2022-02-07 Minute BookMeeting Minutes
Meridian Transportation Commission
February 7, 2022
Council Chambers – Meridian City Hall 33 East Broadway Ave., Meridian, Idaho
Virtual Meeting Information
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89550478252
Or join by phone: Dial 669-900-6833 and enter Webinar ID: 895 5047 8252
(Meeting called to order at 3:32 p.m.; YouTube started and roll taken)
Roll Call
x David Ballard x Stephen Lewis x Shawn Martin (ex-officio-
ACHD)
x Zachary Shoemaker x Jared Smith x Carl Miller (ex-officio-
COMPASS)
x Ryan Lancaster x Tom LeClaire x RD Huntley (ex-officio-WASD)
x Walter Steed x Joseph Leckie x Alissa Taysom (ex-officio-VRT)
(zoom)
o Tracy Hopkins x Justin Price (ex-officio-ITD)
(zoom)
Others Present: Ted Baird, Caleb Hood, and Miranda Carson
Adoption of the Agenda
Chairman Steed called for a motion to adopt the agenda. Commissioner Ballard motioned to
adopt; second by Commissioner Lewis - all-ayes – motion carried.
Introduction of New COMPASS Ex-Officio Carl Miller
Chairman Steed invited Carl Miller to introduce himself. Mr. Miller introduced himself, and he
noted he will be the new Ex-Officio representing COMPASS.
Old Business Items
1. Transportation Projects Update (M. Carson)
Ms. Carson noted that new updates are in bold and she will highlight a few of the items from the
Memo in the packet, but not all. If the Commission has questions regarding any of the information
in the packet Ms. Carson will stand for questions at the end of the update.
Ms. Carson began on page 3 with the ACHD Integrated Five-Year Work Plan and highlighted that
the plan was adopted with no changes to the Meridian City projects.
The next item Ms. Carson noted was that the Scope of Work and Interagency Agreement for
Linder, Overland to Franklin project is continuing to be worked on.
Ms. Carson continued to page 4 with an update that the McMillan/Black Cat intersection project
that was planned to be interim will instead be designed for the most appropriate permanent
intersection. It is programmed for design in 2022 and construction in 2024.
Ms. Carson noted that construction of the Locust Grove to Meridian section of the ChindenWest
project will begin Spring 2022.
The final item Ms. Carson covered was that the Transportation Action Plan was scheduled to go
before the County Board of Commissioners on February 9th for final adoption.
Ms. Carson stood for questions; there was some discussion.
New Business Items
2. Fields Subarea Plan (Brian McClure)
Brian McClure provided a presentation on the intent and vision of the City’s Fields Sub Area
Plan adopted by City Council in December 2021. The plan is a continuation of the 2019
Comprehensive Plan. Mr. McClure explained the extent of the plan is the four square miles in
Northwest Meridian bordered by Chinden, McDermott, Ustick, and Can Ada.
Mr. McClure stood for questions; there was some discussion.
3. Meridian Police Department Update (J. Dance)
Sergeant Dance did not have any update beyond his presentation on Eagle Road.
4. Eagle Road Variable Speed Limits (J. Dance)
Lieutenant Ford and Sergeant Dance presented information on Eagle Road from Overland to
McMillan. Eagle Road being a state highway the speed limit is currently 55 mph. Sgt Dance
discussed the current land use characteristics adjacent to the road and opened a conversation on
whether the speed limit should remain 55mp or be reduced. Data on reported collisions and
other traffic incidents was presented and discussed. There was lengthy discussion of the history,
possible solutions, and challenges between the Commissioners, Lieutenant Ford, Sergeant Dance,
and Caleb Hood.
Commissioner Ballard motioned to recommend a speed study on Eagle Road with consideration
for variable speed as one solution and a second by Commissioner LeClaire. Commissioner
Lancaster abstained; all others were ayes. Motion passed.
5. Ustick Road, Ten Mile to Linder Center Median Options (C. Hood)
Caleb Hood provided a presentation on a potential partnership with ACHD on non-
transportation elements (landscaping center medians) on the Ustick, Ten Mile to Linder project.
The cost of installation and maintenance was noted. Mr. Hood also noted that center medians
with vertical elements may be installed as a traffic calming measure. Mr. Hood explained the
opportunity to improve the aesthetics of the median along the Ustick corridor.
Mr. Hood stood for questions; there was discussion on the topic. Commissioner Smith made a
motion supporting landscaping with a preference toward lower maintenance landscaping if
possible; second by Commissioner Leckie. All ayes; motion passes.
6. Review of Duties and Powers (M. Carson and C. Hood)
Ms. Carson presented on City Code Title 2 Chapter 7 to clarify the authority and responsibilities
of the Commission. It was noted that for speed study requests the Commission can make those
requests directly to ACHD. The simplified guidelines were presented. The Transportation
Commission can move forward on recommendations and requests being made to the staff level
at either ACHD or ITD without any City dollars attached to the action. Any requests the
Commission desires to go to an elected official or board should be made as recommendations
to City Council. Any action with City dollars attached would need to be made as a
recommendation to City Council.
Ms. Carson stood for questions; there was discussion on the item.
7. Staff Communications (M. Carson)
Ms. Carson will highlight a few of the items in the Memo that starts on page 43 and will stand for
questions at the end of the update.
Ms. Carson noted that COMPASS held an I-84 Corridor Operations Plan stakeholders meeting.
Some in depth notes came out of that, and link to those is provided in the packet.
Ms. Carson noted that there was a citizen inquiry on a Stoddard pathway project.
Ms. Carson highlighted that is a ChindenWest newsletter in the packet.
Lastly, it was noted that sections of the Idaho Walk Bike Alliance newsletter were included.
Ms. Carson concluded and stood for any additional questions; there was some discussion.
8. Ordinance & Development Subcommittee Update (T. LeClaire)
Commissioner LeClaire provided an overview of the Ordinance & Development Subcommittee
meeting that took place just before the meeting. The subcommittee discussed their role for
reviewing Development and determined that those reviews will be done on an as needed basis.
In the future, the subcommittee would also like to follow up on the effectiveness of the new
Handsfree Ordinance to discuss any enforcement issues or code change considerations.
Future Meeting Topics
Chairman Steed reviewed the Future Meeting Topics and asked for any additional items or any
needed changes to the list. Items 14-17 were added.
9. January 3, 2020 Minutes (March)
10. I-84, Eastbound Off-ramp at Eagle Road
11. Harvest Transit and VA Ridership Updates
12. Field Trip 2022
13. Downtown Street Cleanings
14. Annual Report to City Council March 8th
15. ACHD Pedestrian Advisory Group Enhanced Crossing Needs List
16. ACHD Bicycle Advisory Committee update
17. ACHD Capital Investment Citizens Advisory Committee Update
Next Meeting Date: March 7, 2022
Adjourn
A motion by Commissioner Lewis to adjourn; second Commissioner Ballard – all ayes -
motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 5:23 p.m.
(AUDIO RECORDING AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST)
APPROVED:
_______________________ _______________
WALTER STEED, CHAIR DATE
ATTEST:
________________________ _______________
CHRIS JOHNSON (City Clerk) DATE
TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION MEETING
City Council Chambers, 33 East Broadway Avenue Meridian, Idaho
Monday, February 07, 2022 at 3:30 PM
All materials presented at public meetings become property of the City of Meridian. Anyone desiring accommodation
for disabilities should contact the City Clerk's Office at 208-888-4433 at least 48 hours prior to the public meeting.
