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BPG Plan Implementation
Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan Implementation 61.~ ~i· • Projects ~- o Multi-use Path along 2818 • Description -10 foot multi-use path that will const cted along FM 2818 from Welsh to Longmire and a 8 foot sidewalk from Longmire Texas • Design Completion -May 2010 • Construction Completion: Fall 2010 o Multi-use Path within Bee Creek Park (Bike Loop • Description -l O foot multi-use path th will connect the existing path that terminates in Bee Creek Park to the Bee Creek Bri e crossing near Longmire Court and will provide a connection from the bridge to An erson Street • Design Completion: Fall 2010 • Environmental clearance revi and technical review by TXDOT • Construction Completion: Su mer 201 1 o Sidewalks and Bike Lanes 0 • • I Victoria A venue Extensio • Description -Fr Southern Plantation to SH 40 and aligning with the existing Victoria Aven on the south side of SH 40. The roadway will be a major collector consisting o wo travel lanes and center turn lane, bike lanes, sidewalks, etc. • Design Co pletion -Fa ll 2010 • Constru ion Completion - Barron Road 1dening Phase 2 I • Des 1ption -Four lane road with raised median, curb and gutter, bike lanes and sid alks from Decatu to SH 40. • D sign Completion -February 2010 onstruction Completion -August 2012 oad Interchange Construction Completion -September 20 l 0 s Butler Road Extension Description -Extension from Luther Street to the George Bush/Penberthy intersection. • Design Completion - • Construction Completion -Jeff Haeber er and Stasney Street Rehabilitation and Northgate Sidewalks Description -Eight foot sidewalks to be placed on the east side and west sides of Stasney between University Drive and Church Avenue. Sidewalks on College Main between Louise and Cherry St. Sidewalk along Dexter University Drive Pedestrian Improvements Creation of Advisory Board o P&Z -August 5th o City Council -August 12th o Roles and Responsibilities: 0 • Support the implementation of the Transportation element of the Comprehensive Plan and the Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan; • Promote and encourage bicycling and walking as an accepted (alternate) form of transportation; • Review project designs related to bicycle, pedestrian, and greenway improvements, including review of plats, site plans, and capital improvement projects; • Assist in identifying and applying for alternative funding sources for bicycle, pedestrian, and greenway facilities, programs, services and projects; • Educate and inform the public and local officials on bicycle, and pedestrian issues OR promote education and safety programs for bicyclists, pedestrians, and motorists; • Facilitate citizen participation in local governments' consideration of matters involving bicycle, pedestrian and greenway issues OR Provide a forum for citizen concerns as they relate to bicycle, pedestrian, and greenway matters; Promote intergovernmental and public/private coordination on bicycle, pedestrian, and greenway matters includin g working with local businesses and other organizations; and • Perform other duties as may be assigned it by the City; • Provide recommendations and Engineering Components of Bicycling and Walking • Bicycle Facilities o Sharrows . o Bike Boxes o Colored Bike Lanes f>1~ctuV~ o Bicycle Boulevards -.:;-......o Intersections • t<,CCP.-• • Grade Separated Crossings • ~:t- Background Info ~~~ (...... ~.,w Process and Procedures ~ • Do we have the authority? o Code of Ordinances Chapter 10: Traffic Control Devices 0 SECTION 2: TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES o~\la~ ... (11/\Jh A. TEXAS MANUAL ON UNIFORM TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES ADOPTED Y"" rJr·_, All traffic control devices including signs, signals, and markings on pavement and curbs used .~&? for the purpose of directing and controlling traffic within the city, shall conform with the Texas f .. Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways, which is published by ,,R. the State Department of Highways and Public Transportation. All traffic control devices so f~ erected shall be official traffic control devices of the City of College Station, Texas. Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) • Newest version adopted at the Federal Level in December of 2009 • TXMUTCD -States have two years to adopt the newest version. • Other options - • Conducting an Experiment All requests for experim entation should originate with the State/local highway agency or toll operator responsible for managing the roadway or controlled setting where experiment will take place. That organization forwards the request to the FHWA -with a courtesy copy to the FHWA Division Office. The FHWA must approve the experiment before it begins. Requests may also be forwarded directly to the FHWA Division Office, and the Division Office can submit the request to the FHW A Headquarters Office. All requests must include: 1. A statement of the nature of the problem, including data that justifies the need for a new device or application. 2. Describe the proposed change, how it was developed, how it deviates from the current MUTCD. 3. Any illustration(s) that enhance understanding of the device or its use. 4. Supporting data that explains how the experimental device was developed, if it has been tried, the adequacy of its performance, and the process by which the device was c hosen or applied. 5. A legally binding statement certifying that the concept of the traffic control device is not protected by a patent or copyright (see MUTCD Section IA.10 for - additional details.) 6. Th e proposed time period and location(s) of the experiment. 7. A detailed research or evaluation plan providing for close monitoring of the experimentation, especially in the early stages of field implementation. The evaluation plan should include before and after studies as well as quantitative date enabling a scientifically-sound evaluation of the performance of the device. 8. An agreement to restore the experimental site to a condition that complies with the provisions of the MUTCD within 3 months following completion of the experiment. Th e agreement must also provide that the sponsoring agency will terminate the experi ment at any time if it determin es that the experiment directly or indirectly causes significant safety hazards. If the experiment demonstrates an improvement, the device or application may remain in place as a request is made to update the MUTCD and an official rulemaking action occurs. 9. An agreement t o provide semiannual progress reports for the duration of the experimentation and to provide a copy of the final results to the Offic e of Transportation Operations (HOTO) within three months of the conclusion of the experiment. HOTO may terminate approval of the experimentation if these reports are not provided on schedule. 0 • Pilot Projects • Do we have the budget? o No funding. o Proposed shifting funds to pay for • ev1ew pr designs re ated to City proposed bicycle, pe,destrian, and greenway improvements and provide comments to City staff related to qualitative improvements; o Review resurfacing projects to assess the feasibility of incorporating improvements for bicycle safety and access (;ncludjog~riog eat hales contrnlnng vegetaHon to ;nccease sight distance, etc.