2A Work Session 2014 0211 - Laserfiche WebLink

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File Number: 14-030 following projects and programs, totaling an estimated $500,000 from the General Fund and $224,000 from Measure B, for implementation in FY 2014-15. LINKS Shuttle Service (estimated at $50,000, annually): The LINKS shuttle service provides free transit between the Downtown San Leandro BART station and the industrial area. The San Leandro Transportation Management Organization, in partnership with the City, is presently assessing service and routing options for the LINKS shuttle service in advance of a balloting process for renewal of the LINKS Business Improvement District later this year. Although specific needs have not been fully defined, service adjustments are needed to increase the frequency of service and/or shorten the time required to transport workers between BART and their workplaces. An ongoing source of financial support from the City would replace funding that was previously provided by the San Leandro Redevelopment Agency and assist with the process of enhancing the service. A more specific set of service changes and funding needs will be presented to the City Council later this year. Restaurant Incentive Program ($100,000): A consistent theme in the Next Generation Study (and ongoing feedback from businesses in the industrial area) is the shortage of restaurants in the area. A fully interactive workplace district needs communal gathering places and restaurants are one of the best ways to meet this need. Although proposed changes to the Zoning Code will increase the available locations for restaurants, the costs involved in converting an industrial facility to a restaurant still present a major obstacle. This program would provide financial incentives of up to $50,000 to two new restaurants in the form of grants for tenant improvements or impact fee abatements. Program parameters, which have not yet been developed, would limit funding to proposed restaurants that meet specified criteria and advance the goals of the Next Generation Study. Enhanced Business Engagement: A key theme in the Next Generation Study was the need to consistently recognize and interact with the business community that is already here. Building upon existing Business Development practices, participants will set up quarterly meetings among business development staff and partners to coordinate engagement activities. This involves scheduling on-site meetings with existing companies to learn about their concerns, understand their business, identify obstacles and challenges to their growth, and build consensus for district -wide improvements. Business meetings can include the City Manager, Mayor, City staff and Chamber of Commerce leadership, as necessary. This program may not require direct costs but will require increased coordination between staff, Councilmembers, and the Chamber of Commerce. Bicycle Lane Improvements ($224,000 from Measure B): A key component of "humanizing" the industrial area is improving facilities for pedestrians and bicyclists. This recommendation involves prioritizing the remaining segments of bike routes in the industrial areas as indicated in the City's Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, especially on "The Spine" and "B" streets identified in the Next Generation Study. Staff will also consider enhancements to existing and proposed bike lane routes connecting the San Leandro BART station with the new Kaiser medical complex. Construction costs identified in the Master Plan are $20,000-$80,000 per mile depending on the bike path classification. Funding can be obtained from Measure B revenues, so this recommendation involves a shift in project phasing rather than appropriation of new funds. • Bike Lane Route Costs: City of San Leandro Page 3 Printed on 21412014