interim signal and the
estimated lifespan of the interim intersection improvement is expected to be 10 years. No
sidewalk or ADA improvements are planned in that project. Ms. Carson is happy to take any
feedback or concerns on this topic, now or offline, back to the committee.
Ms. Carson moved into the ITD projects updates on page 19, to conclude her update. ITD is
getting their designs ready for HW16 and you can find that information on their website at:
www.ITDprojects.org/ChindenWest
Ms. Carson stood for questions, which took place.
New Business Items
6. ACHD South Meridian Neighborhood Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan
Introduction (Edinson Bautista)
Chairman Steed set the stage for this topic by introducing Edison Bautista from ACHD and his
presentation on the South Meridian Neighborhood Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. Mr. Bautista
provided a brief overview of the plan and process used to develop it. The Neighborhood Plan is
a tool developed to identify community priorities for future bicycle and pedestrian projects with
a specific area. Mr. Bautista shared the planning timeline progressing through 2022. Mr. Bautista
then shared the area which is considered the South Meridian Planning Area south of I-84.
5
Item 1.
The objective of the plan is to:
Map the biking and walking destinations in South Meridian
Identify transit, biking and walking facilities
Gather a general consensus of current conditions that is easy to use and accessible to
both the public and ACHD
Clearly define prioritized and ranked project
Identify gaps in the sidewalk and bicycle network
As standard operating procedure ACHD will conduct robust community outreach in two phases
to understand:
1. Student routes to/from school and their recommendations for improvements
2. Public involvement meetings to understand the needs/wants of the general public for the
specific planning area(s)
Mr. Bautista concluded with the timeline of next steps and stood for questions. No comments
or questions took place. Chairman Steed thanked Mr. Bautista and moved onto item 7 of the
agenda.
7. Downtown Alleyways (Lindsey Bowshier/Nick Grove)
Ms. Bowshier shared her presentation and recapped the topic and provided an update on the
additional research since her last presentation. Ms. Bowshier presented the feedback that’s been
gathered from the stakeholders as part of the Meridian Downtown Business Association (MDBA)
as it relates to alleyways.
Ms. Bowshier reviewed the Vision and Mission Statement of MDBA. One of the hot topics of
discussion at the MDBA is activating alleyways. The general feedback since the last update is not
as robust as hoped for due to low overall response and participation with the downtown business
due to COVID related circumstances (limited hours of operation and personnel out of office).
However, most of the comments focused on the need for better signage and enforcement and
that one-ways are not being obeyed. Art and activation for one-way alleyways is generally
supported from the feedback received.
The idea of one-way alleyways was supported for those that are already designated as one-way.
For those that are two-directional and/or unsinged, most commenters did not think designating
it as one-way would be helpful.
Ms. Bowshier then reviewed current uses:
Delivery Trucks (majority)
Employee Parking
Light pedestrian parking (in frequent)
6
Item 1.
Ms. Bowshier concluded by reviewing the one recommendation on alley activation on Pine &
Idaho and 2nd street exiting through Generations parking lot. The Vault was recently approved
for a grant for a courtyard project and this would be a prime candidate for a one-way alley
project. One next step that came out of this analysis is a need for a process or additional
education for requesting signage when opportunities and/or challenges arise where Downtown
stakeholders need action or support with activating an alleyway for increased pedestrian use. Ms.
Bowshier requested that the Transportation Commission advise MDBA on how to advise
stakeholders on getting assistance when issues or opportunities arise. Ms. Bowshier’s
presentation can be found at the below link. Ms. Bowshier stood for questions which took place
along with general Commission discussion on this topic.
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ObnkI-PS1qP7lnzrduxbI4Wn7yBxWmMz9d9NOehvjGk/edit?usp=sharing
8. Meridian Police Department Update (Sgt. B. Frasier)
Sgt. Frasier provided a few brief updates:
The OHS/ITD aggressive driving campaign has concluded
Next month MPD will conduct an in-house traffic enforcement mobilization for cell
phone usage
A brief update was provided on the traffic fatality at Meridian & Calderwood
Sgt. Frasier stood for questions, none took place. Ms. Carson noted that the Meridian &
Calderwood issue may need to be reviewed as a future meeting topic.
9. Zach Shoemaker’s Nomination to Ordinance & Development
Subcommittee (W. Steed)
Chairman Steed recapped that he reached out to Commissioner Shoemaker and requested he
join one of the subcommittees. Commissioner Shoemaker agreed and requested to be part of
the Ordinance & Development Subcommittee.
A motion was made by Commissioner Ballard to appoint Commissioner Shoemaker to the
Ordinance & Development Subcommittee; second by Commissioner Lewis – all ayes – motion
passed.
10. Staff Communications (M. Carson)
Ms. Carson directed the Commission to page 20 of the packet and shared the three follow-up
questions asked from Council to ACHD on the IFYWP and the corresponding responses in red
from Kristy Inselman.
