Explanation
1. BACKGROUND
This legislation authorizes the Director of Public Service to enter into multiple contracts in the total amount of up to $775,000.00 for the development and initialization of project and program work plans for the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) Smart City Challenge Grant Program; and authorizes the City Auditor to establish two Auditor’s Certificates in the total amount of $775,000.00, $525,000.00 from USDOT Federal grant monies and $250,000.00 from Vulcan, Incorporated private grant monies for this purpose.
On December 7, 2015, the USDOT announced the Smart City Challenge. The USDOT would make an award of up to $40 Million in federal funding over four years to one mid-sized city that can demonstrate how advanced data and intelligent transportation systems (ITS) technologies and applications can be used to reduce congestion, keep travelers safe, protect the environment, respond to climate change, connect underserved communities, and support economic vitality. In addition, USDOT Smart City Challenge Partner Vulcan, Incorporated committed an additional $10 million to the winning city.
On January 11, 2016, Columbus City Council passed Ordinance 0064-2016 supporting the City’s application to the Smart City Challenge. It authorized the Director of Public Service to apply for the Smart City Challenge Grant, to accept said grant if awarded, and to execute a grant agreement and any other documents necessary to effectuate said application, acceptance and agreement on behalf of the Department of Public Service.
The USDOT notified the City on March 12, 2016 of its selection as one of seven Smart City Challenge Finalists. Each Finalist received $100,000 in federal funding to support concept development and planning activities. The second round application was due May 24.
On June 23, 2016, the City of Columbus was awarded up to $40 Million in federal funds, along with up to $10 million in matching funding from Vulcan, Incorporate...
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