The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink AboutCC AG PKT 2008-07-14 #GGAGENDA STAFF REPORT DATE: July 14, 2008 TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council THRU: David Carmany, City Manager FROM: Vince Mastrosimone, Director of Public Works SUBJECT: GO LOCAL PROGRAM SUMMARY OF REQUEST: It is requested that the City Council approve the Go Local Project concepts outlined herein; direct staff to pursue Step 2 funding from OCTA and continue the partnership with the City of Los Alamitos to continue this project. BACKGROUND: The Orange County Transportation Authority's (OCTA) Go Local Program • provides an opportunity for cities to develop their own local transit vision for the future by creating local transit solutions including connectivity to Metrolink stations as well as major employment, residential and activity centers. This is the first step of the Go Local Program. The City responded to OCTA's request by partnering with the City of Los Alamitos to address transit opportunities through a collaborative effort. The consultant, IBI Group, was authorized to complete a needs analysis for the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach that would focus on a resident opinion survey and study possible extensions to Metrolink. The joint study process included a profiling of community demographics and existing transportation services; a study of local transit needs; outreach and stakeholder consultation; identification and analysis of a select number of potential park and ride and transit center sites; and the development of conceptual alternatives and analysis regarding potential transportation solutions. In addition to the Project Concepts Report summarizing the project, several working papers have also been prepared including: Needs Assessment Report; Survey Summary Report and a Park and Ride Site Analysis Report. Preliminary Project Concepts have now been developed, leading to an opportunity to advance to Step 2 OCTA Go Local funding. Step 2 of OCTA's Go Local program is a competitive process providing monies to further develop • selected project concepts including detailed design, service planning, preliminary engineering, etc. Agenda Item G G Public Opinion Surve A public opinion survey was administered through the City's website as well as • approximately 5,000 mailed out to residents in the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach. Close to twelve percent (12%) or 562 responded. The survey was designed to solicit input on local transportation needs and opportunities for potential improvements. It is anticipated that gift certificates will be given out to responders as an incentive reward for filling out the survey. When asked their opinion about important transportation issues and opportunities, the majority of respondents indicated street congestion as the most important transportation issue for the City. Freeway congestion, transit service improvements and street maintenance are also identified by respondents as significant issues. However, fifty-two percent (52%) of the respondents did mention "public transit" as very important in meeting their city's future transportation needs. When asked about the types of public transit improvements desired, more direct or express service was given the highest priority, followed by the prospect of Park & Ride lots with shuttle service to Metrolink Stations. Twelve percent (12%) of respondents answered that they or a member of their household had used the OCTA bus service within the previous week; only four percent (4%) had used Metrolink. Stakeholder Consultation /Public Outreach • The consultation and public outreach task includes three key constituencies: elected officials; the public or residents; and stakeholders including the business community, and major employers and the Joint Forces Training Base. Elected officials from the City of Sea! Beach cited congestion hot spots as well as parking challenges in the beach/pier area. There was general consensus that the transportation/mobility needs of select market segments such as older adults has been addressed with the City's participation in OCTA's Senior Mobility Program and transportation services provided to the residents of Leisure World. Elected officials from the City of Los Alamitos provided insight into local transportation issues including: concern that Western Orange County is underserved by OCTA transit services; specific congestion hot spots; redevelopment potential of select sites on major corridors; on-street/off-street parking issues; the need for transit to shoulder a greater share of the mobility burden; and opportunities for express and high speed transit services on select corridors and exclusive rights-of-way. The public outreach effort included an open house style public meeting on April 29th at the Los Alamitos Community Center, where approximately 20 people • attended. Attendees identified key travel requirements including their desire for more express services to key destinations both locally and regionally ranging from Metrolink (to access both Los Angeles destinations and South County) to Anaheim/ Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC) and activity centers in the vicinity. • A second public meeting was held at Leisure World on May 12~'. This meeting proved to be an education for several attendees who learned of available transportation resources including OCTA's fixed route and Access services, the City of Seal Beach's Senior Bus and the transportation provided by the Golden Rain Foundation for Leisure World residents. Transit Needs and Opportunities Analvsis 1. Needs: Key findings from the Needs Analysis included: • Address congestion on Seal Beach /Los Alamitos Boulevard. • Address congestion on Katella Avenue. • Address seasonal and special event parking challenges at Seal Beach pier & beach • Need for efficient public transit as acost-effective alternative to the private automobile as well as continuing to meet the mobility needs of the transit dependent populations • Need for express access to Metrolink, Anaheim/ARTIC, South County and the Blue Line 2. Opportunities: S Key findings from the Opportunities Analysis included: • Transit as the economic engine for community development & enhanced quality of life • Redevelopment potential of select sites on major corridors (i.e., Los Alamitos Boulevard and Katella Avenue) • Local concepts to complement other regional initiatives: ^ OC/LA Intercounty Transportation Study: (possible high speed transit on the Pacific Electric Right of Way) ^ OCTA future Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) routes Recommended Project Conce is The following project concepts have been designed to best meet the transportation needs of residents of West Orange County in general and the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach specifically. The following provides an overview of three Go Local Step 1 Project Concepts. 