TRANSPORTATION PROJECT REPORT FINAL DESIGN REPORT / FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT / FINAL 4(f) EVALUATION
VOLUME 12 Appendix G: Public Involvement Plan and Summary
November 2017
PIN 5470.22 NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor Grant Street Interchange to Parkside Avenue Intersection City of Buffalo Erie County TRANSPORTATION PROJECT REPORT FINAL DESIGN REPORT / FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT / FINAL 4(f) EVALUATION APPENDIX G Public Involvement Plan and Summary
November 2017
PIN 5470.22 NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway Corridor) Grant Street Interchange to Parkside Avenue Intersection City of Buffalo Erie County September 2017 NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor PIN 5470.22 Public Involvement Plan and Summary
TABLE OF CONTENTS
G1 Public Meetings and Hearings 1
G2 Project Stakeholder Group 1
G3 Project Mailing List 1
G4 Newsletters and Press Releases 3
G5 Project Website 3
G6 Public Involvement Activities Log 3 September 2017 NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor PIN 5470.22 Public Involvement Plan and Summary
PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT PLAN AND SUMMARY
It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation to ensure our customers, those who live, work, and travel in New York State, have a safe, efficient, balanced, and environmentally sound transportation system. To that end, public involvement is an integral part of the project development process. This document provides an overview of the public involvement program for the NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor project. It summarizes the dates, times, locations, objectives, and results of each meeting. This summary has been and will continue to be updated up through publication of the Final Design Report/Environmental Impact Statement (FDR/FEIS). The primary tools for public involvement are described in the following sections.
G.1. Public Meetings and Hearings
Public meetings and hearings have been and will continue to be held throughout the duration of the study to provide the general public with an opportunity to participate and provide input. This series of meetings includes those required by the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA). A series of interactive design workshops was also held at the onset of conceptual alternative development. A summary of the public meetings and hearings is included in Section G.6 of this document. Copies of meeting minutes are attached to this document.
G.2. Project Stakeholder Group
A Project Stakeholder Group was formed at the beginning of the study. Stakeholder Group representatives were identified by the NYSDOT Project Team with input from other internal and external resources. The Stakeholder Group was assigned the following responsibilities:
· Be a “sounding board” for the project team to determine if concepts and alternatives will be acceptable to the general public. · Gather input from the groups they represent · Bring the viewpoints of their constituency to the table · Strive to build consensus · “Talk the project up” to neighbors, the public, and others
The Stakeholder Group has and will continue to meet periodically over the duration of the study and continues to be an important resource to assist with decision making. Current stakeholder group members are listed in Exhibit G.2.1. A summary of each meeting is included in Section G.6 of this document. Copies of meeting minutes are attached to this document.
G.3. Project Mailing List
A project mailing list was developed as the basis for issuing newsletters, press releases, meeting notices, and other communications to the public. It contains the names and contact information of local officials, adjacent property owners, resource agencies, and various other individuals who have contacted the Department asking to be added to the list. The list has been the basis for sending out project mailings. Public requests for addition to the list can and have been made by telephone, in writing, and via e-mail. It is also possible to ask to be added to the list via the project website. The list is maintained by the Department on ProjectWise. The list has not been formally published to protect the personal information of those individuals whose information it contains.
1 September 2017 NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor PIN 5470.22 Public Involvement Plan and Summary
Exhibit G.2.1. Stakeholder Group Members Albright-Knox Gallery American Trucking Association Black Rock-Riverside Alliance Black Rock-Riverside Good Neighbors Planning Alliance Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society Buffalo-Niagara Convention & Visitors Bureau Buffalo-Niagara River Keeper Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Buffalo State College Buffalo Zoo Burchfield-Penny Art Center Catholic Health System City of Buffalo City of Buffalo Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee City of Buffalo Common Council Representatives City of Buffalo Department of Public Works, Parks, & Streets Delaware Park Steering Committee Elmview Place Block Club Elmwood Village Association Erie Community College Erie County Department of Environment and Planning Erie County Legislature Federal Highway Administration Forest District Civic Association Forest Lawn Cemetery GO Bike Buffalo Greater Buffalo Niagara Regional Transportation Council Grant-Amherst Business Association Martin House Restoration Corporation Medaille College New York State Senate Member Marc Panepinto New York State Assembly Member Sean Ryan New York State Assembly Member Crystal Peoples-Stokes New York State Department of Transportation Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Niemiec Builder Supply Parents for a Safer Delaware Park Parkside Community Association Restore our Community Coalition Richardson Center Corporation Scajaquada Pathway Committee Sisters Hospital
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United States Congressman Brian Higgins United States Congressman Chris Collins United States Senator Charles Schumer United States Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
G.4. Newsletters and Press Releases
Project newsletters and Press Releases have been and will continue to be periodically produced and distributed throughout the duration of the study to keep individuals and groups informed of progress and events. The target audience is the general public. Newsletters contain simple, non-technical descriptions and graphical illustrations. The primary method of distribution has been mailing, although some have been distributed to partner agencies and community groups for further distribution. The newsletters were also published on the project website. Copies of the project newsletters and Press Releases are attached to this document.
G.5. Project Website
A dedicated project website was developed to facilitate the exchange of information regarding the study. Site content includes presentations, graphics, meeting minutes, and other summary information to keep the public informed on project schedule, estimated cost, and project milestones. It also functions as a continuous means for the public to communicate with the Department and ask questions. The website is hosted by NYSDOT Web Central and is accessible at the following address: www.dot.ny.gov/scajaquadacorridor
G.6. Public Involvement Activities Log
Public involvement activities that took place from May 31, 2007 to July 12, 2016 are listed in Exhibit G.6.1. This includes public meetings, public hearings, Stakeholder Group Meetings, and meetings with other parties. Following the list, summaries are provided for the public meetings and other activities with more details.