Ms. Carson moved onto and gave a brief update on the Parks & Recreation Department’s thirteen
(13) Priority Pathway projects for 2021.
Ms. Carson briefly reviewed three (3) Senate Bills currently under consideration:
7
Item 1.
HB164 (UTVs/ATVs/Golf Carts), additional information can be found at:
https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2021/legislation/H0164/
HB131(Allowing for Wider Sidewalks), additional information can be found at:
https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2021/legislation/h0131/
HB1106 (Exempts ACHD from Local Land Use Plans and Ordinances) additional
information can be found at:
https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2021/legislation/S1106/
Ms. Carson concluded with a recap of the Ustick and Black Cat Interim Signal discussed earlier
in the Transportation Projects Update and stood for questions, none took place.
Chairman Steed closed the item and opened the floor for any other discussion, none took place.
Chairman Steed moved on to the Future Meeting Topics and encouraged the Commissioners to
review.
Future Meeting Topics
11. SH69 at Calderwood
12. Comprehensive Plan and Master Mobility
13. ATV/UTV subcommittee update
14. Harvest Service Update
15. Downtown Alleyways
16. Prioritization Update
17. Main/King Crosswalk
18. Pine/Idaho Alley Plan
Next Meeting Date: April 5, 2021
Adjourn
Chairman Steed asked for a motion to adjourn, which was made by Commissioner Ballard;
second by Commissioner Lewis. Meeting adjourned at 5:19.
(AUDIO RECORDING AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST)
APPROVED:
_______________________ _______________
WALTER STEED, CHAIR DATE
ATTEST:
________________________ _______________
CHRIS JOHNSON (City Clerk) DATE
8
Item 1.
MEMO TO TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
Agenda Topic on the Transportation Commission Agenda
From: Miranda Carson, Coordination Planner Meeting Date: April 5, 2021
Presenter: Miranda Carson Estimated Time: 5 minutes
Topic: Transportation Projects Update
Below is a summary/update on some of the transportation and roadway projects 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 transportation
realm. Staff will be at the 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 City has submitted our priority project lists for
potential inclusion in ACHD’s 2022-2026 IFYWP which should be adopted in the summer. The
2021-2025 IFYWP was adopted by the ACHD commission on September 23rd, 2020 and can be
found here:
https://www.achdidaho.org/Departments/PlansProjects/IFYWP.aspx
City Staff Contact: Miranda Carson, Community Development
Linder, Overland to Franklin: Widen Linder Rd to 5 lanes with curb, gutter, sidewalk and a Level
3 bike facility from Overland Rd to Franklin Rd as per the 2020 CIP and the Bike Master Plan.
Project includes a new 4-lane I-84 overpass. Joint project between ACHD and ITD. This project
is listed as future in the adopted IFYWP. After a joint ACHD Commission and City Council
meeting on October 22nd, a joint letter of support was sent to the Idaho Transportation Board
requesting this project be added to the STIP. This project was also recently submitted to
COMPASS for the FY21-25 Project Development Grant for $25,000.
City Staff Contact: Miranda Carson, Community Development
Eagle Road, Amity to Victory and roundabout at Amity: Eagle Road from just south of
Kingsbridge Drive to Amity Road is closed to allow for work on the Zaldia/Eagle
roundabout. This closure will last 3 weeks, with an expected re -open date of April 20th.
Detour routes are in place. Pedestrian crossing at Ten Mile Creek is functional. ACHD is now
including shark teeth and additional signage in the design at Rome. City staff continue to
advocate that the landscaping at Rome Dr. will create visibility issues. ACHD has not talked
with Tuscany about possible efforts there to solve visibility obstructions as of yet; they plan to
speak with them after other design/construction elements are complete. Widen Eagle to 5 lanes
9
Item 2.
with curb, gutter, multi-use pathways. Includes a 2-lane roundabout with a slip lane at the
northwest corner at Amity for southbound traffic turning west. Also includes enhanced crossings
at the pedestrian pathway near the Ten Mile Feeder Canal, a pedestrian crossing on Rome Dr,
and a roundabout at Zaldia Ln. Design will be done with in-house, ACHD resources.
Construction is planned for 2021 in the IFYWP. NOTE: There is insufficient right-of-way on Amity
west of Eagle to allow the striping of the bike lane on the north side of the road, so it will only be
the two travel lanes westbound, the center turn lane, and one eastbound travel lane until ACHD
can program a project there in the future and widen to the south. The west side of Eagle Road
will be fully improved including a multi-use path. Here is the project website:
http://achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_road_eagle -road-amity-road-to-victory-road.aspx
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
Ten Mile/Amity Intersection: The intersection will be closed beginning in early April for 60
days (until about early June). Local access on Amity Road and Ten Mile Road will be
maintained up to homes and businesses but there will be no access thru the intersection.