1. Park ~ Ride/Transit Center in the vicinity of Katella Ave. & 1-605 Freeway • Complement Katella Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route (east /west access to Anaheim /ARTIC) • Reduce congestion on Seal Beach Boulevard -Route traffic to 405 • ' ~ / 605 Freeways • Freeway access & egress improvements 2. Express Bus Service from I-605 / I-5 Freeways to Commerce Metrolink (and possibly Norwalk Green Line Station) 3. Beach Access: Sat. & Sun. (from Memorial Day to Labor Day as well as Sly 4th and other special events) • huttle from mayor employer site (i.e., possibly Boeing) Concepts 1 and 2 provide connectivity to Metrolink stations and will further enhance OCTA's BRT initiative. They may also complement regional transportation solutions resulting from the OC/LA Intercounty Transportation Study. Concept 3, while not providing connectivity to Metrolink, has emerged as a key local need and opportunity. Due to the cancellation of the June 23rd City Council meeting and a deadline to complete the project by June 30th, these concepts have been forwarded to the OCTA by staff. Any City Council comments will be forwarded to the OCTA Board. Next Steos In order to advance these local and regional transportation initiatives, a funding application for OCTA Step 2 Go Local monies will need to be made. In a continued partnership with the City of Seal Beach, the City of Los Alamitos will maintain responsibility as the lead agency. It is proposed that funding be requested from OCTA for professional assistance • to: • Further develop the Park & Ride /Transit Center concept and ancillary transit coordination (OCTA and Long Beach Transit); Conduct preliminary operational and service planning in concert with OCTA officials (and Long Beach Transit) regarding an opportunity for express bus service on I-605 / I-5 Freeways to the Commerce Metrolink Station; and • Further develop the Seal Beach Beach Bus concept including further Park and Ride site selection and analysis and further review of operational options including possible expansion of the Senior Mobility Bus contract. A Beach Bus would not be funded under the Senior Mobility Bus Program. However, if proven financial viable and sustainable, may be eligible for funding through OCTA's proposed Local Circulator Program. This program has yet to be fully developed. FINANCIAL IMPACT: No direct impact at this time. It is estimated that further analysis of the three recommended project concepts would cost approximately $140,000. OCTA's Step 2 Go Local funding requires a ten percent local contribution. In advancing a • Step 2 funding request, the Cities of Seal Beach and Los Alamitos are requested to each commit to a $7,000 contribution. If deemed eligible and selected by OCTA, a Step 2 work plan for these Project Concepts may be underway by December 2008. Staff will return with an appropriation request if OCTA opts to consider a Step 2 project. • RECOMMENDATION: It is respectfully recommended that the City Council approve the Go Local Project concepts outlined herein; direct staff to pursue Step 2 funding from OCTA and continue the partnership with the City of Los Alamitos on this project. U I Vi ce Mastro Attachments: BY: mone, Director of Public Works NOTED AND APPROVED: ~l~-~ David Carmany, City Manager A. Go Local Final Report • Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach Go Local Program • Project Concept /Step 1 Report IBI June 2008 cur • Cities Los Alamitos and Seal Beech Project Concept Final Repod Go Local Progn~-n • TABLE OF CONTENTS Summary of Project ........................ ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ....... 2 Study Questions ................................. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ....... 3 Methodology Used ........................... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ....... 4 Results ... ... ... ... ... ... ....... g .................................................. Findings ................................................ ... ... ... ... ... ... .......12 Negt Steps ............................................. ... ... ... ... ... ... .......19 Cl • t • Citles ofLos Alamibs and SealBeach Project ConceptFin~Report Go Local Program • Summary of Project Go Local is a program created by the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) that provides funding through transit grants, encouraging 34 cities within Orange County to take the lead is planning transit extensions from local Metroliak stations to major employment, residential and activity centers, so that residents of Orange County can improve transit access to Metroliak service. Beginning is early 2008, the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach undertook a cooperative effort to define a vision for transit for their Go Local programs, resulting is this Go Local Project Concept Report. Based upon the defined vision, the Go Local Program of these two West Orange County cities is developing enhancements to a future transit system emphasizing connections to Metrolink and developing project concepts to compete for OCTA Go Local funds. The play recommends concepts that have bees designed to best meet the transportation needs of residents is West Orange County is general and the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach specifically. Two of the concepts are a direct enhancement to what will soon be a frequent, all-day Metrolink train service and will contribute to improved connectivity to the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC) and Commerce Metroliak stations. Further, these concepts will further enhance OCTA's Bus rapid Transit (BRT) initiative as well as complement regional solutions resulting from the Orange County/Los Angeles (OC/LA) Iatercounty Transportation Study. This Project Concepts Report provides quantitative and qualitative analysis consistent with the Orange • County Transportation Authority's Go Local program evaluation criteria. Project Concepts emerged from needs and opportunities identified by key stakeholders and residents including: • Address congestion on Seal Beach /Los Alamitos Blvd. . Address congestion on Katella Ave. • Address seasonal and special event parking challenges at Seal Beach pies & beach • The seed for efficient public transit as acost-effective alternative to the private automobile as well as continuing to meet the mobility needs of the transit