Agenda
VIRTUAL MEETING INSTRUCTIONS
To join the meeting online: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89550478252
Or join by phone: 1-669-900-6833
Webinar ID: 895 5047 8252
ROLL-CALL ATTENDANCE
_____ David Ballard _____ Stephen Lewis
_____ Zachary Shoemaker _____ Jared Smith
_____ Ryan Lancaster _____ Justin Price, Ex-Officio - ITD
_____ Tom LeClaire _____ Shawn Martin, Ex-Officio - ACHD
_____ Walter Steed _____ Carl Miller, Ex-Officio - COMPASS
_____ Tracy Hopkins _____ RD Huntley, Ex-Officio - WASD
_____ Joseph Leckie _____ Alissa Taysom, Ex-Officio - VRT
ADOPTION OF AGENDA [ACTION ITEM]
INTRODUCTION OF NEW COMPASS EX-OFFICIO CARL MILLER
OLD BUSINESS [ACTION ITEM]
1. Transportation Projects Update - M. Carson
NEW BUSINESS [ACTION ITEM]
2. Fields Subarea Plan - Brian McClure
3. Meridian Police Department Update - Sgt Dance
4. Eagle Road Variable Speed Limits - Sgt Dance
5. Ustick Road, Ten Mile to Linder Center Median Options - C. Hood
6. Review of Duties and Powers - M. Carson & C. Hood
7. Staff Communications - M. Carson
8. Ordinance & Development Committee Update - T. LeClaire
FUTURE MEETING TOPICS
9. January 3, 2022 Minutes (March)
10. I-84 Eastbound Off-ramp at Eagle Road
11. Harvest and Veterans Transit Ridership Updates
12. Field Trip 2022
13. Downtown Street Cleanings
NEXT MEETING - March 7, 2022
ADJOURNMENT
TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION MEETING
City Council Chambers, 33 East Broadway Avenue Meridian, Idaho
Monday, February 07, 2022 at 3:30 PM
All materials presented at public meetings become property of the City of Meridian. Anyone desiring accommodation
for disabilities should contact the City Clerk's Office at 208-888-4433 at least 48 hours prior to the public meeting.
Agenda
VIRTUAL MEETING INSTRUCTIONS
To join the meeting online: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89550478252
Or join by phone: 1-669-900-6833
Webinar ID: 895 5047 8252
ROLL-CALL ATTENDANCE
_____ David Ballard _____ Stephen Lewis
_____ Zachary Shoemaker _____ Jared Smith
_____ Ryan Lancaster _____ Justin Price, Ex-Officio - ITD
_____ Tom LeClaire _____ Shawn Martin, Ex-Officio - ACHD
_____ Walter Steed _____ Carl Miller, Ex-Officio - COMPASS
_____ Tracy Hopkins _____ RD Huntley, Ex-Officio - WASD
_____ Joseph Leckie _____ Alissa Taysom, Ex-Officio - VRT
ADOPTION OF AGENDA [ACTION ITEM]
INTRODUCTION OF NEW COMPASS EX-OFFICIO CARL MILLER
OLD BUSINESS [ACTION ITEM]
1. Transportation Projects Update - M. Carson
NEW BUSINESS [ACTION ITEM]
2. Fields Subarea Plan - Brian McClure
3. Meridian Police Department Update - Sgt Dance
4. Eagle Road Variable Speed Limits - Sgt Dance
5. Ustick Road, Ten Mile to Linder Center Median Options - C. Hood
6. Review of Duties and Powers - M. Carson & C. Hood
1
7. Staff Communications - M. Carson
8. Ordinance & Development Committee Update - T. LeClaire
FUTURE MEETING TOPICS
9. January 3, 2022 Minutes (March)
10. I-84 Eastbound Off-ramp at Eagle Road
11. Harvest and Veterans Transit Ridership Updates
12. Field Trip 2022
13. Downtown Street Cleanings
NEXT MEETING - March 7, 2022
ADJOURNMENT
2
MEMO TO TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
Agenda Topic on the Transportation Commission Agenda
From: Miranda Carson, Coordination Planner Meeting Date: February 7, 2022
Presenter: Miranda Carson Estimated Time: 10 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 2022-2026 Initial Draft of the Integrated Five-
Year Work Plan (IFYWP) is in the process of being revised due to funding availability in the
Fiscal Year 2022 Adopted Budget. At the January 26th Work Session, the ACHD
Commission will discuss the most recent draft. More information can be found here:
https://www.achdidaho.org/Departments/PlansProjects/IFYWP_2226draft.aspx.
The ACHD Project Prioritization Stakeholder Kick-off Meeting was held January 31st to
discuss the current prioritization process and solicit feedback.
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: The scope of work and interagency agreement are being
reviewed by ACHD. The ACHD Commission review is anticipated for mid-March. Design is
estimated to be 18 months. 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.
City Staff Contact: Miranda Carson, Community Development
Eagle Road, Amity to Victory and roundabout at Amity: Repairing damaged wall at Zaldia and
Eagle roundabout. Eagle Road west side ongoing with punch list items remaining.
Concrete repairs ongoing for additional curb & sidewalk down Amity. Irrigation work
ongoing. Amity/Eagle roundabout open. Eagle to 5 lanes 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. Here is the project website: http://achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_road_eagle-
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Item 1.
road-amity-road-to-victory-road.aspx
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
Ten Mile Road, Victory to Overland and Ten Mile/Victory Roundabout: Pedestrian ramps being
installed starting Feb 2nd at Linder and Overland. Construction is anticipated to be
complete Fall 2022. Widen Ten Mile to 5-lanes with curb, gutter, center medians, pedestrian
facilities (with recessed side street crossings), and one-way bike facilities behind the back of
curb. Here is the project website: http://achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_road_ten-mile-victory-to-
overland.aspx
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
McMillan/Black Cat Intersection: This project was programmed for design and right-of-way
(ROW) acquisition in FY 2022 and construction in FY 2023 as an interim signalization of
an unsignalized intersection. After recent analysis for the feasibility of an interi m signal
at the intersection, it was determined that a traffic study should be performed to
determine the most appropriate permanent intersection treatment. Both signal and
roundabout control alternatives will be analyzed. It is now programmed for design in
FY22, ROW in FY23, and construction in FY24. Kick off meeting was held in January 2022.
City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
Locust Grove Road, Victory to Overland and roundabout at Victory: 99% design is available
for review. ACHD intends to sign for 35 MPH. The hawk signal will be moved to half-way
between Mastiff and Puffin; ROW will continue in FY 2022, and construction will be in FY 2023.
Widen Locust Grove to 5 lanes with curb, gutter, multi-use pathway and at-grade side street
crossings. Recessed crossings are not included in this design. Project includes a dual-lane
roundabout at Victory. 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. Here is the
project website: http://achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_road_locust-grove-victory-to-overland.aspx
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
Eagle Road, Lake Hazel to Amity: Design is planned to be complete by summer 2022. A
landscape planting plan is being created for the basin adjacent to this project. Design concept
includes center medians. Construction in 2024. 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. Here is the project website:
http://www.achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_road_eagle-lake-hazel-to-amity.aspx
City Staff Contact: Miranda Carson, Community Development
Lake Hazel and Eagle Signal: The design includes significant grade changes of the existing
intersection and will integrate large retaining walls. Right-of-way is scheduled for 2021-2022.
Construction in 2024. Widen and signalize intersection to 4/5 lanes on Eagle and 3/4 lanes on
Lake Hazel with multiuse pathway connections. 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 & Lo cust Grove Signal: Separate bike and pedestrian
facilities are being designed. Recessed crossings are being discussed. 99% design
anticipated to be complete in March 2022. This project is exceptionally complex with multiple
curbs, materials, and elevations. Z-crossing just west of Fairview/Webb being considered. Widen
intersection to 9 lanes on Fairview and 7 lanes on Locust Grove. Widen Fairview to 7 lanes with
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Item 1.
curb, gutter, sidewalk and Level 3 bike facility. ROW in 2021-22. Construction may be delayed
to 2024. 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
Ustick, Ten Mile to Linder: Concept report has been received. Construction is planned for
2025, but may be moved up to 2024. Concept includes two pedestrian bridge crossing
options over Five Mile Creek with a signalized crossing over 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. Widen Ustick Rd to 5 lanes with curb, gutter, center
medians, and multi-use pathway from Ten Mile Rd to Linder Rd. Here is a link to the project
website: http://achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_road_ustick-road-ten-mile-to-linder.aspx
City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
Ustick, Ten Mile to Black Cat: Concept includes medians. Parks is interested in exploring
landscape improvements. Widen to 5-lanes with center medians, and reconstruct Ustick & Black
Cat Intersection. Initial approach for intersection is a roundabout. Signalized crossing at Naomi
(location of new ACHD yard, south of wastewater facility). Design in 2023, ROW in 2023-2024,
and construction in 2025.
Amity Rd and Locust Grove Rd Signal: Design kick off began on the ultimate configuration
October 20th. ACHD is considering both a roundabout an d a signal. The full scope is not yet
determined, but the project will include sidewalks or a pathway to Mary McPherson Elementary.