~~~f _______:~ J 0 • EXISTING CONDITIONS: --@ Rey iew a11d COi, iii 1e11t e .. tRe f!IRCtiooal cla55jfjcatjoo god condition of exis+iRg fccjlitjfti_ (r;;11rreRt rogd l;ig;i;gras1 ebstr~etieRs, site restrietieRs eRe impedi111e11ts}, o Inventory bicycle parking facilities within the City and recommend appropriate bicycle parking technology and location which would increase use of bicycles for commute and other utilitarian trips o Assist city staff in an inventory of existing bicycle and pedestrian facilities; (maybe during neighborhood plans?) o Develop methodologies for measuring bicycle and pedestrian activity and demand; • IMPLEMENTATION: o Assist in identifying and applying for alternative funding sources for bicycle, pedestrian, and greenway projects, facilities, and services; o Facilitate cooperation between the City of College Station and local and regional citizens and advocacy groups; o Promote the importance of bicycling and walking within the transportation network; o Promote and pr~vide (or Develop and support/foster) education and safety programs for cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists as well as support the efforts of other groups who do the same; o Provide a forum for citizen bicycle, pedestrian, and greenway concerns. o Advocate the use of bicycling and walking for transportation, healthy living, and recreation; .. \ Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Advisory Board CITY OF COLLEGE STATION The Advisory Board will consist of 8-10 members appointed by the City Council who possess specific technical expertise as is referenced below. Each member shall be a resident and qualified voter of the City of College Station. Areas of Technical Expertise Ci)• Transportation Planning/Engineering @ • Recreation • Environmental/Ecological Sciences Q) •. Storm water & Floodplain Management Landscape Architecture c=!) • Real Estate @ • Special Interest: Commuting or Utilitarian Bicyclist • Special Interest: Recreation Bicyclist G> • Special Interest: Recreation Walker/Runner Membership (jj-- ©-- Members shall be qualified residents of the City of College Station. Members serve two or three year terms. Alternates?? Meetings: Authority: City Ordinance.Q_ ~ Education Advocacy Promote Benefits Roles and Responsibilities The Advisory Board's duties shall inclunt..f¥:!~-e~b o ~!l ~~ • OVERALL: Advise City Council (gr tAe~ ~ sRd tbe Pl~11:11:iii:::i9 gi:::id De¥elgpi:::i:ieQt .Ser vices Oept:-) on issues related to the bicycle, pedestrian, and greenwc;iys programs, projects, policies and safety. n1 f le I )jlsL ( ~ ~ sj . • PLANNING & DESIGN: 10 ~Sl.~l:S\o'\S oT r-c.~ o Advise City Council and staff regarding the developmen}ryreview, and recommended ~~ changes of mobility or transportation sections of the city r omprehensive plan; bicycle, pedestrian, and greenways master plan; or any bicycle, pedestrian, and greenway related items to goals, strategies, policies and other planning efforts; (very open ended -do we want this?) o ·Will the I hel13 \dtlil setting priorities? (should priorities be included in the Ian uage above?) 0 Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Advisory Board September - • Notify appointments • Create letter to send out • Proposed By-laws • Proposed Plan of Work o Base of Goals • • • • Connectivity and Accessibility Safety Increase Bicycling and Walking Outdoors Encourage Envtronmental Stewardship • Training?-Webinars • Riparian Buffer -new zoning category • Role in TMDL/1-Plan for Carter's and Burton Creeks • Annual Retreat? October (First Meeting) -Orientation • Prepare documents to handout • o Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan o Unified Development Ordinance -? o BCS Design Guidelines -? o Comprehensive Plan -? o List of Committee Members o List of Staff o Org. Chart o Ordinance # 2406 -Attendance o Absence Request Form o Public Access Optio'n Form o Article 2.6 -2.1 0 o Conflict of Interest Provisions for Mayor, Council Members and Board Members o Open Meetings for Mayor, Council Members and Board Members AGENDA S • --eam--oromce \ • • • • • • Call meeting to order Hear visitors. Additional blurb • Pr~sentation and discussion regardiny he general responsibilities of the Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Advisory Board. \ C) ftresentation and discussion regarding the general responsibilities of appointees to a City of College Stcition citizen committee, including items such as absence requests, conflicts of interest, and open meetin raining. l~ Presentation, discussion, and possible action on a regular meetjng date and time. '},.O • Presentation and discussion regarding proposed rules and procedures for the Landmark Commission . Presentation and discussion regarding the Landmark Commission Calendar of Upcoming Meetings . ./ Nov. 201 0 -Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Advisory Board meeting -date, time and location to be determined Discussion and possible action on future agenda items - A Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Advisory Board member may inquire about a subject for which notice has not been given. A statement of specific _factual information or the recitation of existing policy may be given. Any deliberation shall be limited to a proposal to place the subject on an agenda for a subsequent meeting. Adjourn . November -Orientation continued • • Presentation and discussion regarding the Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan . Proposed Work Program -to be reviewed every six months c \P.... . . s,&...e.wcJJ:s I ~o~ -hes Plan of Work 1. Comp. Plan Amendments a. Eastgate Neighborhood Plan i. Bikeability and Walkability Audits ii. Review of bike, ped., greenway components 2. Text Amendments a. How will they participate? 3. Impact Fee/CIP Priorities a. Presentation from CIP on projects b. Review of Priorities 4. Education i. Bike Lanes (January) ii. Bike Routes (Feb.) iii. Multi-use Paths (March) iy. Sidewalks (April) a. Events - i. Bike to Work/School Day b. MAP -sponsorship • Venessa Garza -BPG Plan implementation From: To: Date: Subject: Attachments: Venessa, Bob Cowell Venessa Garza 8/12/2010 1:54 PM BPG Plan implementation BPG Plan Implementation 2010.docx Page 1 of 1 I want to start formalizing our approach to implementing the BPG plan a bit more as we move toward the establishment of the BPG Advisory Board. I have taken the items identify in the implementation table in the plan and assigned some type of priority for 2010-11, 2011-13, and 2013-2015. I have also started identifying the maps and plans that we would use to help prioritize striping, signage, and construction of various facilities as money becomes available (annual budget, bond funds, new bond proposals, private projects, etc). Please take a look at the list and note any places that you would like to see prioritized differently. Obviously 1 some of the items are on-going through the life of the plan and still others will only get started in the first five years and completed in the second five years and beyond. Ultimately what I want to accomplish is: • a two-year plan of work with detailed steps that will be taken to accomplish the projects/initiatives identified in that plan of work · • a two-year plan of work for the Board • protocol on how we will prioritize funding for striping, signage, and construction and how we will deal with privately built projects After you have had a chance to look the information over and formulated your initial thoughts let's schedule some time to talk through my objectives and see how we move forward from here. Thanks, Bob file://C:\Documents and Settings\vgarza\Local Settings\Temp\XPgrpwise\4C63 FDOECity ... 8/12/2010 t L BPG Plan Implementation 2010-2015 2010-2011 oJ;. \ ~ • Eva luation of existing facilities th~l-> t>lt~hborz.Y-1>ocl plitWi ~ • Secure additional staff resources -{inA. p~f\~ s~ff • Establish RPG Ad"iS l • Mana ement Plan for Greenway Property (PW/ ~s ~ £ec.