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3.1-Implementation03012010IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.1 Introduction There is a saying within the urban design community that “plans have a very short shelf life”. If they spend much time at all rolled up on a shelf, then they tend to “go bad” – that is, end up ignored, forgotten and unused. The most effective way of avoiding “spoilage” is to ensure whatever vision is planned is accompanied by clear steps for realizing that vision. Thus, one of the most important pieces of a comprehensive plan is the Implementation Section. Herein are listed key projects and initiatives that can affect whether or not Project Prattville will be fully realized in the coming decades. The following projects (Figures 1.1 and 1.2, following and subsequent pages) are broken first into project type: Capital, Economic Development, Organizational, Planning, and Regulatory. Transportation is a list and section unto itself, as it has several sub-specialties involved (see figures 1.3 and 1.4, following section). In both cases, the projects are then sorted by priorities: Immediate (priority category 1, within one year), short (category 2, within three years), medium (category 3, within five years), long (category 4, within ten years), and extended term (category 5, within 20 years), based on input from the people of Prattville as well as their practical necessity in the overall planning effort. Each list is followed with a series of short narratives describing the listed projects. This list is by no means fixed; it should be revisited annually, and adjusted to reflect changing conditions – newly available land, changes in the economic outlook, new proposals for private investment – that might require reprioritization of projects, or revisions of certain targets. This is less of a consideration with the immediate term projects, but is applicable (and to an increasing degree) the farther down the timeline and priority list the projects are shown. The actions of men are the best interpreters of their thoughts... John Locke IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.2 Figure: 1.1 - Implementation Projects List (Non-Transportation), Part I Implementation Projects (Non-Transportation) Draft 10-Aug-09 Project #Project Type Priority Responsible Party Cost Funding Source(s)Measure(s) C-01 I-65 Interchange Signage and Landscaping Capital 1 City of Prattville $200,000 Completion of plans and installation C-03 Wayfinding Signage Addition/Upgrade Capital 2 City of Prattville/DDA Consultant fees Design and installation of signage C-02 Memorial Drive South Median Beautification Capital 4 City of Prattville TBD based on applicable length Completion of plans and installation E-03 Recruit Regional Office Development Economic Development 2 City of Prattville/Chamber of Commerce Staff time E-01 Recruit Heavy Industrial Development Economic Development 3 City of Prattville/Chamber of Commerce Staff time E-02 Recruit Hotel Development Economic Development 3 City of Prattville/Chamber of Commerce Staff time G-02 Create Regional Recreation Center Study Group Organizational 1 City of Prattville Stakeholder time Formal roster and first meeting G-03 Fund and implement a Downtown Development Authority Organizational 1 City of Prattville & Autauga County New staff position Funding designated, position filled G-01 Create Coordinated Recreation Committee Organizational 2 City of Prattville/YMCA/ Autauga County Staff/ stakeholder time Formal roster, bylaws and first meeting P-03 City-Wide Trails Network Plan Planning 1 City of Prattville Completion of plan P-07 Extend Creekwalk/Waterway Master Plan Planning 1 City of Prattville Funding of study effort, completion of master plan, identification of segments for feasibility studies P-09 Implement CPTED Standards in Zoning Planning 1 City of Prattville Staff time Inclusion of standards and completion of zoning ordinance re-write P-01 Annual Comprehensive Plan Review Planning 2 City of Prattville Staff time Completion of review, revisions to Implementation Priorities P-02 Autauga Schools Facilities Master Plan Planning 2 Autauga County Schools $100,000 Funding of planning effort, completion of plan document P-04 Conduct Regional Recreation Center Potential Site Analysis Planning 2 City of Prattville $10,000 Identification of preferred site(s) P-05 Downtown Greenspace Study Planning 2 City of Prattville Completion of study P-11 Military Shuttle Pilot Program Planning 2 City of Prattville Completion of one cycle, and analysis of ridership and cost-effectiveness P-12 Neighborhood Plan - District Five (Downtown East) & Historic Downtown Planning 2 City of Prattville $75,000 Completion of plan P-17 Park-n-Ride Feasibility Study Planning 2 City of Prattville Completion of study, implementation of facility (if justified) P-18 Parks Target Area Study Planning 2 City of Prattville Completion of study P-06 Downtown/East Prattville Shuttle Study Planning 3 City of Prattville/DDA Completion of study P-08 Feasibility Study for New City Hall Planning 3 City of Prattville $25,000 Completion of study P-10 Master Stormwater Management Plan Planning 3 City of Prattville & Autauga County Completion of study P-13 Neighborhood Plan - District Four (Prattmont)Planning 3 City of Prattville $50,000 Identification of funding, completion of plan P-14 Neighborhood Plan - District Six (Highway 14 East)Planning 3 City of Prattville/Baptist Hospital $50,000 Identification of funding, completion of plan P-15 Neighborhood Plan - District Two (Old Farm Lane)Planning 3 City of Prattville $50,000 Identification of funding, completion of plan P-16 Northern Infrastructure Delivery Plan Planning 3 City of Prattville & Autauga County Identification of funding, completion of plan P-19 Public Works Needs Assessment Planning 3 City of Prattville Completion of assessment P-21 Trail Segment Feasibility Studies Planning 3 City of Prattville Completion of studies P-23 Walkable Schools Initiative Planning 3 City of Prattville/Autauga County Schools P-20 Review and Evaluate Waste Management Services Planning 4 City of Prattville Completion of review, identification of needs P-22 Utility Relocation Study - East Main Planning 4 City of Prattville Completion of study P-24 Bike Route Identification and Signage Planning/Capital 2 City of Prattville Identificaiton of applicable routes, installation of route signage P-25 New Library Analysis Planning/Capital 2 City of Prattville $20,000 Analysis of need, identification of new sites R-02 Annexation North Regulatory 1 City of Prattville Staff time R-04 City-Wide Zoning Review and Rewrite Regulatory 1 City of Prattville $60,000 Completion of revisions, adoption by Council R-01 Annexation East Regulatory 2 City of Prattville Staff time R-05 Downtown Design Guidelines Regulatory 2 City of Prattville $20,000 Completion of guideline document, adoption by Council R-03 Annexation West Regulatory 3 City of Prattville Staff time R-06 Downtown Façade Grant Program Regulatory/Capital 2 City of Prattville/DDA R-07 Downtown Revolving Loan Fund Regulatory/Capital 2 City of Prattville IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.3 Figure: 1.2 - Implementation Projects List (Non-Transportation), Part II Implementation Projects (Non-Transportation)Draft10-Aug-09Project #Project Type Priority Responsible Party Cost Funding Source(s)Measure(s)C-01 I-65 Interchange Signage and Landscaping Capital 1 City of Prattville $200,000 Completion of plans and installationC-03 Wayfinding Signage Addition/Upgrade Capital 2 City of Prattville/DDA Consultantfees Design and installation of signageC-02 Memorial Drive South Median Beautification Capital 4 City of Prattville TBD based onapplicablelength Completion of plans and installationE-03 Recruit Regional Office Development Economic Development 2 City ofPrattville/Chamber ofCommerce Staff timeE-01 Recruit Heavy Industrial Development Economic Development 3 City ofPrattville/Chamber ofCommerce Staff timeE-02 Recruit Hotel Development Economic Development 3 City ofPrattville/Chamber ofCommerce Staff timeG-02 Create Regional Recreation Center Study Group Organizational 1 City of Prattville Stakeholdertime Formal roster and first meetingG-03 Fund and implement a Downtown DevelopmentAuthority Organizational 1 City of Prattville &Autauga County New staffposition Funding designated, position filledG-01 Create Coordinated Recreation Committee Organizational 2 City of Prattville/YMCA/Autauga County Staff/stakeholdertime Formal roster, bylaws and first meetingP-03 City-Wide Trails Network Plan Planning 1 City of Prattville Completion of plan P-07 Extend Creekwalk/Waterway Master Plan Planning 1 City of Prattville Funding of study effort, completion of master plan, identification of segments for feasibility studies P-09 Implement CPTED Standards in Zoning Planning 1 City of Prattville Staff time Inclusion of standards and completion of zoning ordinance re-write P-01 Annual Comprehensive Plan Review Planning 2 City of Prattville Staff time Completion of review, revisions to Implementation Priorities P-02 Autauga Schools Facilities Master Plan Planning 2 Autauga County Schools $100,000 Funding of planning effort, completion of plan document P-04 Conduct Regional Recreation Center Potential Site Analysis Planning 2 City of Prattville $10,000 Identification of preferred site(s) P-05 Downtown Greenspace Study Planning 2 City of Prattville Completion of study P-11 Military Shuttle Pilot Program Planning 2 City of Prattville Completion of one cycle, and analysis of ridership and cost-effectiveness P-12 Neighborhood Plan - District Five (Downtown East) & Historic Downtown Planning 2 City of Prattville $75,000 Completion of plan P-17 Park-n-Ride Feasibility Study Planning 2 City of Prattville Completion of study, implementation of facility (if justified) P-18 Parks Target Area Study Planning 2 City of Prattville Completion of study P-06 Downtown/East Prattville Shuttle Study Planning 3 City of Prattville/DDA Completion of study P-08 Feasibility Study for New City Hall Planning 3 City of Prattville $25,000 Completion of study P-10 Master Stormwater Management Plan Planning 3 City of Prattville & Autauga County Completion of study P-13 Neighborhood Plan - District Four (Prattmont)Planning 3 City of Prattville $50,000 Identification of funding, completion of plan P-14 Neighborhood Plan - District Six (Highway 14 East)Planning 3 City of Prattville/Baptist Hospital $50,000 Identification of funding, completion of plan P-15 Neighborhood Plan - District Two (Old Farm Lane)Planning 3 City of Prattville $50,000 Identification of funding, completion of plan P-16 Northern Infrastructure Delivery Plan Planning 3 City of Prattville & Autauga County Identification of funding, completion of plan P-19 Public Works Needs Assessment Planning 3 City of Prattville Completion of assessment P-21 Trail Segment Feasibility Studies Planning 3 City of Prattville Completion of studies P-23 Walkable Schools Initiative Planning 3 City of Prattville/Autauga County Schools P-20 Review and Evaluate Waste Management Services Planning 4 City of Prattville Completion of review, identification of needs P-22 Utility Relocation Study - East Main Planning 4 City of Prattville Completion of study P-24 Bike Route Identification and Signage Planning/Capital 2 City of Prattville Identificaiton of applicable routes, installation of route signage P-25 New Library Analysis Planning/Capital 2 City of Prattville $20,000 Analysis of need, identification of new sites R-02 Annexation North Regulatory 1 City of Prattville Staff time R-04 City-Wide Zoning Review and Rewrite Regulatory 1 City of Prattville $60,000 Completion of revisions, adoption by Council R-01 Annexation East Regulatory 2 City of Prattville Staff time R-05 Downtown Design Guidelines Regulatory 2 City of Prattville $20,000 Completion of guideline document, adoption by Council R-03 Annexation West Regulatory 3 City of Prattville Staff time R-06 Downtown Façade Grant Program Regulatory/Capital 2 City of Prattville/DDA R-07 Downtown Revolving Loan Fund Regulatory/Capital 2 City of Prattville Implementation Projects (Non-Transportation) Draft 10-Aug-09 Project #Project Type Priority Responsible Party Cost Funding Source(s)Measure(s) C-01 I-65 Interchange Signage and Landscaping Capital 1 City of Prattville $200,000 Completion of plans and installation C-03 Wayfinding Signage Addition/Upgrade Capital 2 City of Prattville/DDA Consultant fees Design and installation of signage C-02 Memorial Drive South Median Beautification Capital 4 City of Prattville TBD based on applicable length Completion of plans and installation E-03 Recruit Regional Office Development Economic Development 2 City of Prattville/Chamber of Commerce Staff time E-01 Recruit Heavy Industrial Development Economic Development 3 City of Prattville/Chamber of Commerce Staff time E-02 Recruit Hotel Development Economic Development 3 City of Prattville/Chamber of Commerce Staff time G-02 Create Regional Recreation Center Study Group Organizational 1 City of Prattville Stakeholder time Formal roster and first meeting G-03 Fund and implement a Downtown Development Authority Organizational 1 City of Prattville & Autauga County New staff position Funding designated, position filled G-01 Create Coordinated Recreation Committee Organizational 2 City of Prattville/YMCA/ Autauga County Staff/ stakeholder time Formal roster, bylaws and first meeting P-03 City-Wide Trails Network Plan Planning 1 City of Prattville Completion of plan P-07 Extend Creekwalk/Waterway Master Plan Planning 1 City of Prattville Funding of study effort, completion of master plan, identification of segments for feasibility studies P-09 Implement CPTED Standards in Zoning Planning 1 City of Prattville Staff time Inclusion of standards and completion of zoning ordinance re-write P-01 Annual Comprehensive Plan Review Planning 2 City of Prattville Staff time Completion of review, revisions to Implementation Priorities P-02 Autauga Schools Facilities Master Plan Planning 2 Autauga County Schools $100,000 Funding of planning effort, completion of plan document P-04 Conduct Regional Recreation Center Potential Site Analysis Planning 2 City of Prattville $10,000 Identification of preferred site(s) P-05 Downtown Greenspace Study Planning 2 City of Prattville Completion of study P-11 Military Shuttle Pilot Program Planning 2 City of Prattville Completion of one cycle, and analysis of ridership and cost-effectiveness P-12 Neighborhood Plan - District Five (Downtown East) & Historic