The interim project was terminated by ACHD. Instead a more final full overhaul of the intersection
under a larger project will likely be constructed in FY24 or FY25.
City Staff Contact: Brian McClure, Community Development
Lake Hazel Road, Eagle to Cloverdale: Widen Lake Hazel Rd to five 11’ lanes with curb gutter
and 10’ to 14' detached multiuse path on both sides, narrowing the path as necessary to avoid
obstructions in accordance with the completed scoping sketch. Install a retaining wall on the
north side on front of existing development. Relocate the existing utility poles into the buffer
between the roadway and the multi-use path. Bridge improvement included to remove and
replace the existing bridge over the Ten Mile Creek. Design will begin November 2022.
Construction is planned for 2026.
City Staff Contact: Miranda Carson, Community Development
Eagle Road Signal Improvements: Installation of detection equipment was completed the end of
October. The traffic signal controllers will be replaced by ACHD staff; that has to be completed
before the new software system can start collecting data. Evaluation won’t begin fo r several
more months (after data is collected).
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 identifi ed to be upgraded
5
Item 1.
to meet ADA compliance. Reasonable attempts will be made to improve each pedestrian ramp
as directional, not diagonal.
FY2021 Residential Capital Maintenance: 95% design was distributed to the project team.
Construction is planned for the spring/summer of 2022. Segments included: 5th, Franklin to
Bower; 4th, Broadway to State; State Ave, Meridian to E End; Bower, Main to East End; 4th,
Washington to North End; 5th, State to N End; 2nd, Idaho to State Ave
City Staff Contact: Miranda Carson, Community Development
FY2022 Residential Capital Maintenance: 75% design was distributed to the project team. ACHD
is aiming for complete streets where possible. Segments included: E Broadway Ave, E 3rd to E
6th; E Washington Ave, NW 7th to Meridian Rd; W 3rd St, W Pine to north end; W Maple Ave, W
1st St to N Meridian Rd; NW 8th St, W Carlton to W Washington; W 2nd St, W Cherry Ave to W
Cherry Ln; W Idaho Ave, W 8th St to N Meridian Rd; NW 4th S, W Broadway Ave to north end;
and W Cherry Ave, NW 4th St to Meridian Rd. The following segments may also be added: W 5th
Ave, W Washington St to W Carlton Ave and NW 7th St, W Washington St to middle school
micro-path.
City Staff Contact: Miranda Carson, Community Development
FY2023 Residential Capital Maintenance: Kick off meeting was held November 18th. Segments
included: 01st 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 5th 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.
City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
FY22 Arterial & Collector Capital Maintenance: 95% design was distributed to the project team.
The two Meridian roadway segments are Victory Rd, Black Cat Rd To Ten Mile Rd & Amity Rd,
Meridian Rd to Locust Grove Rd.
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: This section of the project is complete.
Locust Grove Road to Eagle Road: This section of the project is complete.
Linder Road to Locust Grove Road: Locust Grove Road to Meridian construction is
anticipated Spring 2022. All four lanes from Linder to Meridian are open.
Star Road to ID-16: Construction is planned for 2023.
City Staff Contact: Caleb Hood, Community Development
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Item 1.
Idaho Highway 16 extension, U.S. 20/26 to I-84: The Idaho Legislature has authorized funds
to begin construction in Summer 2022. Initial construction will include: Five miles of
highway between U.S. 20/26 and I-84; an initial interchange at SH-16/I-84; overpasses at
Cherry Lane, McMillan Road, and the railroad; stop-controlled intersections at Franklin
Road and Ustick Road; and an updated layout for the current U.S. 20/26 intersection. ITD
is also completing the design of the future interchanges at Franklin Road, Ustick Road,
U.S. 20/26 and State Highway 44. Additional funding will be needed to build these
interchanges. Project website: www.ITDprojects.org/Idaho16
SH-69, Kuna to Meridian Traffic Study: ITD is currently reviewing typical cross-sections and a
drainage report is being developed that will determine typical cross -section widths. ITD is
studying options to improve safety, mobility and access on Idaho 69 between Kuna and Meridian.
The current concept includes continuous flow intersections, median U-turn intersections,
reduced conflict U-turn intersections, additional traffic lanes, and bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
There is currently no funding identified in ITD’s seven-year budget for the SH-69 improvements.
Here is a link to the project website: https://itdprojects.org/projects/id69corridor/
PATHWAYS
South Meridian Neighborhood Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan: Scoping began on the 5 sub projects.
Two projects are on Locust Grove Rd: Palermo Dr pedestrian crossing and bridge #1207 just
south of Victory. Three projects are improvements along Stoddard Road, Victory to Overland.
Design is planned for 2022, and construction is not yet programmed. ACHD and several partners
including the City coordinated to develop a plan to help improve walking and bicycling routes in
South Meridian neighborhoods. Here is a link to the project site:
http://www.achdidaho.org/Projects/proj_program_south-meridian-neighborhood-bicycle-and-
pedestrian-plan.aspx
Hollandale/Targee Bikeway Study: ACHD has invited the City to participate in a concept study
for a bikeway that goes from Locust Grove Rd to Entertainment Ave along local roads. The
purpose of the study is mainly to emphasize the bike route as a low -stress bikeway with signs
and pavement markings.
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
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 Quartet Subdivision developer is constructing pathway north
of the Five Mile through the proposed development and partnering with the City to add a
pedestrian component to their vehicular bridge. The City is working with an engineering
consultant on construction plans for the remainder of the run on the south side of the
Five Mile Drain (from Quartet, east to the existing McNelis Pathway). This includes a
crossing of the Nine Mile Drain, with tentative plans to install a bridge crossing after the
7
Item 1.
2022 irrigation season wraps. Design and construct a portion of the Five Mile Creek pathway
near the Wastewater Resource Recovery Center (WWRRC). The bulk of this pathway will be
constructed 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.
OTHER PROJECTS
Valley Regional Transit: Valley Regional Transit launched the Connected Meridian project on
engagevalleyregionaltransit.org. The intent behind the project is to collect public input on a wide
variety of public transportation options for the City of Meridian. Services in Meridian include:
Harvest Lifestyle service, a Veterans shuttle to the VA, and intercounty Routes 40 and 42. Route
30 Pine from the Ten Mile Interchange area through downtown to The Village will launch in 2022.
For more information visit: https://www.valleyregionaltransit.org/
City Staff Contact: Miranda Carson, Community Development
Ada County Transportation Action Plan: The Transportation Action Plan is scheduled to go
before the Board of County Commissioners February 9th for final adoption. The purpose
of the TAP is for Ada County to identify a broad set of transportation policies, goals, and
strategies for the unincorporated parts of Ada County. Here is a link to the plan webpage:
https://adacounty.id.gov/developmentservices/transportation-action-plan/
8
Item 1.
MEMORANDUM
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
Community Development 33 E. Broadway Avenue, Meridian, ID 83642
Phone 208-884-5533 Fax 208-888-6854 www.meridiancity.org
January 26, 2022
TO: City of Meridian Transportation Commission
CC: Caleb Hood, Planning Division Manager
Miranda Carson, Comprehensive Associate Coordination Planner
FROM: Brian McClure, Comprehensive Associate Planner
RE: Fields Subarea Plan
On December 21st of 2021 the Meridian City Council Adopted the Fields Subarea Plan. This was
a direct continuation of work that began with the 2019 Comprehensive Plan, and includes no
changes to the adopted Future Land Use Map. The Fields area is a unique opportunity to plan for
one of the City’s last growth areas. Surrounded on three sides by other cities/county, and soon to
be defined on its east boundary by the now funded SH-16 extension, this area of Meridian may
feel disjointed from the rest of the City.
Further, other constraints including SH 20/26 (Chinden Boulevard), a litany of large irrigation
facilities, and a 7-million-gallon Intermountain Gas Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) storage
facility, present barriers to a quality-built and connected environment. Where the area could
compete for an identity, the Fields is instead anchored with an inward facing concept that helps
to preserve its roots, make use of its challenges, and seeks to further the vision described in the
Meridian Comprehensive Plan.
