linn county (highway 34/interstate i-5) park and ride rural

LINN COUNTY (HIGHWAY 34/INTERSTATE I-5)

PARK AND RIDE

RURAL TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

TIGER IV GRANT APPLICATION

March 19, 2012

Tiger II Application (Rural Project)

Submitted by: Linn County

Type of Project: Park and Ride Transportation Improvement

Project Location: Linn County (Rural)

Funding Amount Requested: $ 2,680,000

Project Match Provided: $ 400,000 (Linn County)

DUNS Number (Linn County): 948128202

Project Supported by:

Linn County

City of Lebanon

Oregon Department of Transportation

Regional Council of Governments

Linn Benton Regional Transit Development Program

Linn County Parks Department

City of Corvallis

Project to be Managed by:

Linn County (ODOT Certified Agency)

Chuck Knoll, PE, Linn County Engineer

Linn County Road Department

3101 Ferry Street, S. W.

Albany, Oregon 97322

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: 541-967-3919

Fax: 541-924-0202

A COOPERATIVE PROJECT PROVIDING VIABLE TRANSPORTATION

OPTIONS

LINN COUNTY (HIGHWAY 34/INTERSTATE I-5) PARK AND RIDE RURAL TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS


March 19, 2012 Page II of III

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PROJECT AT A GLANCE

PURPOSE AND OUTCOMES

Project Purpose

Benefits and Desired Outcomes

I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Key Corridor and Like Locations

Project in Rural Area

Park and Ride Sites

Linn County (I-5/Highway 34/Seven Mile Lane)

City of Lebanon (Highway 34/Third Street)

Technical Feasibility

Project Schedule

II. PROJECT PARTIES

A Project with Broad Support/Partnership

Project Management

III. GRANT FUNDS AND SOURCES/USES OF PROJECT FUNDS

Project Management

Long Term Operation Management

Budget and Financing Plan

Financial Feasibility

Project Performance

IV. SELECTION CRITERIA

Long-Term Outcomes

State of Good Repair

Economic Competitiveness

Livability

Sustainability

Safety

Job Creation and Near Term Economic Activity

Quick Creation of Jobs

Federal Wage Rate Certification

Economic & Employment Consequences - Economically Distressed Area

Innovation

Partnership

Results of Benefit - Cost Analysis

Economic Impact Analysis

Discussion of Benefit-Cost Analysis

V. PROJECT READINESS AND NEPA

Environmentally Related Federal, State, and Local Actions

Permitting/Approval Feasibility

LINN COUNTY (HIGHWAY 34/INTERSTATE I-5) PARK AND RIDE RURAL TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS


March 19, 2012 Page III of III

VI. FEDERAL WAGE CERTIFICATION

VII. CHANGES FROM PRE-APPLICATION

VIII. ADDITIONAL MATERIAL ON WEBPAGE

VIIII. ATTACHED

1. Map(s) - Attached to this Application

Location of Proposed Linn County Park and Ride

Location of Proposed City of Lebanon Park and Ride

2. Project Conceptual Design - Attached to this Application

Linn County Park and Ride Site Map

Linn County Hwy 34/Seven Mile Lane Intersection Improvement

Lebanon Park and Ride Site Map

Lebanon Park and Ride Improvement Project Conceptual Design

Architect Conceptual Drawing- Proposed Linn County RV Park with Park and Ride

3. Letters of Support - Attached to this Application

Oregon Department of Transportation, Transportation Commission, March 14, 2012

United States Senator, Jeff Merkley, October 18, 2011

Ron Wyden, United States Senator, March 16, 2012

Linn County Advisory Committee, Transportation Coordinator, August 25, 2011

City of Lebanon, City Manager, February 17, 2012

Oregon Department of Transportation, Area IV Manager, August 31, 2011

4. Project Cost Estimate- Attached to this Application

Linn County Park and Ride/ Transportation Improvement Projects, Project Cost

Summery, October 28, 2011

Linn County Park and Ride Entrance and Parking Lot, Engineers Estimate -

Construction, October 28, 2011

City of Lebanon Park and Ride and Bus Stop, Engineers Estimate - Construction,

October 28, 2011

Linn County HWY 34/Seven Mile Lane Signalized Intersection Improvement,

Engineer's Estimate - Construction, October 28, 2011

5. Other Supporting Material- Attached to this Application

Traffic Signal Approval, Memo, Oregon Department of Transportation, State

Traffic Engineer, July 17, 2009

Land Use Planning approval, Oregon Land Use Board, Final Order and Opinion,

LUBA No. 2011-001, May 25, 2011 and Linn Count y Planning Approval.

Wetland Delineation Approval, Oregon Department of State Lands, August 6, 2009

Seven Mile Lane County Park Conditional Use Permit Traffic Impact Analysis,

September 2009, Final Report, prepared by PTVAmerica, Inc. (Not Attached to

Application - document is available on request from Linn County Engineer)

6. Federal Wage Certification - Signature Page

LINN COUNTY (HIGHWAY 34/INTERSTATE I-5) PARK AND RIDE



PROJECT AT A GLANCE

This project will include the engineering design and construction of two Park and Ride facilities

strategically located in Linn County, Oregon to reduce traffic on I-5 (Oregon Interstate I-5),

HWY34 (Oregon State Highway 34) going to and from the Cities of Corvallis, Lebanon,

Albany, Eugene, Salem and Portland.

The estimated annual benefit for the project is $3,236,000 based on reduction in vehicle miles,

reduction in fuel, and accidents per year.

In rural Linn County, a lighted 140 vehicle park and ride facility with restrooms and bus shelter

will be constructed near the intersection of Seven Mile Lane and HWY 34. This is within one

mile of the I-5 interchange with HWY 34. This is also near Tangent and Albany, Oregon.

Lighting will be included at this site for security and safety.

The Linn County Park and Ride project also includes the addition of a lighted signal with

improvements to the intersection of Highway 34 and Seven Mile Lane to provide for safe access

to the Linn County Park and Ride facility. The signal intersection is also needed to improve the

safety for traffic associated with this intersection.

