Title
Depot Avenue Rail Trail Improvements (B)
Explanation
Construction plans are progressing for improvements proposed for the Depot Avenue Rail Trail. This project consists of trail improvements for a ΒΌ mile segment of existing trail beginning west of the SW 13th Street overpass and continuing east to the western pavement edge of SW 11th Street. The improvements consist of resurfacing the trail at its current width, installing benches, trash receptacles, landscaping, and lighting. Shands Hospital is planning to adopt the CRA design for its portion of the trail west of the 13th Street overpass. This project also includes a trail-user guide sign system for the entire existing 3 mile Depot Avenue rail trail. The guide signs are intended for use by various trail users such as pedestrians and cyclists and consist of gateway, warning, interpretive and directional signs.
The landscape architecture firm of Glatting Jackson Kercher Anglin, Inc. is preparing the construction plans for this project. Staff received construction plans at 60% completion on October 29th in accordance with the project schedule. The construction plans specify the locations of the streetscape equipment, signage and landscaping as well as specifications and construction details. CRA staff is researching lighting options with the assistance GRU. Glatting Jackson submitted plans and specifications for the guide sign system along the rail trail. The firm provided examples of messages typically used to inform trail users regarding traffic safety and destinations. Proposed sign locations and conceptual designs were prepared for consideration.
Staff reviewed these plans with the College Park University Heights advisory board on November 7th. The comments were supportive of the improvements layout, material selections and guide sign design. The plans were also reviewed by the City Arborist, who recommended changes to plant materials and planting locations. GRU has also provided extensive input on the plans regarding the coordination of improvements and utilities.
All technical specifications will be provided by 90% completion and final decisions will be made at 100% plan submittal. Glatting Jackson will prepare a statement of probable cost based on the 60% plans and a final statement of probable cost at 100% completion.
CRA, Public Works, and GRU staff held an onsite coordination meeting on October 30th to discuss the utility installation work along the trail corridor. This work consists of electrical duct work, water, fiber optic, and reuse water. This work is needed to supply the new Shands hospital currently under construction. In addition to GRU's work, Florida Gas Transmission is currently installing a gas distribution system beneath the rail trail. After the utility work is completed, it will be necessary to restore the trail pavement, resolve grading issues, screen the utility fixtures, and stabilize disturbed vegetation. GRU and the CRA are partnering in the restoration effort to coordinate with the CRA trail improvements.
The schedule for the remainder of the project is as follows: 1) complete 90% plans by December 10th 2) complete CRA review and comment of construction plans and guide signs by December 21st, 3) complete 100% plans and specifications by January 14, 2008, 4) prepare bid package , 5) GRU completes utility work and site restoration by June, complete contracting and begin construction by early to mid-July.
Glatting Jackson has prepared an opinion of probable cost for the improvements, with the exception of asphalt resurfacing, totaling $61,908.90. The cost estimate will be refined after the plans reach 90% completion.
Fiscal Note
$959,651.74 currently has been budgeted for the Depot Avenue Rail Trail project in account #618-790-W735-5520.
Recommendation
Executive Director to the CRA: 1) Hear a brief presentation concerning the 60% construction plans for the Depot Avenue rail trail improvements; and 2) approve the 60% construction plans in accordance with the project schedule.