This Subarea Plan integrates implementation elements to promote high-quality neighborhoods,
continues to plan for essential employment, and seeks to expand and further integrate parks and
pathways into the area. A central mixed-use activity center, located at the southeast corner of the
Star/McMillan intersection will serve as a hub for surrounding neighborhoods. This will provide
the community with centralized neighborhood-scale retail and services, office, civic, and park
space in an environment distinctly Meridian.
Outside of the Star and McMillan center however, the Subarea Plan is light on new direction,
policy or standards. Instead, the plan tries to seamlessly relate elements largely covered in
existing policy, through a lens that is context sensitive. For example, the transportation
component is central to the Plan but focuses largely on elements of connectivity already
addressed in the Master Pathway Plan and existing transportation policy such as connectivity and
access. These elements are shown and described together, in the context of specific facilities and
unique constrains and opportunities. While not prescriptive, the plan outlines a vision that
combines these elements and provides examples of this integration.
The next major implementation item for this Subarea Plan, is to identify an opportunity for a
public park, and in planning for other public services. The Fields Subarea Plan is available on the
City’s website at: https://meridiancity.org/fields.
9
Item 2.
MEMO TO TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
Agenda Topic on the Transportation Commission Agenda
From: Miranda Carson, Coordination Planner Meeting Date: February 7, 2022
Presenter: Sergeant Justin Dance, MPD Estimated Time:
Topic: Eagle Road Variable Speed Limits
In January there was a discussion between the Mayor, Police Chief Basterrechea, and staff from both
Meridian and Idaho Transportation Department regarding Eagle Road speed limits. There was discussion
on the potential for ITD to lower them. At the end of t he meeting, the Mayor asked that the
Transportation Commission discuss this topic and provide input on variable speed limits on the corridor
Sergeant Dance will be presenting on this topic, and he has provided the attached collision reports for
your review.
10
Item 4.
Meridian Police Department
Eagle Road Collisions (McMillan Rd to Overland Road)
December 2020 - November 2021
Fatalities
1
Count
78
59
51
29
21
238
Reported Collisions on Eagle Road from McMillan Road to Overland Road*
Top 5 Locations Reported Collisions on Eagle Road
Grand Total
N Eagle Rd / WB 84 Ramp
S Eagle Rd / E St Lukes St
N Eagle Rd / E Franklin Rd
N Eagle Rd / E Ustick Rd
N Eagle Rd / E Fairview Ave
Location
Collisions Reported
410
Injury Collisions
168
Property Damage
Collisions
Non-Reportable
Collisions
56185
% of Total
58.05%
5.12%
7.07%
12.44%
14.39%
19.02%
1 10
50
108
185
56
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
200
Fatality A Injury Accident B Injury Accident C Injury Accident Property Dmg
Report
Non Reportable
Eagle Road Collisions by Specific Severity
29
33
44
49
29
25
23
28
37
29
29
55
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
November 2021
October 2021
September 2021
August 2021
July 2021
June 2021
May 2021
April 2021
March 2021
February 2021
January 2021
December 2020
Eagle Road Collisions by Month
*Includes collisions reported to Boise Police Department.
Data subject to change due to report processing times.
LC3254 Sources: ITS/RMS, BPD11
Item 4.
Meridian Police Department
Eagle Road Collisions (McMillan Rd to Overland Road)
December 2020 - November 2021
*Other includes moves/causes instance counts of 3 or less.
Count
25
19
18
7
6
6
81
N Eagle Rd / E Franklin Rd
Location
Top 5 Locations For Rear-End Collisions with
an Injury
Grand Total
N Eagle Rd / E River Valley St
S Eagle Rd / WB 84 Ramp
S Eagle Rd / E St Lukes St
N N Eagle Rd / E Fairview Ave
N N Eagle Rd / E Ustick Rd
235, 57%74, 18%
50, 12%
17, 4%
12, 3%7, 2%15, 4%
Eagle Road Collisions by Collision Movement Type
Rear End
Turning Error
Lane Change/Merging Error
Unknown Error
DUI
Backing Error
Other*
110, 65%
31, 18%
9, 5%
8, 5%
3, 2%
8, 5%
Injury Accidents by
Movement Type
Rear End
Turning Error
Lane Change/Merging Error
DUI
Medical Event
*Includes collisions reported to Boise Police Department.
Data subject to change due to report processing times.
LC3254 Sources: ITS/RMS, BPD12
Item 4.
Meridian Police Department
Eagle Road Collisions (McMillan Rd to Fairview Ave)
December 2020 - November 2021
*Other includes moves/causes instance counts of 2 or less.
4120 N Eagle Rd (BioLife Plasma)
N Eagle Rd / E Seville Ln
3673 N Eagle Rd (Fast Eddy's)
N Eagle Rd / E Village Dr
N Eagle Rd / W Wainwright Dr
12
N Eagle Rd / W Meadowdale Dr
N Eagle Rd / E River Valley St
N Eagle Rd / W McMillan Rd
N Eagle Rd / W Baldcypress St
N Eagle Rd / E Ustick Rd
Count
Locations of Collisions Involving a Turning Error
N Eagle Rd / E Fairview Ave
Location
Grand Total 45
1
1
1
2
2
2
3
3
8
10
123, 56%
45, 21%
22, 10%
7, 3%
6, 3%
4, 2%11, 5%
Eagle Road Collisions by Collision Movement Type
Rear End
Turning Error
Lane Change/Merging Error
Unknown Error
Backing Error
DUI
Other*
*Includes collisions reported to Boise Police Department.
Data subject to change due to report processing times.
LC3254 Sources: ITS/RMS, BPD13
Item 4.
Meridian Police Department
Distraction Related Collisions 2019-2021
2019 2020 2021*Grand Total
# of Collisions due to Electronic
Distractions 79 66 59 204
*As of 01/05/22, data subject to change due to report processing times.
Texting Citation Type 2019 2020 2021 Grand Total
Warning 0 1 0 1
Citation 0 3 4 7
Handheld Device City Ordinance &
State Code 2019 2020 2021 Grand Total
Warning 166 481 282 929
Citations 0 251 328 579
Collision Related Handheld Device Citations & Warnings
Electronic Distractions & Collisions by Year
The City Ordinance was in effect from 01/01/2020-06/30/2020 with a prior warning period of
11/01/2019 - 12/31/2019. The State Law warnings began 07/01/2020, with citations being
issued as of 01/01/2021.
Handheld Device Warnings & Citations
LC3254 Sources: WebCars, eCitation 14
Item 4.
MEMO TO TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
From: Caleb Hood, Planning Division Manager Meeting Date: February 7, 2022
Presenter: Caleb Hood Estimated Time: 15 minutes
Topic: Ustick Road, Ten Mile to Linder – Center Median Options
Recommended Action:
Staff requests the Commission make a recommendation to Council regarding a potential partnership
with ACHD on non-transportation elements (landscaping) on the Ustick, Ten Mile to Linder project.
Background:
A technical concept study was completed late last year for the Ustick Rd, Ten Mile Rd to Linder Rd
project. T-O Engineers is preparing to take the preferred alternative from the Concept Study developed
by Parametrix last year through Final Design. The preferred alternative includes widening Ustick Rd to
two travel lanes in each direction with a two-way, center turn lane and/or raised center medians. The
raised medians are located in areas along the corridor where the center turn lane is not needed for
access, to provide traffic calming measures along the corridor. (See attached concept plan)
The project will also include constructing a 10-foot wide, multi-use pathway on the north and south
sides of Ustick Rd. A traffic signal will be installed at the intersection of Ustick Rd and Towerbridge
Way with a pedestrian refuge island on the east side crossing. A new pedestrian bridge crossing will be
constructed over Five Mile Creek to provide connection with the existing multi-use pathway network.
Design of this project will continue through FY22 and be complete in FY23. Right-of-way is also
planned for 2023 and construction in 2025. The next mile of Ustick, west of Ten Mile is also going into
design and should be complete in 2023 as well (CN=2024). And the third mile, from Black Cat to
McDermott/SH-16 is planned for design in 2026 (CN=Future).
Eleven-foot wide center medians for Ustick Road are planned where the center turn lane is not needed.