In the City of Lebanon, a park and ride consisting of a street improvement with parking for up to

100 vehicles and a bus stop shelter with lighting will be constructed on Third Street between

Rose Avenue and Tangent Avenue. Tangent Avenue is the City name for HWY 34 in this City.

The intersection of Third Street is within 700 feet of the intersection with Highway 20. This

section of Third Street is also centrally located within close proximity of the City's Justice

Center, Library, Medical Library, the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific Northwest,

Veteran's Home site that is in construction, Lebanon Community Hospital, Linn Benton

Community College Learning Center, Teen Challenge and Senior Center, and the Community

Park Area. This area is also presently being developed for a Convention Center, Biomedical

Research Center, and a new retail commercial center. There is not presently a Park and Ride or

sheltered bus stop in this area.

This project is interconnected as the park and ride facilities will provide commutors the option of

meeting at each facility to car pool or catch the Linn County Transit that provides transportation

between the Cities of Albany, Corvallis, Lebanon and Sweet Home.

A large Linn County RV park is also planned to be developed next to the proposed Linn County

Park and Ride. This provides options for those staying at the RV park to use the transit system to

travel to Corvallis, Lebanon, Albany and its Rail Station, or Tangent. The projects will also

accomodate bicyclists wanting to use the transit.

The project is environmentally sensitive as it will reduce emissions associated with travel in

vehicles.

This project is sustainable as there is a need and this need will be sustained by the ever

increasing need for transit associated with the recent development of the City of Lebanon and


RURAL TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROJECT


March 19, 2012 Page 2 of 19

also the ongoing established need to reduce traffic into the already traffic congested Corvallis.

The traffic entering Corvallis during rush hours is often grid locked due to the amount of traffic.

Oregon State University is located in Corvallis, Oregon. Sports events are also a cause for traffic

gridlock. A park and ride option helps provide a solution.

Clearly, these projects will foster livabililty with the better access from the proposed Park and

Ride facilities and more transportation choices that are desparately needed in this area.

PURPOSE AND OUTCOMES

Project Purpose

The completion of the project will provide a sustainable alternative to single vehicular traffic by

providing a facility for car pools and also park and ride for connection onto the local regional

transit system that is in place. It is estimated that the project may result in the reduction of up to

960 single one-way trips per day on Highway 34 between the City of Lebanon and the City of

Corvallis, based on the parking site use of two vehicles per day with a commute to Corvallis. It

will also reduce the number of trips to cities of Eugene, Salem and Portland on I-5 by providing

a carpool center for connection to these locations.

The completion of the project will also promote the use of the existing Linn County transit

system and as a result help sustain the system as an economical viable service. The present

system is not economically self sufficient in part because it does not have enough viable options.

The addition of the two Park and Ride sites with bus stop facilities add to options that will in turn

make the transit system more attractive and easy to use.

The existing transit system with viable options must be created and developed to reduce traffic

congestion and parking congestion. This project will reduce and help mitigate traffic congestion

that enters into the City of Corvallis and the City of Lebanon by reduction of vehicular traffic.

There are already documented congestion problems entering into the City of Corvallis without a

ready solution. With the recent addition of medical and educational and commercial centers in

downtown Lebanon, it is only a matter of time before similar congestion problems may occur in

Lebanon. This project will help mitigate this congestion before it occurs. Providing a park and

ride with a bus shelter at a strategic location in Lebanon and also near the I-5 interchange will

enhance the user experience by offering options that do not presenty exist. The options are to

park and participate in a car pool or use the transit system that is established that connects

Albany, Corvallis, and Lebanon.

Benefits and Desired Outcomes

As previouly indicated, the estimated annual benifit is $3,236,000 based on reduction in vehicle

miles, reduction in fuel, and accidents per year. The cost of the project can be recovered by

benifit gained in the first year after the proposed transportation infrastructure improvements are

completed.

It is expected that the proposed the Park and Ride facilities will be fully used within one month

of opening. If necessary and successful as planned the Linn County Park and Ride area can be

expanded in the near future to meet futher need.





The practice of park and ride is occuring at a presently overused and crowded small park and

ride facility next to I-5. it also does not have a transit connection. This capacity must be

expanded with a transite connection and this project will provide this need.

The City of Lebanon needs a park and ride in the downtown area that is developing with new

medical centers and medical educational facilities and business centers. The option of improving

the existing transit system by connecting it with park and ride options will provide a less

congested area.

The rural Linn County park and ride will be next to proposed RV park. Not only will this park

and ride provide transportation options to those staying at the park but it will also provide

transportation options for those entering into the area. Especially important is that the use of the

RV Park will be an option that workers or employees new to the area can stay at the park and

commute to Corvallis, Albany, or Lebanon until they find more permanent housing.

I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Key Corridor and Like Locations

The location of the two propose park and ride facilities are provided in the two vicinity maps

attached to this document.

The Proposed Linn County Park and Ride is centrally located between Oregon's western major

population centers and Linn County's population Centers and in close proximity of the

intersection of I-5 and HWY 34 which is the main transportation routes to these population

centers. The distance to these population centers from the proposed park and ride are as follows:

City/Population Center Population

(2009) Direction

Distance

(miles)

Eugene 154,000 South on I-5 40

Salem 153,000 North on I-5 24

Corvallis 55,000 West on HWY 34 12

Portland 569,000 North on I-5 60

Greater Portland Area ~1,000,000 North on I-5 50

Albany, Linn County 48,000 North on I-5 6

Lebanon, Linn County 15,000 East on HWY 34 7

Sweet Home, Linn Co. 9,000 E on HWY34/HWY20 19

The location of the Proposed Linn County Park and Ride which is centrally located provides an

excellent location to encourage and enable the use of car pools and the local transit system that

presently passes this proposed park and ride location. This location could also be used as a

convenient stop for the greyhound bus line that travels north and south on I-5.