Downtown Planning 2 City of Prattville $75,000 Completion of plan P-17 Park-n-Ride Feasibility Study Planning 2 City of Prattville Completion of study, implementation of facility (if justified) P-18 Parks Target Area Study Planning 2 City of Prattville Completion of study P-06 Downtown/East Prattville Shuttle Study Planning 3 City of Prattville/DDA Completion of study P-08 Feasibility Study for New City Hall Planning 3 City of Prattville $25,000 Completion of study P-10 Master Stormwater Management Plan Planning 3 City of Prattville & Autauga County Completion of study P-13 Neighborhood Plan - District Four (Prattmont)Planning 3 City of Prattville $50,000 Identification of funding, completion of plan P-14 Neighborhood Plan - District Six (Highway 14 East)Planning 3 City of Prattville/Baptist Hospital $50,000 Identification of funding, completion of plan P-15 Neighborhood Plan - District Two (Old Farm Lane)Planning 3 City of Prattville $50,000 Identification of funding, completion of plan P-16 Northern Infrastructure Delivery Plan Planning 3 City of Prattville & Autauga County Identification of funding, completion of plan P-19 Public Works Needs Assessment Planning 3 City of Prattville Completion of assessment P-21 Trail Segment Feasibility Studies Planning 3 City of Prattville Completion of studies P-23 Walkable Schools Initiative Planning 3 City of Prattville/Autauga County Schools P-20 Review and Evaluate Waste Management Services Planning 4 City of Prattville Completion of review, identification of needs P-22 Utility Relocation Study - East Main Planning 4 City of Prattville Completion of study P-24 Bike Route Identification and Signage Planning/Capital 2 City of Prattville Identificaiton of applicable routes, installation of route signage P-25 New Library Analysis Planning/Capital 2 City of Prattville $20,000 Analysis of need, identification of new sites R-02 Annexation North Regulatory 1 City of Prattville Staff time R-04 City-Wide Zoning Review and Rewrite Regulatory 1 City of Prattville $60,000 Completion of revisions, adoption by Council R-01 Annexation East Regulatory 2 City of Prattville Staff time R-05 Downtown Design Guidelines Regulatory 2 City of Prattville $20,000 Completion of guideline document, adoption by Council R-03 Annexation West Regulatory 3 City of Prattville Staff time R-06 Downtown Façade Grant Program Regulatory/Capital 2 City of Prattville/DDA R-07 Downtown Revolving Loan Fund Regulatory/Capital 2 City of Prattville IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.4 Implementation Projects (non-transportation) Capital I-65 Interchange Signage and Landscaping. A key step in the strategic direction of increasing the visibility of the Historic Downtown, locating signage at the primary traffic point can have a noticeable effect. It is important to recognize that, for many visitors, the I-65 interchange at Cobbs Ford is not just Prattville’s front door; it is also a visual draw that can, if properly signed and attractively landscaped, increase valuable visitor traffic into the City. One specific item mentioned often during Project Prattville was the difficulty in getting ALDOT approval for a cultural marker (or “brown sign”) indicating Historic Downtown Prattville. It may be necessary to designate significant staff time or consultant resources to achieving this, but the end result should be quite valuable. Memorial Drive South Median Beautification. This project represents one step in a broader process of improving the general character for US 31 south of East Main St. A logical length for the project would be from East Main to Doster Road, with the caveat that should Planning District Nine (Dosterville) ever build out as envisioned, a continuance of the median improvements would be contingent to the development. It is recognized that the there will have to be some discussion with the State Department of Transportation regarding any work done in the median, even benign plantings. Therefore, in planning (and particularly budgeting) for this project, it will be important to either have significant staff time set aside, or to have DOT negotiations written in as part of any RFQ/RFP. Wayfinding Signage Upgrade/Addition. Related to the visions of redevelopment throughout the City, a comprehensive signage package will serve complementary purposes: Help direct visitors from one attraction to others, and provide a consistent look or “brand” throughout the City. With regard to the visitors, if there are families attending – for example – a tournament at the Regional Recreation Center, good wayfinding will point them to other Prattville amenities, like the RTJ course; shopping and restaurants downtown; and the Creekwalk. All this with an eye on maximizing the tourism dollars that are spent in the City. A first step in this process will be to contract with a graphic design firm that has experience with branding and wayfinding. To the second point, the signage is not just a means for navigation. Having signs with a consistent visual theme helps reinforce the notion of Prattville as a unique and special city, and augments the “sense of place” that is so valuable to attracting visitors (and having them return). Gateway signage IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.5 Economic Development Recruit Heavy Industrial Development. Though heavy industrial development had been recruited unsuccessfully in the past, current conditions may warrant a return to this strategy. For one, the nearby I-85 corridor is rapidly becoming and industrial center, and sites may be needed for the many supporting industrial uses that are likely to develop. In addition, the combination of river and rail access found in South Prattville is an unparalleled asset to industry. Finally, much of the south side of town is already under an existing industrial precedent, and this is a land use that particularly likes to congregate. There are some acknowledged challenges – a recent residential subdivision within the industrial area; the appearance of the industrial park land (as mentioned in Section II, Part II, Market Assessment) – but on the whole it is felt that a renewed push might yield more success than past efforts. Recruit Hotel Development. Related to the market recommendation of increasing tourism, it is believed that the hotel market in Prattville is currently underserved, and will be more so as visitor traffic increases. Golf and fishing tournaments, potential regional sports tournaments, shopping, hiking, canoeing/kayaking, history and architecture – all activities that would attract visitors who would benefit from additional accommodations. The condition for hotels, especially higher-end hotels, has improved in general with the addition of the retail centers on Cobbs Ford, and the new restaurants therein. Recruit Regional Office Development. Per the Market Assessment, the current atmosphere for office development in Prattville is quite good. This is due in no small part to all the retail and dining amenities along the Cobbs Ford Road corridor, but also to the influx of industry into the larger region. However, it is also noted that office development is some of the hardest growth to recruit. Indeed, because it usually “clusters”, the first development is often the most difficult to garner. It