Exhibit G.6.1. Public Involvement Activities Date Activity May 31, 2007 Stakeholder Group Meeting #1 September 13, 2007 Stakeholder Group Meeting #2 - Project Corridor Tour November 28, 2007 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Scoping Meeting December 10, 2007 NEPA Scoping Meeting - Business Briefing April 23, 2008 Stakeholder Group Meeting #3 April 29, 2009 Stakeholder Group Meeting #4 July 9, 2009 Buffalo State College Campus Plan Update September 16, 2009 Public Interactive Design Workshop #1 – I-190 to Grant Street November 4, 2009 Public Interactive Design Workshop #2 – Parkside to NYS Route 33 April 29, 2010 Public Interactive Design Workshop #3 – Elmwood & Delaware Park April 28, 2011 Stakeholder Group Meeting #5 May 26, 2011 Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Board Briefing February 15, 2012 Stakeholder Group Meeting #6 March 16, 2012 Complete Streets Coalition & Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Board Meeting March 26, 2012 Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Board Meeting
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March 21, 2013 Stakeholder Group Meeting #7 April 23, 2013 Parkside Community Association Traffic Committee Meeting June 21, 2013 Briefing with Assemblyman Ryan’s Office July 10, 2013 Albright-Knox Art Gallery Meeting July 17, 2013 Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Board Meeting July 18, 2013 Briefing with Assemblyman Ryan December 13, 2013 Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Board Meeting January 16, 2014 Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Board Meeting February 13, 2014 Parkside Community Association Meeting April 9, 2014 Public Meeting #1 with Assemblyman Ryan July 27, 2015 Project Briefing for Assemblyman Ryan September 16, 2015 Public Meeting #2 October 14, 2015 Meeting to Discuss Proposed Interim Pedestrian Crossing at Lincoln/Iroquois October 20, 2015 Meeting with Albright Knox November 2, 2015 Meeting with City of Buffalo Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Board November 17, 2015 Stakeholder Group Meeting January 14, 2016 Stakeholder Group Meeting February 10, 2016 Public Meeting #3 February 18, 2016 City of Buffalo Traffic and Engineering Department Meeting February 24, 2016 Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Board Meeting March 1, 2016 Meeting with Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority March 1, 2016 Meeting with Community Member Larry Williams March 2, 2016 Meeting with Humboldt Community Association/Glenwood Neighborhood March 3, 2016 Meeting with Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Board and Go Bike Buffalo March 8, 2016 Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Board Design Committee Meeting March 10, 2016 Meeting with Buffalo State College, Buffalo Zoo, Albright Knox March 17, 2016 Meeting with City of Buffalo Engineering, Traffic and Parks Departments Meeting with Buffalo Zoo, Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy, and City of March 24, 2016 Buffalo March 29, 2016 Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Board Design Committee Meeting Meeting with Parkside Community Association, Scajaquada Corridor Coalition, March 31, 2016 Elmwood Village Association, and Grant Amherst Business Association April 19, 2016 Meeting with Business Owner Rob Niemiec May 9, 2016 Meeting with Assemblyman Ryan May 12, 2016 Stakeholder Group Meeting May 16, 2016 Meeting to Discuss Main/Humboldt/Kensington Intersection May 19, 2016 Public Meeting #4 (Open House) June 23, 2016 Stakeholder Group Meeting July 11, 2016 Meeting with Albright Knox July 12, 2016 Stakeholder Meeting with Buffalo State College January 25, 2017 Public Hearing April 18, 2017 Meeting with City of Buffalo June 14, 2017 Meeting with Forest Lawn Cemetery August 8, 2017 Public Meeting #5
4 September 2017 NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor PIN 5470.22 Public Involvement Plan and Summary
Meeting: Stakeholder Group Meeting #1 Date May 31, 2007 Place NYSDOT Region 5 Office Time 1:00 PM Objective · Gather the Stakeholder Group for the first time · Introduce the Design Team · Explain the Environmental Review Process · Explain the roles and responsibilities of the Stakeholder Group
Results · Design team was introduced to the Stakeholder Group and listened to initial concerns and ideas · Next steps in the process were discussed
Meeting: Stakeholder Group Meeting #2 – Project Corridor Tour Date September 13, 2007 Place Corridor Vantage Sites and Parkside Lodge Time 3:00 PM Objective · Tour the Scajaquada Expressway Corridor by coach bus, stopping at key locations including: ° I-190 Ramps to Grant Street ° Grant Street Interchange and Overpass ° Lincoln Parkway Pedestrian Bridge ° Delaware Avenue Interchange ° Parkside Avenue at Agassiz Circle ° Main Street at Humboldt Parkway · Conclude the tour at the Parkside Lodge for follow up discussion of observations
Results · Personal experience of the corridor elements, issues and resources · List of ideas and concepts for the Scajaquada Corridor · Discussion about pros and cons of alternatives suggested in the City of Buffalo’s Expanded Project Proposal
Meeting: NEPA Scoping Meeting Date November 28, 2007 Place Medaille College Lecture Hall Time 6:00 PM Objective · Introduce the public to the study · Solicit comments on the draft Purpose and Need Statement · Solicit input on what are considered important existing environmental resources · Brief the public on study status and schedule
Results · Listened to and recorded transportation and corridor issues and concerns · Responded to technical questions regarding data collected and presented to date · Received comments on the draft Purpose and Need Statement · Explained the Stakeholder Group concept and their role to the public
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Meeting: NEPA Scoping Meeting – Repeat Briefing Date December 10, 2007 Place NYSDOT Region 5 Office Time 1:30 PM Objective · Brief a local business owner and political officials who could not attend the November 28, 2007 meeting. The same information was presented.