Detour routes are in place. Project was awarded to Central Paving; $1.997M, with an
anticipated completion date in June 2021. Construct a multi-lane roundabout at Ten Mile Rd and
Amity Rd as per the 2020 CIP. Project includes Ten Mile Bridge #1182. Here is the project
website:
http://achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_intersection_ten-mile-road-and-amity-road-roundabout.aspx
Ustick/Black Cat Intersection: Project is on the April 90 day bid list with a notice to proceed
date of May 2021. Install an interim traffic signal at the intersection of Ustick Rd and Black Cat
Rd. 95% design was completed February 2021. Construction is scheduled in 2021 in the IFYWP.
Ultimately the intersection is planned to have a dual lane roundabout in accordance with the
2016 CIP.
McMillan/Black Cat Intersection: Signalize and expand the McMillan Road and Black Cat
Road Intersection to a 3x3 configuration. Pedestrian facilities will be added at the
intersection in the form of ADA-compliant ramps and signal infrastructure; no additional
sidewalk will be constructed beyond what is needed for the pedestrian ramps. The new
traffic signal at the intersection will accommodate the 3x3 configuration with flashing
yellow arrow capability for the left-turn movements if desired. This project is currently
programmed for ROW in FY 2021 and construction in FY 2022.
8th St at Meridian Middle: Project has been bid with two other pedestrian crossing projects.
Construction is scheduled to start on June 7, 2021. Install enhanced pedestrian crossings at
NW 8th St and Meridian Middle School. This project was on the December 90 day bid list with
Notice to Proceed in June 2021.
Locust Grove Road, Victory to Overland: Notice to proceed has been issued for December 2021.
Widen Locust Grove to 5 lanes with curb, gutter, sidewalk and Level 2 bike facility. Design is
planned for 2019, right-of-way in 2020-2021 and construction in 2022 in the IFYWP with a cost
of $4.07M. PIM held 9/10/2019. Here is the project website:
http://achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_road_locust-grove-victory-to-overland.aspx
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
10
Item 2.
Victory/Locust Grove Roundabout: Notice to proceed has been issued for December 2021.
Construct a multi-lane roundabout. Designed in 2019, right-of-way acquisition in 2020-2021, and
construction is planned for 2022-2023 in the adopted IFYWP with a cost of $4.1M. Projects
includes replacement/widening of bridge #2116 over the Tenmile Creek on Victory Rd and
connection on the north end of a sidewalk gap to the west. This project will be done with in -
house design. Here is the project website:
http://achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_road_locust-grove-victory-to-overland.aspx
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
Ten Mile Road, Victory to Overland and Ten Mile/Victory Roundabout: Design of bike facility is
changing to sidewalk level bike lanes behind the back of curb (separate from the sidewalk). The
sidewalk level bike lanes will continue on the south leg of the Ten Mile/Victory intersection. On
the north side of the east leg and both sides of the west leg, ACHD is considering bike lane and
sidewalk be replaced with a 10’ pathway with 3’ stamped concrete buffer. Notice to proceed has
been issued for November 2021. Widen Ten Mile to 5 -lanes with curb, gutter, sidewalk and a
Level 3 bike facility. In the IFYWP, this project was designed in 2019, right -of-way in 2020-2021,
and construction in 2022-2023 at a cost of $3.9M. Here is the project website:
http://achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_road_ten-mile-victory-to-overland.aspx
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
Eagle Road, Lake Hazel to Amity: After a traffic analysis to evaluate multiple alternatives
and determine the appropriate design for the intersection reconstruction a multi-lane
roundabout, design concepts will process with a multi-lane roundabout. Two intersection
alternatives were evaluated with 2043 (design year) traffic conditions, a multi-lane
roundabout and a conventional traffic signal. Project kick off meeting was held January 27th.
The level 3 facility will likely be upgraded for a full 10’ multi-use pathway. Design has begun with
a scope of work. Widen Eagle to 5 lanes with curb, gutter, sidewalk and Level 3 bike facility.
Includes a roundabout at Eagle Rd and Taconic Dr. ROW is programmed in FY 2022.
Construction is planned for 2023 in the adopted IFYWP with a cost of $3.4M.
City Staff Contact: Miranda Carson, Community Development
Lake Hazel and Eagle Signal: Notice to proceed has been issued for January 2023. Widen and
signalize intersection to 4/5 lanes on Eagle and 3/4 lanes on Lake Hazel. Design is happening
this calendar year, right-of-way in 2021-2022, and construction in 2022 in the IFYWP. Design
details are on the project webpage. Here is a link to the project website:
http://achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_intersection_lake-hazel-and-eagle.aspx
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
Fairview, Locust Grove to Eagle & Locust Grove Signal: 75% design review meeting was held
February 9th. Bike lane treatment is an ongoing discussion; asphalt, concrete, and permeable
materials and marking patterns are being considered. ACHD has a consultant that will be
providing recommendations for how to handle bike crossings. Bike lane will likely be separated
and elevated from the vehicle travel lanes. ACHD is planning to replace existing walks, to
address ADA issues, but keep detached where possible in same locations to the degree
possible. ACHD is not planning a crossing at Fairview and Stonehenge, with the reason cited
being safety concerns. A Z-crossing just west of Fairview/Webb is being considered. There is a
landscape island in Hickory Way (north leg) which may be removed to have an additional lane
out to Fairview. VRT has requested consideration of a future bus stop on Fairview on the far
11
Item 2.