The proposed Linn County Park and Ride is conneted to HWY 34 and within 700 feet of the

intersection with Highway 20. It is also centrally located within close proximity of the City's

Justice Center, Library, Medical Library, the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific

Northwest, Veteran's Home site that is in construction, Lebanon Community Hospital, Linn

Benton Community College Learning Center, Teen Challenge and Senior Center, and the

Community Park Area. This area is also presently being developed for a Convention Center,

Biomedical Research Center, and a new retail commercial center.

The completion of both the Lebanon Park and Ride and the Linn County Park and Ride will

enhance the available transportation options of using car pools or the local and regional transit

system that operates between the cities of Sweet Home, Lebanon, Albany, and Corvallis.

The traffic entering into Covallis is congested and often considered gridlock during rush hour

periods. The Oregon Department of Transportation completed a planning project, sponsored by

the Area Commision on Transportation to find a solution to the increase in traffic in the corridor.

This project had extensive public involvement,including a Project Management Team, and

Stakeholder advisory committee. The study also reveiwed the impact of reduced traffic demand

through the use of Transportaton Demand Management (TDM) and Transporatation Systems

Management (TSM)concepts. These concepts integrated the use of transit systems and Park and

Ridess. Park and Rides are a an integral part of the solution to reduce traffic congestion in West

Linn County and East Corvallis located on the West Boundary of Linn County.

Project in Rural Area

Both of the two proposed park and ride facilities are located in a "Rural Area" as defined by the

Tiger IV Funding Application Notice.

The Linn County Park and ride is located next to the intersection of I-5 and HWY 34 and is well

outside the urban growth boundaries of the City of Albany or any other City. However, this

location is centrally located so as to provide transportation options at the intersection for car

pooling or transit via HWY 34 to Corvallis, Lebanon, Sweet Home, and Albany. It also provides

the option for car pooling north to the City of Salem and Portland to the north and the City of

Eugene to the south.

The City of Lebanon Park and ride is strategically located near businesses, medical centers,

hospitals and learning centers as provided the section "PROJECT AT A GLANCE". Since the

City of Lebanon is considered a small city, this location is considered a Rural Area or an Urban

Cluster within a Rural Area under the Tiger IV.

Park and Ride Sites

Linn County (Interstate I-5, Oregon Highway 34, Seven Mile Lane)

The Linn County (Interstate I-5, Oregon Highway 34, Seven Mile Lane) park and ride facility

with restrooms and bus shelter and area lighting will be constructed near the intersection of

Seven Mile Lane and HWY 34. This is within one mile of the I-5 interchange with HWY 34.

This is also near Tangent and Albany, Oregon. Solar powered energy efficient lighting will be

considered for use at this site.





The park and ride will be located on a portion of a proposed Linn County RV Park and access to

the site will be from Seven Mile Lane which is Linn County Major Collector.

The construction of this site will include the addition of the signal light with necessary road

improvements of the intersection of Seven Mile Lane and HWY 34.

A plan view drawing place on an aerial photograph of the proposed Linn County park and ride

site that is presently agricultural land and a plan view drawing of the intersection of Highway 34

and Seven Mile Lane is provided in the attachments to this application.

City of Lebanon (Third Street/HWY 34)

The proposed City of Lebanon Park and Ride Site with Bus Shelter is located on Third Street

between Rose and Tangent Avenue. (Tangent Avenue is the City name for HWY 34 in this City.

The intersection of Third Street is within 700 feet of the intersection with Highway 20. This

section of Third Street is also centrally located within close proximity of the City's Justice

Center, Library, Medical Library, the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific Northwest,

Veteran's Home site that is in construction, Lebanon Community Hospital, Linn Benton

Community College Learning Center, Teen Challenge and Senior Center, and the Community

Park Area. This area is also presently being developed for a Convention Center, Biomedical

Research Center, and a new retail commercial center. There is not presently a Park and Ride or

sheltered bus stop in this area.

A plan view drawing of the proposed park and ride site on Third Street is provided in the

attachments to this application. Lighting of the area of the park and ride and the bus stop will be

included. Solar powered energy efficient lighting will be considered for use at this site.

Technical Feasibility

The construction of these two Park and Ride facilities with shelters and the construction of the

lighted signal at the intersection of HWY 34 and Seven Mile Lane are technically feasible. The

engineering design has been developed and will require common engineering practices.

Obtaining environmental approval and permits will not be an issue for the two project site as

provided further in this document. Many preapprovals for these projects are in place. The

construction of the facilities will also be traditional and not have any obstacles. Nothing has

been identified as a concern that would delay the engineering design, contracting and

construction of this project.

Project Schedule

The project schedule is dependent on the date of funding award and agreement. It is also

dependent on unexpected delays which is presently expected to be minor.

This project is expected to be completed in phases. Therefore three separate designs and

contracts may be completed separately from each other for the intersection improvements at the

intersection of HWY 34 and Seven Mile Lane, the construction of the Linn County Park and

Ride facility, and the construction of the Lebanon Park and Ride Facility. The intersection

improvements will be completed first as this is necessary to accommodate traffic associated with

the construction of the Linn County Park and Ride.





In view of the above, the following schedule includes the latest expected completion date of each

item based on an anticipated intergovernmental agreement between FHWA and Linn County

should Linn County be awarded Tiger IV funding for this project.

Intergovernmental Agreement June 15, 2012

Consultant Contract Agreements (Engineering/Environmental) July 1, 2012

Notice to Proceed July 15, 2012

Preliminary Design Approval February 15, 2013

National Environmental Policy Actions (NEPA) February 14, 2013

Right of Way - Property Acquisition None Required

Plans Specifications and Estimates April 15, 2013

Bid Opening June 15, 2013

Project Completion November 15, 2013

II. PROJECT PARTIES

A Project with Broad Support/Partnership

Letters of Support for this project have been provided by the following:

United States Senator Jeff Merkley

United States Senator Ron Wyden

Oregon Transporation Commission

Oregon Department of Transportation (Region 4 Manager)

CityManager, City of Lebanon

Linn County Transportation Advisory Committee

This project is a cooperative partnership between the following:

Linn County's Road Department

City of Lebanon

Oregon Department of Transportation

Linn County Transportation Advisory Committee.