might be that if this use is indeed to be targeted, some level of incentive – similar to what was proffered to retailers on Cobbs Ford Road – might be applicable and appropriate. Attracting office uses also attracts new homebuyers (particularly the higher-end buyers) and provides more customers for the retailers. Sample image: Regional office development IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.6 Organizational Create Coordinated Recreation Committee. Per recommendations in the Comprehensive Plan (see Section II – Community Facilities and Resources Plan), the City should – in cooperation with other municipal and non-profit entities – create a group to oversee the use of all public and semi-public recreation facilities within the City. This should focus on the outdoor uses, particularly those that involve leagues, or which have heavy scheduling restrictions. This would initially involve an inventory of all sites (a more detailed account might take into consideration tertiary aspects like field condition, capacity, accessibility, lighting, etc.), and then something as simple as assigning one existing staffer to handle the coordination. Allocation would be based on priorities set by the committee. A few of the benefits to having such a committee would be the reduction in potential conflicts; more efficient use of existing fields (thus alleviating the immediate need for more facilities); better coordination of maintenance (which could lead to a reduction in costs). Additionally, depending on the outcome of the following item, this committee need not be permanent. It might be considered as a temporary body until such time as more sites were brought on line. Fund and Implement a Downtown Development Authority. Accepting the premise that Prattville’s Historic Downtown is a valuable and currently underappreciated asset within the greater metro area (see Section II – Development Plan), a crucial first step in addressing that is to set up a Downtown Development Authority, or DDA. A DDA goes beyond a merchant organization in that it usually involves at least one full-time staffer whose sole job is to advocate for the Downtown. Responsibilities would include advancing projects (the extension of the Creekwalk, for example), forging partnerships (perhaps with the East Prattville merchants or with Montgomery’s visitors bureau, in order to do shared marketing), overseeing programs (like the Façade Improvements or Revolving Loan Fund mentioned later in this section), and improving the visibility of the Downtown as a destination. The DDA would likely be involved in a number of the projects found on this list, and could serve as a voice for the merchants and property owners in these efforts. Funding would likely be borne primarily by the City, but may be augmented by the Chamber of Commerce, the merchants, or other sources as available. As such, oversight of DDA activities would also be undertaken by the funding entities, preferably in an Executive Board or committee format. Create Regional Recreation Center Study Group. As referenced in the Comprehensive Plan (see Section II – Community Facilities and Resources Plan), there has been a grassroots movement to locate, design and construct a Regional Recreation Facility within the City of Prattville. This facility would to a large extent solve the shortage of locally-serving fields, but the main function of the facility would be as a draw for tournaments. Prattville’s relatively central location in Alabama and its immediate proximity to the heavily- traveled I-65 corridor make this an attractive location for out-of-town attendees. A large amenity such as the one currently being investigated can attract millions of dollars annually (a recent study in Dothan estimated the annual economic impact for a similar facility at almost $3 million), and add significantly to the tourism traffic identified in the market portion of this report.Downtown park amenity IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.7 Planning Annual Comprehensive Plan Review. As mentioned earlier in the report, this project list is a dynamic tool. That is, it will need to change as conditions within the City change, and this will require regular assessments by City planning staff. It is recommended that once a year, a formal progress review be conducted by staff, looking in particular at the Implementation Plan. Projects should be judged on their standing in relation to stated measures of completion, and whether or not they are still valid based on any changes in the development environment within the City. A report would then be made to the Planning Board and to Council, with recommended changes based on approval. Autauga Schools Facilities Master Plan. Given the close relationship between growth planning and schools, it will be very important to have a clear layout of the system’s vision for development in the coming decades. Given the residential projections for the City, recommended annexations, current capacity numbers, municipal boundary issues, and transportation challenges around the school campuses, Project Prattville recommends a cooperative planning effort among the School System, the City of Prattville and Autauga County. This planning effort should focus on current and projected enrollment; existing and future zones of attendance; assessment of facilities and available land; transportation and accessibility; and capital projections, among others. A continuous public process is recommended as well, to insure buy- in and gauge the sentiment of the affected population with regard to proposed plans. City-Wide Trails Network Plan. The first step in implementing a plan for new parks and trails will be to create a more detailed plan for the overall network (see Section II – Parks and Trail Network Plan). Using the Network Map as a starting point, each potential segment should be mapped out and defined (type of path); segments may be clustered by region, if necessary. This will then lay the groundwork for a segment-by- segment feasibility study prior to implementation. However, some portions of the network might actually be put in place in the immediate or short term. Those segments identified as “bike routes” would require little in the way of construction, apart from installation of identifying signage, and as such could be done very quickly (and relatively inexpensively). The longer range segments are likely to include those that run through the watershed and conservation areas. Topographic and environmental challenges inherent in these parcels will demand a more detailed feasibility and engineering study before they can be built out. Having the plan in place will also allow for installation of “targets of opportunity”. For instance, should a road improvement project be undertaken, the City can check the Network Plan and see if any portion of the new road falls within the network. If so, appropriate design considerations can be made to ensure the segment is built out at that time, even if adjacent or connecting segments have not yet been constructed. Another example would be a new development which might run next to, or contain, an identified segment location. Approval for development could then include contingencies for creating of the desired segment – again, even if the