Results · Listened to concerns regarding the length of the project schedule · Obtained additional input and answered questions about the existing expressway
Meeting: Stakeholder Group Meeting #3 Date April 23, 2008 Place Buffalo State College Time 3:00 PM Objective · Provide an update on the study · Seek additional input on the draft Purpose and Need Statement · Review the Section 106 Consultation Process for Historic Preservation Issues · Review public comments received to date · Discuss ideas for additional outreach including interactive work sessions
Results · Early consensus on the draft Purpose and Need Statement · Plan for a series of Interactive Design (Alternative Development) Workshops · Additional agencies identified for invitation to join the Stakeholder Group · Received input from businesses and schools regarding the need to maintain vehicular accessibility and corridor mobility
Meeting: Stakeholder Group Meeting #4 Date April 29, 2009 Place Buffalo Zoo Time 3:00 PM Objective · Provide a status update · Summarize information from draft Chapter 2 of the DR/EIS · Seek additional input on the draft Purpose and Need Statement · Review a working 3D model simulation the existing project corridor
Results · Received additional comments on the draft Purpose and Need Statement · Obtained thoughts on how to improve publicity for upcoming public workshops · Opening discussion on posted and operating speeds for alternative designs · Consensus on format of the Interactive Design Workshops · List of possible locations for the Interactive Design Workshops
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Meeting: Buffalo State College Campus Update Date July 9, 2009 Place Buffalo State College Time None Listed Objective · Obtain information on Buffalo State College’s development plans and studies · Listen to Buffalo State College comments and concerns
Results · Discussed a possible future stadium location on campus · Disapproval of new off ramps from NYS Route 198 near Grant Street · Discussed possible locations for a proposed pedestrian overpass · Request that the proposed project not result in additional delay for students and faculty accessing campus (maintain corridor mobility)
Meeting: Interactive Design Workshop #1 Date September 16, 2009 Place Burchfield Penney Art Center Time 6:30 PM Objective · Focus on NYS Route 198 from I-190 through the Grant Street Interchange · Describe the environmental, roadway, drainage, traffic, and historic context · Welcome, thinking session, and recap for sharing of ideas · Provide an active role for the public in the shaping of alternatives · Obtain feedback on initial concepts
Results · Concept for additional facilities to accommodate canoeing (launch/portage) · Concept for pocket parking along Scajaquada Creek · Disapproval of a sidewalk along Scajaquada Creek · Interest in an extension of Letchworth Street · Call for a speed transition zone between the viaduct and Grant Street · No preference for roundabouts or signalized intersections on NYS Route 198
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Meeting: Interactive Design Workshop #2 Date November 4, 2009 Place Saint Mary’s School for the Deaf Time 6:30 PM Objective · Focus on NYS Route 198 from Parkside Avenue to NYS Route 33 · Describe the environmental, roadway, drainage, traffic, and historic context · Welcome, thinking session, and recap for sharing of ideas · Continue cooperative alternative development with the public · Obtain feedback on initial concepts
Results · Support for retaining the shape of Agassiz Circle · Disapproval of a three-lane roundabout at Parkside Avenue · Concept for lowering NYS Route 198 along the Delaware Park frontage · Concept for an additional entrance/exit from Delaware Park to NYS Route 198 · Discussed cost and engineering challenges associated with a tunnel beneath Parkside Avenue · Desire to maintain truck access for business, cultural, and educational sites · Suggestion for a boulevard with intersecting streets along Humboldt Parkway · Desire to reduce congestion, noise, and air impacts at Main/Kensington · Suggestion to place lights on a raised median · Desire for speed reduction. Some additional delay tolerable to meet other goals · Statement that local streets lose a significant portion of their width to snow storage during the winter · Request for a safer pedestrian crossing at Parkside Avenue · Request for speed reduction, pedestrian, bicyclist, and streetscape improvements as part of any alternative
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Meeting: Interactive Design Workshop #3 Date April 29, 2010 Place Delaware Park Marcy Casino Time 6:30 PM Objective · Focus on NYS Route 198 from Elmwood Avenue to Delaware Park · Describe the environmental, roadway, drainage, traffic, and historic context · Welcome, thinking session, and recap for sharing of ideas · Continue cooperative alternative development with the public · Obtain feedback on initial concepts
Results · Call for improved pedestrian and bicyclist facilities by enhancing the existing network of paths and sidewalks · Consensus that modern roundabouts with more than two through travel lanes are undesirable · Request to fully investigate signals as an alternative to roundabouts for intersections on NYS Route 198 · Desire to remove ramps and increase green space wherever possible · Desire to remove the ramp in the southwest quadrant at Delaware Avenue to visually and acoustically benefit Delaware Park and Hoyt Lake · Request to consider lowering NYS Route 198 along the Delaware Park frontage · Request for a pedestrian underpass where NYS Route 198 crosses Scajaquada Creek · Preference for a “boulevard feel” and “non-expressway” features · Suggestion to investigate quiet paving treatments · Suggestion that the focus of efforts along the entire corridor be geared toward the protection and enhancement of community assets rather than handling traffic · Suggestion to investigate narrower lanes (e.g. 11 ft in lieu of 12 ft) · Desire to retain NYS Route 198’s function as a through roadway. If turned into a local street, traffic diversion and mobility during the winter were concerns · Suggestion to consider on-street parking · Suggestion to include enhancement features that appeal to pedestrians and bicyclists rather than just motorists who might not see them at higher speeds · Request for a drainage system that addresses both water quantity and quality · Suggestion to move lighting to a location where it will not be easily knocked down
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Meeting: Stakeholder Group Meeting #5 Date April 28, 2011 Place Delaware Park Marcy Casino Time 3:00 PM Objective · Update Stakeholder Group on status and progress · Discuss schedule · Explain the results of the GBNRTC travel demand model · Present future no-build traffic analysis results · Provide early insight on preliminary alternative traffic analyses · Provide a comparison of projected signal vs. roundabout operations · Summarize the results of the Interactive Design Workshops