ACHD is proposing to hardscape these medians and install fencing as the “base” treatment. ACHD has
offered the City an opportunity to landscape these medians giving the roadway more of a boulevard
feel. The medians are largely included in the project so the roadway can be signed at a lower speed
(likely 35-40 MPH). To design the segment to that speed, vertical obstructions are planned in the
roadway. There is approximately 1,900-linear feet of center median in 6 segments in the current
concept plan. City Staff is working to come up with a cost estimate for how much it may cost to design
and install some shrubs and trees instead of hardscape. Further, it is unknown how much it would cost
to maintain the medians, but it would be expected that the City would take on that responsibility if
anything other than hardscape is installed. City Staff plans to provide the TC some cost estimates
during the February 7th meeting.
Planning Staff sees pros and cons to partnering with ACHD to improve the center medians along Ustick
but would like to hear from the Commission before taking this to Council for action.
15
Item 5.
16
Item 5.
17
Item 5.
Attachment:
Ustick, Ten Mile Road to Linder Road Concept Report
18
Item 5.
December 2021 │ 521052
Ustick Road, Ten Mile Road to Linder Road
Concept Report
Prepared for
Ada County Highway District
3775 Adams St
Garden City, ID 83714
Prepared by
Parametrix
7761 W Riverside Drive, Suite 201
Boise, ID 83714-5044
T. 208.898.0012 F. 1.855.542.6353
www.parametrix.com
19
Item 5.
Ustick Road, Ten Mile Road to Linder Road Concept Report
Ada County Highway District
December 2021 │ 521052
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Brooke Green, Project Manager - Sr. Transportation Planner
Kendall Kemmer, PE - Assistant Traffic Engineer
Dale Kuperus, PE – Manager Engineering
Rachel Speer, PE – Sr. Project Manager, Capital Projects
Rachel Chipman, PE, PTOE, ADAC – Supervisor, Accessibility Compliance
Meg McCarthy – Bike & Pedestrian Coordinator
Avery Foerster – Communications Specialist
Christy Foltz-Ahlrichs – Sr. Communications Specialist
Caleb Hood
Brian McClure
Parametrix (Consultant)
Kristen McCoy
Ken Colson, PE
20
Item 5.
Ustick Road, Ten Mile Road to Linder Road Concept Report
Ada County Highway District
December 2021 │ 521052 i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................................. 1
2. EXISTING CONDITIONS ................................................................................................................. 2
2.1 Land Use ........................................................................................................................................... 2
2.2 Roadway ........................................................................................................................................... 2
2.3 Traffic ............................................................................................................................................... 3
2.4 Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities ...................................................................................................... 3
2.5 Drainage ........................................................................................................................................... 3
2.6 Five Mile Creek Floodway and Floodplain ....................................................................................... 3
2.7 Utilities ............................................................................................................................................. 4
3. ALTERNATIVES DEVELOPMENT ..................................................................................................... 4
3.1 Public Input ...................................................................................................................................... 4
3.2 2045 Traffic Conditions .................................................................................................................... 4
3.3 Design Considerations ...................................................................................................................... 5
3.3.1 Design Criteria ..................................................................................................................... 5
3.4 Initial Alternatives ............................................................................................................................ 6
3.4.1 Split ...................................................................................................................................... 6
3.4.2 Shift ..................................................................................................................................... 6
3.5 Stakeholder and Project Team Input ............................................................................................... 7
4. RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE ..................................................................................................... 7
4.1 Alignment and Typical Section ......................................................................................................... 7
4.2 Detached Multi-Use Pathway .......................................................................................................... 8
4.3 Signalized Intersection at Towerbridge ........................................................................................... 8
4.4 Five Mile Creek Pedestrian Bridge ................................................................................................... 8
4.5 Retaining Wall .................................................................................................................................. 8
4.6 Utilities ............................................................................................................................................. 9
4.7 Drainage ........................................................................................................................................... 9
4.8 Hydraulics ......................................................................................................................................... 9
4.9 Right of Way ..................................................................................................................................... 9
4.10 Opinion of Probable Construction Costs .............................................................................. 10
5. NEXT STEPS ................................................................................................................................ 10
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Item 5.
Ustick Road, Ten Mile Road to Linder Road Concept Report
Ada County Highway District
TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONTINUED)
December 2021 │ 521052 ii
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. Project Area Map ..................................................................................................................... 1
Figure 2. Issues Experienced by the Public ............................................................................................. 4
Figure 3. Initial “Split” Concept Design Alternative ................................................................................ 6
Figure 4. Initial “Shift” Concept Design Alternative ............................................................................... 6
Figure 5. Proposed Typical Section ......................................................................................................... 8
LIST OF PHOTOGRAPHS
Photograph 1. Commercial development at Bridgetower ..................................................................... 2
Photograph 2. Ustick Road, westbound, west of Linder Road ............................................................... 2
Photograph 3. Five Mile Creek Pathway ................................................................................................ 3
APPENDICES
A Utility Base Map
B Public Survey Summary
C Traffic Lane Recommendation Memorandum
D Design Criteria and Evaluation Memorandum
E Recommended Alternative Exhibit
F Bridge Alternate Memorandum
G Hydraulic Analysis Memorandum
H Cost Estimate
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Ustick Road, Ten Mile Road to Linder Road Concept Report
Ada County Highway District
December 2021 │ 521052 iii
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
ACHD Ada County Highway District
FY Fiscal Year
ROW right-of-way
COMPASS Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho
ITD Idaho Transportation Department
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
FIS Flood Insurance Study
FDOT Florida Department of Transportation
Q/LOS Quality Level of Service
LTS Level of Traffic Stress
NMID Nampa Meridian Irrigation District
23
Item 5.
Ustick Road, Ten Mile Road to Linder Road Concept Report
Ada County Highway District
December 2021 │ 521052 1
1. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Ada County Highway District (ACHD) is developing alternatives for improving Ustick Road, between
Ten Mile Road and Linder Road in Meridian, Idaho. The improvements will provide additional travel
lanes for vehicles and connected bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
Ustick Road is widened to five lanes east of Linder Road. ACHD is planning improvements to the Ustick
Road and Ten Mile Road intersection, as well as widening the segment to the west, between Ten Mile
Road and Black Cat Road.
The project is programmed in ACHD’s 2021-2025 Integrated Five-Year Work Plan for Final Design in
Fiscal Year (FY) 2023, right-of-way (ROW) acquisition in FY 2024, and construction in FY 2025.
However, ACHD is proposing to advance the project in the 2022-2026 Integrated Five-Year Work Plan. If
approved, the project advances to Final Design in FY 2022, ROW acquisition in FY 2023, and construction
in FY 2024.
Figure 1. Project Area Map
24
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Ada County Highway District
December 2021 │ 521052 2
2. EXISTING CONDITIONS
2.1 Land Use
Ustick Road, between Ten Mile Road and Linder Road, is largely developed with residential land uses.
The north side of Ustick includes the Hartford, Cold Creek Village, Bridgetower, and Windsong
subdivisions. The south side of Ustick Road includes the Tumble Creek, Fieldstone Meadows, and
Candlelight subdivisions. Additionally, the south side includes a church building and an Ada County
Paramedics building. There are some commercial land uses at both corners of Ustick Road/Linder Road
and Ustick Road/Ten Mile Road and at the entrance to Bridgetower Subdivision.
There are several elementary and middle schools within approximately one mile of the project, including
Ponderosa Elementary School, Hunter Elementary, Sawtooth Middle School, and Linder Elementary.
Three high schools are within three miles of
the project including Rocky Mountain High
School, Meridian High School, and Owyhee
High School.
Additionally, several City of Meridian parks
are within the project vicinity including
Chateau Park, Tully Park, and Reta Huskey
Park. One of the region’s largest City parks,
Settlers, is east of the project at Ustick Road
and Meridian Road.
2.2 Roadway
Ustick Road is a primary east-west arterial within the Treasure Valley. It is one of the longest continuous
roadways (approximately 35 miles long) within Canyon and Ada counties. Ustick Road, between Ten
Mile Road and Linder Road is designated as a Residential Arterial on ACHD’s Master Street Map and a
Principal Arterial on the Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho (COMPASS) 2040
Functional Classification Map.
Approximately 2.5 miles west of Ten Mile
Road, the Idaho Transportation Department
(ITD) is working on design and construction
plans to extend SH-16 between US 20/26
and I-84. SH-16 is planned to be a limited
access expressway, with access at Ustick
Road in the interim and ultimate buildout
configurations. East of Linder Road, Ustick
Road includes five lanes for approximately
eight miles to where Ustick Road
terminates at Curtis Road in Boise.
