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Home My WebLink About1979-09-18 Info PacketWE City of Iowa C1./ MEMORANDUM DATE: September 14, 1979 TO: City Council FROM: Dennis R. Kraft, Director of Planning $ Program Development RE: Update on CDBG Programs Attached please find a status report on all Community Development Block Grant projects for fiscal year 1980. These reports present both a descriptive and financial summary of all projects. While the amount encumbered is relatively low at this time, this is not unusual. Implementation of Neighborhood Site Improvement projects is preceded by both planning and legally mandated bidding requirements, as well as the necessity of waiting for cooler weather for the tree planting program. The most significant factors responsible for the level of expenditures in the other block grant programs are that both the Ralston Creek Flood Control Projects ($1,559,905) and the Senior Center ($1,012,000) have been preceded by extremely lengthy periods of planning, citizen participation, design and other federally - mandated procedures such as the preparation of environmental review records and adherence to the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Act requirements. The +$200,000 in the Urban Renewal account largely represents amounts which have been set aside to pay condemnation and relocation awards which are under litigation This item will be discussed at the Council's informal meeting on September 17, and I will be in attendance to answer questions. DRK/ssw Attachments Alp— MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MINES ULA t City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM DATE: September 13, 1979 TO: Dennis R. Kraft, Director of Planning $ Program Development FRO', -/Jim Hencin, CDBG Program Coordinator E° CDBG Progress Report Attached is a brief report on the progress of all CDBG-funded projects during the period July -August 1979. A more detailed report pertaining to the Neighborhood Site Improvement Program has been prepared separately. Each entry in the overall progress report outlines (1) Work in Progress --major elements accomplished during July and August, and (2) Work Planned --major activities to be undertaken during September and October. You will notice that two of the projects, Nelson Adult Center and Human Needs Plan, have been concluded. In addition to the narrative reports, a monthly expenditure report is also attached. This particular report covers July expenditures, the most recent statement which is available. July expenditures represent approximately 3% of the total funds available. JH/ssw Attachment MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOINES R i 1 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM PROGRESS REPORT: JULY -AUGUST 1979 I. CDBG Administration 4 4 Work in Progress: I. Completed final draft of housing information pamphlet. 2. Received final approval of Small Cities grant application. 3. Continued preparation of Small Cities project environmental review record. 4. Prepared redevelopment plan for Small Cities project area to comply with Iowa Chapter 403 requirements. Work Planned: a 1. Print and distribute housing information pamphlet. is 2. Complete Small Cities environmental review record. 3. Initiate Small Cities acquisition and relocation following .a environmental release of funds and policy directive of City Council. II. Housing Rehabilitation Work in Progress: 1. Continued administration of 28 CDBG funded rehabilitation contracts begun prior to July 1, 1979. 2. Awarded contract for rehabilitation of Summit Street A cooperative apartments under HUD 312 program. 3. Developing additional multi -family rehabilitation project using HUD 312 program. -` 4. Hired new rehabilitation officer. Work Planned: 1. Initiate new CDBG funded rehabilitation contracts following HUD guidelines (contained in approval of fifth year entitlement f application) and CCN recommendations on form of assistance jl (loans or grants) priority beneficiaries (the elderly). g i 2. Continue to administer rehabilitation as indicated above. r x Y i i I i � 1 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOINES i U i? III. Neighborhood Site Improvements Separate report. IV. Ralston Creek Flood Control Work in Progress: I. South Branch Dam A. Received appraisals and review appraisal on properties to be acquired. B. Continue final construction plans and specifications. 2. North Branch Dam A. Continued preliminary design. B. Continued land acquisition discussions. 3. Watershed Management Plan A. Presented plan at public hearing. Work Planned: I. South Branch Dam A. Initiate negotiations on land to be acquired. B. Complete final construction plans and specifications with goal of awarding contract in January 1980. 2. North Branch Dam " - Ad Continue activities as stated above. IV. Housing Code Enforcement Work in Progress and Planned: I. Continue minimum housing code inspections and compliance follow-up in CDBG project area. VI. Aid to Victims of Spouse Abuse Work in Progress: 1. Completed draft project environmental review record. I 2 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOINES 3 Work Planned: 1. Complete project environmental review record. 2. Obtain HUD release of funds. 3•, Develop contract between City and Aid and Alternatives for Victims of Spouse Abuse. VII. Senior Work in Progress: 1. Obtained commitment from Johnson County to provide $100,000 for kitchen and mezzanine. 2. Approved preliminary architectural plans and began design Phase. 3• Completed environmental review record for renovation and construction. facilities' 4. Began receiving furnishings and equipment (to be stored until project completed). Work Planned: 1. Obtain HUD release of funds. 2. Hire program specialist. 3• Complete design phase and construction documents with goal of awarding contract in November 1919, VIII. Nelson Adult Center Project completed; funds expended. IX. Comprehensive Plan Work in Progress: I. Continued draft revised zoning ordinance. 2. Completed staff review of draft bikeway plan. Work Planned: I. Draft revised zoning ordinance. 2• Present draft bikeway plan to Planning and Zoning Commission. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOINES A a� MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOIrIES i - 4 '1 3. Begin annexation study. 4. Begin area studies. X. Human Needs Plan Project completed; funds expended. XI. Energy Conservation Work in Progress: 1. Advertised for and screened participants in pilot solar demonstration project. 2. Prepared work write-ups and cost estimates. Work Planned: 1. Award grants under pilot solar demonstration project. 2. Award contracts for work to be accomplished. XII. River Corridor Improvements Work in Progress: 1. Selected site (Sturgis Ferry Park) for boat ramp. 2. Began preliminary boat ramp design and cost estimates. 3. Began boat ramp project environmental review record. 4. Prepared draft proposal for river corridor buffer and trail system'. Work Planned: 1. Complete and review preliminary plans for boat ramp. 2. Complete boat ramp project environmental review record. 3. Review draft proposal for river corridor buffer and trail system. XIII. Urban Redevelopment Activities Work in Progress: 1. Continued work on City Plaza and fountain. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOIrIES i 5 I 2. Continued construction on Block 83 parking ramp. 3• Awarded contract for and began construction. streetscape phase II -A 4. Amended urban renewal land disposition plan to delete Blackhawk Minipark and new library site. j Work Planned: fI I. Hold formal dedication of city Plaza. 2• Continue Block 83 parking ramp construction. 3• Award contract to construct Block 64 parking ramp. 4. Continue streetscape phase II -A construction. XIV. Architectural Barrier Removal Work in Progress and Planned: i I. Completed installation of City Park. handicapped accessibility signs at I2, See Neighborhood Site p Improvements progress report for curb ramp program. I XV. Neighborhood Park Improvements Work in Progress: j I• Completed construction of City Park holding ponds. 2. Completed Hickory y Hill Park shelter environmental reivew Work Planned: I• Obtain HUD release of project funds for park shelter. 2• Construct park shelter at Hickory Hill Park. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOINES CDBG MONTHLY REPORT MONTHLY EXPENDITURES July FY80 REPORT FOR MONTH OF: ■ TOTAL EXPENDITURES ACCOUNT NUMBER/PROGRAM APPROVED THIS MONTH FUNDS PLANNED ACTUAL 8110 CDBG Administration 131,270 10,938.50 14,081.89 8131 Housing Rehabilitation 172,460 14,327.00 34,399.42 8132 Neighborhood Site Improvements 396,510 -0- -0- 8133 Ralston Creek Flood Control 1,559,905 7,350.00 11,572.14 8134 Housing Code Inspection 101,000 8,445.75 10,083.10 8135 Aid to Victims of Spouse Abuse 80,000 -0- -0- 8141 Senior Center 1,012,000 12,250.00 2,952.60 8142 Nelson Adult Center 50,000 50,000.00 50,000.00 8151 Comprehensive Plan 40,775 1,322.00 1,496.51 8152 Human Needs Plan 8,136 8,136.00 8,135.67 8153 Energy Conservation 34,280 1,257.50 2,361.44 8154 River Corridor Improvements 74,050 3,000.00 3,043.47 8160 Urban Renewal Activities 212,610 2,499.00 2,165.10 8171 Architectural Barrier Removal 50,690 300.00 -0- 8172 Neighborhood Park Improvements 8180 Contingency 8,500 440,096 -0- -0- 8,335.55 -0- PROGRAM TOTAL 4,372,282 119,825.75 148,626.89 ■ NEIGHBORHOOD SITE IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM BI -MONTHLY PROGRESS REPORT JULY -AUGUST FY -80 Prepared: September 1979 Bruce Knight, Planner/Program Analyst Pat Keller, Planner/Program Analyst Department of Planning & Program Development MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES I40111ES STATUS REPORT NEIGHBORHOOD SITE IMPROVEMENTS JULY -AUGUST FY -80 1. Plavaround Equipment: Through the Neighborhood Site Improvements Program five local parks: College Green, Creekside, Hickory Hill, Oak Grove and Mark Twain were to be enhanced and developed. Equipment was slated for purchase to upgrade the quality of these local neighborhood parks. Activities Schedule Completed Delayed Write specifications July 1-13 X Submit bid requests July 13 X Receive bids July 30 X Select contractor August 8 X Sign bid document August 13 X Order equipment August 13 X Receive equipment September 28 Install equipment October 1-31 Financial Status Budget Allocation: $17,500.00 Encumbered: $13,615.50 (5,469.50 + 8,146.00) Expended: -0- MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOINES 2. Bus Stop Equipment: Three areas in the Neighborhood Site Improvements Program selected bus stop equipment to be placed throughout their neighborhoods. Longfellow, Creekside, and Northside opted for a variety of equipment to be installed. Activities Schedule Completed Delayed Write specifications July 1-13 X Submit bid requests July 13 X Receive bids July 30 X Select contractor August 8 X Sign bid document August 13 X Order equipment August 17 X Receive equipment September 28 Install shelters and benches October 15-31 Financial Status Financial Allocation: $24,500 (equipment, $19,500/installation, $5,000) Encumbered: $11,186.00 Expended: -0- The low bid for bus stop equipment was accepted, and the company has responded positively to the contract. Equipment should be arriving by mid-September. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOVIES 1 i C f i l i �i Y } i I I k h i i i i U � Ir J N e I, a I F I � 2. Bus Stop Equipment: Three areas in the Neighborhood Site Improvements Program selected bus stop equipment to be placed throughout their neighborhoods. Longfellow, Creekside, and Northside opted for a variety of equipment to be installed. Activities Schedule Completed Delayed Write specifications July 1-13 X Submit bid requests July 13 X Receive bids July 30 X Select contractor August 8 X Sign bid document August 13 X Order equipment August 17 X Receive equipment September 28 Install shelters and benches October 15-31 Financial Status Financial Allocation: $24,500 (equipment, $19,500/installation, $5,000) Encumbered: $11,186.00 Expended: -0- The low bid for bus stop equipment was accepted, and the company has responded positively to the contract. Equipment should be arriving by mid-September. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOVIES 1 3. Tree Planting: All of the areas in the Neighborhood Site Improvements Program are involved in the tree planting project. All areas will be receiving trees through this program. Activities Schedule Completed Delayed Solicit requests for trees X June 1 through July 15 Make final cuts for locations X July 15 Send to utility company August 1 Sept. 14 Receive from utility company Sept. 30 August 30 Submit bid requests October 12 Receive bids October 25 Select contractor October 25 Sign bid document October 29 Order trees October 29 Receive trees November 1-3 Install trees November 3 Financial Status Budget Allocation: $21,000.00 Encumbered: -0- Expended: -0- This project has experienced delays in the inspection of incompatable tree locations. At this stage the City Forester's office was to conduct site inspections at each requested tree location to determine if the actual physical locations were incompatable with current tree regulations. Due to the number of sites to be inspected and the limited staff at the Forester's office, these inspections were delayed. Nonetheless, the project is expected to be completed as scheduled. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOINES A i i I 1 •` , i s r j f i 3. Tree Planting: All of the areas in the Neighborhood Site Improvements Program are involved in the tree planting project. All areas will be receiving trees through this program. Activities Schedule Completed Delayed Solicit requests for trees X June 1 through July 15 Make final cuts for locations X July 15 Send to utility company August 1 Sept. 14 Receive from utility company Sept. 30 August 30 Submit bid requests October 12 Receive bids October 25 Select contractor October 25 Sign bid document October 29 Order trees October 29 Receive trees November 1-3 Install trees November 3 Financial Status Budget Allocation: $21,000.00 Encumbered: -0- Expended: -0- This project has experienced delays in the inspection of incompatable tree locations. At this stage the City Forester's office was to conduct site inspections at each requested tree location to determine if the actual physical locations were incompatable with current tree regulations. Due to the number of sites to be inspected and the limited staff at the Forester's office, these inspections were delayed. Nonetheless, the project is expected to be completed as scheduled. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOINES A 4. Beautification: Through the beautification aspect of the Neighborhood Site Improvements Program two specific areas of concern were addressed. These two areas were 1) the intersection of Muscatine and Burlington, i and 2) the division of commercial and residential areas between Highland Court (commercial) and Keokuk Court (residential). i 1. Court and Muscatine: This project includes the planting of trees along Muscatine Avenue between Court and Burlington Streets. Planting behind the barricade at Burlington and Muscatine was also scheduled. Activity Schedule Completed Delayed Map areas for planting July 15 X Submit to utility company August 30 X Receive from utility company September 26 Write specifications September 15-30 Solicit bids October 5 Receive bids October 25 Select contractor October 29 j Order trees October 29 i, Install trees November 15 2. Commercial and Residential: 3 Along the border between Diana Street and Highland Court, residents have complained that the commercial properties along Highland Court create visual and audible problems to the residents. Comsequently evergreens will be planted northward along the border of residential and commercial areas from Diana Court. i Activity Schedule Completed Del_ ayed Map area for planting July 15 X Meet with residents August 1 X Meet with Zoning Inspector g August 29 Meet with commercial owners x August 31 P i? ` Submit locations to utility Sept. 14 company August 30 Receive from utility company Sept. 30 i September 14 Write specifications September 19 Bid trees September 30 Order trees October 15 i tt i i L� MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS-DES MOVIES .1 Install trees October 30 Financial Status Budget Allocation: $4,500.00 Encumbered: -0- Expended: -0- With regard to Beautification Project N2, there is a delay resulting from a decision by the City Forester's Office to combine this activity with the Tree Planting project for utility company review. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES 140111ES ■.. STATUS REPORT NEIGHBORHOOD SITE IMPROVEMENTS PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS JULY -AUGUST FY -80 1. Alley Graveling: Through the Neighborhood Site Improvement Program, the alleys in four areas: Hickory Hill, Creekside, Highland and South Central were to be graded, graveled and rolled. Since funding was sufficient, it was decided that the gravel alleys in the Northside area should also be done. Activity Schedule Completed Delayed Solicit bids for gravel June 29 X Receive bids July 10 X Select Contractor July 17 X Gravel scheduled alleys Aug. 1-31 X Gravel Longfellow alleys Sept. 17-21 Financial Status Budgeted: $39,250.00 Encumbered: $39,250.00 Expended: -0- River Products Co. (the low bidder) has delivered the gravel to the alleys while the City has graded the alleys before the gravel was laid and rolled them afterwards. This process has been carried out to completion in the five scheduled neighborhoods with money still remaining in the budget. The remaining money will therefore be used to "touch up" the alleys in the Longfellow area which were originally done last year. This area will be graveled during the week from September 17 to September 21. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOINES I i 's r r I f p �i ' 3 i I i I:! i i I STATUS REPORT NEIGHBORHOOD SITE IMPROVEMENTS PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS JULY -AUGUST FY -80 1. Alley Graveling: Through the Neighborhood Site Improvement Program, the alleys in four areas: Hickory Hill, Creekside, Highland and South Central were to be graded, graveled and rolled. Since funding was sufficient, it was decided that the gravel alleys in the Northside area should also be done. Activity Schedule Completed Delayed Solicit bids for gravel June 29 X Receive bids July 10 X Select Contractor July 17 X Gravel scheduled alleys Aug. 1-31 X Gravel Longfellow alleys Sept. 17-21 Financial Status Budgeted: $39,250.00 Encumbered: $39,250.00 Expended: -0- River Products Co. (the low bidder) has delivered the gravel to the alleys while the City has graded the alleys before the gravel was laid and rolled them afterwards. This process has been carried out to completion in the five scheduled neighborhoods with money still remaining in the budget. The remaining money will therefore be used to "touch up" the alleys in the Longfellow area which were originally done last year. This area will be graveled during the week from September 17 to September 21. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOINES I 2. Alley Paving: Two alleys were to be paved through the Neighborhood Site Improvements Program. The two alleys are both in the Northside area and each services a church which is a congregate meal site. Activity Schedule Completed Delayed Prepare plans & specifications X August 1-20 Set public hearing August 28 X Hold public hearing September 11 X Approve plans & specifications X September 11 Publish notice to bidders X September 15 Bids received Sept. 26 Contract awarded October 2 Alleys Paved Oct. 2 -Nov. 15 Financial Status Budgeted; $30,000.00 Encumbered: -0- Expended: -0- The deadline for this contract has been set at November 15 in the specifications for this project. Therefore, this project will be completed before winter creates problems in the alleys. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOVIES I I a& 3. Special Alley Project: This project concerns the north -south alley which runs from the Burlington Street -Muscatine Avenue intersection to the Court Street - Oakland Avenue intersection. $8,020 was originally set aside for a partial closing (southern half) and the replacement of the broken concrete surface (northern half) of the alley. Two surveys of neighborhood residents have been conducted, and a neighborhood meeting was held. The residents of the immediate area generally favor erecting signs at the alley for one-way traffic from north to south, and placing an asphalt topping over the broken concrete. This project will reduce traffic hazards at the Burlington -Muscatine intersection. The asphalt overlay should be placed to direct runoff away from the driveways to the houses at 1241 E. Burlington and 1301 Muscatine. Activitv Schedule* Completed Delayed Prepare and approve plans & specifications for asphalt overlay & placement of signs Erect signs Publish notice to bidders on asphalt Receive bids on asphalt Award contract on asphalt (*no dates have been set) Financial Status Budgeted: $80020 Encumbered: -0- Expended: -0- Problems: To summarize, residents have requested making the alley one-way heading south. (See details in description above) Staff concurs with this request. A firm schedule has not been established due to the time spent in conducting the surveys and in organizing the neighborhood meeting. A final decision on the project needs to be made before implementation. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOINES 1 Y 4. Asphalt Overlay: Two areas will have an asphalt overlay project carried out through the Neighborhood Site Improvements Program. In Hickory Hill, the one block of East Washington east of Muscatine will receive an asphalt overlay. In Highland, as much of Highland Avenue as possible, with the funding available, will receive an overlay (this project has been left to the discretion of the Engineering Department). Activity Schedule Completed Delayed Prepare plans & specifications X August 31 Set public hearing Sept. 11 X Hold public hearing Sept. 18 Approve plans & specifications Sept. 18 Publish notice to bidders Sept. 20-25 Receive bids Sept. 30 -Oct. 5 Award contract Oct. 5-15 Carry out project Oct. 15 -Nov. 30 Financial Status Budgeted: $28,500.00 Encumbered: -0- Expended: -0- No problems are foreseen with the completion of this project. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES 110INE5 r _ P q R +4 I+ i 5 i> 1 g 9 �I yy 1 d $ y i i 1. r I 1 1 Y 4. Asphalt Overlay: Two areas will have an asphalt overlay project carried out through the Neighborhood Site Improvements Program. In Hickory Hill, the one block of East Washington east of Muscatine will receive an asphalt overlay. In Highland, as much of Highland Avenue as possible, with the funding available, will receive an overlay (this project has been left to the discretion of the Engineering Department). Activity Schedule Completed Delayed Prepare plans & specifications X August 31 Set public hearing Sept. 11 X Hold public hearing Sept. 18 Approve plans & specifications Sept. 18 Publish notice to bidders Sept. 20-25 Receive bids Sept. 30 -Oct. 5 Award contract Oct. 5-15 Carry out project Oct. 15 -Nov. 30 Financial Status Budgeted: $28,500.00 Encumbered: -0- Expended: -0- No problems are foreseen with the completion of this project. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES 110INE5 a e 5. Pedestrian Crosswalks: It was decided in the Highland Area that the feasibility of installing pedestrian cycles in the traffic lights at Highway 6 and Keokuk and Highway 6 and Sycamore should be investigated. If the pedestrian cycles are feasible, they would then be ordered and installed through the Neighborhood Site Improvement Program. Activity Schedule Completed Delayed Do pedestrian counts July 15-30 X Prepare report on feasibility X August 1-15 If feasible send request to DOT X X (see below August 15-31 ) Receive approval (or disapproval) from IDOT Sept. 30 If approved order equipment Oct. 1 Receive and install equipment Nov. 1-15 Financial Status Budgeted: $2,800.00 Encumbered: -0- Expended: -0- At this point in time, the request for a pedestrian cycle at Sycamore has been sent to IDOT. It haseeb en recommended by Jim Brachtel,rraf� Engineer, that no request be made for a pedestrian cycle at the intersection of Keokuk andtg way . This recommendation is based on concern over how to get t e pe estrians past the frontage road, and how new stores locating in the area will effect turning patterns. However, there is still a problem with pedestrians trying to cross at this point. This problem will be discussed further with CCN at their next meeting. I' MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOVIES i F I1 Y I" 1 j. 1 I I� f 5. Pedestrian Crosswalks: It was decided in the Highland Area that the feasibility of installing pedestrian cycles in the traffic lights at Highway 6 and Keokuk and Highway 6 and Sycamore should be investigated. If the pedestrian cycles are feasible, they would then be ordered and installed through the Neighborhood Site Improvement Program. Activity Schedule Completed Delayed Do pedestrian counts July 15-30 X Prepare report on feasibility X August 1-15 If feasible send request to DOT X X (see below August 15-31 ) Receive approval (or disapproval) from IDOT Sept. 30 If approved order equipment Oct. 1 Receive and install equipment Nov. 1-15 Financial Status Budgeted: $2,800.00 Encumbered: -0- Expended: -0- At this point in time, the request for a pedestrian cycle at Sycamore has been sent to IDOT. It haseeb en recommended by Jim Brachtel,rraf� Engineer, that no request be made for a pedestrian cycle at the intersection of Keokuk andtg way . This recommendation is based on concern over how to get t e pe estrians past the frontage road, and how new stores locating in the area will effect turning patterns. However, there is still a problem with pedestrians trying to cross at this point. This problem will be discussed further with CCN at their next meeting. I' MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOVIES I! - _ —__-". 6. Curb Cuts: The curb cut program has been developed using a combination of Architectural Barrier Removal and Neighborhood Site Improvement funds. The curb cuts were located through suggestions from the handicapped and the residents present at the Neighborhood Site Improvement neighborhood meetings. Activity Schedule Completed Delayed Prepare plans & specifications X August 15-30 Set public hearing Sept. 11 X Hold public hearing Sept. 18 Approve plans & specifications Sept. 18 Publish notice to bidders Sept. 20 Receive bids Oct. 2 Award contract Oct. 2 Carry out project Financial Status Budgeted: $57,250 (Architectural Barrier, 50,000/NSI, 7,250) Encumbered: -0- Expended: -0- No problems are foreseen with the completion of this program. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES 110111ES a at 7. Sidewalk Repair: r, Five neighborhoods will be involved in the sidewalk repair program which is being carried out through the Neighborhood Site Improvement program: Northside, Longfellow, Creekside, South Central and Hickory Hill. Two of these areas, Northside and Hickory Hill, were set up to include the use of NSI funds as well as property assessments. The other three neighborhoods will be done strictly through NSI funding. Activit Schedule Inspect sidewalk Aug. 1-31 Prepare plans & specifications Aug. 15-31 Set public hearing Sept. 25 Hold public hearing Oct. 2 Approve plans & specifications Oct. 2 Publish notice to bidders Oct. 5 Receive bids Oct. 15 Award contract Oct. 16 Carry out project Oct. 16 Financial_ Status Budgeted: $157,500 Encumbered: -0- Expended: -0- Completed Delayed X(Now in process) The delay in this project has been mainly due to scheduling problems in Housing Inspection Services for their sidewalk inspection program. They have recently begun sidewalk inspections in the Longfellow, Creekside and South Central areas and plan to be completed by September 19. Once inspections are completed in these three areas a contract will be let to complete the sidewalk repairs. It is expected that most of this work can be completed this fall. The sidewalk program for the Northside and Hickory Hill areas is currently being reviewed to make it workable. A change is being proposed due to the concerns that have been expressed by the staff that it will be impossible to implement the sidewalk repair program in these areas.as it is currently designed. These concerns are based on the following factors: 1. It will be.nearly impossible to develop fair guidelines for whose sidewalks will be assessed and whose will receive grant assistance; 2. For the size of the program, it will take a great deal of staff time to administer; 3. Although those residents who attended neighborhood meetings were in favor of this type of program, it is felt that those who did not attend may become very upset; and 4. In general, the program is so complex and difficult to set up that it will literally never be carried out. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOVIES 0 i Based on these facts, the planning staff recommends that an alternative program be developed to carry out sidewalk repair in these areas. A specific alternative will be presented to CCN for consideration at its next (October) meeting and to City Council thereafter. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOINES R i i Based on these facts, the planning staff recommends that an alternative program be developed to carry out sidewalk repair in these areas. A specific alternative will be presented to CCN for consideration at its next (October) meeting and to City Council thereafter. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOINES 8. Curb Repair: I - The Highland Area decided to do curb and gutter repair along Kirkwood j Avenue through the NSI program. This program will include repairing the curb and installing curb cuts on Kirkwood Avenue from Webster Street to Lower Muscatine. Due to the work load in Engineering, it will be necessary to hold this project over till next spring. Financial Status Budgeted: $32,000 Encumbered; -0- Expended: -0- MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOINES i' Financial Summary Project Total Budgeted ' Expended 8 Playground $ 17,500.00 $13,615.50 IIi I•, Equipment f ; k I Bus Stop Equip. i 11,186 -0- f 5,000.00 3. Tree Planting 21,000.00 -0- -0- 4. Beautification a IL Court & Muscatine 2,500.00 -0- -0- P� Residential 2,000.00 -0- -0- 1 1 r r i I i i 1 9. Financial Summary Project Total Budgeted Encumbered Expended I. Playground $ 17,500.00 $13,615.50 -0- Equipment 2. Bus Stop Equip. 24,500.00 11,186 -0- Installation 5,000.00 3. Tree Planting 21,000.00 -0- -0- 4. Beautification Court & Muscatine 2,500.00 -0- -0- Commercial & Residential 2,000.00 -0- -0- 1. Alley Graveling $ 39,250.00 $39,250.00 -0- 2. Alley Paving 30,000.00 -0- -0- 3. Special Alley 8.020.00 -0- -0- Project 4. Asphalt Overlay 28,500.00 -0- -0- 5. Pedestrian Cross- 2,800.00 -0- -0- walk 6. Curb Cuts 57,250.00 -0- -0- 7. Sidewalk Repair 157,500.00 -0- -0- 8. Curb Repair 32,000.00 -0- TOTAL $427,820.00 $64,051.50 -0- Although the percentage of money encumbered to money budgeted is currently only about 15%, this figure is expected to increase a great deal by the end of October. At that point in time, there will be a total of $250,801.50 encumbered, or about 59%. This large increase in money encumbered is due to contracts being awarded on the following projects: Tree Planting, Beautification, Asphalt Overlay, Curb Cuts and three areas (Northside, Creekside and South Central) of the Sidewalk Repair. In addition, $39,250.00• will have been expended through the Alley Graveling program. The remaining budgeted money which will not yet be encumbered is allocated to the following projects: Curb Repair (Highland Area), Pedestrian Crosswalk, Sidewalk Repair (Northside and Hickory Hill) and the Special Alley Project. All these projects are expected to be completed by the spring of 1980. In order to update the residents of the Neighborhood Site MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES FIOINES Improvements areas on the progress of all the projects, and the causes for the delay of some of the projects, we are currently making plans to send out a newsletter to the residents of all areas. In this way we hope to ease the concern which has been expressed over the completion of several of these projects. • MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOIRES r ^City of Iowa Citi-, MEMORANDUM Date: September 12, 1979 / 7o: Mayor and City Council From: Dennis R. Kraft, Director of Planning & Program Development Re: Policies for Property Acquisition & Retention of Housing Units As a result of the Council's discussion during the informal meeting of September 10, 1979, the following policies were established regarding the acquisition of properties for the Small Cities project: 1. All commercial properties proposed for acquisition and all residential properties required for creek improvements shall be acquired as proposed. 2. Owner -occupants of homes proposed for acquisition but not needed for actual creek improvements shall be offered the following options: a. Offer to purchase without threat of condemnation; offer replacement housing payments at or above the maximum federal requirement ($15,000), depending upon available, comparable housing. b. Offer to purchase; purchase allowing residents to continue occupancy under life estate arrangements. C. Offer to relocate and rehabilitate structures on sites suitable to the property owners. In addition, staff was directed to: 1. Study the benefits and problems associated with moving other acquired residential structures to vacant sites. 2. Study methods for providing for a maximum number of housing units on the site at the Southeast quadrant of Linn and Harrison Streets. bj MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES IIOIIIES IS#7 A i j w t f I f ^City of Iowa Citi-, MEMORANDUM Date: September 12, 1979 / 7o: Mayor and City Council From: Dennis R. Kraft, Director of Planning & Program Development Re: Policies for Property Acquisition & Retention of Housing Units As a result of the Council's discussion during the informal meeting of September 10, 1979, the following policies were established regarding the acquisition of properties for the Small Cities project: 1. All commercial properties proposed for acquisition and all residential properties required for creek improvements shall be acquired as proposed. 2. Owner -occupants of homes proposed for acquisition but not needed for actual creek improvements shall be offered the following options: a. Offer to purchase without threat of condemnation; offer replacement housing payments at or above the maximum federal requirement ($15,000), depending upon available, comparable housing. b. Offer to purchase; purchase allowing residents to continue occupancy under life estate arrangements. C. Offer to relocate and rehabilitate structures on sites suitable to the property owners. In addition, staff was directed to: 1. Study the benefits and problems associated with moving other acquired residential structures to vacant sites. 2. Study methods for providing for a maximum number of housing units on the site at the Southeast quadrant of Linn and Harrison Streets. bj MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES IIOIIIES IS#7 A 9 M . WILL J. HAYEK JOHN W. HAYEK C. PETER HAYEK C. JOSEPH HOLLAND HAYEK, HAYEK & HAYEK ATTORNEYS AT LAW 110 EAST WASHINGTON STREET IOWA CITY. IOWA 32240 September 13, 1979 The honorable Mayor and City Council of Iowa City Civic Center Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Iowa City Airport Mayor and Council Members: ANNA COOK SIS 337.9006 Several weeks ago you asked for a report from me concerning the remedies, if any, that the City of Iowa City might have insofar as the actions of the Iowa City Airport Commission in regulating flight patterns and flying practices of student pilots. As you know Section 330. 