Results · Attendees were provided with copies of existing and future year traffic volumes · Discussed that projected traffic diversion away from Route 198 is limited and why · Outlined the initial concept for a feasible alternative o Non-expressway principal arterial facility o Relative overall safety improvement o Improved pedestrian connectivity o Reduced travel speeds o Introduction of a “green” median o Improved harmony with surrounding community character and environment o Does not significantly erode the existing level of service · Received comments on the initial concept for a feasible alternative · Refined a location for the proposed pedestrian bridge at Buffalo State College · Received a suggestion for a canoe launch · Further discussed a possible Buffalo Parks Building relocation
Meeting: Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Board Meeting Date May 26, 2011 Place Delaware Park Marcy Casino Time 9:00 AM Objective · Joint meeting of the Olmsted Design Review Meeting and Long Range Planning Committee · Provide a project update directly to the Conservancy · Continue a productive two-way dialogue with the BOPC · Share graphics showing the initial concept for a feasible alternative
Results · BOPC presented a history of the Scajaquada Corridor · BOPC summarized its past comments on the study · Consensus emerged that the project would not be able to directly recreate Agassiz Circle · NYSDOT committed to modeling a 2-lane roundabout at the Parkside Avenue intersection and sharing the results with the Stakeholder Group and BOPC · Reaffirmed that the Department is committed to a non-expressway alternative that meets many of the Conservancy’s goals however it must balance that with the interests of the community, economy, and overall mobility and safety · Received additional comments on what the BOPC would like to see considered as the study progresses
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Meeting: Stakeholder Group Meeting #6 Date February 15, 2012 Place Delaware Park Marcy Casino Time 3:00 PM Objective · Update Stakeholder Group on status and progress · Share an updated conceptual feasible alternative having considered past Stakeholder Group and BOPC comments · Provide information on issues associated with a pedestrian underpass of NYS Route 198 at the Scajaquada Creek crossing · Present traffic simulation of a 2-lane roundabout at Parkside Avenue · Present a draft traffic simulation for the conceptual alternative · Receive comments on the revised concept
Results · Recognition that none of the options suggested for the Main/Kensington location thus far have had the promise to significantly improve safety and operations despite extensive cost · Request to consider a roundabout at the proposed intersection on Iroquois Drive · Listened to concerns regarding traffic at Parkside Avenue · Request for installation of lighting in the NYS Route 198 median · Request to change the proposed right-in, right-out driveway from Delaware Park to NYS Route 198 to a right-in only · Preference for sidewalks and pathways to be/remain separate from the roadway · Request for the addition of pedestrian refuge islands wherever possible · Request to consider narrower lane widths (i.e. 11 ft instead of 12 ft) · Plan to meet a second time with the BOPC Board
Meeting: Meeting with Buffalo Complete Streets Coalition / Bicycle & Pedestrian Group Representatives Date March 16, 2012 Place Buffalo City Hall Time 10:00 AM Objective · Present on project status · Review the updated initial concept for a feasible alternative · Obtain input and comments
Results · Grant Street Corridor is on the GBNRTC 2008 Bike/Ped Master Plan · Preference for a lower posted speed limit on NYS Route 198 · Request for improved bicycle and pedestrian connections at Nottingham Terrace and across Elmwood Avenue · Information on a proposed bicycle path along the west site of Elmwood Avenue from Forest to Iroquois · Extended an invitation to participate in the Stakeholder Group · Request to consider a sidewalk along the east side of Delaware Avenue beneath NYS Route 198 · Information on flooding/splashing concerns on NYS Route 198 eastbound between Delaware Avenue and the Buffalo Parks building · Suggestion to increase the separation between the proposed roadway and Delaware Park comfort station · Advised that a traffic calming study is planned for Parkside Avenue · Asked for an interpretation of Agassiz Circle at the Parkside intersection
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Meeting: Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Board Meeting Date March 26, 2012 Place Delaware Park Marcy Casino Time 1:00 PM Objective · Joint meeting of the Olmsted Design Review Meeting and Long Range Planning Committee · Present content from Stakeholder Group Meeting #6 directly to the BOPC · Continue a productive two-way dialogue with the BOPC
Results · BOPC presented draft comments on the initial concept for a feasible alternative · Request to utilize practical features with realistic maintenance requirements while emphasizing historic quality and character · Request to restore historic grades in areas where ramps are to be removed · Request for additional curvature west of Delaware Avenue · Request that water quality features reflect the shape of historic features · The BOPC would like to see additional bicycle and pedestrian paths created as alternatives to the Jesse Kregal Pathway adjacent to the Erie County Historical Society Museum · Request to consider improved pedestrian connectivity beneath the Elmwood Avenue bridge in conjunction with ramp removal · Expressed concern over anticipated operating speeds in the range of 40-45 miles per hour · Suggestion that a replacement Elmwood Avenue bridge evoke the design of the original structure · Request to reconsider placing traffic back on the Three Tribes (Lincoln Parkway) bridge · Request to relocate the proposed roadway farther away from the Delaware Park Comfort Station · Suggestion that the width of the median should be minimized to maintain the park buffer along both sides of NYS Route 198 · Suggestions made for improved connectivity between the Buffalo Parks building and Delaware Park · Request for landscaping and/or features that evoke the form of Agassiz Circle · Request to consider alternative alignments for the proposed entrance to Delaware Park from NYS Route 198 · NYSDOT requested a written statement from the BOPC regarding their position on the existing Delaware Park comfort station · The BOPC indicated formal comments would be provided to the NYSDOT in the near future