Ustick Road, between Ten Mile Road and
Linder Road is currently one travel lane in
each direction with a center, two-way left
turn lane for approximately 900 feet along
Photograph 1. Commercial development at Bridgetower
Photograph 2. Ustick Road, westbound, west of Linder Road
25
Item 5.
Ustick Road, Ten Mile Road to Linder Road Concept Report
Ada County Highway District
December 2021 │ 521052 3
the Bridgetower subdivision frontage. The intersections of both Ustick Road/Ten Mile Road and Ustick
Road/Linder Road have been expanded to include dedicated turn lanes and accommodate an additional
through lane in each direction.
2.3 Traffic
ACHD conducted a traffic count in August 2021 along Ustick Road, east of Thames Avenue. The average
24-hour traffic count was nearly 14,000 vehicles.
2.4 Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities
Continuous sidewalks are located along the south side of Ustick Road, between Ten Mile Road and
Linder Road. Intermittent sidewalks are present along the north side with a gap along the frontage of an
undeveloped parcel west of Bridgetower subdivision. Additionally, the sidewalk terminates where the
Five Mile Creek parallels Ustick Road. Sidewalk widths vary between 5 and 7 feet throughout the
corridor.
The Five Mile Creek Pathway, a ten-foot,
multi-use pathway is located north of and
parallel to Five Mile Creek. Several micro
paths and on-street bike routes connect
with the pathway. There are no dedicated
bike lanes along the corridor, with
exception of the expanded intersections at
both Ten Mile Road and Linder Road.
2.5 Drainage
Stormwater runoff generated from the
existing roadway flows from the roadway to infiltration swales adjacent to the roadway or Five Mile
Creek. Stormwater at the Ten Mile Road intersection is captured via curb and gutter and routed into
inlets and drainage pipes, to the south along Ten Mile, where it discharges into two drainage ponds.
Stormwater at the Linder Road intersection is captured via curb and gutter into inlets and drainage pipes
to the stormwater pond north of the Five Mile Creek pathway.
2.6 Five Mile Creek Floodway and Floodplain
Five Mile Creek is located north of and adjacent to Ustick Road within the project area. The creek flows
in a northwesterly direction, crosses Ustick Road approximately 300 feet west of Linder Road, where it
turns and flows westerly along the north side of Ustick Road for approximately 1/3 mile before veering
northwest and leaving the project limits.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has evaluated most major waterways in the United
States to determine the appropriate floodplain and floodway limits for flooding risks. FEMA has a
published Flood Insurance Study (FIS) with associated floodplain mapping. The FIS for Five Mile Creek is
published under study 16001CV001C (latest revision dated June 19, 2020). The FIS and corresponding
maps show that the project area is in or near the floodplain and floodway of Five Mile Creek.
Photograph 3. Five Mile Creek Pathway
26
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Ustick Road, Ten Mile Road to Linder Road Concept Report
Ada County Highway District
December 2021 │ 521052 4
2.7 Utilities
Utility facility maps were acquired for the project area. The maps indicate several utilities are present
including electric, gas, water, sewer, cable, fiber, and telephone. Utilities were noted in the initial
project surveys and basemap but utility potholing will be conducted in a future design phase. The utility
base map is in Appendix A.
3. ALTERNATIVES DEVELOPMENT
3.1 Public Input
ACHD hosted an online public survey as one of
the first project tasks. The survey was provided
online in December 2020 to gather early input
on the project.
The survey introduced the project and asked
seven questions. Over 425 responses were
received. Most participants live near the project
corridor and use it to commute and run errands.
Common themes included (in order):
1. Difficulty turning left in/out of
subdivisions
2. Congestion / heavy traffic / needs more
lanes
3. No turn lanes (right/left or center)
4. Bottleneck / merge from widened
section
5. Insufficient and unsafe bike/ped
facilities
6. Narrow roadway
The top three priorities for developing alternatives were alleviating congestion, safety within the
corridor, and ensuring bicyclist and pedestrian connectivity. Additionally, the public expressed interest
in preserving Five Mile Creek (both the pathway and open waterway). A summary of the public survey
can be found in Appendix B.
3.2 2045 Traffic Conditions
The COMPASS travel demand model indicates that daily traffic volumes along the corridor in 2045 are
expected to be approximately 25,000 vehicles per day. These volumes were evaluated using ACHD’s LOS
Planning Thresholds for Roadway Segments and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT)’s
Quality Level of Service (Q/LOS) 2020 Generalized Service Volume Tables. In both analyses, the 2045
projected traffic volumes indicate the need for four travel lanes, confirming the intent to widen the
roadway to four travel lanes. The traffic recommendation memorandum can be found in Appendix C.
Figure 2. Issues Experienced by the Public
27
Item 5.
Ustick Road, Ten Mile Road to Linder Road Concept Report
Ada County Highway District
December 2021 │ 521052 5
In addition, ACHD completed an analysis at the Ustick Road and Towerbridge Way intersection, which
concluded that a traffic signal is warranted at that location.
3.3 Design Considerations
The following list reflects the most highly valued features that were considered when developing and
evaluating alternatives for improving Ustick Road, between Ten Mile Road and Linder Road. These
considerations were developed as a result of both public input and technical data.
Capacity
• Expand the roadway to provide four travel lanes and a center two-way left-turn lane
• Utilize recently constructed intersections at Linder and Ten Mile
Connectivity
• Provide continuous bicycle and pedestrian facilities that consider ACHD’s bicycle and pedestrian
guidance
• Enhance connections between neighborhoods, existing pathways, and parks
• Utilize existing Five Mile Creek pathway
Safety
• Ensure vehicular & non-motorized user safety:
o Consider installing signalized pedestrian crossing(s)
o Allow room to safely navigate in and out of neighborhoods/driveways
• Meet ACHD design standards
Impacts
• Minimize impacts to the open waterway of Five Mile Creek
• Minimize impacts to the Five Mile Creek floodplain
• Minimize private property impacts
3.3.1 Design Criteria
The ACHD Livable Street Design Guide indicates the typical section for a Residential Arterial includes a
97-foot ROW, including 11-foot travel lanes, an 11-foot center median/turn lane (plus 1-foot shy on both
sides), a 5-foot bicycle lane, 2-foot curb and gutter, 5-foot buffer, and 7-foot sidewalk.
ACHD adopted a Livable Street Performance Measures document that includes proposed Level of Traffic
Stress (LTS) for bicyclists and pedestrians. ACHD has indicated a desire for both bicycle and pedestrian
LTS to be at a Level 1 or Level 2, understanding that may not be feasible in some land use contexts. Level
1 indicates high comfort for all, and Level 2 indicates high comfort for adults.
To achieve LTS 1 or 2 on Ustick Road with four travel lanes and 40 mph posted speed limit, raised or
protected bike lanes and/or multi-use pathways would be needed for bicycle facilities. For pedestrians, a
sidewalk buffer of at least 11 feet would be necessary to achieve LTS 2. An Evaluation Criteria
memorandum and complete Design Criteria spreadsheet can be found in Appendix D.
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Ada County Highway District
December 2021 │ 521052 6
3.4 Initial Alternatives
Two initial design alternatives were developed for the project. Both options included:
• Travel Lanes: 4 (11-feet wide)
• Center Lane: continuous center two-way, left turn lane/raised median (13-feet wide)
• Buffer: continuous (varies between at least 4 and 6 feet wide)
• Bike/Ped Facilities: continuous (10-foot-wide multi-use pathway) including two pedestrian
bridge crossing options over Five Mile Creek
• Five Mile Creek: retaining wall where Ustick parallels Five Mile Creek allowing the creek to
remain an open waterway (height varies between options)
• Signalized Pedestrian Crossings: two signalized pedestrian crossing locations
Both options also met the design consideration criteria in Section 3.3. The difference in the two options
was the alignment of the widening and the impacts to Five Mile Creek as described below.
3.4.1 Split
The “Split” concept widens Ustick Road symmetrically on centerline. This alternative avoids shifts/curves
in the roadway alignment and provides more area (approximately 17 feet) between the future pathway
and private property fences on the south side of Ustick near Five Mile Creek. This alternative also
requires a taller (approximately 15-foot tall), more expensive retaining wall along Five Mile Creek.
