Explanation
1. BACKGROUND
To authorize the Director of Public Service to submit applications for Job Access Reverse Commute (JARC) and New Freedom grant funding from the Federal Transit Administration administered by the local agent, Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA), and to execute project agreement forms for approved projects for the Department of Public Service on behalf of the City of Columbus, and to authorize the Director of Finance and Management and City Auditor, as appropriate, to sign for funding use certification and local match availability up to the maximum grant amounts of $653,898.00 for JARC, to fund shared use path construction on Olentangy River Road between North Broadway and Ackerman Road and the maximum grant amount $357,884.00 for New Freedom to fund sidewalk construction in this area (e.g. North Broadway between Kenny Road and Olentangy River Road) or other areas determined appropriate. No funds are required at this time; however, a 20% local match is required should grant funds be awarded. The maximum city match required for projects would be $130,780.00 for JARC and $71,577.00 for New Freedom.
In February, 2007, Mayor Michael B. Coleman created the Operation SAFEWALKS program. This program provides priorities and strategies for sidewalk construction in the city of Columbus.
The Columbus Bicentennial Bikeways Plan (BBP) was adopted by City Council in July, 2008, which establishes a prioritized plan for on-street bikeways throughout the city of Columbus.
In April, 2008, the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission adopted the Franklin County Coordinated Plan. The purpose of this plan is to better coordinate existing transportation services, as well as document existing gaps in the pedestrian environment. This plan gives agencies and local governments in Franklin County access to federal funds that can be used to address gaps in access to transportation, one of which is sidewalk links to transit.
City Council approved Or...
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