side of Hickory Way. 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. Design in 2020 -
2021, right-of-way acquisition in 2021-22, and construction in 2023 in adopted IFYWP with a
cost of $4.26M. There will likely be a virtual open house around March 2021 before 95% design
is complete, and construction may be delayed to 2024. Additional business outreach is planned
as well. Here is a link to the project website:
https://www.achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_road_fairview-avenue-locust-grove-road-to-eagle-
road.aspx
City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
Amity Rd and Locust Grove Rd Interim Signal: A project kick-off meeting was held January 2021.
This project is to design roadway widening to accommodate left turn lanes on all four legs of the
Amity Rd and Locust Grove Rd intersection and to design an interim traffic signal. Left turn
storage lengths will be 150 feet plus 100-foot openings. Taper lengths will vary depending on
posted speeds of each leg and if widening will occur all to one side or equally on both sides (still
to be determined). There are no sidewalk or ADA improvements with this project. Estimated
lifespan of the interim intersection improvements expected to be 10 -years.
Lake Hazel Road, Eagle to Cloverdale: Widen Lake Hazel to 5 lanes with curb, gutter, and Level
3 bike facility. Design will be done in 2022. Construction is planned for 2024 i n the adopted
IFYWP with a total cost of $2.3M.
Overland/Eagle Signal: Widen intersection to 7 lanes on Eagle and 9 on Overland. Project to be
done in coordination with ITD. Design is indicated for 2025 in the IFYWP. All phases shown as
Unfunded in the IFYWP at a cost of $8.16M.
FY20 Capital Maintenance, Phase 1: Locust Grove, Ustick to McMillan milling and paving is
scheduled to begin the week of March 29th.
ITD PROJECTS
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:
www.ITDprojects.org/ChindenWest
ID-16 to Linder: The widening of this section of Chinden Boulevard is complete. The new
roadway includes four 12-foot travel lanes, two in each direction, and a detached 10 -foot
pathway to the south for bicyclists and pedestrians.
Locust Grove Road to Eagle Road: Four lanes opened December 2020. These changes come
with new turning movements out of the Banbury and Bristol Heights neighborhoods.
Linder Road to Locust Grove Road: Crews are completing the earthwork to build up the
road base on the Linder Road through Meridian Road section. After that, they will place
a layer of asphalt pavement from the east end of the project to the west end. Traffic will
be moved to this fresh pavement and the existing lanes will receive a fresh overlay to
create a uniform driving surface. A ten-foot separated pathway will be constructed on
the south side of the highway. A sound wall will also be constructed next to the pathway
12
Item 2.
between Fox Run Way and Meridian Road. Irrigation work on the Meridian Road to
Locust Grove Road section will be completed before irrigation water is turned on this
spring. The Linder through Meridian project is anticipated to be complete early this
summer.
Star Road to ID-16: Construction is planned for 2023.
City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
Idaho Highway 16 extension, U.S. 20/26 to I -84: ITD is preparing design plans now for an
“interim” phase. Details will be posted later this year. Visioning and phasing documents have
been posted to the project website. The Idaho 16 project will be completed in phases between
now and 2045. ITD is in the process of acquiring property now and anticipates this will continue
through 2021. ITD is investigating funding sources and options for construction. The Idaho
Transportation Board has allocated nearly $90 million to acquire right -of-way for the future
highway. The remaining cost to design and construct the corridor is estimated to be $350 million
(in 2019 dollars). Project website: www.ITDprojects.org/Idaho16
SH-69, Kuna to Meridian Traffic Study: ITD has completed enough technical evaluation to now
present a proposal to the public. ITD hosted an online public eng agement in the summer to
solicit feedback on the work to date. ITD will consider the feedback and make appropriate
updates to the plan before presenting the plan for concurrence to the Cities of Meridian and
Kuna and ACHD. A project team meeting was held on January 12, 2021. Grade-separated
intersection evaluation at Overland Road and SH-69 is being evaluated. The proposed at-grade
partial CFI will be evaluated that may better balance mobility and access. Concept layouts will
be created for display purposed and planning-level cost estimates. Planning-level roadway
section will be developed and a drainage analysis will be conducted to determine the
approximate right-of-way needed on SH-69. High-level proposed vision exhibits for the length of
the corridor will be developed to assist agencies with discussions with developers. The exhibits
will include cross-sections, one-mile and half-mile intersections, median U-turn locations, and
property setbacks. Exhibits will not include individual parcel access. The next steps to finalize
the project are: Conduct supplemental analysis and further refine the corridor vision; compile
draft report; present study findings to Meridian Transportation Commission, city councils and
ACHD commission; and compile final report. Concept plans are scheduled to be complete
Summer 2021. Here is a link to the project website:
https://itdprojects.org/projects/id69corridor/
PATHWAYS
Rail with Trail: In the fall of 2012, the City applied for an $85,000 grant to study the Rail with Trail
(RWT) pathway crossing of streets (7 crossings; Black Cat to Locust Grove). Currently, there
are funds for pathway construction in the Regional Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) in
2022.