Linn County's Parks Department

Linn County's Planning Department

With this partnership there is broad support for this project in this Region. As provided by the

support letter from the Transportation Coordinator of the Linn County Transportation Advisory

Committee, the proposed park and ride facilities are consistent with the Linn County

Coordinated Public Transit Human Services Transportation Plan as well as regional

transportation demand management plans and priorities.





Project Management

The Engineering Division of the Linn County Road Department will provide overall project

management under the supervision and leadership of the Linn County Engineer. The Linn

County Engineer works under the direction of the Roadmaster of the Linn County Road

Department. Linn County has recently completed the engineering development, engineering

design and specification, permitting, contracting and construction engineering and inspection of

two federally funded projects as a Conditionally Certified Local Agency through the Oregon

Department of Transportation's Local Agency program.

The engineering staff of Linn County Road Department has previously worked in a cooperative

partnership with these parties providing a project leadership and management role. In this role,

Linn County will also provide engineering design, complete contract specifications, advertise,

bid and award the project through Linn County and also provide construction management and

inspection. Some engineering support will be provided by the Engineering Staff of the City of

Lebanon for the development and engineering design and construction inspection of the Third

Street Park and Ride.

The Traffic Engineer of the Oregon Department of Transportation will provide review of

engineering plans for the proposed improvements to the intersection of Highway 34 and Seven

Mile Lane as well as the intersection of Tangent Drive (HWY 34) and Third Street. This review

and approval is a statutory requirement.

The Director of Linn County Parks and staff will also provide technical support and review for

the development of some of the components of the Linn County Park and Ride.

III. GRANT FUNDS AND SOURCES/USES OF PROJECT FUNDS

Project Management

As provided above, the Engineering Division of the Linn County Road Department will provide

overall project management under the supervision and leadership of the Linn County Engineer.

The Linn County Engineer works under the direction of the Roadmaster of the Linn County

Road Department.

The Roadmaster serves as the fiscal officer for the administration of grant funds and match funds

for projects in coordination with the Linn County Treasurer. The office management staff of the

Linn County Road Department provide support to the Roadmaster and Linn County Engineer in

the fiscal operation of the Road Department and its capital improvement projects.

Long Term Operation Management

The Linn County Parks Department will provide long term management, maintenance, and

operation of the Linn County Park and Ride facility. This includes the bus stop and the

restrooms. The Linn County Road department will provide operational maintenance of the

associated Linn County Roads as well as the entry to the park and ride and the Park and Ride

Lot. Linn County has the fiscal as well as operations ability to provide effective long term

operation of this facility.





The City of Lebanon will provide the long term operational management and maintenance of the

proposed Third Street Park and Ride and Bus stop Shelter. The City of Lebanon has the fiscal as

well as operations ability to provide effective long term operation of this facility.

The proposed signal light at the intersection of HWY 34 and Seven Mile Lane will be operated

under the management of the Oregon Department of Transportation. Any roads or structures

within the Right of Way of Highway 34 will also be operated and maintained by the Oregon

Department of Transportation.

Budget and Financing Plan

Linn County Road Department has $400,000 in reserves for this project as it pertains to the

installation of the signal light at the intersection of Highway 34 and Seven Mile Lane.

Additional funds are necessary to fund the engineering design and construction of the two Park

and Ride facilities and entrances or intersections leading into these facilities and road

improvements to the intersection of HWY 34 and Seven Mile Lane. An Engineering Cost

Estimate has been prepared for the two proposed Park and Ride facilities and the signal light and

intersection improvements at the intersection with Highway 34 and Seven Mile Lane. A detailed

cost estimate is attached.

The match will be provided by Linn County. $400,000 is associated with the engineering design,

and construction of the signal and intersection improvements at the intersection of Highway 34

and Seven Mile Lane. Of significant note also is that the value of the land provided by Linn

County for the Linn County Park and Ride is $100,000. This is the approximate value of the

approximate 20 acres of land associated with the Linn County Park and Ride Facility that will be

related to entrance road, park and ride, and associated wetland enhancement construction. This

total amount of match is equal to 13.0 % of the total project value not considering the land

provided by Linn County. When including the value of the Land provided by Linn County the

match is 15.7%.

Since this is a rural project no match is required by the TIGER IV program. The match is

provided by Linn County realizing the importance of this project.

A summary of the project cost is as follows:

PROJECT COST SUMMARY

Lebanon Park and Ride Project Site

Lebanon Third St Park & Ride Construction $677,450.00

Engineering Design $67,745.00

Construction Management $67,745.00

Contingency $33,872.50

Total $846,812.00

Linn County Park and Ride Project Site

Linn County Park and Ride Construction $1,169,450.00








Total $1,520,285.00

HWY 34/Seven Mile Lane Signal and Intersection Improvements

Street Lighting and Signal Construction $378,000.00




Subtotal $491,400.00

Other Road Construction $164,000.00




Subtotal $221,400.00

Total $712,800.00

Right of Way (Land Provided by Linn Co.) $100,000.00

TOTAL PROJECT COST (Including Land) 3,179,897.50

Project Match

Land Value Dedicated to Park and Ride $100,000.00

Engineering Design & Construct Signal Light $400,000.00

Total Match (including land from Linn County)

$500,000.00

Financial Feasibility

The Linn County Road Department is capable of managing a grant for this project financially. It

has stable operating revenue commitments to cover estimated costs and has contingency reserves

in place should planned capital or operating sources not materialize. Linn County Road

Department has been approved by the Oregon Department of Transportation as a Conditionally

Certified Local Agency for federally funded Transportation Projects based on this financial

status.

Project Performance

Linn County has a plan for measuring and evaluating the success of the project with respect to

desired outcomes. The project performance will be measured as successful using the following

criteria:

How full the Linn County Park and Ride facility is each day

How full the Third Street Park and Ride facility in Lebanon is each day

Use of the regional and local transit systems from the Linn County Park and Ride

Use of the transit systems from the Third Avenue Park and Ride




March 19, 2012 Page 10 of 19

Decrease in accidents on Highway 34 near the intersection of Seven Mile Lane as well as

from Corvallis to Lebanon.

