IMPROVE 5TH AVENUE FROM SCOTTSDALE TO GOLDWATER QUESTION 2: COMMUNITY SPACES AND INFRASTRUCTURE

Project Summary Modify the size of , widen , add bike lanes, improve landscaping elements, and replace and improve street and pedestrian lighting on 5th Avenue from Scottsdale Road to Goldwater Boulevard.

PROJECT DETAILS

Estimated Project Cost: Project Location Design $411,515 This project is in Old Town Scottsdale along Right of Way $0 5th Avenue between Scottsdale Rd. and Construction $2,286,194 Goldwater Blvd. in zip code 85251. Administration $274,350 Public Art $30,818 CIP Project Number: 43 Contingency $566,980 TOTAL $3,569,857

ANALYSIS & ASSESSMENT

Background The numerous downtown plans and studies that have been completed over the years concur, our primary should be pedestrian and bike friendly with a focus on the human scale (i.e. street width, lighting, landscaping and features). Currently, along this section of 5th Avenue, widths vary from less than 4’ to more than 8’; the path of travel is often inconsistent; sidewalk surfaces include heaved and separated pavement and portions of the street have double and triple . In addition, a stronger visual streetscape and pedestrian connection is needed throughout Old Town Scottsdale.

This project would focus primarily on the South side of 5th Avenue, as potential new private development could update the north side of the roadway. This includes improving sidewalks, adding and improving street landscaping and seating elements, and replacing and improving street and pedestrian lighting.

Safety Current streetscapes, not only along 5th Avenue but in most of Old Town, were created in the 1980s and are outdated, in many cases beyond repair and do not meet ADA requirements. Providing an attractive and safe urban streetscape environment, is one of the most important factors that can help in the ’s success of Old Town and attracting residents and visitors.

What is the customer experience? Pedestrian-friendly streetscapes where pedestrians can experience safety, comfort, accessibility, and efficient mobility. Wider sidewalks and outs may also function as gathering places and provide welcome relief to pedestrians as a place to sit together, interact, and observe, and define community character. Landscape treatment between sidewalks and streets creates a buffer from moving vehicles and street noise, and help pedestrians feel more comfortable walking along the street.

Recent Staff Action Streetscape projects such as this one is included in the Downtown Scottsdale 2.0 and Downtown Public Space Master as well as the City of Scottsdale General Plan 2001 and the Old Town Scottsdale Character Area Plan. This project will also implement the design principles in the Council approved Capital Improvement Project Streetscape and Pedestrian Design.

Community Outreach Outreach to the community was extensive in providing context and recommendations to include in the Downtown Scottsdale 2.0 study.

Strategic Goal The implementation of this project supports the Strategic Goals: Advance Transportation, Enhance Neighborhoods and Support Economic Vitality.

RESOURCE IMPACTS

Operating Cost & Staffing, Workload Impact There will not be a significant increase to operating cost or workload as a result of this project.

Maintenance Requirements Ongoing maintenance requirements include standard services for signs, streetlights, landscaping, upkeep of seating elements, and waste receptacles.

Impact if this project is not implemented Current streetscapes, not only along 5th Avenue but in most of Old Town, were created in the 1980s and are outdated, in many cases beyond repair and do not meet ADA requirements. Not implementing this project will further the deterioration of all components of the streetscape and could jeopardize the development and economic growth within the area.