Nine Mile Creek, Linder to Meridian: The path is proposed to run from Linder to Meridian along
the Nine Mile Creek drain just north of the railroad. City Parks Department is working with a
consultant to negotiate easements for four (4) parcels from Linder to 8 th St. The City currently
has obtained all but one required easement from 8th to 3rd. We are currently pursuing acquisition
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Item 2.
of easements from 8th Street west to Linder, and from 3rd Street to Meridian Road as a future
phase of this project.
Five Mile Creek Pathway: The City applied for a COMPASS grant to design and construct a
portion of the Five Mile Creek pathway near the Wastewater Resource Recovery Center
(WWRRC). The City informed COMPASS that we will pursue completion of this project wi th local
funds instead of Federal. There has been purchase and development action on the properties
north of Five Mile Creek, west of the WWRRC. Additionally, ACHD has purchased a parcel to
the south of the WWRRC. It appears that the bulk of this pathway will be constructed by these
new owners as a condition of development. The City plans to invest in pedestrian crossings of
the Nine Mile and Five Mile Drains to skirt the WWRRC and achieve continuity with existing
McNelis Pathway along the Five Mile Drain.
South Meridian Neighborhood Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan: ACHD and several partners
including the City have been working on developing a plan to help improve walking and
bicycling routes in South Meridian neighborhoods. This plan is complementary to the
City’s Pathways Plan with more of an emphasis on on-street bike facilities. ACHD is
seeking feedback here: https://communityremarks.com/southmeridian/ Here is a link to
the project site: http://www.achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_program_south-meridian-
neighborhood-bicycle-and-pedestrian-plan.aspx
City Staff Contact: Miranda Carson, Community Development
MDC / OTHER PROJECTS
2nd Street, Idaho to Broadway: The vision for 2nd street was presented to stakeholders and the
ACHD commission in separate meetings in January. Discussions are beginning on how to make
2nd Street in Downtown Meridian a community place. This project will be done in coordination
with the Civic Block redevelopment.
City Staff Contact: Miranda Carson, Community Development
Harvest Lifestyle Service: A public transit service focusing on seniors and persons with
disabilities has been operating since December 2016. This Lifestyle Service concept, which
includes two service zones, was presented to the Council in July of 2016. The service is operated
by Harvest Church. An enhancement to the City Budget for FY2019 was approved by the Council
for a third Harvest van. The third van is operational.
City Staff Contact: Miranda Carson, Community Development
Transit: VRT has won a grant for electric buses. Staff from the City and VRT are coordinating
infrastructure, capital and service needs for a route from the Ten Mile Interchange area through
downtown to The Village. The launch will likely be delayed closer to October 2021. The TC will
be actively involved in developing outreach plan, stops/alignment, and other service
considerations (i.e. – time of day operation, amenities/shelters, etc.) (This route is part of the
ValleyConnect 2.0 plan.)
City Staff Contact: Miranda Carson, Community Development
Ada County Transportation Action Plan: Ada County, working with consultant Kittelson &
Associates, is kicking off the development of the Ada County Transportation Action Plan (TAP).
The purpose of the TAP is for Ada County to identify a broad set of transportation policies, goals,
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Item 2.
and strategies for the unincorporated parts of Ada County. This project is in the earliest stage,
and the City has been invited to participate in the process.
Eagle Road Bike/Ped Project Development: COMPASS has contracted with Keller Associates
to further develop a bicycle and pedestrian plan for the corridor. The boundaries of the project
are Overland and Chinden.
Shared Vehicles: The City does not currently have an RFP out. Meridian Downtown Business
Association (MDBA) will monitor the climate and recommend back to the City when they believe
micro mobility is appropriate. Bird has expressed an interest in opening operations in Meridian
in 2021. CD staff suggested they speak with MDBA to gauge further interest.
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Item 2.
MEMO TO TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
Agenda Topic on the Transportation Commission Agenda
From: Miranda Carson, Coordination Planner Meeting Date: April 5, 2021
Presenter: Miranda Carson Estimated Time: 10 minutes
Topic: Washington St, Meridian to Main Parking Complaint
The intent of this agenda item is to share a citizen complaint. There is a resident on Washington,
Meridian to Main with concern that Downtown employees are parking on the street for extended
periods of time blocking neighbors.