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Meeting: Stakeholder Group Meeting #7 Date March 21, 2013 Place Delaware Park Marcy Casino Time 3:00 PM Objective · Joint meeting of the Olmsted Design Review Meeting and Long Range Planning Committee · Present content from Stakeholder Group Meeting #6 directly to the BOPC · Continue a productive two-way dialogue with the BOPC
Results · A modern roundabout would not have adequate capacity to handle anticipated traffic demand throughout the project design year (2040) at the Parkside Avenue Intersection. · To date, no feasible major build alternative had been identified for the Main Street (NYS Route 5) and Kensington Avenue “triangle” that would significantly improve operations and safety without significant property impacts and construction cost. Minor improvements with targeted safety and pedestrian accommodation benefits are still under consideration. · Improvement at the Main Street (NYS Route 5) and Kensington “triangle” would encourage traffic diversion away from the Parkside Avenue intersection. · Proposed improvements would accommodate a full size tractor trailer to support the viability of adjacent commercial businesses and cultural institutions. · The Environmental Impact Statement will contain a Smart Growth Analysis per New York State Law. · One attendee asked the Department to consider removal of the yield controlled connector between Nottingham Terrace and NYS Route 198 at Lincoln Parkway · A 30 or 35 mph posted speed limit is not a realistic expectation for NYS Route 198.
Meeting: Meeting with Parkside Community Association Traffic Committee Date April 23, 2013 Place Parkside Community Association Office Time 3:00 PM Objective · Provide summary and overview of various options considered for the Main Street (NYS Route 5) and Kensington Avenue “triangle.”
Results · Reviewed the infrastructure, traffic, safety, and cost implications of 10 different options. · Discussed a new concept to address safety and pedestrian access issues on a smaller scale to be investigated further subsequent to the meeting. · Discussed improvements targeted for the Parkside Avenue intersection under Alternative 2A and several options that were screened as part of the preliminary design process.
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Meeting: Albright-Knox Art Gallery Meeting Date July 10, 2013 Place Albright-Knox Art Gallery Time 1:00 PM Objective · Present a summary overview of the various alternative solutions that had been considered for the corridor · Review in detail the features of Draft Preferred Alternative 2A and conceptual renderings of proposed roundabout on Iroquois Drive
Results · Questions the art gallery representatives had concerning the project were addressed · Gallery representatives considered Alternative 2A to be a significant improvement over existing conditions, improving safety and beautifying the corridor while providing accessibility to and from their facility · Representatives were in support of the roundabout on Iroquois Drive and agreed that it had the potential to be a significant gateway feature to the art gallery
Meeting: Public Meeting #1 Date April 9, 2014 Place Buffalo State College Time 5:00 PM Objective · Summarize the history of the project, review input received from the public and stakeholders to date, describe a vision for the corridor’s future, and to obtain additional input
Results · Members of the public reviewed informational displays regarding the project, then a PowerPoint presentation on the proposed four-lane boulevard alternative was given · Discussions took place during the following question and answer period, comments were recorded · Subsequent to the meeting, Assemblyman Sean Ryan asked the NYSDOT to study alternatives that would convert the Scajaquada Expressway to a two-lane city street with a 30 mph speed limit or remove it entirely from Delaware Park
Meeting: Public Meeting #2 Date September 16, 2015 Place Frederick Law Olmsted Public School 64 Time 5:00 PM Objective · Provide an update on recent traffic studies conducted as part of the proposed project to transform NYS Route 198 · Host panel discussion to respond to questions asked by members of the public
Results · There is interest in having the Scajaquada Expressway better complement its surroundings including Delaware Park · Several different alternatives, how they might operate, and their potential effects on the adjacent neighborhoods have been studied · Comments received at the meeting will be incorporated in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement and the project will undergo more review
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Meeting: Stakeholder Group Meeting Date November 17, 2015 Place NYSDOT Region 5 Office Time None Listed Objective · Discussions with stakeholder group regarding interim improvements · Updates on project progress
Results · General consensus that pedestrian crossings should be part of overall traffic calming, not before the rest of the measures · Stakeholders recommend transition zones at each end, and lane narrowing should be done now · Need to discuss SCC’s 13 Points at next meeting, whether they should be part of interim measures or long-range plan · Stakeholders expressed concern over safety issues due to interim measures such as stop signs and differing speeds. Visual cues suggest that it is still an expressway · Discussed other concerns of stakeholder members about various topics
Meeting: Stakeholder Group Meeting Date January 14, 2016 Place NYSDOT Region 5 Office Time None Listed Objective · Discussed design changes with stakeholder group members · Reviewed the “13 points” and applicability to interim vs long-term project
Results · Some stakeholders want the speed limit raised to 45 mph, questioned why it was changed, and asked whether it will stay at 30 mph · Parkside community and Buffalo State college expressed support for the 30 mph speed limit · NYSDOT said that as part of the NEPA process alternatives have to be considered · Discussed the traffic calming measures that were implemented and/or considered for both interim and long range plan · Asked for connections to Riverside Park, bike path, and neighborhoods. The City of Buffalo is developing plans for a better connection to Riverside Park from the Jesse Kregal Pathway · The traffic calming memo will be available to the public in the DEIS · Overview of NEPA requirements and processes regarding parks and historic resources, and options to enhance park land · Discussed options at Parkside Avenue – roundabout, improving pedestrian safety. · Discussed traffic problems and options to improve Route 198/Main/Kensington interchange · NYSDOT will review again a “10-page letter” that was submitted
