Title
Resolution to Endorse Locally Preferred Alternative for the Peninsula Bus Rapid Transit
Purpose
PURPOSE/BACKGROUND:
Hampton Roads Transit is seeking an endorsement from City Council on Locally Preferred Alternative for the Peninsula BRT Project. City Council was briefed on the project in February.
Discussion:
Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) updated City Council on the BRT Study that was initiated a few years ago. HRT worked with staff and the public to identify potential options for implementing bus rapid transit in Hampton and Newport News. The objective was to identify a preferred alternative for where bus rapid transit may run in the two cities and complete the environmental study required to position the project for potential future federal and state transit development funds. Both Hampton and Newport News City Councils are being asked to endorse the preferred alternative before its finalized.
Impact:
No fiscal impact.
Recommendation:
Rec
Adopt resolution to endorse LPA for the Peninsula BRT.
Body
WHEREAS, Hampton Roads Transit ("HRT"), on behalf of the Federal Transit Administration has produced a draft Documented Categorical Exclusion ("CE") for review and comment;
WHEREAS, the CE includes an evaluation of a bus rapid transit ("BRT") alignment along Jefferson Avenue and Mercury Boulevard;
WHEREAS, the CE also included an evaluation of alternatives to the aforementioned alignment, including a "No-Build" option;
WHEREAS, HRT has presented the results of the CE at virtual public meetings and solicited public comment;
WHEREAS, on February 10, 2021, HRT provided a briefing to City Council to inform the Council on a potential Locally Preferred Alternative;
WHEREAS, based on the technical analysis, public comments, and fiscal conditions, City staff has concurred with HRT and recommended the Jefferson Avenue and Mercury Boulevard alternative with BRT as the mode to be designated as the Locally Preferred Alternative at this time;
WHEREAS, the Council desires to officially select the Locally Preferred Alternative; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HAMPTON, VIRGINIA, THAT:
The City Council hereby selects Bus Rapid Transit technology on the Jefferson Avenue and Mercury Boulevard alternative as the Locally Preferred Alternative of the Peninsula Bus Rapid Transit Documented Categorical Exclusion; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT:
The City Clerk is hereby directed to transmit this Resolution to the Transportation District Commission of Hampton Roads, the Hampton Roads Transportation Planning Organization, the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation, and the Federal Transit Administration.