surrounding pieces are not yet in place. While this requires a little more oversight on the part of the staff, it is a much more cost-effective approach in the long term. Prattville High School IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.8 Downtown/East Prattville Shuttle Study. This was recommended as a possible strategy for linking Downtown with the shoppers in the new retail centers at I-65, and potentially forging a link between the Bass Pro Shop and the recreational opportunities offered by the creek. The study should focus on operational considerations, sources of funding, partnerships and marketing, and is the type of project that could be undertaken by the DDA, if not by City staff. Extend Creekwalk/Waterway Master Plan. The Creekwalk is a project that has been extremely successful and very well received within the community. It is possible therefore to build upon the generated momentum, and use the project as a catalyst or launching pad for additional paths along the creek, around Downtown, or into the wider trail network. The impetus would best be captured if this were a high-priority project – the sooner, the better. Ideally, the same staff that administered the Creekwalk design, development and construction would oversee this effort as well. Conduct Regional Recreation Center Potential Site Analysis. Related to the creation of the Study Group (Organizational Projects, above), this would be one of the group’s first steps, in coordination with defining a program for the facility. The Comprehensive Plan has already identified one potential location for the facility (see District Eight – McQueen Smith South) but due diligence should include an examination off all potential sites that meet stated requirements: Minimum size, location relative to the interstate, land cost, land condition (esp. topography and the existence of any structures that might require demolition), and current ownership. The program should be flexible throughout the site selection process, so that if the ideal site necessitates, the build-out can be altered to accommodate. If they can be procured, site design services for very schematic analysis would also be beneficial to the process. Downtown Greenspace Study. For all the amenities offered in Downtown Prattville, greenspace is one that is noticeably absent. There is adjacent open space (along the creek, and up Court St.), but how exactly it should be programmed is up for question. Whether it stays a passive space, or becomes a traditional park, or is designed as an attraction – like an amphitheatre or similar – or if it can be some combination, the options should be studied and discussed among local stakeholders before any strategy is pursued. There is a recognized need for park space, and a stated desire (and market recommendation) for an additional downtown draw, and addressing the potential for improved outdoor space could serve both interests. The scope of the study may vary (from informal interviews and information sessions with stakeholders to public charrettes and rendered plans) based on how this project is prioritized and the extent of its funding, but regardless of format it is a logical first step in creating a new public space for Downtown.The Creekwalk IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.9 Feasibility Study for New City Hall. Stakeholder input has indicated that the current facility is aged and undersized, and may need to be replaced. A logical step would be to form a study group to examine current conditions and, if warranted, suggest alternatives. Some considerations with regard to how this effort might mesh with the overall objectives of Project Prattville: • If the City Hall relocates, it should remain in or near (within walking distance of) the Downtown. Municipal functions are excellent draws for pedestrian traffic, a resource that is vital to the health of the businesses there. • If pursued in conjunction with the creation of Downtown Development Guidelines or a Neighborhood Plan for Downtown (both projects included on this list), a new City Hall could provide a showcase or example project for the principles contained in either or both of those efforts. • A new City Hall might also be used as an urban design element – to extend the frontage of the current Main Street, or to form the edge of a new Downtown greenspace, or provide a landmark for an extension of the Creekwalk, for instance. Confirming need should be the first focus, whereupon the study would shift to feasibility and funding. Implement CPTED Standards in Zoning. Crime Prevention Though Environmental Design (CPTED) is a movement with the goal of reducing or hindering potential criminal activity by making the physical environment less conducive. The adoption of recommended policies into zoning ordinances has of late become very popular across the United States. Standards are widely available on line and can easily be incorporated during the recommended revision of the current zoning ordinance. One recommended addition would be joint consultation with local public safety officials to refine the CPTED tactics and ensure they are applicable to conditions in Prattville. Master Stormwater Management Plan. Existing flood plain issues are one reason to engage in such a study; potential for a more cost-effective solution to retention and detention on new development is another. With the popular focus on sustainable resource management, more and more communities are taking a proactive approach to controlling runoff of stormwater. This can include a range of considerations, from the less costly such as rewriting development ordinances to more closely monitor construction-based erosion and sediment control and reviewing current curb and gutter locations and conditions, to those that might invove more investment, like funding siting, design and construction of a shared detention area. The more complex efforts may involve contracting with outside engineers, due to the technical nature of the projects. Military Shuttle Pilot Program. In an effort to explore a variety of transit options, a targeted military shuttle was suggested. It might be less resource-intensive, since workers on the base tend to have standardized hours, and there would be few disparate stops. The pilot program would involve coordination with the base, an investigation of funding, a study of potential pick-up sites in Prattville, and the creation of an outline for performance criteria. Neighborhood Plan. These projects would represent the “next step” in planning – a more detailed, parcel- scale effort for targeted areas that may need more focused planning. Similar in process, but not in scope, to the Comp Plan effort, these would use a variety of community input sources to generate redevelopment plans for specific areas within the City: Prattville City Hall IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.10 but given the market projections, this is not a huge risk. Likewise, by providing this infrastructure ahead of time, the City creates a “self-fulfilling projection” in that the services would then attract development to the served area. Depending on financing, this study could be limited solely to a paper plan until such time as it is needed, or the City could perform preemptive installation