-) dl'l-t'\H •n ::r""'? '3~ l!l-• Create and distribute BPG maps (I~~) -"""'~ ~n..(..,~"""'--IW'~ ~~ _1 • l .q' . .) c 0-4 I ""'1 """" • 1-\f Establish performance measures with target goals~ ~ Develop procedures for collectin baseline data and performance measures • Continue land acquisition ../ Ln ~ ~ • Encourage and participate in bpg~ve ; f °Bof<l'ZA. • _.p Conduct walkability/bikability audits ymc.-'f" .,f r-Ll~hl>o~ ~ • Establish and maintain internal training on laws and ordinances rD, PW 1 Pt t2- • Analyze bicycle and pedestrian crash stats Ch.~~~. ( GIS) ) '\~·\J 4--• Develop short-term priority facilities • Update er r~vise 'ordinances, standards, and guidelines -e:>-t"'-rt ~h :ftr~l7h ~c:J.-AI,....... • • oO • 0 []. • Coordinate and utilize other plans and studies ~ 'j~~ tu. n.t~cl ""'ci- Develop partnerships to facilitate system development and management 1'h. ~~2.,,. 1A..U. cLoR._ -1:::1 {lt-W--\ Establish and secure annual capital and operating fu nding sources i:-1 ""-... ~ Seek alternative funding sources through grants and partnerships L.j Jy7 Provide progress reports on an annual basis ~ f<-le. 2011-2013 • L : • • • • 0 o . • • • oO • • • '~~CJ · Planning efforts on intersections Planning efforts on signage Additional planning efforts for greenways Curriculum and education materials on bicycling, walking, and greenways Reapply for bicycle friendly status Develop/implement emergency response plan Develop/implement risk management plan Continue land acquisition Encourage and participate in bpg events Conduct walkability/bikability audits HL~hi.oll.ho.J. pl,,.,., . fstaelis-n BrH:i maintain internal training on laws and ordinances Analyze bicycle and pedestrian crash stats Esta blish groups of volunteers to patrol multi-use paths ~ hl"rU"-. Evaluate strategies to increase safety and security Develop short-term priority facilities J • Deve lop sno rt-term pr iority fa cilities • Update or revise ordinances, standards, and guidelines O Q • Coordinate and utilize other plans and studies A.S ~ • Develop partnerships to facilitate system development and management • Establish and secure annual capital and operating funding sources • Seek alternative funding sources through grants and pprtnerships • Provide progress reports on an annual basis 2013-2015 • Planning efforts on bicycle parking • Establish education classe s • Establish a share the road campaign 1 ' • Develop a maintenance plan for system • Initiate additional evaluation and analysis • Develop and expand oper.ating procedures for the greenw_ays program • Continue land acquisition • • Create "adopt a greenway program" • Encourage and participate in bpg events • Conduct walkability/bikability audits • Establish and maintain internal training on laws and ordinances • Analyze bicycle and pedestrian crash stats • Establish groups of volunteers to patrol multi-use paths • Evaluate strategies to increase safety and security • Develop short-term priority facilities • Develop short-term priority facilities • Update or revise ordinances, standards, and guidelines • Coordinate and utilize other plans and studies • Develop partnerships to facilitate system development and management • Establish and secure annual capital and operating funding sources • Seek alternative funding sources through grants and partnerships • Provide progress reports on an annual basis Other notes • Use Map 7.1 and adopted district/neighborhood plans to identify priorities for bike lane striping and signage • Use Map 7.2 to identify priorities for sharrows and signage of bike routes • Use Map 7.3 and adopted district/neighborhood plans to identifypriorities for sidewalks • Use Map 7.4 to identify priorities for multi-use paths • How do we deal with streets being built by developers regarding striping and signage? Nanette Manhart -Fwd: Re: PSAs From: To: Date: Subject: fyi. .. Ken Fogle Manhart, Nanette 6/8/2004 2:45:12 PM Fwd:Re:PSAs >>>Jennifer Nations 6n/2004 5:21 :37 PM>>> I had another idea, this weekend, for PSAs. While at the Lick Creek Park trails dedication Saturday, I heard Nanette Manhart mention that the next phase of the Bikeway Master Plan is to do some education about where to ride bikes in College Station. Robert Rose of Cycles Etc. and Mike Record of Brazos Valley Mountain Bike Assn. (BVMBA) were there, and they were enthusiastic about working w/ the City on doing some bike safety spots. The bike groups provide "actors" demonstrating safe biking while promoting CS bike areas, and CS provides the technical expertise. -Jennifer >>> Charlie Haldeman 6/3/2004 9:24:05 AM >>> Hey Jennifer: Good to talk to you yesterday. Sorry about the Aggieland DVD thing. It looks like it's not going to happen this year. BUT ... we're updating our content on channel 19 that's running right now, so if you have any PSA info, feel free to send it on. Also, once we get the council chambers wired for video, I hope to get with you on shooting video for PSAs in video form to run on channel 19. Anything you can send now will be in a text/slide show format on channel 19, and it can start running in the next week. Thanks! -ch Charlie Haldeman Broadcast Media Specialist City of College Station, Texas (979) 764-5005 www.cstx.gov Page 1 Welcome, intro uctions and visioning exercise Setting the context: Safety, health and transportation Break Engineering strategies (Note: Time slots for engineering strategies and education and encouragement techniques are interchangeable) Break Pick up and drop off strategies Enforcement strategies Lunch and local issues Education and encouragement techniques How communities are making it happen Field exercise at school: Observation of school environment Identifying problems and solutions Making it happen here Adjourn Module Length 30min 45min 30min 15min 60min 15min 15min 30min 45min 60min 15min 30min 45min 30min 3:45 Sample Agenda 8:00-8:30 8:30 -9:15 9:15-9:45 9:45-10:00 10:00 -11 :00 11:00 -11:15 11 :15 -11:30 11 :30 -Noon Noon -12:45 12:45 -1:45 1:45-2:00 2:00-2:30 2:30 -3:15 3:15 -3:45 1. Alex Constancio -Bryan 2. Ann Ganter, CSISD 3. Barbara Bayer -Bryan 4. Bill Conaway, Director of Transportation, CS I SD 5. Bob Appleton, T xDOT 6. Chad Bohne, T xDOT 7. Choya Walling, Bryan-PD 8. Chris Scott, Principal, A & M Consolidated Middle School, CSISD 9. Debbie Hudson, Principal, College Hills Elementary, CSISD 10 . Grady Slaydon, Director of Maintenance and Operations, BISD 11. Jane Rankin, Principal, Oakwood Intermediate School, CSISD 12. Jennifer Bearden, BCSMPO 13. John Dean -Bryan 14. Ken Fogle, College Station 15. Ken Newbold, Principal, Bonham Elementary, BISD 16. Kristan Weaver, Greenways Program Manager, College Station 17. Linda Huff -Engineering, Bryan 18 . Linda LaSut, BCSMPO 19. Mark Smith, Director of Public Works, College Station 20. Mike Ball, CSISD 21. Mike Kristynik, Assistant Superintendent for Support Services, BISD 22. Mike Parish, Driver Safety Coordinator, BISD 23. Rachel Henderson, Director of Construction, BISD 24. Robin Oberg, Director of Special Programs, CSISD 25. Sharon Gideon, Bryan-PD 26. Shawn Turner, TTI 27. Sid Neff, Director ofTransportation, BISD 28. Starlet Bell, Principal, Southwood Valley Elementary, CSISD 29 . Tami Laza, Principal, South Knoll Elementary, CSISD 30. Troy Rother, Traffic Engineer, College Station 31. Gary Bishop, CSPD 32. Gary Vick, CSPD 33. John Campbell, CSPD CSISD Intermediate Attendance Zone d Middle School -Starting 2005-06 t! • -, POTENTIAL CITY SPONSORED ADOPT-A-STREAM PROGRAM GOALS AND BENEFITS Awareness