dependent populations • Need for express access to Metrolink, Anaheim/ARTIC, South County & Blue Lice • Transit as the economic engine for community development & enhanced quality of life • Redevelopment potential of select sites on major corridors (i.e., Los Alamitos Blvd. and Katella) • Local concepts to complement other regional initiatives: ^ OC/LA Intercounty Transportation Study: (possible high speed transit oa PE ROW) ^ OCTA future BRT routes Go Local Projects 1. Park & Ride/Transit Center at I{atella and I-605 '~ 2. Express Bus Service: I-605/I-5 to Commerce Metrolink (& possibly Norwalk Green Line Station) 3. Beach Access: Saturday & Sunday, July 4~ and Special Events (from Memorial Day to Labor Day) In order to advance these local and regional transportation initiatives, a funding application for OCTA Step 2 Go Local monies will need to be made. Ia a continued partnership with the City of Seal Beach, the City of Los Alamitos will maintain responsibility as the lead agency. It is proposed that $140,000 be requested for professional assistance to: • 2 OCTA Cities ofLos Alamlbs and Seal Beach Project Corxx~pf Final Report Go Local Program • Further develop the Pazk & Ride /Transit Center concept and ancillary transit coordination (OCTA and Long Beach Transit); • Conduct preliminary operational and service planning in consort with OCTA officials (and Long Beach Transit) regazdiag as opportunity for express bus service on I-605 / I-5 to the Commerce Metrolink Station; and • Further develop the Seal Beach Beach Bur concept including further Pazk and Ride site selection and analysis and further review of operational options including possible expansion of the Senior Mobility Bus contract. A Beacb Br~r would not be funded under the Senior Mobility Bus Program. However, if proven financial viable and sustainable, may be eligible for funding through OCTA's proposed Local Circulator Program. This program has yet to be fully developed. With the participation of the two cities, each wi71 commit to an approximate $7,000 contribution for a total often percent of the funding request. Study Questions The key objective of the Go Local Step 1 work plan was to identify transportation needs in general and solidt community input through the administration of a public opinion survey and meetings with key stakeholders. Further, the purposes of the Go Local Project Concepts Plan for the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal • Beach include: • To increase transportation system modal options and person-carrying capacity without increasing mobile source emissions; • To m;n;**+;~e neighborhood and environment impacts; • To have overall public support, achieved through an extensive public dialogue; • To support public policy direction and local plans; • To be cost-effective, safe and attractive, and tie into the greater regional system; • To stimulate and support economic and land use development objectives in the cities by providing access to major activity centers and corridors, thereby strengthening travel connections iatemally and between the cities and Metroliak stations; and • To address people-moving capacity deficiencies in the existing roadway network/corridors. The following challenges need to be addressed for the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach: • Address congestion on Seal Beach /Los Alamitos Blvd. • Address congestion on Katella Ave. • Address pazkiag challenges at Seal Beach pier & beach • The need for efficient public transit as acost-effective alternative to private automobile as well as continuing to meet the mobility needs of the transit dependent populations • Need for express access to Metroliak, Anaheim/ARTIC, South County and the Blue Lice Cltles ofLos Alarrdtos and Seal Beach Project Concepf Final Repot Go Local Program • Methodology Used The Go Local study for the two West Orange County Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach presents a strategy to meet current and future mobility aeeds and guide the development of transit projects over the next 25 yeazs. The technical evaluation in this study is guided by the criteria and measures based oa OCTA's Go Local Program guidelines. The study effort began is early 2008 as a partnership with the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach. In the future, this partnership will play a key role in supporting the commuter network and multiple activity centers. Much of the study analysis and needs assessment was combined for both cities. Ia developing a Project Concepts Plan for the Go Local Program that would be reflective of these two West Orange County cities' dynamic characteristics, stakeholder consultation/public participation was vital. Throughout the study process, stakeholders were encouraged to provide their ideas and feedback on the process, a transit vision as well as emerging concepts. This feedback was used in conjunction with technical analysis to identify alternatives and refine them resulting is the project concepts introduced above. A series of working reports shaped the plan: Needs A.rretimeslt Report, Survey Surxrnary Report, and Park and Ride Site Analyri.r Report. • The Needy A.rterrment Report evaluated the current and future transit aeeds is the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach through an assessment of demographics, load use, travel patterns, and the existing and planned transportation network. Transit need was assessed using a variety of land use • and transportation criteria, resulting is the identification of potential corridors that would benefit from either ahigh-capacity system or increased local bus service. • The Survey Rerultt Report presented a summary of the results of the household/public opinion survey. Salient results are presented below in the Results section of this report. • The Park and Ride Site Analyrir Report presents the results of a detailed analysis of select sites is both the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach. A key element of the work plan included a comprehensive public outreach program. The goal of the outreach program was to raise public awareness of the Go Local Study and to engage stakeholders in a dialogue to identify how transit may provide solutions to current and future transportation challenges and provide usable feedback for consideration by the technical study team. The following activities and tasks have been undertaken by the public outreach program: • Established outreach infrastructure: database, hotline and email address • Developed meeting notice for the tavo community open houses • Created Study slide for use oa the cities' cable stations • Drafted press releases and