STRATEGIC PRIORITY: Transportation & Infrastructure
AGENDA DATE: May 24, 2023
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): 11
DEPARTMENT: Department of Transportation
EXECUTIVE: Dr. Robert Perez
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SUBJECT
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Authorize a resolution to support Dallas Area Rapid Transit’s Detailed Application to the Texas Department of Transportation 2023 Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program Call for Projects which includes funding to construct segments of the Cotton Belt Trail in the City of Dallas - Financing: No cost consideration to the City
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BACKGROUND
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) issued a statewide Call for Projects in December 2022 for communities to apply for funding assistance through the Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside (TASA) Program for development of engineering (plans, specifications, and estimates and environmental documentation) and construction of pedestrian and/or bicycle infrastructure.
Since 2018, Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) has been working cooperatively with the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) and respective cities along the Silver Line Corridor on a regional partnership to design and construct the Cotton Belt/Silver Line Rail Trail (“Trail”) within the DART owned rail right-of-way.
DART is coordinating engineering design and construction of the Trail through the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and entering into necessary agreements with FTA to construct the Trail with funding awarded for the project.
On February 9, 2023, the NCTCOG’s Regional Transportation Council approved a partnership with DART to provide support and funding contribution to DART’s application submittals for the TxDOT TASA Call for Projects and the U.S. Department of Transportation 2023 Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity Grant Program.
DART intends to submit an application for TASA Funds by June 2, 2023, which will include funding to construct segments of the Cotton Belt Trail in the City of Dallas, specifically: (1) the section from northbound Dallas North Tollway to Campbell Road; and (2) the section from the Hillcrest Road bridge to Meandering Way. The TASA Funds require a local match comprised of cash contributions or Transportation Development Credits, if eligible.
The NCTCOG and DART will coordinate funding for cost overruns, if any, for construction of the Trail. Upon completion, the City of Dallas will be responsible for maintenance of the Trail.
TxDOT requires DART to submit a resolution of support from the City of Dallas as part of the 2023 TASA Call for Projects Detailed Application submission.
PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (COUNCIL, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS)
This item has no prior action.
FISCAL INFORMATION
No cost consideration to the City.
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