Background:
Initially “Residential Only” parking signage was requested. The City of Meridian does not currently
have any residential parking system in place. With neighborhoods that have faced similar issues in
the past, we have explored time restrictions. Typically, this would entail signage that prohibits
parking during certain hours in the day. The current streets with posted time restrictions in the
Downtown corridor are geared toward the commercial purpose of bringing people through the city
and rotating customers through businesses. This section of Washington Ave is primarily residential.
ACHD has expressed concerns with “Residential Only” parking. They are willing to explore time
restricted parking with Meridian Police Department (MPD) support and a petition signed by at least
75% (8 of the 10) of the property owners affected.
MPD Code Enforcement Supervisor Lacey Ooi and Sergeant Brandon Frasier have both expressed
concern with time restrictions on this street segment. Timed parking enforcement is completed on
foot and, due to capabilities, MPD currently does not enforce further north than Pine Ave except by
complaint for these violations. Time restricted parking here would cre ate a gap in a logistic path to
enforce as it is not adjacent any area that is currently part of the parking enforcement round.
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Item 4.
MEMO TO TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
Agenda Topic on the Transportation Commission Agenda
From: Miranda Carson, Coordination Planner Meeting Date: April 5, 2021
Presenter: Miranda Carson Estimated Time: 10 minutes
Topic: Staff Communications
Below are summaries of relevant correspondences received by City Staff since the last TC meeting.
COMPASS High-Capacity Transit Survey Results
The initial results from the high-capacity transit survey were sent by Rachel Haukkala. Those
can be found on the COMPASS website.
Quantitative results:
https://www.compassidaho.org/documents/prodserv/CIM2050/Input/AllAboardResults.pdf
Open-ended comments:
https://www.compassidaho.org/documents/prodserv/CIM2050/Input/All_Aboard_OpenEnd
edComments.pdf
20/26 Chinden Engine Braking Complaint
The following complaint was received on February 10, 2021 from Meridian resident
Christopher Sommer:
Sometime ago you passed an ordinance against compression brakes on 20/26. There was a
sign that was installed just before N Tree Farm Way as you are traveling east bound on
Chinden. That sign is no longer there. The residents living along Chinden in Spurwing
would like to request that you re-install that sign along with several other along this east
bound route in an effort to keep the truck noise down. Apparently truck drivers are
oblivious (at all hours) to using their engines to slow their rigs and it's become a real issue.
We appreciate someone looking into this and resolving the issue. Thank you for you help.
After discussing with issue with Dave Miles and Caleb Hood, I reached out to Tyson McCoy at
ITD on February 17, 2021. The following is his response on March 3, 2021:
I’ve reached out HQ for additional input and will share if anything is different from what we
have already communicated. Your questions and concerns from the City are valid. ITD
receives similar complaints each year and communicates the same message back to citizens
and entities alike. Below is a copy of your questions along with responses:
1. Is ITD planning to lead the efforts on these solutions?
a. We need to better define the problem. If the issue is trucks using illegal,
unmuffled brakes then it’s a question for law enforcement. If the issue is people
moved next to a highway and now experience highway noise...I don’t know I have
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Item 5.
a solution for you. ITD cannot volunteer to lead these solutions without first
identifying the problem and then allowing proper channels to function. i.e. Law
Enforcement, Port-of-Entry, Local Jurisdiction efforts such as Town Hall Meetings,
etc.
2. What efforts is ITD taking for community outreach/media campaigns to educate the
public?
a. See point above.
3. Are there partnerships with Chambers, Agencies, local trucking associations?
a. ITD and ACHD sit on Chamber of Commerce Transportation Subcommittees and
can share information there, if that’s deemed an appropriate route. Same goes for
other government agencies or law enforcement. ITD has regular meetings with
the Idaho Trucking Association and can share messages with them there too.
Keep in mind, messages are pretty useless in creating change. Enforcement, or
some other incentive, is what sees actual results.
4. Has ITD communicated with all local cities to let agencies know that these signs will be
coming down?
a. Not to my knowledge. ITD has adopted the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control
Devices, with changes, that has the force and effect of law. Traffic control devices
facing State and US routes are within the jurisdiction ITD. We work with local
jurisdictions for requests and/or changes for example: school zones, new
pedestrian crossings and speed limits, just to name a few but generally don’t seek
concurrence for day to day operations. These operations are handled at a District
level so efforts to make updates and changes will vary in timing from one District
to another. Generally changes are made during new project development and
maintenance.
5. Are they coming down proactively (early) due to legal challenge, or are they waiting
until their lifespan is reached?
a. To my knowledge, District 3 has not been legally challenged on this precise issue.