media advisories for the two community open houses • Coordinated and facilitated the open houses at the Los Alamitos Community Center and Leisure World in Seal Beach • ,. Created information fact sheet 4 OCTA Cities ofLos Alamitos and Seel Beach Project Concept Final Repot (a'o Local Program • Coordinated distribution of stakeholder survey • Scheduled and conducted briefings with counal members from both cities • Scheduled and conducted briefings with key stakeholders • Identified retailers and coordinated purchase of gift certificates Ia response to the study's public outreach program significant feedback was received from interested stakeholders. Stakeholders' interest and ideas for transit solutions were diverse and varied, and influenced by the individual's familiarity, use of and seed for transit Results This section presents salient results from the public opinion survey; stakeholder consultation and outreach; the identification and analysis of select pazk and ride sites; and provides a summary of key transit needs and opportunities. Public Opinion Survey A Public Opinion Survey was administered through each of the City's website as well as approximately 5,000 ma>7ed out to residents is the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach. Close to twelve percent or 562 responded. The survey was designed to obtain: • • Opinions about local transportation issues and opportunities; • Information about transit usage and potential service improvements; • Information about customer satisfaction with current local bus service and the importance of particular service features or attributes; and • Information about household profile including number of licensed drivers and vehicles is the household, household income and age of respondent. Salient survey results, as illustrated in Exhibits 1 and 2 below include the respondent's view of important transportation issues; the importance of public transit; reasons for not using OCTA bus service; and desirable transit improvements. When asked their opinion about important transportation issues and opportunities, the majority of respondents indicated street congestion as the most important transportation issue for the City. Freeway congestion, transit service improvements and street maintenance are also identified by respondents as significant issues. 52% of the respondents did mentioned "public transit" as very important is meeting their city's future transportation seeds. When asked about the types of public transit improvements desired, more direct or express service was gives the highest priority, followed by the prospect of Pazk N' Ride lots with shuttle service to Metroliak Stations. Twelve percent of respondents answered that they or a member of their household had used the OCTA bus service within the previous week and four percent had used Metroliak. • 5 • OCTA • • CIBes of Las Alandtos and Seal Beach Pn~ject Corwept Final Repot Go Local P-ogram Exhibit L• Important Transportation Issues 8096 7096 6096 5096 4096 3096 2096 1096 096 Importance of Public Transit RESPONSE PERCENT OF TOTAL Very Important 52% Somewhat Important 32% Not Important 14% ' Unsure 3% 6 OCTA C C ~ ~ c a; « ~ ~ as O ~, O - C 37 C C Y C L m ~~ ~ z~ ~ S m a ~ o+ ~m m c c ~ y m ~ 8 m m LL ~ ~ ea ~ CO L '~ O ~ C ~ Citles of Los Alarrdtos and Seal Beach Project Concept Final Report Go Local Program • Exhibit 2: Reasons for NOT Using OCTA Bus Service VWutdnYtake ttte bus under any d~cumsterice Infrec}Ent servlee Doesn't go dose enough to where I trav d to end from I have dffAcuRy getting to end from • bus stop ar atetnn rt is too expensfre K t•keatao longto treyel on the bus Buses are tm crowded I would not feel safe and secure on pWlic trar~t Dont know whet bus to take Bus routes Brent c6rect enough Otter .l Eight percent of the respondents stated that they would not take OCTA buses under any circumstances. Respoadeats indicated the following (in order of importance) desirable transit service improvements: • More direct or express service (52%) • Park N' Ride lots with shuttle service to a Metrolink station (31°10) . More frequent bus service (30%) Ia terms of the city of residence, 46% of respondents indicated the City of Los Alamitos, 47% indicated the City of Seal Beach sad 6% were "other". Of the survey respondents: • 66% are 1 or 2 person households • Approximately 2% are zero vehicle households. Of those households with ao vehicle available, G5% include individuals age G5 and older • 35% of respondents are 65 years of age or older • 25% have a household income less than $50,000. 33% had a household income over $100,000 0% 10% 20% 80% 40°!° 50% 60°~6 Citles of Las Nemitos and Seal Beach P-ojecf Co-xept Final Report Go Local Progn3m • Stakeholder Consultation /Outreach The consultation and public outreach task included three key constituencies: elected officials; the public or residents; and stakeholders including the business community, major employers and the Joint Forces Training Base. Elected officials from the City of Los Alamitos provided insight into local transportation issues including. concern that Western Orange County is underserved by OCTA transit services; speciftc congestion hot spots; redevelopment potential of select sites oa major corridors; on-street/off-street pazking issues; the seed for transit to shoulder a greater shaze of the mobility burden; and opportunities for express and high speed transit services oa select corridors and exclusive rights-of--way. Elected officials from the City of Seal Beach also cited congestion hot spots as well as parking challenges is the beach/pier azea. There was general consensus that the transportation/mobility seeds of select mazket segments such as older adults has been addressed with the City's participation is OCTA's Senior Mobility Program sad transportation services provided to the residents of Leisure World. Discussions with the Los Alamitos Chamber of Commerce as well as some major employers focused oa road and freeway congestion as major transportation issues sad limited concern that public transit was a bazrier to accessing employment opportunities. Similarly, transportation was not cited as a concern is attracting and retaining employees. • The public outreach effort included an Apri129~ public meeting at the Community Center. There were approximately 20 attendees. Attendees identified key travel requirements including their desire for more express services to key destinations both locally and regionally ranging from Metrolink (to access both Los Angeles destinations and South County) to Anaheim/ Anaheim Regional Transportation Iatennodal Center (ARTIC) and activity centers in the vicinity. A second public