as funding allows (recognizing that the tax base is often needed to pay for infrastructure to that base). Park-n-Ride Feasibility Study. This may be as simple as an on-line or mailer survey of commuters, or complex as a formal transportation study of traffic timing and patterns. It should investigate logical coordinated sites for parking, and should recommend a process or tool for coordinating shared rides. Parks Target Area Study. Working off the Parks and Trail Network Plan in Section II, the City can increase the specificity in locating future greenspaces. This would include looking at sites that are open/vacant, topographically appropriate, and amenable to acquisition. It should simultaneously examine proximity to existing and future residential concentrations, commercial areas, and proposed segments on the trail network. Public Works Needs Assessment. Primarily regarding location and condition of facilities, and examining sufficiency related to current and future resident numbers and locations. Peripherally related, an increase in human population often results in a corresponding spike in the domesticated animal population. Recognizing that, the City should - in conjunction with the general plan review - examine and revise the revenue stream and employment agreements associated with the local Humane Society. • District Five (Downtown East) and the Historic Downtown. By combining the Historic Downtown and the “Downtown East” Planning District, the study would look at how development would occur within and around the Prattville core. Particular attention would be paid to historic context and the maintenance of a neighborhood scale, while accommodating newer, higher density development to the east. • District Four (Prattmont). This study would be geared towards identifying redevelopment opportunities within Prattmont, and illustrating how they might be reconfigured. It would be important not only to make the redevelopment worthwhile, but also to insure that it has a positive impact on the surrounding neighborhoods. • District Six (Highway 14 East). This district has the potential to be quite busy once the economy begins to pick back up, and planning for specific dispersal of mixed-use elements within the area would help focus new growth in a healthy and effective manner. • District Two (Old Farm Lane). This district is heavily illustrated in Section II, but might benefit from additional examination and detail, especially given the likelihood of redevelopment, and the variety of uses designated as appropriate for the district. Northern Infrastructure Delivery Plan. As mentioned in Section II, it can be more cost-effective and less disruptive if service need is identified and addressed before the bulk of development occurs. The City would indeed be “going out on a limb” somewhat by installing infrastructure before users have committed, Sample image: Community park space IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.11 questions. However, the payoff for appearances on Main Street may be worth the effort. Walkable Schools Initiative. The benefits of walking to school are varied and well-documented: Daily walks (even short ones) reduce obesity and create healthier children; increased pedestrian activity makes for a safer public environment; and the more kids who walk or bike to school, the fewer there are in cars – reducing traffic around the schools. The challenge becomes coordinating the disparate efforts necessary to make walkable schools feasible. One facet is the creation of interconnected trail network, providing safe and unobstructed links between schools and residential neighborhoods. The other is helping to change the driving mindset, so that parents and kids see the benefits of walking, and feel comfortable doing so. This initiative would be a joint effort between the City and the School System, and would be contingent in some part on planning for the trail network. The initiative would not only talk about the benefits of walking or cycling, but would also ask parents to advocate for the trail network, and possibly for smaller-scale neighborhood schools. Bike Route Identification and Signage. One of the first potential physical implementation projects, this would locate (as part of the Trail Network Plan) existing surface streets that would plug into the proposed trail network. Design and installation of signage would follow, identifying which streets were part of the coming network. The benefits would include not only a potential increase in cycling, but greater awareness of the Trail Network project. New Library Analysis. The current facility is in extreme disrepair and by all accounts needs to be replaced or relocated. The analysis should look at costs to repair Review and Evaluate Waste Management Services. This project stems out of a couple of recurring comments. The first was the issue of garbage pick-up in the historic district, and the unsightly appearance that is currently alleged. The second, and larger, issue is that of the eventual disposal of the waste, and the related approach to recycling. The initial step in any effort would likely be some level of community outreach, couple with a steering committee consisting of staff members from the appropriate departments. Trail Segment Feasibility Studies. The second step in the Parks and Trail Network Plan, this would begin to look directly at segments, and figure out the best and most cost effective routes. Most likely a joint effort between the City Planning and Engineering staffs and potentially outside parks consultants, the end product would represent a street-specific maps of paths and routes, and would precede the generation of construction documents for the off-street paths and trails. Utility Relocation Study – East Main Street. A purely aesthetic concern, nonetheless the tangle of utility poles and wires along the primary corridor into Downtown is not an ideal visual. The two main tacks for the study should be related to costing (relocation vs. burial), and if the former is to be pursued, outlining potential back-of-parcel routes for the relocated lines. This will need to be accompanied by a policy document outlining the standards for relocation: Will the City do it wholesale, and which entities would fund the effort? Under what redevelopment conditions would relocation be required? If adjacent sections do not relocate simultaneously, how is that “staggering” of service handled? The political and process questions are likely as complex, if not moreso, than the engineering Bike route signage IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.12 beneficial to the City as a whole. A secondary, but no less important, concern is shaping the retail and commercial growth that is likely to take place at the interchange. It is important that the development be complementary to – rather than competitive with – the commercial uses as the two southern interchanges. • West. This is, for the most part, an exercise in filling in the current gaps – primarily to improve the cost and efficiency of service delivery. Development pressure is less in this direction, but annexation might still be advisable in order to ensure that some new development does not attempt to skirt City regulations. City-Wide Zoning Review and Rewrite. This