District 3 will not proactively remove signing unless they conflict with another
sign, become damaged/worn, or other cause such as new construction/roadway
project.
b. Would like to note and share: I’m aware of a similar local regulation that was
posted along the State highway that gave legal argument which overturned an
arrest and conviction. It was later, again, overturned by the Idaho Supreme Court,
and the original conviction stuck. This is a costly legal endeavor. The lesson from
this was that ITD needs to be uniform and deliberate about what signs it allows
on the highway. Before granting a request I research existing laws, directives, and
Federal interpretations along with other State decisions before making
recommendation. Compression brake signing had already been removed from the
Federal manual and the Idaho Traffic Manual based on the same interpretations.
Early discussions were to consider “Unmuffled Compression Brakes Prohibited”
however it was decided that repeating the law doesn’t need to be posted.
I hope this helps.
Thank you,
Tyson McCoy
I spoke with Tyson after receiving his email for further clarification:
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Item 5.
In sum: ITD has no solution to noise from legal trucks and noise from illegal trucks is up to
local enforcement to address. There is no current community outreach effort, and it doesn’t
seem they intend to do one at any point. ITD is not removing current signs “unless they
conflict with another sign, become damaged/worn, or other cause such as new
construction/roadway project.” His full response is attached.
I did call Tyson as well to get clarification on the last point case example he gave. The
example he gave was that a local ordinance (cell phone use in that case) was posted on a
State road, and when the case went to the Idaho Supreme Court the court supported the
local ordinance as valid. The question then becomes does ITD sign the local ordinances; if so
the State police would be enforcing multiple different sets of rules. However in regards to
compression brakes, there is federal code that already states that localities cannot make
rules that are stricter on commercial vehicles. ITD also feels that we cannot tell commercial
users that they can’t use a factory part in their vehicle. The noise issue usually comes from
altered mufflers, and the federal rules already prohibit tampering with those parts. Modified
mufflers are difficult to catch except at the weigh stations; and by Tysons perspective those
mufflers are not typically checked at those locations.
Vanderbilt and Lichfield 4-Way Stop Request
The following inquiry was received on March 6, 2021 from Meridian resident Greg Agius:
Road intersection question.
The attached photo is from near my home
at 5972 N Lichfield Ave, Meridian, ID 83646.
Intersection is Vanderbilt and Lichfield in
the Bainbridge community.
Is it possible to push for a 4 way stop here?
This is a walkway to the new Pleasant View
Elementary School. My daughter takes it
everyday. In photo 2, there is a path that
leads to the back of the school. Dozens of
kids cross this intersection. I agree its well
marked for a crosswalk, but drivers
often don't care. They speed through often
well above 25. I watch this happen almost every day. Its especially dangerous when you
have young kids on bikes riding through the intersection without really looking. Thanks
for the consideration.
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Item 5.
ACHD sent Mr. Agius the following reply on March 9, 2021:
Dear Mr. Agius,
Thank you for contacting the Ada County Highway District.
We recently conducted an investigation, at this intersection, for a similar request. I will
first cover the results of the investigation and then the changes that were made.
When considering the adding an All-Way Stop condition we need to weigh the positives
against the negatives. For this location, the conditions don’t support the change to an All-
Way Stop. The primary item for consideration is the traffic volumes of the intersection, or
more importantly the differences between the two roadways.
In this case, and with Vanderbilt being the primary roadway, we counted roughly five
times as much traffic on Vanderbilt than we found on Lichfield Avenue. The guidance used
is that we should have at least 40% of the traffic on lower volume roadways. Lichfield
currently has only 23%.
The two primary negatives that we see, with the change to an All-Way Stop where it is not
warranted, is lack of compliance and increases in speed. First, a driver on the main road,
who initially stops, and rarely encounters a vehicle on the minor roadway will be less
likely to comply in the future and more likely to drive through the Stop Signs. This could
lead to increased crashes, as the driver on the minor roadway assumes that the other
driver will stop, and typically results in a serious crash. The second negative is that drivers
on Vanderbilt, after complying with the Stop Sign, tend to increase their speeds in order to
make up for the lost time. These are a couple of unintended consequences that we want to
avoid.
When the school first opened, this intersection did not include a marked crosswalk nor
School Crossing Signs. Based upon the proximity to the school and the location of the
pathway, this is something that should have been required. To remedy this situation, we
added a marked crosswalk on the east side of Litchfield, as well as School Crossing signs.
In my discussions with the West Ada School District, I recommended that they add an
adult crossing guard, before and after school, to facilitate the students at this location.
I thank you again for your question and concern for safety. If you have any questions or
comments, please feel free to give me a call or send me an e-mail.
Sincerely,
Kendall Kemmer, P.E.
Assistant Traffic Engineer
Main/King Crosswalk Update
This item has been removed from Future Meeting topics.
I requested an update on the issue on the issue on March 29, 2021:
The Main/King crosswalk item has been on the TC agenda for a while. I know a little history
on the issue. If I understand correctly the pedestrian safety concern was addressed with
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Item 5.
improved signage and markings. Is that correct? Are there any “next steps” or further
evaluations that need to be done on the issue from your perspective?