of the environment around us is a vital step in furthering the Green College Station initiative. With an eye toward long-term environmental impact as well as the beautification of College Station, a city sponsored Adopt-a-Stream program would encourage volunteer organizations and individuals to make a commitment to our environment and community by assisting the City in keeping our waterways healthy. An Adopt-a-Stream program is an excellent public outreach tool for a municipality to utilize. It encourages citizens of all ages and abilities, through direct hands-on involvement, to develop a sense of community ownership of the waterways and streams around us. SCOPE OF PROGRAMS Stream adoptions can be as flexible and unique as the streams themselves, with activities that range from litter cleanup and trash collection to more in-depth sampling and monitoring of water quality data which can then be forwarded to various protection agencies. At the most basic level, volunteers walk or paddle stream channels, collecting trash and debris, as well as potentially removing noxious weeds and/or planting trees and shrubs in a focused effort to monitor, protect and restore the waterway. Information can also be recorded for future use, including debris too large to move, problems encountered, such as clogged channels, signs of illegal dumping and erosion. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Practically anyone can get involved in community clean-up activities: Youth groups, neighborhood associations, local businesses and environmental groups, civic organizations, academic institutions and scout groups are just a few. Activities and tasks have varying levels of difficulty, so there is something for people of all ages and skills. Recognition for participants also fosters a sense of community outreach, and can include "Adopt A Stream" signs which display the name of the organization or community group volunteering in the area. Promotional items such as certificates, t-shirts, cups, etc., may also be provided. Groups may also be recognized at city government functions. MARKETING & THE MEDIA Stream clean-up efforts educate the greater community through media coverage and publicity efforts. Advertising the program can be as simple as utility bill inserts and postings on the City's website. Ads can also be placed in newsletters, and public service announcements distributed to radio and television stations. Getting the word out to the community about city wide efforts to expand and · implement Green College Station initiatives can maximize participation, exposure, and effectiveness. IMPLEMENTATION The first step to implementing a successful Adopt-A-Stream program would be the designation of a program coordinator, responsible for the practicalities of the organization and application of the program goals. Such responsibilities would include, among other things, recruitment and the registration process for volunteer groups, safety guidelines and education for participants, advance preparation for events such as identification of clean-up sites, trash disposal coordination and the procurement of advance permission to conduct projects/events on or through private property. Pe TENTIAL c e STS When a municipality implements an Adopt-A-Stream program, its costs result primarily from the amount of time employees spend administering the program. Sponsors' costs depend on the level of assistance contributed to the participants in the program. Basic kits provided to participants which could include a variety of information and tools, such as topographic maps of the area, data sheets for recording observations, basic "do's and don'ts" lists for what to do if hazardous materials like syringes are encountered. First aid kits could also be made available, along with supplies such as bags and gloves. Supplies could potentially be donated by local businesses, though may also be an additional cost to the City. The cost of signage to designate groups responsible for adopting certain areas and any marketing costs are also possible. Additionally, the issue of liability to the City would need to be ~ddressed, particularly whether current coverage would expand to include volunteer safety and potential property damage or additional coverage would be necessary, with any additional costs assessed prior to the implementation of the program. date project page '---~---------------~---·······-------------------------------·-···---------- ~ f ncve ~eve.nl -~:-::·:·::: __ :· __ : __ :·::::::··-_:··_-··:·:::::···:~:::~~::.:.:.:.·:::.·:::·::·:::··::::~:::~:::~::::::::~:~:::·_: __ : __ : ___ :::::.:::::::::.:.:~:::~::::.·:::::::::::::_:·:··::::::.::: .. ::Ut1~~::~~- . '~s "s _____________________________________ -----------------····-------------------.. ---------·-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------__ l ______________________________ Q_ql_L__J _____ ~L ... .. 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[ : i . __J I I i I j ' 1' 1__J-+-· -l---L I I 1 I i . -, I l I _Ji I I I i ~-LI Li I I ~iii ,:1 I 1 1 I' I I u I -4-I i-! i .--1 I 1 Y=Hr: I LI I i ' I' 1 1 I I 11 -1Lr-1 I i 1-1~,L11' I 1 1-J P I I I ' I I ' I I ' I I '1 I 1 1 l 1 1 I ,1 Ji ii I ,l i I I i' i I I ! I I . i =Ott=tlt-H-++++'=~1· =t=t:J1d,-=l-r!-1~t'-+~'·-+1 -~-+-J'_L'J1• ' I I I l_j_J I -r-· I • I' ,·*Fl I " ~ I _J_J_ I !-t--1 ---r-~-LI _J,---f i ! ' I LJ~I i , _ _!_LI I I -r-i_J_Jll rl1 1ll-J'iliii-IL1I I Ill _ _ LI I i ! T I . I i I I I -r-+--t--l 1 1 • i , 1 , 1 1 , m' 1 1 ~ 1 1 1---'-1-' 1111,1~:1 iill1 1 n 11 ~:1 1 l_J t11:11· LJ 1·1·1 i jfl n·,l!~LI 11-,· !Tl I 1ii_J LJ,!1! 1111-H II !I_' I I I i I I r i I l I i i I I I !J1-i1 H-H1I· I 11i I. I i 1 I I i I Ii , I t--+-1 _I 1! i ,. i ~I I i i ll--i1' i I I~ ! I I I i I I '=Ti I I i ii I T I ! , _ _J l~i,1 I i 11 I I I I I 1 ,---, ' I : I I It t--+-__l_ ... 1 ! J _j'-1r-1· I I I I I 11-1 !_ I I 1, I I , I , , r .. i ,, . -l 1 I 1 i---r--1-_i_! _Ji i 1 I I I I M1-r1 +-1-+-W'l_L_I Brazos Greenways Council I Fact Sheet No. 1 I A Greenway is a corridor of open space in its largely natural state. Greenways can be less expensive to develop and maintain than parks, yet offer as much or more to the community. They can provide recreational opportunities because they are accessible to people of all ages. They can bring neighborhoods together by linking them with each other· and the city center. ~At Are the "'6enefits of QreenWA!JS? Greenways serve as the lungs and kidneys of our cities, cleansing the air and water that we drink and breathe. Greenways offer recreational opportunities, which because of their linear nature, are directly accessible to more people than traditional parks. Greenways also provide car-free transportation routes for cyclists and· walkers. Potential Benefits of Greenways: • Economy: Greenways and open space pay for themselves by inviting tourism, increasing property values, attracting new businesses and providing a mechanism for responsible floodplain management. • Recreation: Greenways provide recreational opportunities for all age groups, including walking, biking, skating, socializing and nature study. • Environment: Greenways and open space preserve disappearing habitat for our diverse native flora and fauna. • Flooding and Erosion: Greenways along waterways provide natural storage areas for flood water, minimizing the impacts to nearby neighborhoods from rising waters during flood events. • Transportation: Greenways provide safe and direct transportation alternatives, by allowing biking and walking between home, work, school, sports facilities and neighborhoods. • ·Culture: Open