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Meeting: Public Meeting #3 Date February 10, 2016 Place Buffalo State College Time 7:00 PM Objective · Provide an update on the proposed project to transform NYS Route 198 from an urban expressway to a lower speed urban boulevard · Summarize the history of the project, review input received from the public and stakeholders to date, describe a vision for the corridor’s future, and to obtain additional input · Commissioner Matthew Driscoll discussed the progress and expedited timeline
Results · The NYSDOT has held numerous meetings with stakeholder and local interest groups and will continue to listen and obtain input · The project will convert the Scajaquada Expressway into the Scajaquada Boulevard with two lanes in each direction. · Design features including traffic calming measures will be put into place that make it feel more natural and comfortable to drive at the current 30 mph speed limit · Reducing the roadway to one lane in each direction or removing it completely would displace vehicles and pose problems to neighboring streets including traffic congestion and air pollution · Accommodations for pedestrians and bicyclists and at-grade crossings will be incorporated into the design · Short term actions will be taken this summer: installation of temporary gateway features, restripe and narrow travel lanes at the eastern end, install rumble strips on the western end, install additional variable message signs with speed indicators · The environmental review process will be expedited working toward releasing a Draft Environmental Impact Statement in the fall of 2016 and a construction contract in 2017 · Questions and comments during the question and answer period were recorded
Meeting: Meeting with the Humboldt Community Association/Glenwood neighborhood Date March 2, 2016 Place Sister’s Hospital Time 6:00 PM Objective · Meeting organized by Glenwood Neighbor Association · Discuss issues that the homeowners wanted to raise
Results · Residents on Humboldt Parkway feel that the 30 mph speed limit is causing more traffic to exit onto Main Street at Humboldt Parkway, which is causing negative effects including traffic congestion and air pollution · The Scajaquada project should be coordinated with efforts to improve Humboldt Parkway · The project should deal with the area east of Parkside Avenue and the Main/Kensington/Humboldt intersection · They feel there are safety issues with cars trying to exit from NYS Route 198 westbound onto Main Street, speeding on Humboldt Parkway, and the eastern transition zone
16 September 2017 NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor PIN 5470.22 Public Involvement Plan and Summary
Meeting: Stakeholder Group Meeting Date May 12, 2016 Place NYSDOT Region 5 Office Time None Listed Objective · Present graphics depicting different median options as well as bicycle/pedestrian options the department is evaluating · Discuss comments and concerns from stakeholder groups
Results · Discussed the safety reasons for having a raised median, a decision will be made with the city regarding the maintenance of the landscaping · Stakeholders asked about changes to Meadow Drive in Delaware Park, and BOPC does not like a divided bike track on the road which will create additional crossing points and conflicts between bicycles and pedestrians · Questions were answered regarding pedestrian crossings, storm water retention areas, and keeping the 30 mph speed limit
Meeting: Public Meeting #4 Date May 19, 2016 Place Frederick Law Olmsted School Time 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM Objective · Provide an update on the proposed project to transform NYS Route 198 from an urban expressway to a lower speed urban boulevard · Provide the public with an opportunity to review displays and ask questions of project representatives.
Results · The public and stakeholders provided comments on the most current version of the proposed build alternative.
Meeting: Stakeholder Group Meeting Date June 23, 2016 Place NYSDOT Region 5 Office Time None Listed Objective · Discuss pedestrian crossing at Buffalo State College · Show two concepts to create pedestrian access between Buffalo State campus and Grant Amherst Neighborhood – pedestrian bridge, and at grade crossing Iroquois Drive and Scajaquada Corridor with a bridge over Scajaquada Creek
Results · Buffalo State College had input in selecting the location of the crossing which connects to the campus sidewalk and pathway network · One stakeholder member suggested considering a complete street design and combining Iroquois Drive with the Scajaquada Corridor · Buffalo State College stated that Iroquois Drive is used as the service road to access all the buildings, so the roadway is necessary · An at grade crossing would be controlled by a HAWK signal, it was suggested to use an offset crossing to force pedestrians to turn towards oncoming traffic · Discussion took place regarding various issues and design options for pedestrian and bicycle access
17 September 2017 NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor PIN 5470.22 Public Involvement Plan and Summary
Meeting: Meeting with Albright Knox Date July 11, 2016 Place Empire State Development Time 1:00 PM Objective · Further ongoing discussions of how the future NYS Route 198 can be made to work for all including the Albright-Knox Art Gallery · Develop a cohesive plan that would benefit those that live around the gallery as well as those that will visit · Discuss issues and plans for Albright Knox expansion project “AK360”
Results · NYSDOT to review current design for the Build Alternative in the vicinity of the Albright Knox Art Gallery · NYSDOT to reach out to Buffalo State College for additional discussion
Meeting: Stakeholder Meeting with Buffalo State College Date July 12, 2016 Place NYSDOT Region 5 Office Time None Listed Objective · Discuss concept plan for the section of NYS Route 198 between Grant Street and Elmwood Avenue · Alignment of the roadway would shift closer to the Buffalo State College Campus and away from Scajaquada Creek · Rerouting of Iroquois Drive and other impacts to campus circulation would be involved
Results · Buffalo State College representatives reviewed plan and identified several issues: o Impact to daily operations, including all custodial services, currently having access to Iroquois Drive · Concept conflicts with other proposed athletic facility plans · Concept conflicts with pedestrian and bicyclists accommodation plans on campus
Meeting: Public Hearing Date January 25, 2017 Place Frederick Law Olmsted School Time 4:30 PM Objective · Provide the public and stakeholders with updated information on the project and proposed alternative · Provide the public with a formal opportunity to comment on the proposed project in accordance with NEPA.