21 of the Code of Iowa grants to airport commissions in municipalities where airport commissions exist the power to operate and manage the airport facility except the power to sell the air- port. This means, in my opinion, that the city council would not have any authority to intervene in any dispute between student pilots and the com- mission, on the one hand, or property owners and others on the other hand. jThe question was also asked as to what liability the City of Iowa City would have as a result of improper or illegal restrictions on flight operations at the airport. Since the City exercises no right of control over the airport other than the authority to approve or deny requests for tax money in the airport Is annual budget, I would see no substantial basis } for liability on the part of the City of Iowa City. I would be happy to discuss this matter with you further if you wish. I Very truly you s, I Joh W, Hayek JWH:vb SEP AGGIE S_ 01AC CITN" s) MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES 140114ES I City of Iowa Cit'` �- MEMORANDUM p«r, t�� t �'2A Date: September 13, 1979 C �'�_`I, A&.rL -� �' To: City Council ��pV, ``11� 04 rV From: John Hayek, City Attorney , J)) '[ (cti" G,�I Recently, the Iowa Supreme Court handed down a decision that you should know about. On July 25, 1979, the Supreme Court, in Wilson vs. Nepstad and City of Des Moines, ruled that municipalities in Iowa can be held liable for failure to carry on proper inspections of a building. In this case, the plaintiffs brought suit against the owners of the building and the City of Des Moines for damages resulting from the deaths and injuries resulting to the occupants of the building as a result of a fire. The District Court sustained a motion to dismiss by the City on the grounds that the City had no liability for claimed negligent inspections. On appeal, the Iowa Supreme Court reversed and held that the City of Des Moines could be held liable for either failing to inspect a building or else determinedeinithin negligent iscase, theca ewas remanded Althouh no the trdialacourtwere for further proceedings. The decision does establish that in Iowa municipalities can be held liable in this area. When you consider the number of dwellings in Iowa City and further consider the dwellings outside of Iowa City which the City has undertaken to inspect, you can see that the potential for liability is very significant indeed. I simply want you to be aware of this ruling. I also want you to be aware of the need to maintain a careful inspection program in Iowa City in order to hold our exposure down as much as possible. John Hayek cc: Mike Kucharzak bj4/6 MICROFILMED BY JORM MIOROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOVIES a n City of Iowa Cr -j = MEMORANDUM V ! ✓� Date: September 6, 1979 l/bn To: Neal Berlin, City Manager From: Angela Ryan, Assistant Cit G y Attorney:;. 1 Re: Claim of Max E. Lewis I spoke with Don Shimon, the City employee involved in the incident in which Mr. Lewis' truck was damaged. In March, while Mr. Lewis was making a delivery to the landfill, he became stuck in the mud and snow. The City employee attempted to push him out with the compactor. While he was being pushed, the hopper on Mr. Lewis' truck fell and hit the City truck thereby injuring the cylinder on his truck. The City employee feels that the hopper will often fall of its own volition and that it was the dropping of the hopper which caused the damage not the activity of the City vehicle in pushing the truck. I question whether we want to assume liability for his being stuck in the snow. I had not really related to that aspect. The City employee told him to report the claim but insists that he did not make any representations with regard to our payment of it. Please let me know your position with regard to this claim. bj4/7 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOINES 1850 I tummftC1ty of Iowa Cr'; MEMORANDV - Date: September 7, 1979 To: Neal Berlin, City Manager From: Angela Ryan, Assistant Cit Y Attorney ,u Re: School Crossing Guards Neal, you had asked us to look into the question of whether the City or the school district had the duty reviewing all applicable sectonsowith regard rovide cto the duties of cities and schools, the only relevant section would se crossinghool guards. In Code of Iowa, It gives cities and counties Power be section 321.249 of the Zones and Provide for the stoppingof all POMhi to establish school Zones, when movable stop signs hve been placedaching streets cities and highways in counties At the limits of the zones. eeching such interpret this section to Teets in such Therefore, I do not believe the Code at you have to I would not the school district to provide crossing a duty upon either tpersonnel. e city or g guards. Please contact me if you have further questions. bdw5/6 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOIIIES 1951 i I i I J I I I i i• i i i tummftC1ty of Iowa Cr'; MEMORANDV - Date: September 7, 1979 To: Neal Berlin, City Manager From: Angela Ryan, Assistant Cit Y Attorney ,u Re: School Crossing Guards Neal, you had asked us to look into the question of whether the City or the school district had the duty reviewing all applicable sectonsowith regard rovide cto the duties of cities and schools, the only relevant section would se crossinghool guards. In Code of Iowa, It gives cities and counties Power be section 321.249 of the Zones and Provide for the stoppingof all POMhi to establish school Zones, when movable stop signs hve been placedaching streets cities and highways in counties At the limits of the zones. eeching such interpret this section to Teets in such Therefore, I do not believe the Code at you have to I would not the school district to provide crossing a duty upon either tpersonnel. e city or g guards. Please contact me if you have further questions. bdw5/6 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOIIIES 1951 City of Iowa Citi j MEMORANDUM Date: September 12, 1979 i To: Harvey Miller, Chief of Police From: Don Akin Re: School Crossing Guards A count of the children crossing at the crossings where we have crossing guards has been made for several days. The results are as follows. It must be understood that this is a variable thing and changes somewhat day to day, so this is an average. Low High Longfellow Burlington and Muscatine 17 19 Horace Mann Dodge and Church 60 86 Horace Mann Governor and Church 18 32 Hoover i i Court and Second 83 117 ' Hoover Court and First 107 123 f r I Catholic Grade School Gilbert and Prentiss (lights) 7 11 Roosevelt Benton and Greenwood 44 60 *Roosevelt Benton and Miller 14 19 ' Lincoln Park Road and Lee 26 33 j T Lucas � 1 Muscatine and Dover 133 147 �.�. Ernest Horn West Benton and Sunset i 155 165 I /V.5 i i f ' MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB I i CEDAR RAPIDS-DES ?101 HES M , z Low High *S.E. Junior High Bradford and First 93 153 *Railroad Crossing Greenwood Drive 18 28 After looking at the number of students crossing, the distances from school and the age of children involved (particularly S.E. Junior High), I feel thta if no more funding is available we might be able to do the following. Longfellow - Burlington and Muscatine Although this intersection has few children crossing, I feel that we should retain an adult here due to the configuration of the intersection, i.e. the left and right turns would be hard for students to control and also the distance from school would be excessive). St. Pat's - Gilbert and Prentiss This crossing has very few children crossing, however, even with the lights and walk light, I feel that due to the four lanes of traffic it would be very difficult for school crossing guards to handle this intersection. Roosevelt - Benton and Miller This crossing has few students and I feel that with the proper execution we could use school crossing guards here. This could be accomplished by the use of two guards, one on each side with hand held signs (small ones that we have available). The guards would then not be subjected to standing in the street but only on the curb with the sign held so as to be visible in the appropriate lanes. This crosswalk could also be signed "stop when students in crosswalk" or a like message. Note: I have seen signs of this nature in other cities. S. E. Junior High School - Bradford and First Avenue I believe that junior high students should be old enough to control their own crossing. It might be that we could sign it with the aforementioned signing. This crossing guard could be eliminated. I I I I 1 II I MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOINES IL . 3 Railroad Crossing - Greenwood Drive I feel that this crossing could very adequately be handled by school crossing guards. With these eliminations, we would arrive at the following figures: Present salaries 14 persons - $30,960 If three crossings mentioned are eliminated - savings of - 51666 Operating would be in this area $25,294 Unifozms-Supplies E Commodities 1,200 NOTE: *Possible Elimination $26,494 bdw3/6-8 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOINES i i I I I f' i I� f j. } d_ ! i q 1. , i j i ' I l 3 Railroad Crossing - Greenwood Drive I feel that this crossing could very adequately be handled by school crossing guards. With these eliminations, we would arrive at the following figures: Present salaries 14 persons - $30,960 If three crossings mentioned are eliminated - savings of - 51666 Operating would be in this area $25,294 Unifozms-Supplies E Commodities 1,200 NOTE: *Possible Elimination $26,494 bdw3/6-8 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOINES TO: FROM: City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM DATE: September 14, 1979 Neal Berlin, City Manager Harvey D. Miller, Police Chief tJ A.^ - RE: Council Referral on Cedar Rapids Noise Ordinance Captain Lee was in Cedar Rapids yesterday, September 13, 1979 and inquired at the Police Department ald legal office as to the City's noise ordinance. He was informed that because of the great difficulty in defining the term "noise" and the fact that noise levels that are disturb- ing can not be precisely specified and indeed vary from hearer to hearer Plus nce must also be specified bytime eand gintensity, the aordinance l was unenforceable. Thus, District Court ruled but included the caveat that on highly traveled streets i where decibel meters could record changes above and below a given norm by hours, an aver noise level could be established and variances, if the cause could be positively identified as the single source, cited under the ordinance. Residential noise problems are handled much the same as is done in Iowa City, Bar noise in Cedar Rapids is handled similarly to the way we do it here. However, restrictive zoning (e.g. - no bar can be built or operated within X feet of a school; church; another bar or tavern; or in way to handle bar noise. Anotherrestrictedin zones); under the our present ordinances, to record complaints of this nature received against an establishment and after a certain number of complaints are received and verified, to use this as a portion of a checklist to review prior to license or permit renewal. Let me know if you need anything more on this. ('cc: Angela Ryan E Roger Scholten, Legal i I' 1 IS53 -- _ MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOINES a. TO: FROM: RE: ,-, City of Iowa City MEMORANDV DATE: September 1 1978 Neal Berlin, City Manager ' a Harvey D. Miller, Police Chiefl4o" V Police Patrol at Melrose Court and Greenwood... o a 1 Last Saturday, September 8, was the first real test of crowd and traffic control at the Melrose Court Block- ade. Sergeant Lihs spent nearly three hours at or near the barrier, except