To evaluate the effectiveness of the project after the intersection, and two park and ride facilities,

Linn County with its cooperative partners (Linn County Advisory Committee, Linn County

Parks Department, City of Lebanon, Linn Benton Loop Transit, Linn Shuttle Transit) will at a

minimum perform the following annually:

Document the use of the Linn County Park and Ride for a one week period in October

and April of each year

Document the use of the Linn County Park and Ride for a one week period in October

and April of each year

Document the number of transit riders from the Linn County Park and Ride for the same

on week period and their destiny by a survey.

Document the number of transit riders from the Third Street Park and Ride for the same

on week period and their destiny by a survey.

Obtain the annual report for accidents on Highway 34 from Corvallis to Lebanon from

the Oregon Department of Transportation to document the decrease in accidents.

Obtain the annual reports for daily traffic on Highway 34 from Corvallis to Lebanon from

the Oregon Department of Transportation to document the decrease in traffic.

The above documentation will not only record the effectiveness of the completed projects but

will also document the additional need for expansion of the Park and Ride facilities, expansion of

the public transit system or other necessary improvements.

The information will be provided in an annual report. The annual report will be provided to the

Linn County Transportation Advisory Committee and all Cooperative Partners to determine the

success of the projects and future need for improvements to the existing transit system and its

viable options.

At the time of the submittal of this application, it is expected that the two Park and Ride facilities

will be operating at near capacity within the first year of operation. After the second year of

operation which is expected to a success, an evaluation of how to expand the park and ride

option will occur. For the Linn County Park and Ride Facility, one option to consider may be to

increasing the size of the parking lot.

IV. SELECTION CRITERIA

Long-Term Outcomes

State of Good Repair

The two Park and Ride facilities when constructed will provide improvements to the downtown

Lebanon area, the intersection of HWY 34 and Seven Mile Lane, and also the Linn County Park

and Ride facility leaving them in a "State of Good Repair". This will provide two attractive and

accessible facilities to be used well into the future. The facilities constructed are expected to




March 19, 2012 Page 11 of 19

require minimal maintenance to keep them in good condition. The City of Lebanon, Linn

County Road Department, Linn County Parks Department and the Oregon Department of

Transportation will operate and maintain these improvements so they remain in good condition

that will be attractive for their intended use.

Economic Competitiveness

The project expands transportation choices for all Oregonians entering this area. It will provide

transit or car pool options for those traveling between Lebanon, Corvallis and Albany. Since the

transit system is also connected with the Greyhound Bus Station in Corvallis, and the Union

Pacific Railroad Station in Albany this provides a better coordination of transportation choices.

This will also be useful for persons visiting this area and using the option of the proposed Linn

County RV Park.


system and as a result help sustain the system as an economical viable service that will

eventually be self supporting economically. The present system is not economically self

sufficient in part because it does not have enough viable options. The addition of the two Park

and Ride sites with bus stop facilities add to options that will in turn make the transit system

more attractive and easy to use. A more sucessful transit system will always improve the

economical competitiveness of a presently Econonmically Distressed Area.

Livability

The addition of the two park and ride sites will contribute to livable communities.

The City of Lebanon needs a park and ride in the downtown area that is developing with new

medical centers and medical educational facilities and business centers. The option of improving

the existing transit system by connecting it with park and ride options will provide a less

congested area.

The rural Linn County park and ride will be next to proposed RV park. Not only will this park

and ride provide transportation options to those staying at the park but it will also provide

transportation options for those entering into the area. Especially important is that the use of the

RV Park will be an option that workers or employees new to the area can stay at the park and

commute to the Corvallis, Albany, or Lebanon until they find more permanent housing.

This project will reduce and help mitigate traffic congestion that enters into the City of Corvallis

and the City of Lebanon by reduction of vehicular traffic. There are already documented

congestion problems entering into the City of Corvallis without a ready solution. With the recent

addition of medical and educational and commercial centers in downtown Lebanon, it is only a

matter of time before similar congestion problems may occur in Lebanon. This project will help

mitigate this congestion before it occurs. Providing a park and ride with a bus shelter at a

strategic location in Lebanon and also near the I-5 interchange will enhance the user experience

by offering options that do not presenty exist. The options are to park and participate in a car

pool or use the transit system that is established that connects Albany, Corvallis, and Lebanon.

The heaviest demand will be for workers going to jobs. The workers may be traveling from the

south or north on I-5. It is expected that they will park at the park and ride before continuing to




March 19, 2012 Page 12 of 19

Corvallis or Lebanon. They may also meet at the Park and Ride before joining a car pool and

going North or South on I-5 to larger population centers in Salem, Portland, and Eugene. This

practice and use already is occuring at the presently overused and crowded park and ride facility

that presently exists. It is expected that the proposed rural Linn County park and ride facility as

well as the Lebanon Park and Ride facility will be fully used within one month of opening. New

workers in the area may also use the proposed RV park and commute to work by way of the

transit system offered in association with the park and ride.

The project expands transportation choices for all Oregonians entering this area. It will provide

transit or car pool options for those traveling between Lebanon, Corvallis and Albany. Since the

transit system is also connected with the Greyhound Bus Station in Corvallis, and the Union

Pacific Railroad Station in Albany this provides a better coordination of transportation choices.

This will also be useful for persons visiting this area and using the option of the proposed Linn

County RV Park.

Since the transit system also provides the option to carry bicycles, those living in the area close

to the new park and ride can also commute by bicycle to each location. Linn County presently

has bike lanes on all paved roads leading to the proposed park and ride to be located near I-5.

The entrance from Seven Mile Lane will also include bike lanes. The City of Corvallis also

promotes the use of bicycles in the downtown area. This will help contribute to a healthy

lifestyle.

Environmental Sustainability

This project provides two park and ride facities that will be connected to and will enhance the

use of an existing County Transit system. The reduction in traffic due to the increased use of car

pools and the transit system will reduce up to 960 trips per day between Corvallis and Lebanon

or about 14,320 vehicle miles per day. This could be as high as 20,000 vehicle miles per day

when also considering car pooling Eugen and Portland. This will result in Green House Gas

Reductions.