is a key step in implementing Project Prattville and should be considered an item of the highest priority. Many of the current recommendations for projects or for future land use would be rather difficult if not prohibited under the current zoning. However, this is a fairly significant task, and might require additional resources for the Planning Department. Downtown Design Guidelines. This advent of the Historic District was an important victory for preservation efforts Downtown. However, the creation and adoption of a set of graphic-based design guidelines might also be of help. The document would not only remove some of the grey area with regards to what is allowable stylistically within the district, but also might clarify it to the point of making the district more accessible to redevelopment. Potential products would have a better idea – from inception – what would be acceptable with regards to development proposals. At the same time, it would help insure continuity among new and old projects, maintaining the distinct character that is the hallmark of Downtown. vs. costs to relocate vs. costs to build new. The existing City Hall was mentioned as a potential relocation site, and the benefits to Downtown of having the library located there would be great. However, should relocation be the preferred option, it is suggested to that a broad site inspection effort be made, to see what properties would work best programmatically and which would be most cost-effective. Regulatory Annexation Proceedings. Annexation is not necessarily a process that should be undertaken lightly, but during the Project Prattville effort, several crucial directions were identified. In these instances, it is important for the City to have more direct control over new development or redevelopment, to insure that the vision of the community is realized. • East. Oriented primarily towards filling in “the holes” between the City boundary and I-65, this also would assist in addressing the municipal control issues between Autauga and Elmore Counties. Most of the land to the east would fall in Planning District Two – Old Farm Lane. Identified as one of the prime growth areas, it is extremely important that the City be able to dictate the development tone in this area. • North. The logical boundary being I-65 and the logical extents being the Pine Level interchange, the Northern Growth Area (as this plan has called it) represents the most ideal directions for residential development. Though the western edge is not defined, it would be advisable at the least to control the Martin Luther King, Kingston Road, and US 31 North corridors as far as Pine Level. Incorporating this area will allow the City to set quality development standards, ensuring that new growth occurs in a manner that is Sample image: Design guidelines IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.13 Downtown Façade Grant Program. This type of program is set up to assist owners with making capital improvements to their properties, especially those along primary and historic corridor like East Main Street Downtown. Most often basing awards upon the square footage of the building in question, funds can be used for projects like: • Renovations to any exterior elevation visible from the public right-of-way; • Improvements to any elements currently grandfathered out of compliance. For example, landscaping or signage; • Some or all of the architectural fees associated with redesign; • Some or all material costs associated with the renovations; • Demolition of vacant and dilapidated structures. These are just some of the items that could be included, based on Staff’s assessment of need. Applicants would have to meet stated eligibility requirements – for example, the property is within stated district boundaries; it will contain no non-conforming uses by code; there are no delinquent fees or taxes for the property – and the project would have to further the Community Objectives stated herein, or alternately specified in the program charter. The plan could be administered either by City staff, or by the DDA if available. Downtown Revolving Loan Fund (RLF). Similar to the façade grant program, an RLF can help with small business development, making it easier to attract tenant to some of the existing historic spaces. The RLF can be funded by Federal, State or Local sources, including programs like TIFs or set-asides, bonds or CDB Grants. Eligible businesses would be held to standards of financing, and would be required to submit items like business plans, credit history and collateral, among others. They would be judged based on their compliance with the intent of the Community Objectives – for instance, job creation, creating a stable business environment, revitalizing Downtown, etc. IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.14 Transportation Projects The following list of transportation projects (figure 1.3, following pages) was developed through traffic analyses, field observations, discussions with City leaders, and dialogue with citizens. The recommendations were selected to address existing deficiencies and future anticipated needs for a horizon year of 2035. The list of projects is divided into short and long term projects (note the time frame difference between this list and the Implementation Projects - primarily due to DOT policies), with short term defined as projects that could be substantially completed within seven years and long tern defined as projects that are either not needed in the short term or would take more than seven years to implement. Within these time horizons, projects are classified by type: capacity projects, traffic operations and safety projects, street connectivity projects, and system management projects. Figure 1.4 (subsequent page) illustrates the location of each of the local projects. Short- and Medium-Term Capacity Projects U.S. Highway 82 • Complete widening to a four-lane median divided cross section for all portions of U.S. Highway 82 between U.S. 31 and Malone Court. • Add a second left turn lane to the northbound and westbound approaches at U.S. Highway 82 and U.S. Highway 31. • Add turn lanes on US 82 at Washington Ferry Road, Gawain Drive, Gin Shop Hill Road, and Indian Hills Road. • The widening project is currently under design by the Alabama Department of Transportation. In the space of two days I had evolved two plans, wholly distinct, both of which were equally feasible. The point I am trying to bring out is that one does not plan and then try to make circumstances fit those plans. One tries to make plans fit the circumstances... Gen. George Patton IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.15 Figure: 1.3 - Transportation Projects List, Part I IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.16 Figure: 1.4 - Transportation Projects List, Part II IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.17 Figure: 1.4 - Transportation Projects Map January 2009 Charac te r Area s � � � � � � ����� � ������ ����������������June 2009 [BLANK BASE] New Road LEGEND Improve Existing Road Implement Access Management Optimize or Install Traffic Signal Modify Interchange TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS Improve Intersection IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.18 