for small amounts of time when he was called away for emergency duties. He relates to me that at no time since the early '70 riots in Iowa City has he taken as much verbal and threats of physical abuse as he did last Saturday at the barrier. There were no violations of the signs at those times he was physically present. However, it appeared as if vio- lations did occur at those times he was called away. On future football days the officers will spend as much time at the barricade as possible. Last Saturday every available officer, excluding the night shift that has to sleep some time was on -duty. A total of 90 hours of overtime was accumulated at a cost to the Iowa City taxpayer of $1080. Even then we did not have sufficient personnel to handle the regular workload and the traffic problems. For the Nebraska; Iowa State; and Homecoming games we will incur about $2200 per game overtime expenses with increased patrol and traffic control measures on both Friday and Saturday of those games. During those games, if they generate the drunken fervor e Past two oming gmes evidence, it seems likely wthat amost te nofHthe cregularaneighborhooddand sector patrol will be absorbed in downtown policing. Con- sequently, emergency and more serious requests for service will receive a great deal more attention and higher priority than will property damage accidents, car unlocks and the like that we normally handle. It seems to me that bypassing of the barrier unless a Police officer is stationed there during most hours of the day, will continue unless a barrier consisting of closely set posts is extended from the present barrier across the affected walks and lawns. Physical barriers of any kind Pose some fascinating possibility of litigation if they are constructed on public rights-of-way. Consequently, the questions of liability should be closely appraised before any extension of the barrier.... even if permitted by the affected property owners ... is undertaken. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOINES 110 I ,City Of IOWA Cit, Date: September 13, 1979 To: Neal Berlin and City Council From: Dick Plastino i Re: Traffic Countt Intersection of Dubuque and Church St. The Traffic Engineering Division has completed an analysis and traffic count of the intersection of Dubuque and Church based upon a twelve month review of accident records. The intersection does meet the criteria established in the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices which is adopted by the State as the regulatory manual for cities. Accordingly, Public Works has included this project for consideration by Council in the 1981 capital improvements project. The Finance Department advises that road use tax funding for FY81 will not meet projected expenditures and the City Council will need to prioritize this project with the many other projects proposed. cc: Rosemary Vitosh Jim Brachtel bj4/2 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOVIES I City of Iowa Cit- ; MEMORANDUM Date: September 14, 1979 To: City Council From: Drew Shaffer Re: Cable TV Construction Timelines and Progress Update In the Broadband Telecommunications Franchise Ordinance is the construction timetable for the cable TV grantee. It states that within 180 days of the effective date of the franchise (March 28, 1979) grantee shall initiate construction and installation of broadband telecommunications network. So the first impending deadline is September 24, 1979. There are three factors involved in the building of a cable system and which define the initiation of construction: strand mapping; make ready engineering; and actual laying of cable, amplifier placement, etc. Hawkeye has completed strand mapping and is in the make ready engineering stage. This qualifies as initiation of construction. In my opinion, Hawkeye Cable Vision is presently on schedule and is attempting to stay on schedule with reasonable diligence, and is therefore meeting this first deadline of September 24. I would have hoped the tower site would have been secured by now, but this process has involved some setbacks beyond the control of Hawkeye Cable Vision. The ordinance goes on to say that within twelve months of March 28, 1979 the grantee shall commence operation (defined as 25% of dwelling units being offered full service). Hawkeye intends to reach the 25% service level in January, 1980. Further, Hawkeye states once the tower is built and the laying of cable is initiated, the cable system can be substantially completed in four to six months. This level of service is not required by the ordinance until March 28, 1981. Hawkeye intends to be i at this stage next summer. In addition, Hawkeye's proposal and oral presentations are binding according to the ordinance. Their proposal states they will have 108 cable strand miles in place by March 28, 1980. The tentative tower location is in the northeast part of Iowa City. The lease is currently being negotiated for the tower location. FAA and Planning & Zoning applications will be sought simultaneously as soon as lease negotiations are completed (which is imminent). If the tower is actually installed in this section, construction will start in the northeast part of Iowa City and move clockwise around the City. Hawkeye 1 is negotiating with the University of Iowa for the placement of their hub site. Hawkeye has moved to the old Elk's building on the corner of Washington and Gilbert. Their new phone number is 351-3984. They will be purchasing land and building their own permanent office in the Southgate Development area of Iowa City. Hawkeye has hired a construction manager and very shortly will hire the chief engineer, marketing manager, office manager and local origination director. For any further information, please feel free to contact me at Ext. 355. i bc3/11 14,6 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES I401NES k, Hawkeye Cable�s!on 328 S. Clinton Iowa City, to. 52240 319-354-2490 September 18 1 PROGRESS REPORT --IOWA CITY s 979 Sub.lec_` Tomer A tower site has been secured at the northwest corner of the property currently being developed by Hy -Vee on Highway 1 north. ordered the 150 -foot self-supporting We have tower as well as the Scientific Atlanta antenna package. We are in very close touch with the FAA concerning our tower location. We will know immediately if this site will meet FAA standards and will thus save as much as 45 days, Zoning application for this property will be filed shortly. We do not know at this point what difficulties we might encounter during this procedure. Sub�ec� 0� We have placed earnest money on the property at 546 Southgate Avenue for an office site. Frequency measurements conducted by Comm -Search, Inc. reveal that this location will work fine for an earth station. Soil tests were performed last week for the earth station's concrete pad with results still pending. We will be conducting official ground breaking ceremonies in a few weeks. Sub ect: U. of I. I Talks will commence again shortly with the University Of Iowa. We would like to locate a hub site at the Engineering Building. Hugh Cordier has been very, cooperative and agreeable so far to such an idea. The University and University Hospitals seem to be nearing a Ij split on uses, applications, installation and operation of cable television and closed circuit television. We will strongly consider using a separate contractor to build the campus system. Wiring in the tunnel system poses a unique will not want to handle situation which the regular contractor Sub,lect: General Construction of plant Talks have be for make_ gun with the local utilities to consider exact procedures complete r Bob.YoOnce begung make-ready will take about gto J days en J presently in town to coordinate these talks. We are very close to letting the 3 i MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOIRES a i Hawkeye Cablevision 328 S. Clinton Iowa City, la. 52240 319-354-2490 Progress Report, Sept. 18, 1979 cont'd contract for plant construction. When details of the contract have been worked out and a contract executed, I will let Drew know immediately. Subject: Personnel We have hired a marketing manager for Havkeye CableVision. Eva Dahm will make an excellent addition to the staff. Her qualifications and experience assure me of the highest standards in the marketing process. Also, Janet Erickson has been named office manager. Janet also is a very qualified individual and will become my right-hand during day-to-day operations. I Finally Al Hood from our system in'Monroe, Louisiana, has been named chief engineer. He will be relocating himself and his family very soon and will assist Doug Brown, system construction coordinator, with the construction process, I We have temporarily, located our offices in two rooms at 325 East Washington. ' Our new phone number is 351-3984. So far we are working with a few chairs and one table. When we get some furniture and get a little more settled you are invited to stop by our offices. I must apologize for not being able to attend the commission meeting, but I am attending a very important conference in Little Rock, Arkansas. Respectfully submitted, ! Bill Blough f System Manager I WLB/egd f i FIICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOIIIES p � s Oq'v �I RRGIOM VU Fedwal OMS- Bumin. 911 Wain, st"61 E,nu- cR9. Mi„eud 61106 DEPARTM, F OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELL .SENT SERVICE OFFICE FEDERAL BUILDING, 210 WALNUT STREET DES MOINES, IOWA 50309 September 6, 1979 IN REPLY RE/ER TOi Honorable Robert Vevera Mayor of Iowa City 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Dear Mayor Vevera: Subject: PUBLIC HOUSING PROGRAM RESERVATION IA05-PO22-004, Iowa City, Iowa 20 Non -Elderly Units Turnkey, New Construction The Department of Housing and Urban Development hereby makes the following Program Reservation for low-income dwelling units to be provided pursuant to the U.S. Housing Act of 1937. This is not a legal obligation but a statement of determination by HUD, subject to fulfillment of all legal and administrative requirements, to enter into a Preliminary Loan Contract or Annual Contributions Contract covering the number of units reserved, or such lesser number as may be consistent with the amount of contract and budget authority reserved by HUD with respect to the Program Reserva- tion. A Development Program which is approvable by HUD must be submitted one year from above date. If this time limit is exceeded, the Program Reservation will be cancelled unless HUD determines, for good cause, to extend the time limit. See Attachment A for special conditions. BUILDING TYPE UNIT SIZE NUMBER OF UNITS (Tlo. o e rooms Total Fam y Row 2 -Bedroom 16 Family 3 -Bedroom 4 Family Total Units - 20 Family Units Preliminary Loan - $4,000 Contract Authority: $ 66,240 Budget Authority: $ 2,649,600 Loan Authority: $ 922,950 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOVIES 2 !q Y4l FUNDS RESERVED: Larry Miller Acting Director, Regional Accounting Division APPROVED�20/IA 4upervIis—or cc* Berlin, City Manager Lyle Seydel No mm 4 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOVIES . ... ...... dj MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOVIES ^,City of Iowa CIC � M M%Cq3kRA1fVL1®U I Date: September 14, 1979 To: Neal Berlin aYl?e7ndProcedure d cil I From: Dick Plastino Re: Contract Sche on Block 64 Garage Per the Council discussion of Monday, September 10, Public Works has given the consultant the following directions on the block 64 garage. 1. Prepare an addendum which will be sent out before bids are accepted. The addendum will give a brief summary of the situation regarding the block 83-84 garage and the fact that it must be partially open by Thanksgiving prior to awarding a contract for the block 64 garage. The addendum will state that bids awarded September 25 per the original will be open September 21 andschedule. 