The reduction in vehicle traffic by use of the faciliities to create car pools and use the transit

system will in turn reduce the exposure of population to air pollution associated with downtown

vehicle use and compacted parking areas.

The Project will include some enhancements to wetlands that were previously farmed. The

enhancements will be needed to provide drainage improvents for this site. Wetland delineation

work has been reviewed and approved by the Oregon Division of State Lands. This

enhancement will require a permit that will be easily obtained. This enhancement was also

approved as a concept in Land Use Hearings.

Approval of the project other then wetland enhancement will not be required by Oregon Division

of State Lands, US Army Corps of Engineers, or US Fish and Wildlife since scope of project will

meet permit exemptions and Linn County has a 1200-CA Stormwater Permit for new

construction.

The NEPA process for the Third Street Park and Ride will be minimal as this involves

improvement of an existing local urban road within the City of Lebanon. The project includes

stormwater improvements. No environmental permits will be required for this project site.




March 19, 2012 Page 13 of 19

Safety

The addition of the two park and ride sites will decrease traffic on the section of HWY 34 that is

presently listed as a Safety Corridor due to incidents of accidents. The addition of the lighted

signal at the intersection of HWY 34 and Seven Mile Lane will decrease if not eliminate the

vehicle accidents that occur at this location. The combination of the intersection improvements

and decrease in traffic will significantly improve the safety for this section of HWY 34 as well as

traffic entering into the City of Corvallis and the City of Lebanon.

A safety corridor has also been established for quite some time for this section of HWY 34.

Accidents often occur at the intersection of HWY 34 and Seven Mile Lane. The addition of the

signal light at this intersection as well as the reduction in traffic as a result of a park and ride will

improve the safety of this corridor.

The traffic on HWY 34 at seven mile lane was measured to be 16,400 ADT in 2009. This traffic

frequency steadily increases each year. Since the intersection with Seven Mile Lane only

provides traffic control using a stop sign on Seven Mile Lane, there are numerous traffic

accidents within the close proximity of this intersection. The incidence of accidents are more

associated with the rush hours when commuting would occur.

A traffic study was completed in 2009 using available accident data from 2002 to 2006. No

improvements to this section of road have been completed since this study was completed.

During this five year period there were 108 crashes on HWY 34 within a one mile segment of the

intersection of Seven Mile Lane. For the section that was within 0.3 miles of this intersection the

average crash rate was 1.39 accidents per million vehicle miles which was almost double the

statewide average crash rate (0.77) for a similar highway.

For this five year period there were numerous crash types that are all related to a setting provided

by an intersection with a major highway that does not include a lighted signal:

Angle Crash 12 each

Rear End Crash 1 each

Sideswipe Crash 1 each

Turning Crash 12 each

Total Crashes 26

The section of HWY 34 that is within 0.1 miles of the intersection with Seven Mile Lane also is

classified as a Safety Priority Index System Site (SPIS). The SPIS is a method developed by

ODOT in 1986 for identifying potential safety problems on sections of state highways based on

crash data and considers crash frequency., crash rate, and crash severitty. The SPIS rating for

this intersection is high (94.17) based on 15 injuries out of 20 crashes that occured.

The addition of a lighted signal at this intersection with the construction of the Linn County Park

and Ride will significantly reduce if not eliminate the occurance of accidents at this intersection.

The improvements to this intersection by placement of a lighted signal will occur prior to

construction of the Linn County Park and Ride to provide safer acces for construction equipment

and devilery of materials to the site.




March 19, 2012 Page 14 of 19

The addition of the two Park and Ride sites will also decrease the traffic on Highway 34 from I-5

to the City of Lebanon and the City of Corvallis by up to 960 vehicles per day. This is based on

use of 2 vehicles using each parking space per day and with the commute only between the two

proposed park and ride sites and the City of Corvallis.

Job Creation and Near Term Economic Activity

Linn County' economy has in the past traditionally relied heavily on the lumber and wood

products industry. In 1990, this industry accounted for 40% of the county's manufacturing jobs.

Linn County's economy has also been based on specialty crops of grass seed and nursery plants

supported by the climate and soil conditions. The production and manufacture of metals and

metal products, and the technical industry have also contributed significantly to Linn County's

economy. Because of the significant reduction in businesses associated primarily with the wood

product industry, and some reduction in the metals and technology sectors the economy is

struggling. The median income for a household is $37,518 and the per capita income is $17,633.

Nearly 9% of families and more than 11% of the population are below the poverty line, including

nearly 15% of those under age 18 and 7% of those age 65 and older.

The Park and Ride facilities which will also enhance the local transit systems will provide quick

creation of jobs associated with construction as well as provide viable economic transportation

options to those struggling in these poor economic conditions. This will also meet the increasing

demands for commuting to Oregon State University in Corvallis, and the recent Commercial and

Medical Development Centers in Lebanon.

Quick Creation of Jobs

The proposed project will provide positive economic and employment consequences in the near

term creating a number of types of jobs in project management, engineering design, construction

engineering, and construction.

The primary use of funds will be associated with labor, equipment and materials for construction

of the two park and ride facilities. Materials of construction (rock, asphalt, concrete, building

supplies) as well as labor will most likely be provided from local sources by local contractors

resulting in helping the local economy.

The secondary and minor use of funds will be associated with project management and

engineering and environmental services. Within a few months of obtaining funding for the

project, Linn County will contract out for engineering and environmental services with qualified

firms that are most likely located in Oregon since this is typical project work and using local

firms near Albany will reduce costs associated with the project.

Federal Wage Rate Certification

If this project is selected for Tiger IV Discretionary Grant funding, Linn County Road

Department will comply with the requirements of subchapter IV of Chapter 31 of Title 40.

United States Code. This Certification is provided in Section VI of this Grant Application.