meeting was held at Leisure World on Map 12~h. This meeting proved to be an education for several attendees who learned of available transportation resources including OCTA's fixed route sad Access services, the City of Seal Beach's Senior Bus sad the transportation provided by the Golden Rain Foundation for Leisure World 'residents. Traffic Commission Input In developing the Step 1 Project Concepts, the IBI Group consultant team has worked closely with the Trafftc Commission's Ad Hoc Committee. The Ad Hoc Committee has provided guidance sad insight oa a long term transit vision as well as local sensitivities is the development of the Project Concepts. Ad Hoc Committee members provided input oa traffic patterns, issues of access sad egress for select pazk and ride/transit center sites, issues of on-street and off-street parking is the vicinity of the high school, etc. Regional Coordination This project has bees a collaborative effort with the City of Seal Beach, harmonizing all aspects of the work plan. As the Seal Beach City Council meeting of June has been cancelled, the Step One Project Concept Report will be presented at the City of Seal Beach Council meeting on July 14~.The City of Cypress, having partnered with the Cities of La Palma and Buena Park aze advancing a shuttle bus concept serving the Buena Patk Metrolink Station. There is not an opportunity to coordinate efforts • 8 .. OCTA Cities ofLos Alamitos and Seal Beach P-oject Concept Final RepoA Go Local Prtigrdm with this project concept. Further coordination with both the City of Long Beach/Long Beach Transit as well as OCTA w~11 be addressed is advancing the Los Alamitos aad Seal Beach Step 1 project concepts. Park and Ride/Transit Center Site Analysis The following summarizes the process aad criteria used to identify aad evaluate potential locations for pazk and ride and transit facilities is aad aeaz the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach. A Technical Memoranda was prepared detailing the process and evaluation for this site analysis. There is one existing park and-ride facility is the City of Los Alamitos oa Lampson Avenue. No other pazk and ride facilities or transit centers aze provided is Los Alamitos or Seal Beach. Other than the Lampsoa Avenue pazk-and-ride facility, the nearest park-aad-ride lots are located is the Cities of Fullerton and Anaheim. The construction of the new park-and-ride facilities would provide Los Alamitos aad Seal Beach residents with centralized convenient access to proposed bus transit services that would link the City to Metroliak and employment centers throughout Orange and Los Angeles counties. The proposed park-aad-ride facilities would assist Los Alamitos and Seal Beach residents in accessing regional Metrolink stations as well as future BRT transit services. A total of seventeen (17) potential park-and-ride sites are evaluated is this report. Eight sites are located in the City of Los Alamitos, five in the City of Seal Beach, one in Rossmoor, three is the City of Cypress, and one additional site is Loag Beach. A short description of each of the 17 park-and-ride sites is provided is this section. The location of each site is illustrated is Exhibit 3. A set of specific criteria have been developed to assist in the identification of preferred park-and-ride facility locations. As noted in the introduction, the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach have need for pazk-and-ride facilities to provide better access to transit services and the Metroliak stations. The criteria applied to identify the preferred pazk and-ride sites aze summarized below: • Site Access -Each candidate park-and-ride lot location will be reviewed to assess how vehicles and buses will access the site. Particulaz attention will be paid to the location of each lot to adjacent arterials, signalized intersections, and nearby cross streets and driveways. The objective is to identify sites that can be quickly aad conveniently accessed from the surrounding residential neighborhoods that will serve as the primary travel markets for the pazk-and-ride facilities. • Proximity to Destinations -The primary purpose of the pazk and-ride facilities is serve transit services that connect the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach to Metroliak stations. Given this purpose, it is important that the pazk and-sites provide buses with quick and convenient access to roads that connect and aze en route to regional Mettoliak stations. • Site Oavnership -Whether the proposed park-and-ride location is publicly or privately owned would impact the issues that must be addressed for the site. City-owned locations avoid potential acquisition costs associated with privately-owned parcels. However, joist-use agreements could be developed for existing privately-owned pazking lots, potentially reducing construction and maintenance costs. • On-Site Amenities -This criterion will assess the potential for user amenities to be constructed oa the site. Amenities could include shelters, seating areas, public telephones, and restrooms. A 9 . OCTA • • Cities ofLos AlaMtos and Seal Beach Project Concept Final Repot Go Local Program • • Capacity -The size of a lot is as important factor is determining whether or not it is a good location , for a pazk-and-ride. The location and the number of pazking spaces capable of being provided on the site should meet the needs of the City. Exhibit 3: Potential Pazk and Ride/Transit Center Sites • s 1 Orriw lbr ^q. } rwrrio.ny i 1 ~a ww $S ~ ~ ~eos %J apiYij81 r CYAHESS ! ~„ w„ ~ ~ •® g ~ ~ STA ~ ~ On•~BawaadAw Lot+G ~ ~ SFACli ~ .. ®„. ®.'•:.. WES4MIN5TER ~ `.. ~ ~ ~~ .. _. _ ~.. SEAL BEAdI , _ ~1~ s ~• 1. ~ mwnmwi ~ e ~~~ ~` M!M'ON681AilON ~axwwumumm mmwart+oK /~ ~ m ~ ~ ~ BoYa AVr QQQ ,~ ~ ~ R ~ Aa. i ORANGE s ~` i COUNTY ,,,.,,,. eo.Attlww~am. p cmanrrmaaruncrv-a~~aevWBewar a Jer.arwcw.a~a~.arunerx..n~scr~xa~.w.~. ~ w.iByruucnu~•aoooa~..n~naw p `ro.n~an-~warti~camxacaronas~a.na 9.u.ro ebwe ~ vaw~n-a+'x-ea~mwncomwaw.~r~em.ead..ra,~n 6.o.Bm Bbral ^ Jatl.rwsa 9.~BB...,~apa„raw. ~~ p oa.i~wiw.~awv~ewq-~r.nsaur.eeoo.en~wm. p ao.aq-aeoow..ran.w~nr m va~B~n.wanBiwatReusaaw~aMrarawa m wo.m-oen-w.ndaeN~w.ean..