FacilitiesTransportation Highlights 2011 0614

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4. Discussion Regarding Begier Avenue Driveway Approaches Ken Joseph gave a PowerPoint presentation regarding Begier Avenue driveway approaches. Prior to February 2001, property owners paid fully for replacement of residential driveways. After February 2001, Council amended the Administrative Code to partner with the property owner and pay 50% of driveway reconstruction. The program was funded by the general fund but is currently suspended due to lack of funds. The 22 driveways on Begier Avenue have a number of issues. Drainage is slowed or blocked by asphalt overlay and other materials and street flooding and pavement deterioration are among the issues. The project includes removing the asphalt overlay and restoring the original gutter, removing all other driveway materials, lowering the crown of the street and restoring gutter drainage. Staff recommends that Begier Avenue driveways be repaired due to deterioration. Discussed ensued. Staff answered questions from the Committee. Councilmember Cutter asked if all 22 properties on Begier Avenue will need to have the work done. Ken stated that at least eight properties have severe issues, but all properties will need the work completed. Councilmember Starosciak asked if funds are available to fund the project on Begier Avenue. Uche explained that the funds are available for streets and staff recommends that the funds be used for the driveway work on Begier Avenue. Ken explained that discussion may be necessary to review the Administrative Code in the future. Staff recommends modifying the policy to include a clause regarding lack of funding, work to be done on only the most severe driveway issues worsened by street rehabilitation and exclude rolled curb streets. Councilmember Souza stated that the policy of 50% responsibility is a good policy but has concerns about the exclusion of the rolled curbs. She stated that she has concerns that right now we have a balanced budget and staff is requesting $22,000 in Measure B money for the work on Begier Avenue. Councilmember Starosciak stated that she has concerns with the exclusion of the rolled curbs. Councilmember Cutter asked that a letter can be sent to property owners explaining the process. Ken stated that typically staff will hold a neighborhood meeting to explain the project following a letter to property owners. Committee Recommendation The Committee recommends that staff propose the amendment of the Administrative Code regarding the Substandard Residential Driveways to the City Council. Propose schedule of award of construction project on Begier Avenue approaches. 5. Public Comments None 6. Committee Member Comments Councilmember Starosciak commented that EBMUD is doing pipe work under the street on Burkhart. She asked if the asphalt that it is putting in place will be removed when the work is completed. Keith Cooke stated that EBMUD will be removing the asphalt that is protecting the temporary piping when the work is complete.