Linn County Road Department is also a Conditionally Certified Local Agency with ODOT to

complete federally funded transportation projects. As such, Linn County works with the




March 19, 2012 Page 15 of 19

programs provided by the Oregon Department of Transportation's Local Agency Program to

meet program requirements of the Civil Right Division of the State of Oregon, The Wage and

Hour Division of the Oregon State Bureau of Labor and Industries, and the Apprenticeship and

Training Division. It also works under ODOT's Small Business Initiative to provide

opportunities for small businesses through programs of the Disadvantages Business Enterprises

(DBE), Emerging Small Businesses (ESB), Minority Business Enterprises (MB), and Women

Business Enterprises (WBE). The Linn County Road Department also has a Title VI program to

meet federal requirements.

Economic & Employment Consequences - Economically Distressed Area

The two park and ride sites as well as Linn County are located in and designated as an

Economically Distressed Area. Unemployment in Linn County was documented as 11.7% in

July, 2011.

As provided earlier, the proposed project will provide positive economic and employment

consequences in the near term. The postive impact of the presence of these two facilities will

also extend into the future after the projects are complete and the two park and ride facilities are

in operation.

The transporation choices provided by the addition of the two park and ride facilities of course

will benefit the low income that need economically viable alternatives for transportation. The

youth, especially those needing transportation to the learning centers and medical centers, will

benefit. With the addition of the medical centers and the new veterans hospital in Lebanon, the

facilities will also benefit the senior and disabled and our veterans. This tranportation system

will provide services equally to all that need these services including minorities.

The strengthening of the transit system with the addition of two successful park and rides will

result in supporting and preserving long term employement. Many individuals that have endured

an economic hardship can not accept work if they can not get to work. The addition of the park

and ride facilities, additonal bus stops, and the park and ride next to a proposed RV park will add

to supporting, creating and preserving long term employment. A viable transit system with

options must be created and developed. These projects will meet this need.

Based on the Benefit-Cost analyses provided, it is estimated that there will be a savings of up to

$1,900,000 to individuals using this park and ride facility based on reduction of costs associated

with vehicle miles and fuel consumption.

Innovation

The addition of two park and ride facilities strategically located will provide viable options for

transportation modes, enhance and support the existing local and regional transit system, help the

economy in the near and long term, reduce traffic congestion and parking, and also provide

improvements to traffic safety,


system and as a result help sustain the system as an economical viable service. The present

system is not economically self sufficient in part because it does not have enough viable options.




March 19, 2012 Page 16 of 19

The addition of the two Park and Ride sites with bus stop facilities add to options that will in turn

make the transit system more attractive and easy to use.

The concept provided is simple and as a result it will be effective and successful. The fact that

this proposed project uses such simple and traditional concepts and provides so many attractive

and positive benefits is truly innovative.

Partnership

The innovation is due to the broad cooperative partneship between Linn County's Road

Department, Linn County's Parks Department, Linn County's Planning Department, the City of

Lebanon Public Works and Planning Department, the Oregon Department of Transportation

(Region 4), and the Linn County Transportation Advisory Committee.

It is due to the input of the partners that this concept of the addition of two strategically placed

Park and Ride facilities was developed. As a result, there is broad support for this project in this

region which is documented by the letters of support from the Transportation Coordinator of the

Linn County Transportation Advisory Committee, Oregon Department of Transportation

(Region 4 Manager) Transportation Commission of the Oregon Department of Transportation,

the City of Lebanon, and Senator Merkley. This has been explained in more detail earlier in this

application.

Results of Benefit -Cost Analysis

Economic Impact Analysis

A brief economic analyses can be made to easily show the positive economic impact that the

park and ride facility will have. Based on single daily use of a parking space by a vehicle in each

park and ride facility the economic benefit be provided from the following:

o Reduction in up to 20,000 vehicle miles per day and 5,000,000 vehicle miles per year on

Highway 34 between Corvallis and Lebanon and on I-5 to Portland, Salem, and Eugene.

o Reduction in traffic and parking congestion in Cities of Lebanon and Corvallis by 240

vehicles per day.

o Reduction in 5 accidents per year at the intersection of HWY 34 and Seven Mile Lane

o Reduction in 4 injuries associated with accidents per year at the intersection of HWY 34

and Seven Mile Lane.

o Enhancement of transportation options and existing Linn County Transit system into an

economically viable transportation system. The addition of passengers to the transit

system will increase the customer base and increase the percentage of full ridership.

o Reduction in Emissions per year related to fuel consumption (Carbon Dioxide, Volatile

Organic Compounds ($1,700/metric ton), Nitrous Oxides ($4,000/metric ton), Particulate

Matter ($168,000/metric ton), Sulfur Dioxide ($16,000/metric ton) 5,000,000 vehicle

miles.

o The indirect economic benefit related to the reduction of fuel use on global prices




March 19, 2012 Page 17 of 19

The Annual Economic Benefits can be determined by the addition of the following benefit cost

categories that apply to this project:

Increased income for transit riders $ 120,000

Elimination of 5 vehicle crashes per year $ 16,000

Elimination of 4 moderate injuries per year from crashes $ 1,200,000

Reduction in 3,000,000 Vehicle Miles per year $ 900,000

Reduction in 250,000 gallons of fuel per year (20 mpg average) $ 1,000,000

Reduction in Emissions and global fuel prices Not Determined

Total Calculated Annual Benefit $ 3,236,000

Discussion of Benefit-Cost Analysis

The improvement in a transportation system by providing viable options which reduce traffic

congestion is always difficult to determine as to actual value. This is also true as to the cost

benefit related to reduction in emissions and global fuel prices related to the reduction in the use

of fuel. Even though it is difficult to calculate, it is always agreed upon that there is a certain

positive economic benefit. Also, the premise has been well established that the economy of an

area is often dependent on its transportation system.

With this premise this project will certainly help the economy of this area as well as provide the

calculated annual benefit of $3,236,000 per year or more. In effect, the cost of the two park and

ride facilities will be recovered within the first year of operation.

V. PROJECT READINESS AND NEPA

Environmentally Related Federal, State, and Local Actions

Based on previous work that has been completed in preparation for this project, the project is

ready to complete engineering design and obtain final approval for construction.