~m~+.em~ ~ BneB.rno..moore.ra..eneownraiao...oore~w ~a OYbrSla m tao+IMnBOa Roos Teoak m CallanroaBCMatkn Cants Bior BBO) CdMnamr GrVIs~GNar Calhans m BalMalva Warm Clroao BeAnrY et aYBlor Bores trtlya ew Ceyabdeeh The following presents a summary of the site evaluation process. The sites aze evaluated on a four-point scale, four being the most desirable and one being the least desirable. ~o OCTA Cities ofLos Ala-rmtos and Seal Beach Project Concept Final Report Go Local Program Access Proximi Ownetshi Amenities Ca aci Total Los Alamitos Sites 1. Cottonwood Christian 3 Center 3 3 1 3 13 2 Jesus Christ of LDS Church 3 3 3 1 3 13 3. First Baptist Chtush 1 3 3 1 2 10 4. Vacant Lot #1 NW Chestnut St / Sausalito St 3 3 3 1 3 13 5. Vacant Lot #2 SE Los Alamitos Blvd / Sausalito 4 3 3 2 4 16 St 6. Vamnt Lot #3 behind Aaowhead buddin 2 3 3 2 4 14 7. Joint Forces Training Base 4 3 2 3 4 16 Seal Beach Sites 8. Ocean Avenue/Pier Vicini P ' 1 3 3 3 1 11 9. Boeing North Ameacaa Inc. 4 3 2 2 2 13 10. Vacant Lot #1 NE First St /Marina Dr 4 3 3 1 4 15 I1. Vacant Lot #2 NW First 4 3 St /Pacific Coast H 3 1 4 15 12. The Sho sat Rossmoor 4 4 2 2 2 14 Other Sites 13. Bethlehem Lutheran Church ossmoor 3 3 3 2 1 12 14. Los Alamitos Race Track Parking Lot (located in 4 4 3 2 4 17 Ci of C zesa 15. Cottonwood Christian Center (new site under 4 4 3 2 3 16 construction 16. Cottonwood Christian Center Clubhouse (located in City of 3 4 3 2 2 14 C rasa 17. vacant Lot SW willow Stmt / I-605 (Long 4 4 4 1 4 17 Beach Transit Needs and Opportunities Key findings from the Needs Analysis included: • Address congestion oa Seal Beach /Los Alamitos Boulevard. • Address congestion oa Katella Avenue. • Address seasonal and spatial event parking challenges at Seal Beach pier & beach • The need for efficient public transit as a cost effective alternative to the private automob~e as well as continuing to meet the mobility needs of the transit dependent populations • • - 11 • OCTA Cities ofLos Alamitos and Sea! Beach Project Concept Final Report Go Local Program • • Need for express access to Metroliak, Anaheim/ARTIC, South County and the Blue Line Key Opportunities identified included: • Transit as the economic engine for community development & enhanced quality of life • Redevelopment potential of select sites on major corridors (i.e., Los Alamitos Boulevard and Katella Avenue) • Local concepts to not only complement but will further leverage nay future investments made is other regional initiatives including ^ OC/LA Intercounty Transportation Study: (including possible high speed transit on the Pacific Electric Right of Way) ^ OCTA future Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) routes Findings The following provides a further analysis of the results from the previous section. Included is as assessment of the degree to which the three Project Concepts meet and exceed OCTA's Go Local Evaluation Criteria. The proposed Project Concepts will link residents, employees, and visitors to their destinations through convenient, accessible, and attractive public transit connectivity. The following guiding principles have emerged from the multi-faceted input received throughout the study process: • A Clesr Need for transit improvements based on the mobility challenge facing the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach and the surrounding region; • An Emerging Cooseosus within the West Orange County Cities that transit can and must shoulder an increasingly large share of the mobility burden; and • A Preferred Yision reflecting "Smart Growth" designed to ensure that transportation & land use are working in consort - ma~**~+~e return oa transit investment & land values. A Clear Need for More Transit • The Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach have over 37,000 residents, up to 10,000 people and 20,000 jobs per square mile. Based on Orange County Projections (OCP-2006), the population is these two cities is expected to grow at a relative low rate - 0.36% annually; a full 10% between 2005 and 2030. Ia traasportatioa terms, these two cities not only have short-term transit demand to major destinations such as the Rossmoor Center, Seal Beach Pies within these cities, and nearby major Metroliak connecting facilities - ARTIC and Commerce Metroliak stations, but these cities will need major transit connections for transit enhancements including 30-minute frequency Metroliak service and planned more Amtrak Service as well as longer-term planned initiatives such as future BRT alignments and possible higher order transit services is the PE Right-of-Way. 12 OCTA Cities oflos Namilns and Seal Beach Project Concept Final Report Go Local Program POPULATION EMPLOYMENT Total Avara e 9 Total Avara e 9 Increase Mnual Increase Mnual CltylLoeation 2005 2030 (2005 2030) Grovrth Rate (compound) 2005 2 (2005 tuowth Rate 030 2030) (corpound) LasAlamrtos 11,983 13,237 10% 0.40% 18,493 17,952 8% 0.32% Sed Beach 25,488 27,777 9% 0.3596 8,904 11,030 31% 1.07% Study Area Total 37,451 41,014 10% 0.38% 25,397 29,482 18% 0.80% Orange Courdy 3,059,950 3,629,540 18% 0.0896 1,615,938 1,960,633 21% 0.78% Exhibit 4 illustrates travel mode share for the two cities as well as County and State-wide. The use of transit is less than one percent of all trips is both the Cities of Los Alamitos aad Seal Beach. Transit usage is considerably less for residents is the study azea compazed to County and State-wide data. Conversely, the use of the private automobile is 83% aad 84% for Los Alamitos and Seal Beach respectively compazed to 72% and 76% for State and Orange County data. Exhibit 4: Travel Mode Share by City in Study Area (Source: 2000 US Census Data) give None mar Pad t~anait Others alrlork at Home 100X 60% 60% 40% 20% 0% 13 s OCTA • • Cellfomla Orange County qty of Loe Alamitos qty of Seal Beach Cfies ofLos Alamitos and Seal Beach Project Concept Final Report Go Local Program • The seed for the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach's Go Local Project Coacepts is based on recognition of the existing transportation constraints is the study azea, anticipated future public and private development, the expansion of Metroliak services, and related congestion along major roadways and freeways that serve the cities. The proposed Go Local Concepts would encourage current motorists and future visitors and commuters to ride transit, thereby providing relief to the congested traffic conditions in the study area. The Saa Diego (I-405), Orange (SR-5~, and Saa Gabriel (I-605) freeways aze the major regional travel corridor linking the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach and their neighboring communities to the region. All these freeways aze subject to severe congestion and currently operate at unacceptable levels (traffic volumes are at or exceed the theoretical capacity of the roadway) during peak hours. While recent major investments by OCTA have greatly helped the situation, the simple fact is that demand will far exceed the new capacity of all planned future improvements. An Emerging Consensus about Transit in the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach The above facts were borne