The following update was received from Shawn Martin at ACHD on March 29, 2021:
The next step is to install an enhanced crossing. It is currently in our 5YWP for design in
FY24 and construction in FY25. I don’t think there is anything the Transportation
Commission needs to do. I don’t remember where it is on the City’s request list but I think
it was in your top 10 in order to gain the extra points.
South Meridian Bike and Pedestrian Plan Call for Comments
The Ada County Highway District (ACHD) is working to develop a plan to help improve walking
and bicycling routes in South Meridian neighborhoods. As part of this plan, we will be working
with residents to identify ideas and concerns related to walking and biking in the community, as
well as seeking input on the planned bike network identified for this area as part of ACHD's
Roadways to Bikeway Master Plan.
Get Involved!
Help us identify the locations to improve walking
and biking in your neighborhood.
Learn more about this plan and take the survey
online.
If you would like printed materials mailed to you,
please call 208-387-6100 | TTY: 1-800-377-
3529.
More Information
Edinson Bautista, ACHD Senior
Transportation Planner
208-387-6100 | TTY: 1-800-377-3529
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Item 5.
projects@achdidaho.org
Learn More
To arrange for a translator or other accommodation, contact ACHD at (208) 387 -6100 | TTY: 1-
800-377-3529 | projects@achdidaho.org. Se les recomienda a las personas que necesiten un
intérprete o arreglos especiales q ue llamen a la coordinadora de participación pública, al
(208) 387-6100 | TTY: 1-800-377-3529 | projects@achdidaho.org
Ada County Highway District | 208-387-6100 | www.achdidaho.org | projects@achdidaho.org
Idaho Street Parking Lines
The following inquiry was received on March 1, 2021 from Meridian resident Jennifer
Hamilton:
I am not sure where to send this email but I have been told by other people they have sent
similar issues to this email and it got directed to the correct place. A few years ago the
parking on Idaho Street was converted from horizontal to diagonal. This was a great
improvement and allowed for significantly more vehicles. Since that time the diagonal lines
have faded and are now lighter than the old horizontal lines. As you can imagine people do
not know how to park on this street now. This morning already we have had 5 diagonal
cars and 2 horizontal. 1 It looks ridiculous, 2 It never fails the horizontal parking people
always stay most of the day taking up to 3 spots from other drivers and confusing the
parking for the whole day. It is a mess. My request would be to see if we could get the
diagonal lines repainted. If they were more evident than the other lines it would clear up
the chaos on our street.
The issue was referred to Meridian Development Corporation (MDC) as this street segment is in
an urban renewal district. Ashley Squyres, MDC Administrator responded to the citizen on
March 29, 2021:
Good Morning, Jennifer:
We have approved a contract with PC Maintenance to re-stripe a number of locations in
downtown Meridian, including Idaho Avenue. Weather and temperature will be the
determining factor and will likely occur in late April/early May. I have asked for several
days’ notice to inform business owners once a date has been targeted by the contractor.
Thank you for reaching out with your concern and I wanted to ensure you know action is
being taken. Please don’t hesitate to follow up with any questions.
My Best,
Ashley
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Item 5.
MEMO TO TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
Agenda Topic on the Transportation Commission Agenda
From: Miranda Carson, Coordination Planner Meeting Date: April 5, 2021
Presenter: Jared Smith, Subcommittee Chair Estimated Time: 10 minutes
Topic: Prioritization Subcommittee Update
Jared Smith will be giving a brief overview of the items discussed at the most recent Prioritization
Subcommittee meeting. The meeting held March 24th at 2:00pm followed the agenda below.
Agenda:
I. Roll Call:
Jared Smith – Chair
Tracy Hopkins
Ryan Lancaster
Stephen Lewis
Miranda Carson
II. Subcommittee Purpose: Develop a brief purpose statement.
III. Next Steps
IV. Next Meeting Date
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Item 6.
MEMO TO TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
Agenda Topic on the Transportation Commission Agenda
From: Miranda Carson, Coordination Planner Meeting Date: April 5, 2021
Presenter: Tom LeClaire, Subcommittee Chair Estimated Time: 10 minutes
Topic: Ordinance and Development Subcommittee Update
Tom LeClaire will be giving a brief overview of the items discussed at the most recent Ordinance
and Development Subcommittee meeting. The meeting held April 5th at 2:30pm followed the agenda
below.
Agenda:
I. Roll:
_ Tom LeClaire
_ Jared Smith
_ Walter Steed
_ Emily Kane
_ Brandon Frasier
_ David Claiborne
II. Approve Past Minutes
_ February 19, 2021
III. All Terrain and Utility Terrain Vehicles (ATV/UTV)
_ Discussion
_ Legislative update
_ Next Steps
IV. Future Topics
V. Next Meeting
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Item 7.