space preservation will conserve the agricultural heritage and rural beauty of our unique "Heart of Texas" landscape. \. ) . h17bAt is the J60C' s ~ision? The Brazos Greenways Council envisions Bryan and College Station as having a mosaic of open spaces of various types and sizes, some small and more developed, others more rural. For example, watershed areas .like Bee Creek and Wolf Pen Creek already link neighborhoods, and green ways along them would attract small businesses such as restaurants and specialty shops. The floodways of Carter Creek, Lick Creek, and White Creek would serve people on a more regional scale by remaining mostly undeveloped and by being used as walking and nature trails by families and schoolgroups. tJublieAtions to _took for: Greenwaysfor America, by Charles Little. (Johns Hopkins Press, 1990) Greenways: A Guide to Planning, Construction and Maintenance, by Charles Flink and Robert M. Seams. (Island Press, 1992) The Ecology of Greenways, by Daniel S. Smith and Paul A. Hellmund. (University of Minnesota Press, 1993) Trails for the Twenty-First Century, by Charles A. Flink, Peter Lagerwey, Diane Balmori, and Robert M. Seams. (Island Press, 1993) For more information: Brazos Greenways Council P.O. Box 10178 College Station, TX 77842 979-693-8495 City of College Station Greenways Program Manager 2613 Texas Ave. College Station, TX 77840 979-764-3844 e-mail: jdowns@ci.college-station. tx. us This information was prepared with the assistance of the National Park Service Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program Brazos Greenwa s Council Fact Sheet No . 2 7rnil nnd QreenWA!J ~nfet!I One of the most common concerns of landowners along a proposed trail route is the effect of the trail on the safety of the neighborhood. People fear that the trail will serve as a criminal access route to their homes. In fact, though this fear is understandable, it is unwarranted: crime rates on and adjacent to trails are lower than average crime rates across the country. Why? By prohibiting auto access on the trail, and encouraging neighborhood watch over the community from all sides, a carefully designed trail can increase safety. According to the Rails to Trails Conservancy, "Lawful trail users serve as the eyes and ears of the community"l . ~trikin9l!J ..[,ow Crime ~Ates on c2\ustio ~ike Ami ~ike 7rAils The Austin Police Department recently compiled data regarding the location of crimes since 19952 . Police officers use a premise code to describe locations of crimes. One code is for hike and bike trails and Town Lake. Similarly, there is also a code for parks and playgrounds. ln 1995, a total of 38 crimes occurred on hike and bike trails out of 42,586 reported within the city limits of Austin. For the first 6 months of 1996, a total of 7 crimes out of 20,564 crimes occurred on hike and bike trails. For this time period, the majority of crimes reported were non-violent, with 65 % of all crimes on hike and bike trails being thefts. The Austin Police Department found that hike and bike trails are statistically safer than parks and playgrounds, with 7% of all crimes occurring in parks and playgrounds, and less than .1 % of all crimes occurring on hike and bike trails. I've been listening to the press coverage of the Austin trails issue. The one point I keep hearing is that property awners do not want to see an increase in trails in and around Austin because it will increase crime. Apparently, any trails that connect Austin with suburbs will prompt criminal youth. or adults to laund1 off, 011 foot, on a suburban crime spree. Which prompts me to ask the question -why would anyone walk ten miles to rob my house when he can just hop in a car, get on a public highway, and drive over? Austin resident, Austin American Statesman, November 27, 1996. c2\cross tbe Couotr!J, OreeoWA!JS Are J,ow Crime c2\reAs Austin is not an anomaly in its level of trail safety. Other areas have studied the affect of trails and greenways on safety. Despite the numerous types of trails, from urban areas to rural counties, rail trails to waterfront walkways, the figures are surprisingly similar. Greenways are one of the lowest crime areas in the country! Pinellas, Florida In 1992, only twelve of the 10,000 crimes reported for the town of Dunedin were on the Pinellas trail, a rate of only .1%3. Burlington, Vermont For the last two years, police calls on the trail have consisted of .0013% of all calls, making the trail one of the safest places in Burlington. Due to concerns about the possibility of sexual assaults occurring on the trail, this issue was researched. It was found that there had been 0 reports of this type of crime on the path. Overall, the Chief of Police says, "my position is that the Bike Paths proposed for Chittenden County communities provide a healthy way of linking neighborhoods and are likely to have a positive affect on the overall safety of the public"4. Raleigh and Charlotte, North Carolina In a survey given to 261 trail users in Charlotte, and 320 persons in Raleigh, trail users were asked to rate their security and fear of crime on the greenways. In Raleigh: (Urban greenways) In Charlotte: (Suburban greenways) 59% no problem 75% no problem 26% a minor problem 19% a minor problem 11% serious problem 5% serious problem 5 % very serious problem 1 % very serious problem This survey focused on perception of crime, for Raleigh and Charlotte greenways. Actual crime rates for the City of Raleigh are significantly lower. According to Raleigh's Chief Park Ranger, there were 30 incidents of crime in a 4.5 year period, on 25 miles of greenway trails. Denver, Colorado A study of public safety issues was undertaken by the Colorado State Trails Program and The Conservation Fund6 in 1994 to determine if trails had an effect on quality of life or public safety for single family homeowners or renters along trails. Of those surveyed: none of the residents have had a trail user steal from their property, and only one respondent attributed vandalism of his property to the existence of the trail. By adding lighting, the vandalism problem was resolved. Despite this, the family did not feel threatened by the incident, or that the trail should be closed. Of those interviewed, 72% believed that the trail had increased quality of life in their neighborhood. Only 7% felt it had decreased quality of life, 14% believed the trail has had no effect, and 7% were w1decided .. None of those surveyed felt that problems on the trail were serious enough for it to be closed. Denver area police officers who worked on these trails were interviewed regarding their knowledge of trail safety. One comment made by the officers is th~t trails are unlikely to be used to access homes for break ins. "People like their cars and are more likely to depend on them, rather than a bicycle or foot, if they were to commit a crime". For more information: Brazos Greenways Council P.O. Box 10178 College Station, TX 77842 979-693-8495 1 Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. 1994. "Rail Trail Opponents: The Twelve Most Frequently Asked Questions." 2 City of Austin Police Department. August I 996. "Crime Comparison on Hike and Bike Trails". 3 Eastman, Susan. "Opponents Fear a Trail of Crime". St. Petersburg Times. December 6, 1993. City of College Station Greenways Program Manager 2613 Texas Ave. College Station, TX 77840 979-764-3844 e-mail: jdowns@ci.college-station.tx.us 4 Searles, Brian R. Letter to Herb Durfee, staff planner. July 23, I 991. 5 Furuseth, Owen J. and Altman, Robert E. "Greenway Use and Users: An Examination of Raleigh and Charlotte Greenways." Carolina Planning, Fall, 1990. 