3.4.2 Shift
The “Shift” concept moves the roadway approximately 15 feet south between Towerbridge Way and
Linder Road to avoid impacting Five Mile Creek. The concept is the same as the “Split” concept west of
Towerbridge Way. This alternative provides less area (approximately 3.5 feet) between the future
pathway and private property fences on the south side of Ustick near Five Mile Creek but requires a
shorter (approximately 5-foot tall), less expensive retaining wall along Five Mile Creek.
Figure 3. Initial “Split” Concept Design Alternative
Figure 4. Initial “Shift” Concept Design Alternative
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Ustick Road, Ten Mile Road to Linder Road Concept Report
Ada County Highway District
December 2021 │ 521052 7
3.5 Stakeholder and Project Team Input
ACHD sought input on the two initial concept design alternatives from the Nampa Meridian Irrigation
District (NMID), City of Meridian, and ACHD project team.
NMID was supportive of both concept design alternatives and had no changes to the proposed
concepts. Currently, NMID has difficulty accessing the south bank of Five Mile Creek due to access along
Ustick Road and would support a retaining wall in this location. NMID understands the requirements
with the FEMA floodplain with work in and around Five Mile Creek. They also noted that a master
pathway agreement will be required for the new pedestrian bridge crossing.
City of Meridian staff participated in the Project Team meetings that were held throughout project
development. The Project Team provided several comments on the initial design alternatives in August
2021. Key components of the design modifications included:
• Addition of a signalized intersection at Towerbridge Way based on completion of the traffic
signal warrant analysis
• Removal of the signalized pedestrian crossings based on the addition of the traffic signal at
Towerbridge Way
• Reduction of the center two-way left-turn lane width to 11 feet
• Incorporation of pathway setbacks at public street crossings
• Removal of on-street bike lanes at the Ten Mile Road intersection with extension of the multi-
use pathway between Thames and Ten Mile Road
• Addition of raised center medians in areas where access is not restricted
4. RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE
Both initial concept design alternatives were refined based on input from the Project Team. The refined
concepts were presented to the Project Team in September 2021, and at that meeting, a recommended
alternative was selected. The “Split” alternative was preferred by the Team as it provides a straight
alignment through the corridor and provides more space between the back of the multi-use pathway
and private property fence line south of Five Mile Creek.
Key components of the recommended alternative are described in the sections below and shown
graphically in Appendix E.
4.1 Alignment and Typical Section
The recommended alignment symmetrically widens Ustick Road to two travel lanes in each direction
and one center two-way left-turn lane and/or raised median. The raised medians are located in areas
along the corridor where the center turn lane is not needed for access to provide traffic calming
measures along the corridor. The City of Meridian and ACHD work together to determine if the raised
medians will include landscaping.
ACHD is committed to achieving an LTS 2 or better and therefore, the typical section for the project
includes 11-foot travel lanes, an 11-foot center median/turn lane, 2-foot curb and gutter, 6-foot buffer,
and 10-foot multi use pathway. The proposed typical section is shown in Figure 5.
The “Split” alternative includes a buffer of approximately 19 feet between the back of the multi-use
pathway and private property fence at the east end of the corridor, along Tumble Creek subdivision.
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Item 5.
Ustick Road, Ten Mile Road to Linder Road Concept Report
Ada County Highway District
December 2021 │ 521052 8
4.2 Detached Multi-Use Pathway
ACHD’s Roadways to Bikeways Master Plan calls for more robust bike facilities along this type of
roadway. Multi-use pathways are two-way facilities meant to accommodate both pedestrians and
bicyclists of a wide range of ages and abilities.
Detached from the roadway, the multi-use pathways provide more space between motorists and those
walking and biking. The recommended alternative includes a continuous buffer (6-foot minimum) on
both sides of Ustick Road. At public street crossings, the pathway is set back approximately 20 feet.
4.3 Signalized Intersection at Towerbridge
ACHD conducted a traffic signal warrant analysis and concluded that a signal is warranted at Ustick Road
and Towerbridge Way. Therefore, the recommended alternative includes construction of a signalized
intersection at this location. Crosswalks will be provided on all three legs of the intersection and a
median refuge island will be provided on the east side of the intersection.
4.4 Five Mile Creek Pedestrian Bridge
A prestressed voided slab bridge is recommended for the Five Mile Creek Pedestrian Bridge. The bridge
would be 20 feet wide with abutments placed beyond the top of existing channel on steel piles, with a
span length of 62 feet. The bridge superstructure includes 5, 21-inch prestressed voided slabs placed
side-by-side. This option minimizes impacts to Five Mile Creek during construction and is more cost
effective than a concrete stiffleg bridge.
Per coordination with NMID, the bridge will include fence/railing on the sides to prevent access to Five
Mile Creek and will be designed to accommodate NMID maintenance equipment. A Bridge Alternate
Memo is in Appendix F.
4.5 Retaining Wall
The retaining wall along Five Mile Creek is approximately 1600 feet long with an average exposed height
of 10 feet. Due to the proximity of the creek, the bottom of the retaining wall will be set a minimum of 2
feet below scour depths. For the Concept Design, a scour assumption of 2 feet was used and therefore,
the wall was evaluated at 4 feet below the streambed. The wall is adjacent to the outside travel lane and
requires a parapet anchored to a moment slab. The preferred wall type is a modular block wall with MSE
straps. A Bridge Alternate Memo is in Appendix F.
Figure 5. Proposed Typical Section
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4.6 Utilities
Several utilities will be impacted by the recommended alternative. It appears all utilities are not located
within a utility easement and are anticipated to be relocated by the respective utility company. ACHD
will coordinate with the various utility companies throughout design to notify them of the proposed
improvements and work to prepare relocation design plans.
4.7 Drainage
A conceptual drainage analysis was conducted to develop stormwater conveyance and storage options
for the project area. Three drainage basins were delineated along the corridor. The draft peak volumes
total approximately 25,000 cubic feet. The initial analysis indicates stormwater could be collected within
roadside bioretention swales between the back of curb and pathway. If needed, underground rock
galleries and/or seepage beds could also be used.
4.8 Hydraulics
FEMA has the local jurisdiction administer and regulate projects within the floodplain boundaries. If the
project can demonstrate that the project improvements will not adversely impact the floodplain, then
the local jurisdiction (City of Meridian) can approve the project. For more complicated projects,
approvals from FEMA need to be sought. A preliminary hydraulic evaluation was performed to help
determine a high-level feel for what the possible impacts would be to Five Mile Creek due to the
proposed project improvements. A technical memorandum summarizing the evaluation is in Appendix
G.
The analysis found that the existing pedestrian bridge west of Towerbridge Way appears to be
undersized. Therefore, the proposed improvements in the hydraulic modeling included removal of the
existing bridge, construction of a new (20’ x 20’) pedestrian bridge, and installation of a new retaining
wall along the south side of Five Mile Creek.
The initial evaluation indicates that removing the existing undersized pedestrian bridge would benefit
Five Mile Creek by reducing the flood water surface elevation approximately 0.8 feet (although the low
chord of this bridge needs verified). This reduction is offset by the Ustick Road encroachment and
retaining wall, resulting in a reduced cross-sectional flow area of approximately 20%. This flow area
reduction is anticipated to increase the water surface elevation by approximately 0.95 feet. The
anticipated net effect of the project would be a 0.15-foot rise in the water surface elevation at the east
end of the project.
The hydraulic model and analysis should be refined, and key components confirmed in design. If ACHD
elects to move forward on the existing alignment, it is likely a no-rise certification could not be obtained
and coordination with FEMA would be necessary. ACHD could consider a southerly shift in the alignment
to achieve a no-rise at Five Mile Creek. Initial modeling indicates a 6–10-foot shift could achieve a no-
rise condition.
4.9 Right of Way
The recommended alternative will require ROW acquisition along both the north and south sides of
Ustick Road. It is anticipated that up to 47 parcels could require ROW acquisition and/or easements for
construction of the proposed improvements totaling approximately 14,000 square feet (1/3 acre).
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4.10 Opinion of Probable Construction Costs
A conceptual level cost estimate was prepared for design, ROW acquisition, and construction of the
recommended alternative. Project costs are expected to be approximately $11.1 million - $12.8 million.
Appendix H includes the opinion of probable construction costs.