2. If it is known, on September 25, that the first garage will be open by Thanksgiving, the Contractor will be given notice to proceed as soon as he submits bonds and insurance. If it is not known whether the first garage will be open by Thanksgiving, the contractor will be t7 told to hold until November 2 at which time a decision will be made 1f. to proceed with the contract or cancel the contract on the second garage. 4j 3. A day or two before November 2 Council will be given a status report on the first garage and a decision can be made to proceed or stop all contract procedures on the block 64 garage. The advantage of awarding the contract-om September 25 even if we do not give a notice to proceed until November 2 is that the winning contractor will-be able to line up all of his insurance and bonds and be ready-to move onto the site immediately upon word from the City that the contract is a tt go. This procedure will allow the City a few extra weeks to determine whether the first garage will be done by Thanksgiving. As stated in the Council meeting of September 10 it is anticipated that the first garage will be done by Thanksgiving for partial opening of from 200-300+ cars. During the September 10 meeting there was some discussion about taking bids at this time for a, winter construction start some time after Christmas. Due to the severe winter weather that time of year, this is not a viable option since no contractor would be able to excavate ground at this time of year. If construction is not started in November, the '? next feasible time for earth work will be March or April of 1980. i, It appears that the bidding situation is going to'be very competitive for the block 64 garage. The winning bidder on the Library site is also planning to be a bidder on the Block 64 garage. proximity to each other is Running two jobs in close very advantageous to a contractor and we can 'i expect to see a good competitive bid from this contractor. Additionally, L MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES FIOIDES three of the losing contractors on the Library job will be bidders on the Block 64 garage. If loss of the Library job leaves a large hole in their work schedule we can also expect good competitive bids from these individuals. cc: Block 64 File #1 bj4/7 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES MOIIIES N is �11�ify of lova CRT. Date: September 14, 1979 To: Neal Berlin and City Councjl From: Dick Plastino ,V/A (ity Re: Additional Transit Service Some interest had been expressed by the City Council in providing additional peak hour buses beyond the 16 buses scheduled for this winter's operations. This type of service would be provided by leasing additional buses. The Transit Manager and Equipment Superintendent have been asked to investigate how additional service would affect their operations. Their comments are listed below. From the Transit Manager The Transit Manager feels additional buses will affect his operation in three ways. These three are 1) operational, 2) labor and 3) public. 1. • Operational a. The scheduling of extra buses will be extremely time consuming, in as much as not only will schedules be needed for the additional vehicles, but the timings of the existing routes will be altered also. Not only will the schedules themselves need to be rewritten, but all of our internal bookkeeping paperwork will need to be adjusted as well. b. The hiring and training of new drivers, as well as the retraining of our existing staff, will be a considerable undertaking. From the time the decision is made to hire, it will take a minimum of one month to have additional drivers recruited, interviewed, hired, and trained. C. The additional "overhead" of managing the extra employees, vehicles, schedules, etc. may be an overwhelming burden on the existing transit staff. Our ability to survive the winter with only our present staff is somewhat doubtful as it is. d. The additional buses will require either continuous engine -running outdoors, a considerable investment in electrical engine heaters, or indoor storage for all of the extra buses. Each of these alternatives requires a large expenditure which is not involved in the cost of our present 20 -bus operation. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES IIOIIIF.S �11�ify of lova CRT. Date: September 14, 1979 To: Neal Berlin and City Councjl From: Dick Plastino ,V/A (ity Re: Additional Transit Service Some interest had been expressed by the City Council in providing additional peak hour buses beyond the 16 buses scheduled for this winter's operations. This type of service would be provided by leasing additional buses. The Transit Manager and Equipment Superintendent have been asked to investigate how additional service would affect their operations. Their comments are listed below. From the Transit Manager The Transit Manager feels additional buses will affect his operation in three ways. These three are 1) operational, 2) labor and 3) public. 1. • Operational a. The scheduling of extra buses will be extremely time consuming, in as much as not only will schedules be needed for the additional vehicles, but the timings of the existing routes will be altered also. Not only will the schedules themselves need to be rewritten, but all of our internal bookkeeping paperwork will need to be adjusted as well. b. The hiring and training of new drivers, as well as the retraining of our existing staff, will be a considerable undertaking. From the time the decision is made to hire, it will take a minimum of one month to have additional drivers recruited, interviewed, hired, and trained. C. The additional "overhead" of managing the extra employees, vehicles, schedules, etc. may be an overwhelming burden on the existing transit staff. Our ability to survive the winter with only our present staff is somewhat doubtful as it is. d. The additional buses will require either continuous engine -running outdoors, a considerable investment in electrical engine heaters, or indoor storage for all of the extra buses. Each of these alternatives requires a large expenditure which is not involved in the cost of our present 20 -bus operation. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES IIOIIIF.S 2 2. Labor a. If "old look" buses are acquired, we will be faced with problems that occurred last year with bus #971. The buses available for rental are generally believed to be in very poor repair, in addition to the obsolete design. b. If "school" buses are acquired, we will have severe problems due to the standard transmission and manually -operated door. These features make school buses extremely awkward for in -city transit use. C. If "new -look" buses are acquired our labor problems will be minimized if we can assume that they will be in generally good mechanical shape. Our experience with the Hausman buses (Chicago leasing agency) has indicated to us that this may not always be the case. 3. Public a. If "new -look" buses are used, we will minimize our problems in providing an adequate level of service, as far as comfort and convenience to the riding public are concerned. b. If "old -look" buses are acquired, we will provide a level of service inferior to that being provided now, but perhaps still acceptable. In vehicles of this type the heating systems may be inferior, the steps are very high, and the suspension results in an extremely rough ride. C. If we should use "school" buses, we will have severe problems in terms of dealing with passenger needs. In a school bus, head room, knee room, and standing space are in very short supply. In addition, the ride comfort leaves something to be desired. d. The servicing of additional buses will further overwhelm our evening crew, which during the winter months has great difficulty keeping up with routine cleaning of the buses now in service. This will be further complicated if we have bus storage problems, and if we have buses that will require fueling at another location. The overall recommendation, considering Transit aspects of additional vehicle operation, is that with our present facilities and staff we cannot provide this service. To attempt to increase the number of vehicles on the street during rush hour, given the short time between now and winter, would invite the collapse of the entire operation, with a resultant decrease in service to everyone. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOINES i 3• a N I _ H r i s �i I A 1- I I 1 1 I 1 2 2. Labor a. If "old look" buses are acquired, we will be faced with problems that occurred last year with bus #971. The buses available for rental are generally believed to be in very poor repair, in addition to the obsolete design. b. If "school" buses are acquired, we will have severe problems due to the standard transmission and manually -operated door. These features make school buses extremely awkward for in -city transit use. C. If "new -look" buses are acquired our labor problems will be minimized if we can assume that they will be in generally good mechanical shape. Our experience with the Hausman buses (Chicago leasing agency) has indicated to us that this may not always be the case. 3. Public a. If "new -look" buses are used, we will minimize our problems in providing an adequate level of service, as far as comfort and convenience to the riding public are concerned. b. If "old -look" buses are acquired, we will provide a level of service inferior to that being provided now, but perhaps still acceptable. In vehicles of this type the heating systems may be inferior, the steps are very high, and the suspension results in an extremely rough ride. C. If we should use "school" buses, we will have severe problems in terms of dealing with passenger needs. In a school bus, head room, knee room, and standing space are in very short supply. In addition, the ride comfort leaves something to be desired. d. The servicing of additional buses will further overwhelm our evening crew, which during the winter months has great difficulty keeping up with routine cleaning of the buses now in service. This will be further complicated if we have bus storage problems, and if we have buses that will require fueling at another location. The overall recommendation, considering Transit aspects of additional vehicle operation, is that with our present facilities and staff we cannot provide this service. To attempt to increase the number of vehicles on the street during rush hour, given the short time between now and winter, would invite the collapse of the entire operation, with a resultant decrease in service to everyone. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOINES i 3 From the Equipment Superintendent The Equipment Superintendent feels the additional buses will affect his operation in four areas. These four areas are 1) procurement, 2) main- tenance, 3) storage and c) operating characteristics. 1. Procurement Buses comparable to ours cannot be found. Almost every city intends to run their conventional design buses until the wheels come off. What is available then are either 16-18 year old suburban buses (no rear door) or 23-25 year old transit buses (like 971). Since the newer suburban coaches would be very cumbersome on our routes, we would be left with a decision whether to get old buses from Ottumwa or from a vendor like Hausman Bus Sales. Ottumwa buses could be leased for four months and Hausman buses have a six month miniumum lease; the price ($900-$1200 a month) would not be significantly different. The big difference is that it would take about twelve Ottumwa buses to keep six buses on the street. We feel that we could probably keep five Hausman buses out running with a fleet of eight. 2. Maintenance I think that it would take at least one additional full-time mechanic on the graveyard shift to keep these buses on the street. Space to work on the buses would be a continual problem but could be surmounted This would have to be a year -around position since there is no way to -hire a temporary mechanic. . This additional position could then be used for a summer reconditioning program for all equipment. 