6 Conservation Fund and Colorado State Trails Program. March 1995. "The Effect ofGreenways on Property Values and Public Sa.ftety". This information was prepared with the assistance of the National Park Service Rivers, Trails, and Consc::rvation Assistance Program. Brazos Greenwa s Council Fact Sheet No . 3 eeooomie J6eoefits of '}reeOWAflS 7oul'ism Greenways are often major tourist attractions which generate expenditures on lodging, food, and recreation-oriented services. A poll conducted by the President's Commission on Americans Outdoors found that natural beauty was the single most important criterion for tourists in selecting outdoor recreation sites (Scenic America, 1987). ' The Heritage trail in rural Iowa has 135,000 visitors a year that generate $1.2 million dollars a year in direct revenue. Col'pOl'Ate Anll J•mil!J ~eloeAtion Evidence shows tl;tat the quality of life of a community is an increasingly important factor in corporate relocation decisions. Moreover, greenways are often cited as important contributors to quality of life and help improve the overall appeal of a community to prospective new residents. ' An annual survey of chief executive officers conducted by Cushman and Wakefield in 1989 found that quality of life for employees was the thir4 most important factor in locating a business . (NPS , 1990). The Joint Economic Committee of the U.S. Congress reports that city's quality of life is more important than purely business-related factors when it comes to attracting new businesses , particularly in the high-tech and sei:vice industries . (Scenic America, 1987): A study of 800 homebuyers in Texas, California, North Carolina, Florida, and Georgia in 1994 found that bike paths, hiking trails, and "outdoor living rooms " are among the amenities that Americans look for -and are willing to pay a premium for -when buying a home (Washington Post, January 1995). ~eAl 'fJl'opel't!J -,,.tues Many studies demonstrate that parks, greenways and trails increase nearby property values. In tum, increased property values can increase 19cal tax revenues and help offset greenway acquisition costs. A greenbelt in Boulder, Colorado increased aggregate property values for one neighborhood by $5 .4 million, resulting in $500,000 of additional annual property tax revenues. The tax alone could recover the initial cost of the $1.5 million greenbelt in three years. (Cornell, Lillydahl, and Singel, 1978). In the vicinity of Philadelphia's 1300 acre Pennypack Park, property values correlate significantly with proximity to the park. In 1974, the park accounted for 33 % of the value of land 40 feet away from the park, 9% when located 1,000 feet away, and 4.2% at a distance of 2500 feet. (Hammer, Coughlin and Horn, 1974). A 1994 study in the Denver area found that trails are an amenity to the neighborhoods around them. Of the real estate agents interviewed, 73 % believed a home adjacent to a trail would be easier to sell and 55% agreed the home would sell for more than a comparable home in a different neighborhood. The conservation of rivers, trails, and greenways can help local governments and other public agencies reduce costs resulting from flooding and other natural haz.ards. In Boulder, Colorado, the 1988 public cost for maintaining developed areas was estimated to be over $2500 per acre. The cost for maintaining open space in the city was only $75 per acre, or less than three percent the cost of non-open space. (Crain, 1988). ~enditures bD ~esidents When residents have desired recreational opportunities close to home, they spend more recreational time in their local communities. Dollars that would otherwise have been spent on recreation-oriented services in a vacation destination far from home, are now kept in the local economy. Residents are increasingly spending vacations closer to home, thus spending increasing amounts of vacation dollars within the boundaries of the state (NPS, 1990). In 1988, recreation and leisure was the third largest industry in California. More than $30 billion is spent each year by Californians on recreation and leisure in their state. (California Department of Parks and Recreation, 1988). For more information: Brazos Greenways Council P.O. Box 10178 College Station, TX 77842 979-693-8495 City of College Station Greenways Program Manager 2613 Texas Ave. College Station, TX 77840 979-764-3844 e-mail: jdowns@ci.college-station.tx.us This information was prepared with the assistance of the National Park Service Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program Brazos Greenways Council I Fact Sheet No. 4 I ¢~00.ts, Jloo.tplni~s Ao~ .Jolks A National Parl S•rvin -· Rlwr1, Traill and Con.ttrvalion A.r.ri.itance Program Publication, 1996 "The nation is now moving into a new phase of watershed management in which the task is optimal adjustment to flood hazard along with integraJed use of land for water quality, wildlife, crop production, recreation, and other urban uses" --Gilbert White Communities all across the United States are reconsidering traditional practices and are seeking innovative solutions to reduce flood losses. It is a new "era" of community based flood loss reduction. Each of the examples below describes a multi-objective stream planning process where communities chose the creation of greenways as the primary method to mitigate flooding hazards. · C olorAllo ~iverfront, (,jrAnll cJunetion, C olorAllo Goals The Colorado Riverfront project is a multi-disciplinary development plan in which the design strategy focuses on flood reduction, hazardous material removal, scenic access and restoration of natural habitats. The project goals are to improve the image of the city entrances; develop a high quality industrial park to stimulate economic development and encourage the clean up and use of the Colorado River. Milestones .. • Licensing by the Lake county Forest Preserve District to conduct research on its land with the agreement that the district will maintain created wetlands. • Construction of eight experimental wetland areas resulting in substantial changes to the landscape vegetation, wildlife and including and increased population of shore birds. · • Visibility of the river -once obscured by a wall of weedy vegetation -through a rehabilitated oak grove and wetland-dependent flora and fawia • Ground water recharge and increased base flow. • Inhabitation and use of the site by three state designated bird species and 36 different fish species -up from only 20 species before the restoration work. ~un9eness ~iver (,Jreen~A!I, W•sbin9ton Goals . ' Multi-objective goals.of flood reduction, pollution prevention and correction, fish and wildlife habitat restoration, and water conservation are being achieved through education, landowner outreach, technical assistance and restoration. These efforts are being manifested through a variety of venues, each building the other, coordinated through a network of partnerships with common, watershed-based goals. Milestones • With a· grant from the Washington State Department of Natural resources, Clallam county employment of five. displaced timber workers to stabilize over 3,000 feet of river bank using vegetation, Jogs, geotextile fabric and willow stakes. One and half miles of stream have also been rehabilitated including ~>.M9'·ri,fJl~~col,l~tt;ticti9!J, ipen~jn~~(~ banks, re-establishing meanders and placement oflarge woody debris. . .