Opening of Proposal - Safe Routes to School - Our Lady of Hungary Neighborhood Proj No. 122-007 - VS Engineering

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CIT Y OF SOUTH BEND PE Ser vices for Safe Routes to School Our Lady of Hungary Neighborhood Sidew alks and ADA Ra m ps VS Engineering, Inc. | Letter of Interest 5 Environmental Documentation A common misconception on SRTS projects is that a Programmatic CE is applicable, which saves time and money on the environmental documentation process. Unfortunately, for sidewalk and curb ramp replacement in which work is completed within the existing right-of-way, a CE Level 1 (or higher depending on the scope of work) may be required due to unexpected temporary right- of-way needs (for drive reconstruction or yard re-grading) or due to historical impacts that simply can not be avoided. VS will conduct an initial review of the funding granted and the costs associated with the environmental documentation to determine up-front if there will be any complications in the environmental process, which is a critical item in the project schedule. If Environmental Documentation is required, VS pre-qualified staff will proceed according to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and INDOT regulations. Drainage In some instances, sidewalk improvement along roadways with zero or minimal curb exposure may result in reversing drainage flow back onto the sidewalk or private property. Additionally, the existing sidewalk’s elevation and grade could lead to improper drainage resulting in ponding and long-term maintenance issues. Also of concern: construction of new sidewalks can create areas of stormwater collection. Proper drainage behind the sidewalks to the existing storm sewer inlets will need to be ensured. Temporary right-of-way for grading behind the walk may be necessary to tie in the improvements if grades must be modified. Relocations The addition of new sidewalk and curb ramps can result in mailbox, sign and utility pole relocations where unavoidable. The goal is to construct the improvements within the existing right-of-way where possible and minimize the need for any relocations. Additionally, new curb ramps are strategically designed to avoid having storm inlets in the crosswalks when possible. In most cases, storm inlets can be avoided while still providing ADA compliant curb ramps in order to minimize more costly inlet relocations. Utilities & Landscaping Another significant challenge with the project will be negotiating around existing trees and utilities. Trees within the grass strip between the curb and sidewalk have root systems that have caused sidewalks to heave, creating unsafe and non-ADA compliant sidewalks. VS will make attempts to design around existing trees, however, saving all trees within the corridor is not feasible. Existing utilities are located intermittently throughout the project as well. FINAL DESIGN PLANS — Many consultants can develop technically sound design plans for SRTS infrastructure projects; however, the VS project approach leading up to the final design plan stage will ultimately result in improvements that receive the highest satisfaction from those who utilize the facilities every day. Additionally, VS understands the challenge of maximizing the awarded SRTS funding for construction and is currently working with INDOT to streamline the design process as much as possible. SCHEDULE — VS recognizes the importance of planning and adhering to a schedule on this project. This team is familiar with the intricacies and potential challenges involved in federally-funded projects, and will work with the City of South Bend to meet deadlines and milestone dates, in order that funds are not jeopardized. VS will have the environmental document, final plans, permits, and right-of-way clear prior to the letting requirements for this project. The VS Team will work diligently to design the proposed SRTS improvements within the existing right of way where possible.