3. Storage Storage• would be the most severe of all the problems we would encounter. Phil Cline is not interested in renting his old building. The building across the street is only 3,000 square feet which, depending on its shape, could store 2-4 buses. If we get more than a mile away (4-H building for example) it would screw everything up from a maintenance and dispatch standpoint. We would probably be forced to park the buses outside and use the time between 6:30 and 7:00 AM to bring the buses inside to warm up before dispatch. 4. Operating Characteristics No matter what kind of reconditioning is done on these buses they will not meet the standards of our own fleet for dependability, ease MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS•DES NOIRES 0 a 11 ') 4 of operation and safety. Based on our experience with the #971 we get about 42 miles for every hour of maintenance on an old design bus versus 126 miles on our own conventional buses. That means they break down three times as often. The buses would have spring rather than air suspension and would be very hard to steer because of the design. The likelihood of having a system failure cause an accident would be much greater. We all remember the drivers' complaints of last winter which were more publicity than substance; I'm sure we would have another one with leased buses which would have a lot more substance to it. None of this is to say that I am negative about the possibility of leasing buses. If the Council decides to meet short-term demand, Gary and I will do everything we can to give Hugh the buses to do it. We just want you to know that it ain't going to be any picnic. From the Public Works Director To provide service adequate to meet the mushrooming demand for rush-hour transit service we would need an additional five coaches during the peak hours. In addition to our existing two rush-hour specials, we would provide additional capacity on the following routes with 5 buses: Hawkeye Express - Court Hill Special 1 bus Oakcrest-Lakeside Express 2 buses Mark IV Express-Towncrest Special 2 buses TOTAL: 5 buses The monthly cost of leasing and operating these five extra buses is estimated as follows assuming 660 additional bus hours per month: Operator's wages (including benefits) Daily cleaning and servicing Administrative Cost Mechanical (at $1.00 per mile) Lease of 8 buses from Hausman at average of $1,000 per bus TOTAL $ 3,960.00 635.00 200.00 7,590.00 _ 8,000.00 $20,385.00 per month These expenditures would be incurred for a minf um 0.00 for this Of four months of (November 15 through March 15) for a total cost o upcoming winter. Revenues are difficult to estimate but they would be in the range of $5,900 per month for a net cost of $14,485 per month plus the cost of a full time mechanic for eight months of the year when he is not needed. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIOS•DES MOINES R I The Iowa City Transit System is presently fully extended. At some in the near future the City Council must make a decision whether we take present the next step upward in transit service or whether we hold at our point here ahbusis dthere, butcan very dsoonesomeYear major decitwo; sio s are going tcan tack on o hbus ave to be made. The discussion about leasing buses is a clear-cut choice between operating a Well-designed, properly -sized transit system at a high level of service haphazard undependable levelOf�serviceextended transit system with a In many ways a transit system is no different than a highway network. For many years public officials built more and more roads attempting to satisfy what they found to be an insatiable demand for travel on roads during a very short time Essential) period. Transit service is no different. Essentially all people want on all of the buses in a ver Period from approximately 7:30 to 8:30 AM. To provide a level of service which might satisfy the total demand would mean a bus y short time z minutes. At some point Council is either going to have tortotally satisfy this dQmand or make a firm decision that people will have to recognize the limitations of the roadway alternate arsstem rangements. Aternatemarrangements and the rcan tinclude taking aan earlier bus, rescheduling their work hours, etc. I would strongly recommend against transit service b another incremental increase in facilities, the equipment ervicebusescapability tnorhthe manag manneither agement staffato add still another layer of service onto a fully extended system, I would strongly recommend that the City Council, together with all of the other Political subdivisions in Johnson all consider the Area Transportation Study. Decisions must be made regarding the split between public transportation and private transportation. In the months ahead the Cit many of these questions whileCreviewingouncil lthe Capve ital Improvements Program for F fthe e opportunity to consider G' expenditures. Several of the projects listed represent large dollar nd community can affordthigh levels h transit aof exp ndltures fors both transportation x modes. Public Works would urge Council to serious s. doubtful that the questions which not only affect the financial inte rit also the lifestyle of most of its citizens, y consider these i 9 y of the City but s. bj MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOIRES i I r 1 I, I; i ..i �i I I All Week Tours on the site of the new public library. l l am - l pm (Sa), 1-4 pm (SU), 11:30am-1:30pm (M —F) 10. 1:30 pm (Sal All events are free& located(*) at Governor Lucas Square College & Dubuque Streets. *all library activities held on site of New Library NW corner of College & Linn Streets. Check City Raza Kiosks for Daily Schedules & additions spy ayl io) luawmopu3 (euo(IeN ppuno0 sljy emo, uopleuossy umolumoG 6110 emo, 10 A10 1uuno0 spy 61uno0 uosuyop/6p0 emo, :69 paiosuads si eze)d ayf spunojjnS IN ----------------------------- calegdefof evegts 5�p�t�rn lr�er' 22-29, 1979 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MOINES 6 11 i I 11 am - 1 pm Tom Ferring, I 1 i f l , Friday the 28th i It am - I pm Greg Brown, Steve Lampe r 7 pm Limbs Jazz Dance Ensemble Saturday the 291h 10 am - 5 pm Art Fair R 10:30 am Guy Drollinger - children's songs i (library site) 12.2 pm Bubee the clown 7:30 - midnight Masquerade Ball _ i � I 1 1 Art Surrounds the Plaza Schedule Saturday the 22nd i 10 am Fountain Dedication - Donald Raul, guest speaker i it am Dave & Nancy Chrapkiewicz - Balalaika & Guitar Steve Roberts - children's songs (library site) ' 7:30 pm Electronic Music, Film, Jazz Sunday the 23rd 12 - 6 pm Children's Art Festival Synthesis, Euienspiegel Puppet Theatre, Dr. Alphabet, The Troupe, Bubee Bulenik, the Clown Monday the 24th 11 am - 1 pm Performances 7 pm Salt Creek Tuesday the 25th 11 am - 1 pm Marge GurlVJohn Swinton I 7 pm Jazz Ensemble i - Wednesday. the 26th 4 11 am - 12 pm Colkgium Musicum 12-Ipm Mime 1:30 pm Nick Meyer - autographing session k 1 -3 pm Creative Drama Workshop for children (rec. center) 6:30 pm Commedia Theatre Company Thursday the 27th I 11 am - 1 pm Tom Ferring, Beau Salisbury, Dave Moore 7 pm Performance Friday the 28th i It am - I pm Greg Brown, Steve Lampe r 7 pm Limbs Jazz Dance Ensemble Saturday the 291h 10 am - 5 pm Art Fair R 10:30 am Guy Drollinger - children's songs i (library site) 12.2 pm Bubee the clown 7:30 - midnight Masquerade Ball _ MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES 140111ES /-\ Plaza • I I • • City of Iowa City, 410 E. Washington, 319-354-1800 Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Linda Schreiber, Editor The level of activities in the downtown have never been greater. In the last few weeks citizens have watched new and completed construction changing the shape of the center of the City. A summary of recent activities follows. Parcel 93-3. At its August 14 meeting the City Council approved transferring parcel 93-3 to Breese Company, Inc. from Anna Rath. Spiraling construction costs prompted her request to sell the parcel located at the northeast corner of Court and Madison Streets. This 100' x 40' parcel has had its share of marketing problems during the course of urban renewal. It was placed for sale three times. The third time seemed to be the charm when two bids were received from Anna Rath and Breese Company. The Council voted unanimously to transfer interest to Breese Company who will develop the parcel as outlined in its original offer to the City, as parking initially and for building expansion at a later date if needed. Ground Breaking. First Federal Savings and Loan Association broke ground this month on its new office building at the northwest corner of Court and Dubuque Streets. The $1.3 million project will provide 16,500 square feet of space on two floors. First Federal plans to occupy the basement and street level floors. Plans are to lease the second floor. Building committee chairperson Noel Willis expects a September 1980 occupancy. Paul Glaves. Former Redevelopment Coordinator Paul Glaves began his employment with Rieke, Carol, Muller Associates, Inc. (RMC) as Director of Planning and Development Services last month. RMC is the parent corporation which owns Ames Engineering and Testing. The firm operates planning offices in Mankato, architectural offices in Hopkins and landscape architectural offices in Ames along with engineering services at all of the offices. In his new job Glaves will be working out of Ames, managing planning and development services to public and private sector clients in Iowa and Minnesota. Glaves' employment with the City began August, 1976. The Iowa City staff will miss Paul Glaves. We wish him well. The Latest Word (at Present) on Mini -park The Council voted 4 to 3 August 28 to remove the Blackhawk Mini -park from the list of urban renewal parcels to be sold and developed. The divided Council vote is over the question of whether to keep the mini -park or sell it for development sometime in the future. A majority of the Council feel that the plan document should accurately reflect the current use and that the plan could be amended at any time to allow the sale. Anyway, that's where it stands now. Dedication Week The City Plaza dedication week promises a lot of activity. "Art Surrounds the Plaza," September 22-29, begins at 10:00 AM on Saturday with a ribbon cutting ceremony and guest speaker Donald Kaul. At 7:00 PM that evening Dave Olive will provide an electronic music, video and film production. Sunday's activities are definitely for the kids. Hands on Art (kirk arhailly participate In activities) Is scheduled from 1-4 PM. Face painting, clay aculplure, rlr•nma and dance are planned. The Eulensplegel Puppet Theatre, Dr. Alphabet, and the Troup will also perform. Live performances are scheduled over the noon hours from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM every day of the week. Free evening activities include country rock performance by Salt Creek, Spokane, Washington, on Monday at 7:00 PM. The Commedia Theatre Company, Minneapolis� Minnesota, will present "The Physician in Spite of Himself" on Wednesday, at 6:30 PM. loQO MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB !0Ar 111:1f, On "Tuesday, Wednesday . .J Thursday the Iowa City Jo. son County Arts Council is sponsoring a cooking school by noted New York Chef Ann Marie Hoosl as a fund raising project for the Art Center. The Library is setting up a floor plan on its new site on City Plaza and will conduct tours all week long to familiarize you with the new building plans and answer your questions. Stop by to register for your new library card and a lour. On the last day of activities from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM a juried art fair and sale as well as performances are scheduled. To top the week off that evening, come to the Masquerade Ball at 7:00 PM. City Plaza dedication is more than a ceremony