5. NEXT STEPS
Upon completion of the Concept Study, ACHD intends to proceed with design, ROW acquisition, and
construction. Several items are critical to the project’s success moving forward, including:
• Hydraulic Analysis. The initial hydraulic analysis should be refined with updated design
information and survey information to confirm whether a no-rise could be obtained at Five Mile
Creek. If not, ACHD should consider whether a shift in the alignment is desired to achieve the
no-rise.
• Construction Traffic Control. The construction of the retaining wall (averaging 15-feet in height)
will likely require a very sizeable footprint for construction equipment and structural excavation.
Closing Ustick Road between Linder Road and Towerbridge Way during construction of the
retaining wall and roadway improvements may substantially reduce construction costs and
utility impacts. ACHD should consider the advantages/disadvantages of a roadway closure and
provide direction to the project team early in the Final Design Phase.
• Public outreach and engagement. The concept study conducted an initial project survey, and
the recommended alternative implements changes to the corridor that the public desires.
However, additional public outreach should be conducted to inform the public of the proposed
improvements, seek input on design features, and provide updated information on the timing
for construction.
• Agency coordination and permitting. The proposed improvements include modifications within
and across Five Mile Creek. Ongoing coordination with NMID and BOR should continue through
the design phases. Necessary permits will likely include:
o Joint Application for Permit (USACE, IDEQ, IDEQ)
o Irrigation Crossing/License agreement with NMID
o SF-299 Crossing application with Bureau of Reclamation for all work within and along
Five Mile Creek
o Cooperative Agreement with the City of Meridian if city-owned and maintained
landscaping is included in the buffers and/or center medians
• Geotechnical Investigation. Soil testing and analysis will be necessary to provide
recommendations for the pavement section(s), bridge foundation support, and retaining walls.
• Utility potholing. Utility potholing should be conducted in the design phase to determine the
depth and potential impacts to subsurface utilities. Ongoing communication with the various
utility companies should continue to coordinate utility relocation designs and timing.
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Appendix A
Utility Base Map
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Appendix B
Public Survey Summary
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Appendix C
Traffic Lane Recommendation Memorandum
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Appendix D
Design Criteria and Evaluation Memorandum
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Appendix E
Recommended Alternative Exhibit
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Appendix F
Bridge Alternate Memorandum
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Appendix G
Hydraulic Analysis Memorandum
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Appendix H
Cost Estimate
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Item 5.
MEMO TO TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
Agenda Topic on the Transportation Commission Agenda
From: Miranda Carson, Coordination Planner Meeting Date: February 7, 2022
Presenter: Miranda Carson and Caleb Hood Estimated Time:
Topic: Review of Duties and Powers
In January there was a discussion regarding sending a letter from the Transportation Commission to
ACHD staff requesting a speed study. It was stated that a request to staff was all that was needed for the
speed study. It was later clarified by City administration that the request should come from the Mayors
office.
With the misunderstanding around this issue (including on my part), a review of the Duties and Powers
of the Transportation Commission seems warranted.
City Code Title 2 Chapter 7 – Transportation Commission can be found here for your review prior to our
discussion on February 7th:
https://library.municode.com/id/meridian/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT2COCO_CH7TRCO
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Item 6.
MEMO TO TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
Agenda Topic on the Transportation Commission Agenda
From: Miranda Carson, Coordination Planner Meeting Date: February 7, 2022
Presenter: Miranda Carson Estimated Time: 5 minutes
Topic: Staff Communications
Below are summaries of relevant correspondences received by City Staff since the last TC meeting.
I-84 Corridor Operations Plan: 2nd Level Tactics Screening Results
COMPASS held an I-84 Corridor Operations Plan stakeholders meeting in December. The following
follow up email was recieved from Hunter Mulhall on January 14th.
Thank you again to all who attended our meeting last month to discuss the evaluation the
top tactics in the I-84 Corridor Operations planning process. The project team has
prepared a memo documenting the process in detail; the document can be found here:
https://www.compassidaho.org/documents/prodserv/tsmo/I84_Ops/20220111_I-
84_Corridor_Operations_Plan_Tactics_Screening_Results_Memo.pdf.
All other documents and memos that have been developed up to this point for the I-84-
Corridor Operations Plan can be found on COMPASS’ Transportation and Operations
Management (TSMO) page here: https://www.compassidaho.org/prodserv/trans-
mgmt.htm.
We look forward to working with you in the coming months as we develop the vision and
implementation plan for TSMO on the I-84 corridor.
Citizen Inquiry on Stoddard Road Improvements
The following email was received:
Good afternoon,
We are parents of middle school kids and live on the south side of Victory Rd. Our kids walk
to and from school every day, it’s 3/4 of a mile. We would really love to make this journey
safer for them and the rest of the neighborhood and were wondering what the steps were
for requesting the installation of a crosswalk at Victory and Stoddard. Or whether that was
something that was already up for consideration.
Thank you for your time regarding this matter.
Sincerely,
Victoria Pentz
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Item 7.
I followed up with her and relayed ACHD’s plans as I understand them:
Victoria,
Thank you for your patience while I researched the answer. ACHD and our City Parks
department do have an improvement project planned on Stoddard Rd, Victory Rd / Overland
Rd. The design for that is scheduled for this year, but the construction has not yet been
programmed. The scope of the project has not been fully defined. Pedestrian and bicycle
facilities are planned for the full stretch of that roadway. There will also be at least 1 but
hopefully 2 pedestrian crossings included, and improvements to the bridge over the
Ridenbaugh Canal.
Please let me know if you have any further questions.
The conversation closed with her response:
Miranda,
Thank you so much for your reply. It is reassuring to know things are planned and in the
works. I will keep my eyes peeled for future announcements regarding the improvement
project and am thankful to be a member of such a community focused city.
Sincerely,
Victoria Pentz
ChindenWest 20/26 Update
Construction planned for final segment of US 20/26 widening from
Eagle Road to State Highway 16
Four uninterrupted lanes of traffic, two-in-each-direction, from Eagle Road to State
Highway 16, is scheduled for completion by Fall 2022, as the remaining 2-lane segment
between Locust Grove and Meridian Road begins construction this spring.
We appreciate your patience and remind motorists to always drive with caution
through construction areas.
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Item 7.
The Idaho Transportation Department would like to thank you for your
ongoing patience as we strive to meet the traveling needs of Idahoans.
Click HERE to watch the ChindenWest Corridor overview video!
www.ITDProjects.org/ChindenWest
We Want to Hear from You!
Visit www.itdprojects.org/chindenwest to provide comment, ask questions and sign
up for updates. Be sure to check out the interactive Interstate 84 to Middleton Road
Story Map.
Stay Informed
Please visit www.ITDProjects.org/ChindenWest for up-to-date information and
opportunities to participate. Contact the project team at ChindenWest@itd.idaho.gov or
208-334-8007.
Idaho Walk Bike Alliance Newsletter
Idaho Walk Bike Alliance January newsletter contained the following information I thought would be of
interest to the Transportation Commission:
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Item 7.
Idaho Walk Bike Alliance
Going Places... Safely!
JANUARY NEWSLETTER
News Around the State
Week 2 Idaho Legislative Update for January 17 – 21, 2022
Idaho Legislative Session is in full swing! Out new lobbyist, Benn Brocksome has
an update for our supporters.
Legislative Update
7th Annual Idaho Public Policy Survey Released.
The Idaho Policy Center has released their report on how Idahoans are feelings
about growth, transportation, housing and more.
Read More
Biden Administration Releases Fact Sheet on Upcoming Federal
Grants
The recently passed Infrastructure Bill includes billions of dollars in competitive
funding available to cities, towns, and municipalities across dozens of new and
existing programs. The most relevant ones for bike/ped infrastructure
include: RAISE Grants, Rural Surface Transportation Grant, Safe Streets
and Roads for All, and Reconnecting Communities. Find more information
below.
Read More
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Item 7.
Upcoming Events
Buy your tickets!
What we are Watching and Reading
A Faster Path to Safe Sidewalks
What a League National Safety Strategy Would Prioritize
Study: COVID-Era Pop-Up Bike Lanes Increase Cycling Trips Up to 48%
Portland Researchers Track the Where and how of E-Bike Purchase
Incentives
To Stop Building Heat Islands, Stop Overbuilding Parking Lots
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