Fairview Avenue & Fairview Extension • Add left-turn lanes on Fairview Avenue at its intersections with Edgewood Avenue, Sycamore Drive, Brookhaven Drive, and Diane Drive. • Construct a new four-lane median divided roadway to extend from existing AL Highway 14 near Jasmine Trail to U.S. Highway 31. Re- align Powell Road to intersect U.S. Highway 31 opposite the new Fairview Extension and re-align Fairview Avenue to create a “T” intersection with the Fairview Extension. Cobbs Ford Road @ I-65. Commission an interchange modification study to identify appropriate measures for improving capacity and operations. Traffic Operations & Safety Projects U.S. Highway 31 north of 6th Street. Add left-turn lanes at major public street intersections. AL Highway 14 west of U.S. Highway 82 • Add left-turn lanes at the intersection of County Road 27. McQueen Smith Road • Widen the southern portion of McQueen Smith Road between East Main Street and U.S. Highway 31 to a four-lane median divided cross section. • In the area just south of East Main Street, provide a center turn lane instead of a median in order to accommodate access to the adjacent commercial businesses. • Include a multi-use path on the west side of McQueen Smith Road throughout the limits of the project. • Modify the intersection at East Main Street to provide two through lanes northbound and southbound on McQueen Smith Road. • Install a traffic signal at Tara Drive and coordinate its timing with all other signals between East Main Street and U.S. Highway 31. • Modify the existing traffic signal at U.S. Highway 82 to accommodate additional travel lanes on McQueen Smith and include a protected left turn phase for McQueen Smith Road. • Modify the intersection at U.S. Highway 31 to provide dual left turn lanes from McQueen Smith Road to southbound U.S. 31 and install a traffic signal. • This project is currently under design. Old Farm Lane • Re-construct the existing two-lane road to provide an improved four-lane median divided roadway from Lowe’s home improvement store to AL Highway 14. • Include sidewalk and bicycle accommodations. • The north section of this project is under design. The southern portion, near Lowe’s, has already been designed and is awaiting right-of-way acquisition. Powell Rd. & Fairview Extension IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.19 O l d F a r m L a n e - “ A f t e r ” Note: All grAphic imAges showN here Are represeNtAtive of developmeNt poteNtiAl only, ANd do not iNdicAte ActuAl projectsL O O K I N G N O R T H O l d F a r m L a n e - “ B e f o r e ” IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.20 • AL Highway 14 @ I-65 ramps Access management corridors. Designate the following roadways as access management corridors and conduct studies to identify areas for access management retrofit and/or new access standards for development or re-development. • AL Highway 14 between County Road 4 & U.S. Highway 82 • U.S. Highway 31 between U.S. Highway 82 and Fairview Avenue • East Main Street between U.S. Highway 31 and Jeanette Drive • Cobbs Ford Road between U.S. Highway 82 and Silver Hills Drive • Old Farm Lane • McQueen Smith Road Implement policies to promote access management consideration as part of the site plan approval process. School Traffic Management Plans. Conduct a detailed traffic study and traffic management plan for each public school within the City of Prattville. Neighborhood Traffic Management Plans. Conduct neighborhood traffic management plans for neighborhoods with documented traffic concerns, such as Sheila Boulevard, Greystone Way, and Jasmine Trail. Park & Ride Lots. Coordinate with Central Alabama Regional Planning Commission to establish one or two park and ride lots. Possible locations for the lot(s) would be in the vicinity of U.S. Highway 31 @ U.S. Highway 82 and/or Cobbs Ford Road @ I-65. • Re-align Airport Road to intersect AL Highway 14 opposite County Road 29 and add turn lanes on AL 14 at the modified intersection. • Add left-turn lanes at the intersection of Old Autaugaville Road. • Between County Road 4 and U.S. 82, require the addition of turn lanes on AL 14 with any new development. East Main Street between Jeanette Street and New Moon Drive (at railroad underpass). Modify signing and striping at the westbound lane drop to improve driver expectancy and traffic safety. Upper Kingston Road & Bridge Creek Road. Modify the intersection to remove the Y configuration and make Upper Kingston road the primary route. Street Connectivity Projects Simmons Road. Construct a two-lane local street connection between Northington and Red Eagle Roads. Poplar Street. Construct a bridge to connect Poplar Street across Pine Creek. Jay Street. Construct an extension of Jay Street from Chantel Drive to McQueen Smith Road. System Management Traffic Signal Optimization. Update traffic signal timing at the following locations: • Cobbs Ford Road / East Main Street system • U.S. Highway 31 system from East Main Street to Fairview Avenue • Downtown traffic signals Neighborhood traffic management IMPLEMENTATIONS e c t i o n 3 . 1 P R O J E C TPRAT T VILLE THE NEXT CHAPTER P R O J E C T PRATTVILLE3.21 Old Ridge Road. Improve the curvature and cross section of this existing two-lane rural road from AL Highway 14 to U.S. Highway 31. The number of future travel lanes will depend on intensity of development in the sector north of AL Highway 14. One option would be to construct a two-lane median divided facility within right-of-way that is sufficient to contain an ultimate build out of four travel lanes with median. New Connector road between Old Ridge Road & Upper Kingston Rd. Design and construct a new east/west connector road to accommodate travel demands associated with future development in this area. Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Projects Install fiber optic cable for traffic signal communication and other ITS applications along the following corridors: • Old Farm Lane from Cobbs Ford Road to AL Highway 14 (this will be accomplished as part of the Old Farm Lane roadway re-construction project) • McQueen Smith Road from AL Highway 14 to U.S. Highway 31 (the section from East Main Street to US 31 is planned to be accomplished as part of the McQueen Smith Road widening project) • Cobbs Ford Road from I-65 to Silver Hills Drive • AL Highway 14 from I-65 to McQueen Smith Road Long and Extended Term Capacity Projects New Connector road between U.S. Highway 82 and County Road 4. Construct this previously designed connector to improve accessibility to developable property along County Road 4. The road would need to be undertaken in conjunction with a specific development agreement. U.S. Highway 31 north of 6th Street to I-65. Widen to a four-lane median divided cross section with bike/ pedestrian accommodation. Cobbs Ford Road @ I-65. Modify the interchange based on the recommendations of an interchange modification study. New Interchange @ I-65. Commission an Interchange Justification Study (IJS) to examine and document the need for a new interstate interchange with I-65 between AL Highway 14 and U.S. Highway 31. Proceed based on IJS recommendations. One of the great mistakes is to judge policies and programs by their intentions rather than their results... Milton Friedman