Results · The public and stakeholders were provided with an opportunity to view a presentation and displays illustrating the most current version of the build alternative · Written and oral comments were received from the public and recorded by a stenographer for publication and response in the Final Design Report/Final Environmental Impact Statement.
18 September 2017 NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor PIN 5470.22 Public Involvement Plan and Summary
Meeting: Meeting with Forest Lawn Cemetery Date June 14, 2017 Place NYSDOT Region 5 Office Time None Listed Objective · Discuss the pedestrian crossings south of NYS Route 198 on Delaware Avenue, and the proposed project impacts to the area around Forest Lawn Cemetery.
Results · The pedestrian crossing on Delaware Avenue near Forest Lawn Cemetery was eliminated from the project plans, along with the sidewalk leading to it from the Delaware Connector intersection.
Meeting: Public Meeting #5 Date August 8, 2017 Place Buffalo State College Time 5:30 PM Objective · Provide an update on the proposed project to transform NYS Route 198 from an urban expressway to a lower speed urban boulevard. · Present the current project design for the Scajaquada Corridor to the community, before the Final Environmental Impact Statement is issued. · Provide the public with an opportunity to review displays and ask questions of project representatives.
Results · The public and stakeholders were provided with an opportunity to view a presentation and displays illustrating the most current version of the build alternative. · The public and stakeholders provided comments on the most current version of the proposed build alternative.
19 APPENDIX G PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
Meeting Minutes NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 Stakeholder Group Meeting Number 1 May 31, 2007 @ 1:00 PM NYSDOT Region 5 Offices, Buffalo NY
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING
Darrell Kaminski NYSDOT Region 5 Design Craig Mozrall NYSDOT Region 5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT Region 5 Design Nimish Shah NYSDOT Region 5Design Ken Kluck NYSDOT Region 5 Landscape Architecture Tim Bender NYSDOT Consultant Mgt. Bur. Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Donna Fernandes Buffalo Zoo Robert 50 Elmview Place, Buffalo Biniszkiewicz 14207 Bernhard Wagner Parkside Community Assoc. Ruth Lampe Parkside Community Assoc.
David Lampe Delaware Park Steering Comm. Jason Symoniak Assemblymember Sam Hoyt
James Morrell NFTA Dennis Crahen Forest Lawn Cemetery Stevan Stipanovich Black Rock Riverside GNPA, Buffalo Rising Magazine Patrick McNichol New Millennium Group Brian Dold Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Seyed Ghasemi City of Buffalo DPW
The Purpose of this meeting was to gather the members of the project stakeholder group for the first time, introduce them to the project team, and explain the current status of the project and the planned process to carry it forward. A slide presentation was used to present information on the project team, environmental review process, role of the Stakeholder Group, project status, and next steps. A binder was given to each stakeholder representative containing information and graphics to be used throughout the life of the project. Mounted renderings were also available for viewing along the side of the room. Questions and answers were handled during the presentation.
Page 1 of 9 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
I. Welcome (Background)
x Consensus is that the Scajaquada is not in harmony with adjacent land uses including educational and cultural institutions. It disturbs the aesthetics of historic Olmsted designed Delaware Park. It also experiences congestion and accidents.
x City of Buffalo Expanded Project Proposal (EPP) completed in June 2005 will be used as a starting point for the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) project. Though new ideas and alternatives can be studied, the group was encouraged to build upon the alternatives presented in the EPP and develop consensus for a physically and fiscally feasible (“do-able”) project. The EPP was a necessary step to get to the current project.
x The time between development of the EPP and the current study was spent defining the scope of the study and selecting a consultant team and bringing them on board to assist the NYSDOT.
x The NYSDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) are joint lead agencies for the project. The NYSDOT is responsible for managing the environmental study and preliminary engineering processes, ensuring compliance with federal and state requirements and regulations, facilitating discussion, and ensuring opportunities for public and participating agency input. Final decision making responsibilities rest with the NYSDOT and FHWA.
x Funding has been secured from the current federal transportation funding bill for environmental studies, preliminary design, and detailed design. The current construction cost estimate is $39 Million dollars. Construction funding must be obtained from the next federal transportation bill. There is competition among projects for funding. The best way to help secure funding is to have a clear project plan in place with community consensus behind it when funds are being allocated.
II. Introductions
New York State Department of Transportation: Darrell Kaminski, PE – Regional Design Engineer Craig Mozrall, PE – Assistant Regional Design Engineer whose squad is handling the project. Dave Hill, PE – Design Squad Leader in charge of the project design and daily operations. Nimish Shah, PE – Project Design Engineer Ken Kluck – Landscape Architect Tim Bender, PE – Consultant Manager, Albany Office
John Burns, PE (not in attendance) – FHWA Project Liaison
Bergmann Associates Consultant Team Mark McAnany, PE – Consultant Team Project Manager and Principal in Charge Mike Croce, PE – Assistant Project Manager
x Stakeholder group attendees went around the room for introductions (Refer to list of attendees and attached list of invited agencies).