out by our technical analysis; however, they aze also intuitively understood by the Cities' stakeholders. During the course of preparing the Go Local Transit Plan, it became apparent that residents and business leaders view transit favorably and envision that public transportation will play an increasingly important role is providing mobility both within the Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach and on a regional level. Investments in transit need to consider a comprehensive future land use - transportation picture that acknowledges: 1) where people will live and • work; and, ~ how they will move around oa a daily basis -reflecting proximity to existing transit services, regional transit and proposed BRT routes. A Preferred Vision for "Smart Growth" While not germane to specific Step 1 outcomes, a preferred vision for "Smart Growth" designed to ensure that transportation and land use working is consort ma +~**+±~iag the return oa transit investment and land values aze well accepted by the Cities' stakeholders. These speak to the seed to consider. • Transit as the economic engine for community development & enhanced quality of life; ReQioaal TraasitServices r-' ~'~^ - ~_ ~'~~ ~ __- i _ Proposed BRT Routes ' 3 ~ ~'~~= •~ e - ~~ ~L jai -~ i~i - • Redevelopment potential of select sites on major corridors (i.e., Los Alamitos Blvd., Katella Ave.) • Local Coacepts to complement other regional initials, including o OC/LA Intercounty Transportation Study for possible high speed transit on the Pacific • 14 OCTA Existing Transit Services Cities ofl.os Alamitos and Seal Beach Project Concept Final Repot Go Local Program Electric Right of Way and o OCTA future Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) routes Population and Employment Corridors Projected yeaz 2030 population density is the study azea does not vary greatly, with most parts of area displaying moderate population density. Several high population density corridors emerge from the analysis: • I{atella Avenue, from Seal Beach Boulevard to Bloomfield Street; • Seal Beach Boulevard, from Freeway 405 to Westminster Avenue; • Pacific Coast Highway, from 1st Street to Seal Beach Boulevazd. Employment density is concentrated along major arterial corridors. The major employment corridor in the study area is I{atella Avenue, from Seal Beach Boulevard to Bloomfield Street. Transit Corridors Ridership information for October 2006 was collected from OCTA, along with Vehicle Service Hour (VSH) information and used to calculate the most heavily utilized routes on the OCTA bus system. The results indicate that one of the most heavily utilized bus routes is the 60 operating on Westminster Blvd. serving as connection between the cities is central and western Orange County. The most populaz north- south routes operate along Beach, Hazbor, Brea, and State College Boulevazds and Euclid Street. For bus routes operated by OCTA traveling in an east-west direction, the most populaz routes are passing through the cities of Anaheim, Santa Ana, Gazden Grove, and Westminster, east of the project area. In 2030, Orange County's transit mode share is projected to be 5.8% is AM peak period, assuming the `Balanced Plaa" with renewed Measure M. An analysis of future transit needs within the study azea addressed total travel and transit mode split and was used to determine if any major travel markets were under-served. Transit trip density in the AM peak period is calculated for each TAZ, by counting transit trips both to and from each TAZ per square mile. The major transit trip origin/destination is the study azea as indicated by TAZs with highest transit trip density value is located is west central Los Alamitos. This azea is an employment corridor. ]:a terms of transit trip intensities, the rest of the study azea can be categorized into the least transit-dependent group compared to its neighboring cities and Orange County as a whole. Transit Dependency Index This section provides an analysis of the potential gap between transit demand within the study area and the existing transit supply provided by OCTA, Los Angeles County Metro, and Long Beach Transit, based upon both demographic analysis and current transit route analysis. Ia order to combine the demographic factors affecting people's propensity to use public transit, a "Transit Dependency Index" was created to estimate how residents in each census tract are more likely to use public transit. The higher "Transit Dependenry Index" value for a census tract indicates residents within• this tract are more transit dependent and likely to use transit more frequently, and vice versa. _ 15 OCTA • • Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach Project Concept Final Repot Go Loral Program • Five demographic variables from the US census database were selected to calculate the Transit Dependency Index for each census tract within the study area, including Median Household Income, Auto C-wnership, Age from 5 to 17 yeazs, Age above 65 years, and Population Density. A ranking value, from 5 to 1, was given to each census tract for each of five variables, where the higher category value was assigned to the census tract with associated variable value representing possible higher transit dependency, as for Medina Household Income (lowest category = 5), Auto Ciwaership (No vehicles = 5), Age 5-17 years (highest percentage = 5), Age above 65 years (highest percentage = 5), and Population Density (highest = 5). After ranking each of the classifications for every variable, the "Transit Dependency Index" was computed for each census tract is the study area, by adding all five vaziable ranking values associated with each census tract, giving the specific weighting factor to each variable. This calculated "Transit Dependency Index" was used to find highest transit dependency is the study area for this analysis. The analysis suggests that residents is the northern part of Seal Beach -south of Freeway 405 and west of Seal Beach Boulevard, aze more likely to rely on public transit compazed to residents is other pazts of the study area. Transit-dependency of the study area as a whole is lower compared to its east neighbors, such as Garden Grove and Westminster. This observation is consistent with the observed transit travel mode splits from the Census data. Go Local Project Concepts • The following Project Concepts address: • Address congestion oa Seal Beach /Los Alamitos Boulevard; • Address congestion on Katella Avenue; • Address seasonal and special event pazkiag challenges at Seal Beach pier & beach; • The need for efficient public transit as acost-effective alternative to the private automobile as well as