A number of planning documents have been completed as it pertains to this project. A wetland

delineation report for the Linn County Park and Ride Site has been approved by the Oregon

Division of State Lands. Traffic signal approval for the intersection of HWY 34 and Seven Mile

Lane was provided by the State Traffic Engineer of the Oregon Department of Transportation in

July 17, 2009. Land Use hearings for placement of a parking area as part of the proposed Linn

County Park located next to Seven Mile Lane has been completed and the site has been approved

for use by Oregon and Linn County Land Use Planning (Oregon LUBA No. 2011-001 FINAL

ORDER and OPINION, May 25, 2011.)

The Project will include some wetland enhancement to areas next to the proposed Linn County

Park and Ride which will also provide improved drainage. This will require a permit that will be

easily obtained and the improvements were included in Land Use Hearings. Approval of the

project other then wetland enhancement is not expected to be required by environmental

agencies since the project will meet permit exemptions and Linn County has a 1200-CA

Stormwater Permit.




March 19, 2012 Page 18 of 19

The NEPA process for the City of Lebanon Third Street Park and Ride will be minimal as this

involves improvement of and existing local urban road within the City of Lebanon. The project

includes stormwater improvements. No environmental permits will be required for this project

site.

Linn County has not intitiated NEPA as usually defined because there has not been a reasonable

expectation of receiving federal funds for this project. If TIGER funding is awarded, Linn

County Road Department will submit the appropriate documentation to the Federal Highway

Administration (FHWA) to secure NEPA clearance. Linn County Road Department anticipates

securing this approval within a few months of grant award as indicated by the Project Schedule

provided in this application.

Permitting/Approval Feasibility

Based on the above Environmentally Related Actions permitting and approval of this project by

Local, State and Federal Agencies is feasible and will be a minor final step that will be made

prior to completion of final plans and specifications in preparation to go out to bid for

construction. There are not any anticipated environmental issues or concerns that will delay this

project.

VI. FEDERAL WAGE CERTIFICATION

If this project is selected for Tiger IV Discretionary Grant funding, Linn County Road

Department will comply with the requirements of subchapter IV of Chapter 31 of Title 40.

United States Code.

Sincerely,

<See "Attached" Documents for Signature Page>

Darrin L. Lane, P.E.

Roadmaster, Linn County Road Department

VII. CHANGES FROM PRE-APPLICATION

The following changes have been made from the pre-application:

The title was changed to " LINN COUNTY (HIGHWAY 34/INTERSTATE I-5) PARK AND

RIDE RURAL TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS".

Also, the primary project type was changed from Transit since this is not a Transit project. It is a

transportation infrastructure improvement project. As one of many benefits, this project will

benefit and encourage the use of existing local public transit systems.

VIII. ADDITIONAL MATERIAL ON WEBPAGE

The Cover Page and Table of Contents, Narrative, and Attached provided a complete Tiger IV

Application with supporting materials. Linn County Road Department will provide this

complete application on their website at www.co.linn.or.uw/Roads/Downloads




March 19, 2012 Page 19 of 19




VIIII. ATTACHED

1. Map(s) - Attached to this Application

Location of Proposed Linn County Park and Ride

Location of Proposed City of Lebanon Park and Ride

2. Project Conceptual Design - Attached to this Application

Linn County Park and Ride Site Map

Linn County Hwy 34/Seven Mile Lane Intersection Improvement

Lebanon Park and Ride Site Map

Lebanon Park and Ride Improvement Project Conceptual Design

Architect Conceptual Drawing- Proposed Linn County RV Park with Park and Ride

3. Letters of Support - Attached to this Application

Oregon Department of Transportation, Transportation Commission, March 14, 2012

United States Senator, Jeff Merkley, October 18, 2011

Ron Wyden, United States Senator, March 16, 2012

Linn County Advisory Committee, Transportation Coordinator, August 25, 2011

City of Lebanon, City Manager, February 17, 2012

Oregon Department of Transportation, Area IV Manager, August 31, 2011

4. Project Cost Estimate- Attached to this Application

Linn County Park and Ride/ Transportation Improvement Projects, Project Cost

Summery, October 28, 2011

Linn County Park and Ride Entrance and Parking Lot, Engineers Estimate -

Construction, October 28, 2011

City of Lebanon Park and Ride and Bus Stop, Engineers Estimate - Construction,

October 28, 2011

Linn County HWY 34/Seven Mile Lane Signalized Intersection Improvement,

Engineer's Estimate - Construction, October 28, 2011

5. Other Supporting Material- Attached to this Application

Traffic Signal Approval, Memo, Oregon Department of Transportation, State

Traffic Engineer, July 17, 2009

Land Use Planning approval, Oregon Land Use Board, Final Order and Opinion,

LUBA No. 2011-001, May 25, 2011 and Linn Count y Planning Approval.

Wetland Delineation Approval, Oregon Department of State Lands, August 6, 2009

Seven Mile Lane County Park Conditional Use Permit Traffic Impact Analysis,

September 2009, Final Report, prepared by PTVAmerica, Inc. (Not Attached to

Application - document is available on request from Linn County Engineer)

6. Federal Wage Certification - Signature Page

Department of TransportationOffice of the Director

1158 Chemeketa Street NE

Salem, OR 97301‐2528

March 14, 2012 The Honorable Ray LaHood Secretary of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., SE Washington, DC 20590 Re: TIGER IV grant application for Highway 34 Park and Ride Project Dear Secretary LaHood: The Oregon Transportation Commission is pleased to offer its support of Linn County’s application for TIGER IV grant funding for the Highway 34 Park and Ride Project. This project would build two park and ride lots along the Highway 34 corridor in order to improve access to public transportation services that link residents of Linn County with jobs and education in Corvallis. These lots are also an important component of a larger multimodal effort to reduce congestion on the routes connecting Linn County to Corvallis. As the State of Oregon’s top transportation policy body, the Commission reviewed TIGER IV grant proposals. After reviewing this proposal, we agree that the project would benefit Oregon’s transportation system, and it would also have a positive impact on the state’s economy and the livability of our communities. Thank you for considering this grant application. Sincerely,

Pat Egan Chair, Oregon Transportation Commission