honoring the completion of a Pedestrian Mall in Iowa City. It recognizes not only the physical change that our City has undergone during urban renewal in the last 20 years but the Plaza dedication also signifies the unity that is forming and bringing our community together. The dedication is being planned by the Community. The Iowa City Johnson County Arts Council along with the Downtown Association, Chamber of Commerce, Iowa Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts and City of Iowa City are co -sponsoring this event. Plan to participate, you will enjoy yourself. Regulations While signs haven't been installed yet the rules still exist. No pets, no bikes, no cars on City Plaza. Signs will be placed on,the sides of the kiosks as a reminder to the public. Bikes may be placed only in the racks, not chained to the trees. More bike racks have been ordered for Clinton and Linn Street to accommodate the bicyclists visiting the pedestrian mall. Public Improvements Only the details remain to be completed or corrected on City Plaza to gain contract compliance on the projects, Gene Dietz, City Engineer, notes. Some of the items remaining are replacing storefront tiles, installing safety features for the playground equipment, replacing the bollards, and repairing the trash receptacles. Streetscape II Good weather is needed this week, City Engineer Gene Dietz said, in order to pour concrete on Washington Street from Clinton to Capitol Streets. Plans provide bus staging area along the north and south sides of Washington Street and an island located in the middle of the street. Dietz is optimistic that the section of Washington Street will be open by the October 15 completion date. Capitol Street, however, will remain closed until the mall and the ramp construction are complete. The amenities for Washington and Capitol Streets are in the design stage at this time. Library Bid Opening Bids for the new library will be opened on September 11. Library Director Lolly Eggers expects construction on the two story building to begin later this fall. Ca nwily Redevebpmml CJvie Center 410 E Washington Iowa City, Iowa 522AO JORM MICROLAB [()Ar anri;,s.af •iuuis ,IEWSLETTER for Lower Ralston Creek Neighborhood September 1979 STATUS OF SMALL CITIES PROJECT Application Approval Iowa City has received formal approval from the Department of Housing and Urban Development for its Small Cities Grant application. This approval covers first year activities totalling $530,000 of a three year, two million dollar improvement project. First year activities, which include property acquisition and relocation of persons and businesses displaced by the project, are scheduled to begin in December 1979. Funds for first year activities will be available to the City upon completion of the Environmental Review process. Environmental Review The Environmental Review of the Small Cities project is part of HUD's application requirements. Before HUD will release funds to Iowa City for the project, the City must prepare an Environmental Review, identifying any impacts which the project might have on the physical and social environment, possible alternatives to the proposed project, and a finding as to whether or not the project will have a significant effect on the environment. A draft Environmental Review document has been prepared by the Department of Planning and Program Development and has been reviewed by the Committee on Community Needs. A public meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 12, 1979 at 7:30 p.m. in the National Guard Armory to present and discuss the Environmental Review with interested residents and property owners. City Council will also review the ERR before the City requests HUD to release funds. Iowa Chapter 403 In the August newsletter, the requirements of Chapter 403 of the Iowa Code were discussed. Briefly, this law requires that cities must follow certain procedures before being authorized to carry out projects such as Iowa City's Small Cities project. In compliance with Chapter 403, the Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission has reviewed the Small Cities/Lower Ralston Creek Neighborhood Redevelopment Plan and found it to be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan of Iowa City. As a further requirement of Chapter 403, a public hearing will be held during the September 11 City Council meeting. Council will take final action on the project during the September 18 meeting. Approval of the redevelopment plan will provide State authorization. SMALL CITIES SURVEYS Surveys of property owners, residents and business operators in the Lower Ralston Creek neighborhood have been carried out to obtain information and citizen input for planning and implementing the Small Cities project. The first survey, conducted last December, included the area south of the Rock Island Railroad tracks. A more recent survey, completed last month, covered the area north of the tracks. City of Iowa City, 410 East Washington 354-1800 Mike Flaherty, Small Cities Project Coordinator,ext.324 Bruce Knight, Small Cities Citizen Participation Coordinator, ext. 317 l86 � MI LNM ILME 0 8v JORM MICROLAB Persons surveyed were asked to provide general informat „n which will be used by the Department of Planning and Program Development in carrying out various aspects of the project. In addition, those surveyed were given an opportunity to express their opinions regarding their likes and dislikes about their neighborhood and improvements which they would like in their neighborhood. Including both surveys, a total of 207 surveys were distributed to 62 property owners (both residents and investors) and 145 renters. Of this total, 52 operating businesses and 118 occupied residenc4sreceived surveys. Overall, 86 surveys, or 42%, were returned. In general, the responses received expressed similar opinions. There were, however, some significantly different opinions expressed by those surveyed in the area north of the railroad tracks as compared to those surveyed in the area south of the tracks. Summary To the question "What do you like best about your neighborhood?" 80% answered that the location, especially the proximity to downtown, campus and neighborhood businesses was convenient. Other responses included low rent, relative quiet and good neighbors. The question "What do you like least about your neighborhood?" brought differing responses. In the area south of the tracks, most of which is near Ralston Creek, 59% of those surveyed mentioned flooding and storm sewer backup as serious problems. Only 4 persons in the area north of the tracks complained of Ralston Creek flooding. The most frequent response received from residents and businesses north of the tracks (20%) concerned the general condition and appearance of the neighborhood. Residents of both areas complained of the frequent blocking of South Dubuque Street by trains and of noise from trains. Other negative responses included the lack of adequate street lighting, traffic and parking problems, and dislike of surrounding uses. The question "What improvements would you like to see in your neighborhood?" also brought differing responses. Improvements to Ralston Creek were mentioned by 75% of those surveyed from the area south of the railroad tracks. The most frequent response from those surveyed in the area north of the tracks was the need for more off-street parking, particularly for commercial establishments. Respondents from both areas would like to see more housi,,j rehabilitation and commercial building maintenance. Other responses included street and alley improvements, improved rail crossings, and increased street lighting. CITIZEN INFO AND INPUT Meetings Schedule Public Hearing - Lower Ralston Creek Neighborhood Redevelopment Plan (Required by Chapter 403 of the Iowa Code) Tuesday, September 11, 1979, 7:30 P.M. Civic Center, 410 E. Washington Street Public Meeting - Discussion of the Environmental Review Record for the Lower Ralston Creek Project Wednesday, September 12, 1979, 7:30 P.M. National Guard Armory, 925 S. Dubuque Street Plans for the Future Since you, the residents of best, we would like to form basis while the Small Cities input and suggestions on the of the neighborhood. If you contact Bruce Knight or Mike Program Development. CITY OF IOWA CITY DEPT, OF PLANNING & PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT CIVIC CENTER IOWA CITY, IA 52240 the Lower Ralston Creek Neighborhood, know that area a neighborhood group. This group will meet on a regular project is being carried out in order to provide program, and to keep the City in touch with the feelings are interested in participating in such a group, Flaherty of the Iowa City Department of Planning and MICROFILMED By JORM MICROLAB CITY OF CIVIC CENTER 410 E. WASHINGTON ST. September 16, 1979 OWA CITY IOWA CITY IOWA 52240 (319) 354.18030 0 Subject: Proposed Utilization/Disposition of Certain Parcels of City Owned Property Dear Resident: The Iowa City City Council at the informal meeting scheduled for Monday, September 24 at 1:30 p.m. will discuss the proposed utilization of the city owned property listed below. A formal public hearing will be scheduled for October 16 to receive public input. State law requires a public hearing prior to the disposition of city owned property. These specific parcels will either be sold to a develop- er, to be selected later, for the construction of dwelling units to be utilized in the City's Public Housing Program or will be offered for sale to adjoining property owners or the general public. Specific parcels are: a. Lot located at 333 South Lucas Street. b. Old Water Tower Site, 900 block; North Dodge Street C. R.O.W., Virginia Street, West side of Prairie du Chien Road. d. R.O.W., F Street between.Muscatine and 3rd Avenue. e. R.O.W. Grant Court between Grant Street and Rundell. f. R.O.W. Fifth Avenue, North of F Street and South of Creekside Park. g. R.O.W: William White Blvd. between an extension of Parsons and College Street. Interested persons may attend the informal meeting to obtain information about the planned use and may present comments at the scheduled Public Hearing. Questions concerning the above should be directed to the under- signed at 354-1800, Extension #304. Lyle G. Seydel Housing Coordinator MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MINES / 9 � _?. 1 i ! I r CITY OF CIVIC CENTER 410 E. WASHINGTON ST. September 16, 1979 OWA CITY IOWA CITY IOWA 52240 (319) 354.18030 0 Subject: Proposed Utilization/Disposition of Certain Parcels of City Owned Property Dear Resident: The Iowa City City Council at the informal meeting scheduled for Monday, September 24 at 1:30 p.m. will discuss the proposed utilization of the city owned property listed below. A formal public hearing will be scheduled for October 16 to receive public input. State law requires a public hearing prior to the disposition of city owned property. These specific parcels will either be sold to a develop- er, to be selected later, for the construction of dwelling units to be utilized in the City's Public Housing Program or will be offered for sale to adjoining property owners or the general public. Specific parcels are: a. Lot located at 333 South Lucas Street. b. Old Water Tower Site, 900 block; North Dodge Street C. R.O.W., Virginia Street, West side of Prairie du Chien Road. d. R.O.W., F Street between.Muscatine and 3rd Avenue. e. R.O.W. Grant Court between Grant Street and Rundell. f. R.O.W. Fifth Avenue, North of F Street and South of Creekside Park. g. R.O.W: William White Blvd. between an extension of Parsons and College Street. Interested persons may attend the informal meeting to obtain information about the planned use and may present comments at the scheduled Public Hearing. Questions concerning the above should be directed to the under- signed at 354-1800, Extension #304. Lyle G. Seydel Housing Coordinator MICROFILMED BY JORM MICROLAB CEDAR RAPIDS -DES MINES / 9 � _?.