continuing to meet the mobility needs of the transit dependent populations; and • Need for express access to Metxolink, Anaheim/ARTIC, South County and the Blue Line. Project Concepts 1. Park & Ride/Transit Center at Satella and I-605 • Complement Katella BRT route (east/west access to Anaheim/ARTIC) • Reduce congestion on Seal Beach Blvd. -route tfaffic to I-405/I-605 • Freeway access & egress improvements 2. Facpress Bus Service: I-605/I-5 to Commerce Metrolink (& possibly Noravalk Green Line Station) 3. Seal Beach Beach Access+ Saturday & Sunday (from Memorial Day to Labor Day) Shuttle from major employer site (i.e., possibly Boeing) • 16 OCTA - CfUes of Los Atarr~tos and Sea! Beach Project Concept Final Repot Go Local Program • Go Local Evaluation Criteria Table 1 presents an evaluation of the Project Concepts relative to OCTA's prescribed Go Local evaluation criteria. The proposed Park & Ride/Transit Center at I{atella and I-605 will complement the future Katella BRT route and will reduce congestion on Seal Beach Blvd via routing traffic to I-405/I-605. The proposed express bus oa I-605/I-5 to Commerce Metrolink (& possibly Norwalk Green Line Station) will serve as feeder-distributors/connectors for Metrolink, LA Metro, and OCTA bus commuters. The proposed Beach Access bus will'serve residents and tourists want~ag to access both beach activities and downtown businesses during the busy summer weekend period: - . The Cities of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach transportation network is approaching capacity. The Project Concepts provide competitive transportation alternatives, which would help relieve existing congested roadways as well as support the growing transit mode share. • • • • Cities of Los Alartitce and Seal Beach Project ConceptHnalRep~rt Go Local Program Table L• Go Local Evaluation Criteria Local Junsddion Funning High ., CommAmenfs Cd~es of Los AlarnYos and Scl Beach will canmt a kxerl Cities of Los Alamitos and Scl Beach Hn~ commit a local Cites of Los Alamitos and Seal Bcch vmll cenunrt a bcel share cordreutionslsuppart to advance Step 2 funding. share atntnbuttons-suppart to advance Step 2 funda~g. share avdriwfionslsr~part to edvarv~ Step 2 lancing. Proven Abddy to Attr~l Other High Cdies are avnmdted to pursuing privateseda participation in the design and apaatbn of the new Go Laval transit systems. Discusaons have taken place to example, with the Finanaal Partners Cdys key large employers including and stakehaklas including the Chamber of Canrnerce (in ach Cily), Los Alamitos Hclth Center end the Joint Treining Base. Adddional drabgue to address future development plans wdl be part of a Step 2 wak plan. CAes will ammit to prepaing a tundmg I sustanabildy pen as part of Step 2 work plan. Prowmrty to Jobs and Populaton High ServMM es employment, population and adivigr centers: Services employmerd, population and adntty centers: Services reactional and cammercei interests in Scl Beech Wdhm Study Ara • Drect aaxerslconnedivity to MetroGNc • Regional 8 Interawnty Adiviy Centers • Access regiorel & irderaMtrdy employmerd I • Fadliates aaxss to MetroGnk 8 east-west corridor adivAy centers serving ARi1C, Anahem Resat Ara, etc. Regional Benefits High High High Low EaselSimphaty to -High . OCTA local, StationL'mk, 8RT routes • OCTA kx~4 Stationlink, BRT routes • Local sdution / benefd Conrredions . Metrd'nk end Amtrak Services Metro6nk and Amtrak services Cost Etfediueness Medium Oppodunily to maximize future imestmerds in BRT and Oppartuniy to mmdm¢e future investmer~s in BRT and possrbe OCM study outcomes passble OCM study outcomes Traffic Congestion Medum Redt~oed axgestion on Sal BeacldLas Alamitos Blvd Reduced congestan an Seal BeachlLos Alamitos &vd Lessen vehicular traffic m immediate pia & downtown area r3 Katella Ave. Improved air qualdy. S Katega Ave. Improved air qualdy. Relief Major cangedion relief Major cengeslion relief Mortar avigesgon relief Wghto~Way Availability Medium To be determined To be deterniried No issues Sound Long-Term Medium To be determined To be determined To be determined Operating Plan Compatible and Medium Trensd supportive land use a axridor. Trensd supportive land use in axridor. No issues. Approved land Use Campement redevelopment poterdel Complement redevelopment potenfiel Pro)ed Raciness Low Stakehokta support for detaied analys's Safe and Modem Techrx~lagies Low No issues. 6rpras fws-opportunity fa alternate technabgies Shuttle 18 `~-z~ OCTA Cites of Los Alamitos and Seal Beach Pro/ect Concept Final Repod Go Local Pmgrmn Next Steps Ia order to advance these local and regional transportation initiatives, a funding application for OCTA Step 2 Go Local monies will need to be made. Ia a continued partnership with the City of Seal Beach, the City of Los Alamitos will maintata responsibility as the lead agency. It is proposed that $140,000 be requested for professional assistance to: • Further develop the Pazk & Ride /Transit Center concept and ancillary transit coordination (OCTA and Long Beach Transit); • Conduct preliminary operational and service planning is consort with OCTA officials (and Long Beach Transit) regarding an opportunity for express bus service on I-605 / I-5 to the Commerce Metroliak Station; and • Further develop the Seal Beach Beach Bus concept including further park and Ride site selection and analysis and further review of operational options including possible expansion of the Senior Mobility Bus contract. A Beach Bru would not be Evaded under the Senior Mobility Bus Program. However, if proves financial viable sad sustainable, may be eligible for funding through OCTA's proposed Local Circulator Program. With the participation of the two cities, each will commit to an approximate $7,000 contribution for a total of ten percent of the funding request At their June 16, 2008 meeting, the City of Los Alamitos City Council approved the following recommendations: Approve the Go Local Project Concepts outlined in the attached report (Staff report); 2. Advance the report to OCTA for Step 2 funding request for the Cities of Los Alamitos sad Seal beach; sad 3. Continue the partnership with the City of Seal Beach is advancing the Step 1 Project Concepts. Similar recommendations will be going forwazd to the City of Seal Beach's City Council on)uly 14, 2008. In the interim, the City's City Manager has concurred with the approach, Step 1 outcomes and recommendations and has included same is the Staff Report going forward to City Council oa July 14~. The following supplemental Working Papers aze available: a) Needs Assessment Report b) Transit Survey Results c) Park and Ride /Transit Facility Site Analysis 19 w~ OCTA ~J •