__ -· , , _ ~ ., . ·., ~ · . · · • Publication of the·Dungeness River Information and·Action Guide;' a' 35 page booklet introducing land owners to some basic tools, techniques and sources of assistance for green way corridors. r i ·t r-~. rfi J n, ·i :;, . · · · _tilt"\\l•nn" ~·"·r ~ Qrieawaw-~~, ,, • .,~~lvA.01&~*> .~~ ~~'!1~.. . . "'. . ' ..l » ">{ •?IJ) Goals The primary goal is the creation of a greenway plan that addresses water resource and environmental problems and the development of a linear corridor linking various historical, cultu+al, natural, and economic resources along the river and through its watershed .. ~ . ' ~ ·~ I, Milestones · · ). • Publication of the Lackawanna Ciij:ll -rt~ i:esources of the Lackawanna River. \. if. ·'.;. ich offered over 200 recommendations on restoring and managing the • EPA funding award directed towardS,oo.tn: ~ ~" . • Grants receiv~d to acquire and dev~lqp1'!J ·7rinit!J ~iver Common ~ision 'fJro9rAm, 7exAs J.; ~ 'i·l\'.•iJ :;,"; '"-'!.' ')sA; J;•v,.'. ' .. · ';~·1-.•~\~l'.'1!:\t\fW\1 \· i·;.;r,·· .~'-if",.,, ''l'J,l\'\~~ ·~1')~ .cil"'' , ('h'(",·I'. ''''" :, l»•:lt»,., \ ...,~vi.'n Goa s ' ., ,. . . · '· : ' '" · • ·• · ' '·· · ... · ... , · ··•" ~ The dJV~ibpm~nt•lli'· a''p1ilrl" o ·~-au'Ce'"lli~ j)ot~n\1ir1 'fo~·-000 &iinage,~in\prov~· wateif 'qUdlify~.erihhncli ·thei \!niViroruttetitr~r:gprovide recreation opportunities through}·outthe;O'pper-Tnrti~·.River Con;idor. ~· '., ·.-;~ .h .. ;~i~. ~ • .,,.. ~1:-~i' ·w~· , .i· ' . Milest9~~& .. ' . .... .. ,. .. , ,, l .. < .. , ,. ,.,., ' ~ ...... , •• i ,· 1 \:i:.., . . t .. , ·l . .. :~~ ._,r;, ~;l~ti~n:of & 9etaiied1t~~-''V'g 'pn/\:t ~f'fu{c~rridof.and;<d~v~idpnienl Clt dom~litlt fld.if<!prniif models "• U;;_ 1 i<: .; i!I ';iifl ,, ) !:1··~~~;~~tJ011;?.f ~11;c.~&ii/?(~e~R-0~J?fe~f~c~Wl1r.o~~.~~. 'f 116~d:t~~~ ~ta~;~l~~~ioh-,p~licf r~~ t11·fJc?~~o;_:~~~ ~\ni1~~~~-.;~·y~~J101 valley storage m the · JOO-year floodplam,l a maXimum allowable valley silirage los'S 'm the·Sfuhd&d Project< flootiphim.'.loffiv pelteht; maximum allowabl!! velocities,.. no. allowable Joss in conveyance, requirement$ for erosion and sedi~ent confl'OJ:s ahd!.fl peeft pr'¢sslire11 system of regional compliance. • Natural Hazard Mitigation • Wetland Enhancement • Recreation • Habitat Improvement 2~.~H,jrlin•( •tivi sneatnbank,Stabili~tidn ,i t f:!rn! 21i iJ•J .i:rn1'f-,~r ".;w{. ·~~ •-:·.10tilturab,Resourt'e £nhanoementu •;;,;1:a1·, r. [ • R.estpratian . . , . , • Economic Revitalization ·r:-rii.l.Jo"-' h'.t.~:>::n .. rn•.i.m 4n g<,,.) !..-) ;,, •• J'\j tJ( '· : .!,~J.. . ""'':n ... ~,.J.J ,}j 1:'/'Jiil.i!i j lx.;tJ;t,;i~0m 11t !.l'lll11 ':'~! ~!L)!i ,,•n;j);i' ·ip_ir/ 'fl· 1~ 'f)'!! ;.l~;t!l I,) n .: ;m~·-11,0 "' • Fi.sheries Improvement · • Environmental . :1-n1p~t19n10 uo;:;s:uwl{, ~ .. ,~ .. ~:::!:·: b: • .,; s·mfl 111--.,. .... ·• "n• 'I · . .t.:5 .;i •· ,i,,,J L-'-.•1hiE1-f~r1 "' 'i. _ .1>.rlt rv:;;ir.-·~'. .. W , L:.;·-v1 'I. u.,,. ., j r·. ·Hn ·1. and these multi-objective projects are also more likely to forni '?{tfnp,JJ.ar~11;ershigs .~Jt~i11: th~ c'?.f!ir°/i!il~iij! ~~';'.,,-;'< 1 ·'r'.. :~ ~.,1:.-:•1 ···i:i,~, t.'.1 "'>' qp .·~;ig.):)11 1.1~ [ ,.;11_,,,_ . ... .• -.. ... ,.. .. {;.; l .<:lf L. · t~··"~i' .t1 '1~ ,,,;_ie /t.j ci ~1-J ,(, !~"'l \.' ~r; !J.(;\,fl.htJ~i.Htt For more infonnation: Brazos GreeJi~Y.l!~ountii,$;'.f , t;ity>.pf C;o~Iege~J!t!on ii1Cn1'?.:Z.'\.,. P.O. Box 10178 · Greenways Program Ma !iger ~}Al College Station, TX 77842 2613 Texas A ve. iino ;,; i!I 1J.';'r:"•<'l!(J:J .. ( "• »n. ,.••o:r.: 11,:,919-69J:.8't9511" b'U. ,, 'I~ ,;:: l'.l:J'\ :.~;: Jym r•t·1.lw;';" "! (('. l • r;q Cf>Jlege Stati0If~IJV~<7ri78'4.0.:.1do-i!!u,/; ~··;1<'.'.i'i -.£r;, ~Wt.;;~ -•!I "<"'< '(': '.e•:.,f(t ·) .• ',;:.J1 j>, "~:'J;.t.'»; l,;,'.f [o.>liW~~) .1bH'.{ t ,~>.. i-,.,:~; \•&J9!1Ji6~l844t1« tfJ ~.\.,,.,~ ··J'I ;,,,.jr\{ ':I"" ' •. ,f-'t(!i~ ll'!'-1( • !ri -;1' <•, "f,q \;) J {\; llh! '; lqv ri: I .. !_:;" i.'1fi(j')" ')'.,\'j' • :J'!J l.t'l~in.~1: J<lo.w~~@e,i::~.;,,i1~~~.S~~;US ~snoj1t!:}H,N1 ' l~;.r:il'{d:1111T~is YiiforMlti~n wlis"prep~r&r~itli: tlre'a';si'~·flirici'df the·'if~ti\;.<~''.V ·•:.il '%°f1 .. ~ .. )!,:_; -p r:Ji\fl t. Nad~n·~f P~rk's~r\tj·~~·Riv~r§-', 'TTails, ·arid' cod~~rt~Hon15\Ssi~uirlce. Pf~g;~fu." t~··· · :1~.iir· ill?-, 01 u;,~11., ,, Walk Our Little Texans to School Day Participating Schools College Hills Elementary Principal Deb Hudson 764-5565 Correspondence with Participants Departure: Thomas Park • College Hills (Deb Hudson) -interested in doing walk like last year. Needs 600 fliers by September 291h. Wants safety people to visit classes. Talked to Coach Kathy Sullivan -coordinate safety folks through her (764-5565) • Southwood Valley (Starlet Bell) -not officially participating, but would like info/brochure to send home with kids. just getting brochures. Need by Oct. 2 Possible Guests/Speakers • Martha BrennartAssistant Track and Field Coach. Works w/ kids. Has confirmed, needs to know how long her speech should be. IO~'""' • Brando (police K9) (Officer Todd Vandresar) has confirmed. Needs to know how long his speech should be. \Om<"" • Bike Police • Councilmembers (coordinated by Susan Manna) • CSISD Central Office Administrators -Ann Ganter, Mike Ball, Eddie Cullson, Greg Mcintyre Things that need to be coordinated • Public relations -press releases and photos (Becky -PR) Do we send our press release or does she create one? • Police -bike police as escorts. Officer Petereit confirmed they will be there • Banners for each of the schools (Ken Fogle) -Ken is taking the banners to Dale Latham in PrintMail to change the dates and then post at College Hills Elementary. AS OF 10/1 the BANNERS HAVE NOT BEEN POSTED!!! • Talking points -written. • Safety week participants -who goes to which schools • Coach Sullivan requested police bike/pedestrian safety course (Officer Peterreit) Sponsors • City of College Station • College Station Independent School District • Bush Volksmarchers -want to help. They (12-15 members) just need instructions. I said they could have fliers/brochures to give out at end of walk promoting their walks/club. Contact Glenda Baker (979) 764-8570. • Will have a table at beginning of walk and people there to walk with kids. Call again week before walk to confirm everything. Freebies /T-shirts v Slinky lights -need about 150. Stickers -need about 150. "I walked to school today!" finished . v squishy Earth balls -for all students. Need 600 Sponsor Groups from 2002: Brazos Injury Prevention Coalition -Terri Miller, 458-0124 Texas Cooperative Extension Rural Passenger Safety Program -Bev Kellner, 862-1782 Walk Our Little Texans to School Day -Talk~oints • Today is International Walk to School Day. There are students just like you across the world, in California, the United Kingdom, and Australia, who walked to school today. • Walking to school doesn't just make you healthier, it also reduces air pollution. How does that happen by walking you ask? Well, if you 're not riding in a car to school, then that car is producing less pollution that makes our air hard to breathe. Walking actually improves the air we breathe. • Introduce guest speaker, Martha Brennan, Assistant Track and Field Coach at TAMU Guest speaker-Martha Brennan. Assistant Track and Field Coach at TAMU • Why should you walk to school? • Exercise. • Importance of health and fitness . Introductory speaker • Thank Ms. Brennan and give a round of applause. • Introduce Officers Ken Vandressar and Brando Guest speaker -Office Ken Vandresar and K9 Officer Brando • Introduce self and Brando • Importance of safety when walking - • Meet with friends . Meeting up with friends to walk to school makes walking an adventure and it's safer, too. • walk together, look both ways, etc. [children recently had a class about this, so you could ask the kids about this and field questions from the audience. Those who answer could get to meet Brando or something.] • What to do if you get lost. Talk about Brando's abilities • Why exercise is important ... relate to Brando and how even dogs need exercise. Principal Hudson -closing remarks • Thank Officers Vandresar and Brando and Ms. Brennan • Thank everyone for participating • Encourage students and parents to walk, rather than drive, to school. --·------ ------------------~-- -------~--------- ------------- ----------------- 0 ~------------}W I ' '~f--1-&-.~-~--.,..-. ~·wt ?X:Jl/L} op <);/5$~~7(-1---=--~-,J·l,J__ -~--1.o--~:.+--- ~Q/~) Iv -------- ~---- ------ ----------------------ttt--- -----------------~-- -------- -------------:-:+------- / Kristan Clar:in -Texas Cooperative Wi~life Collection ~OQ2sal From: To: "Heather Prestridge" <hlprestridge@wfscgate.tamu.edu> <kclann@cstx.gov> Date: 4/19/2004 11 :26:42 AM Subject: Texas Cooperative Wildlife Collection proposal Hi Kristin- I am a curator at the Texas Cooperative Wildlife Collection (TCWC), we are part of the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at TAMU. I don't know if you are aware of our facility or resources, but what most concerns you and your current position is the fact that in the recent past the TCWC had presented a proposal to the Greenways Council and Judy Downs regarding a partnership with the City of College Station that would allow for the expertise of the University to be used in the planning of the Greenways trails and provide for natural areas along the trail. They were very receptive to the ideas and goals of the proposal. We are still pursuing this proposal and would like to get it off the ground as soon as possible. I attached a copy of the executive summary for you to review when you have a chance. We are in the process of gathering letters of community support before soliciting funding, first from local businesses and then from external foundations to further the proposal. I am available to meet with you anytime this week if you would like further explanation. Thanks for your time, I look forward to hearing from you! Sincerely, Heather Prestridge Texas Cooperative Wildlife Collection Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Texas A&M University TAMU2258 College Station, TX 77845 979-845-5783 (phone) 979-862-7750 , Page 1 ' ~Krfstan c1ann -Directions to the TCWC.doc ----···--~----- Department d Wildlife and Fisheries Texas A&M University 979-845-5783 General Information and directions Directions to the TCWC: If traveling from south of College Station, take the Hwy 6 East Bypass around Bryan/College Station, and exit at Hwy 60 (University Drive). Turn right onto Hwy 60 and drive approximately one mile. Tum right at the Texas A&M University sign and drive about a quarter of a mile through the wooded park to the University Services Building. The TCWC is located in the southeast comer (Room 128) of the building. Look for the double glass doors and entrance ramp. In general, the TCWC is open to visitors during business hours, 8 am till 5 pm, Monday through Friday. It is best to call before your visit to insure the facility is open and curator-ial staff will be on hand to answer your questions.. About the Nature Trail The TCWC Nature Trail is open to visitors year round. Access to the trail is to the south of the facility, marked by an informational kiosk. Trail maps and plant keys are available during business hours inside the TCWC facility. Contact Heather Prestridge at 979-US-5783 with questions. Page 1 Texas Cooperative Wildlife Collection proposal for: Natural Areas, trail system, and nature center Executive Summary The TCWC houses the largest collection of non-fossil vertebrates and related material in the Southwestern United States and is one of the major university collections in the United States. A majority of the specimens are from Texas, the Southwestern United States, and Neotropical America. The collection contains over a million specimens of fishes, amphibians reptiles, birds, mammals, and marine invertebrates. The collection was established in 1937 but some of the specimens date back to the turn of the 20th century. Specimens are preserved as skins, pelts, skeletons, horns, antlers, fluid preparations, frozen tissues, eggs, or nests. Drawing on the expertise of the TCWC curators and affiliates, a proposal has been developed to extend the use of the collection to the public in several ways. First, the TCWC would like to develop educational resources and programs for the local school system and lay-science groups. Second the TCWC would like to actively participate in the planning of natural areas within existing city parks and trail planning along greenways of Bryan~College Station. Finally, the TCWC would like to plan for the construction of a stand-alone nature center for the Brazos Valley. These three agendas would work together to increase the public's understanding of and appreciation for natural history issues and sustainable development, to interpret natural history and biodiversity research conducted by Texas A&M University, and to increase the diversity of outdoor recreation activities and social cohesion in the local communities. Natural history related educational resources are a much needed commodity by the local school system. The prohibitive cost of replicate specimens and lack of time to develop curricula both play a part in discouraging grade school teachers from incorporating natural history into their lesson plans. The creation of natural areas within the city parks would give park patrons a picture of what the grounds looked like before civilization. A standRalone nature center would give the _public a contact point for environmental questions and serve to educate the public of natural history issues steering conservation efforts. To complete these broad goals, the TCWC will need to secure funding for one new curator position as well as a 3 year assistantship. It is anticipated that three years will be needed to complete the following specific goals: a. Develop master plans for city wide natural area, interpretive sites along trail system, and nature center for the Brazos Valley b. Improve and expand the TCWC Nature trail within University property c. Develop a demonstration wetland and prairie site d. Develop museum discovery boxes for local school use e. Connect the TCWC Nature Trail with Veterans Park and Athletic Complex and the Hotel Conference Center f. Configuring a Nature Center within the existing TCWC space of the University Services Building g. Expanding outreach programming with local schools to include in-school presentations h. Collaborate exhibits and programs with BVMNH and CMBV Support from community businesses that are dedicated to education, the environment, and revitalization is requested to fund these positions. Attached is a budget for the three year project. Beyond the three years of this project, only the Curator of Education position will need to be funded. By that time nominal fees charged for educational tools and programs may c over up to 50% of this salary. It is anticipated that the community will continue to support this position based on the benefits to the school system and general population. Natural Areas, Trail §ystem, and ature Center Proposed Budget Personnel PhD Assistl!Jl ship tlpend p,;Jl ·~ lm;ura .ce Total wages and s aries Total Equipment and Supplies For more information on this proposal. please contact: Heather Prestridge Assistant Curator, Texas Cooperative Wildlife Collection 979-845-5783