Page 2 of 9 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
III. Environmental Review Process
NEPA: National Environmental Policy Act x During this project the NYSDOT will integrate environmental values into the decision making processes by developing the purpose and need for the project, developing alternatives to satisfy the purpose and need and considering the environmental impacts of the alternatives.
x The NEPA scoping process is about to begin with a Notice of Intent to prepare and Environmental Impact Statement. NEPA does not recognize the EPP as a formal scoping document, however much of the information and decisions documented in the EPP will be carried forward for guidance.
x Potential economic impacts and vehicular access (to businesses) will be examined as part of the study.
EIS: Environmental Impact Statement x Due to the scope of work and level of potential impacts that may result from the project, an EIS is required. The document will describe the proposed alternatives on the environment, impacts of the alternatives, and plans to mitigate those impacts.
SAFETEA-LU: Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users x This federal transportation bill allocates funding for highways, highway safety, and public transit projects. The environmental studies, preliminary design, and detailed design of the Scajaquada corridor project are funded through this legislation.
x The Greater Buffalo Niagara Regional Transportation Council (GBNRTC) is the local Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). One of its functions is to set funding priorities for transportation projects within the Erie, Buffalo, and Niagara County region. To obtain funding, a project must be on the regional Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).
x Construction on the Scajaquada corridor will require funding from the next federal transportation bill and placement on the TIP.
x SAFETEA-LU requires lead agencies to give the public and participating agencies the opportunity to participate in the development of the project’s “Purpose and Need” statement, identification of the range of alternatives to be considered, and other aspects of the Environmental Review process.
SEQRA: (New York) State Environmental Quality Review Act x SEQRA requires agencies to identify and mitigate the significant environmental impacts of their proposed actions. Environmental impacts must be balanced with social and economic factors. SEQRA will be satisfied by the NYSDOT in carrying out this project.
Page 3 of 9 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
IV. Role of the Stakeholder Group
x To keep the group to a manageable size and ensure equal input from all involved, each individual group will be limited to one representative within the Stakeholder Group.
Guiding Principles: x Stakeholders are expected to present their group’s input and comments. x Participants may disagree, but shall remain respectful of each other. x Comments should always be directed to the issue at hand.
Roles and Responsibilities: x Be a “sounding board” for the project team to determine if concepts and alternatives will be acceptable to the general public. x Gather input from the represented groups. x Bring the viewpoints of the represented groups to the table. x Strive to build consensus. x “Talk the project up” to neighbors, public, and others.
x Commuters and other “outside” users of the corridor will have opportunities to provide input and be represented during planned public meetings and hearings. Comments will also be solicited via the project website and newsletters. A survey of general users was also suggested.
x Elected officials have been invited to participate in the Stakeholder Group.
x Stakeholder Group meetings should take place at defined points where the project team has useful information to present, however they may also be held regularly (i.e. monthly) to update each other and listen to any new information and/or concerns from the stakeholder representatives.
x Each Stakeholder Group meeting will have a generalized agenda. Stakeholder Group representatives will be solicited for input on that agenda prior to the meeting. E-mail is an effective way to coordinate this activity.
x Stakeholder Group meetings should be rotated among locations within and around the project area. The Parkside Lodge, Buffalo Historic Society, and Buffalo Zoo were suggested as possible locations. The Stakeholder Group members did not have any problems with meeting at the NYSDOT Region 5 offices as well.
x The next formal meeting will be scheduled with a 7:00 PM start time to see how that works in generating attendance. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays would work best.
x Anyone not previously invited, but interested in joining the Stakeholder Group, should contact Craig Mozrall at the NYSDOT for more information.
x Minutes will be written for each Stakeholder Group meeting and distributed to the entire group. Minutes may also be posted on the Scajaquada project website.
x Not all Stakeholder Groups invited were in attendance. Those that did not attend will be contacted again to encourage a greater “turn-out” at future meetings.
Page 4 of 9 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
V. Project Status
x Project officially kicked-off on March 19th.
x Peak hour turning movement data has been collected at roughly 60 intersections and 24-hour continuous volume and vehicle classification (tube count) data was collected at 72 mainline or mid-block locations.
x A coordinated plan has been developed with the GBNTRC to model traffic. The potential for various NYS Route 198 alternatives to divert vehicles onto neighboring local streets and highways will be studied. Detailed traffic analysis will be completed along the NYS Route 198 corridor. Traffic analyses will also be conducted to assess the impacts of diversion at key intersections between I-190, Humboldt, Ferry, and Hertel. The large-scale impact of diversion will be evaluated over an area bounded by I-190, NY33, and I-290.
x Effect of I-190 Toll Removal: Tube count data is available from the period before tolls were removed on I-190. Scajaquada project data was taken with tolls removed but toll barriers still in place. Additional counts will be taken after the physical toll barriers are removed and traffic has normalized. Traffic volumes will then be compared. If there is a change between the two latter cases and it is judged significant, traffic volumes for use in the project traffic analysis can be adjusted accordingly.
x Traffic forecasts will take future economic, development and population growth trends into account. The project team will consider gathering additional information on new developments (e.g. new museum, psychiatric center, and zoo expansion) and their impacts on the traffic projections as needed.
x It was noted that traffic to and from the Buffalo Zoo peaks between June and August.
x Traffic changes resulting from the reconstruction of NYS Route 5 (Main Street) in the vicinity of the NY198 will be considered.
x Traffic back-ups involving busses at the Parkside intersection were noted as a concern.
x The possibility of prohibiting trucks on NYS Route 198 was discussed and dismissed during development of the EPP. Studies were completed that showed approximately 80% of the truck traffic on the Scajaquada is destined for local outlets. For example, the Buffalo Zoo receives several deliveries of food for their animals each day, utilizing NYS Route 198.
x Truck noise was cited as an issue, especially during events such as Shakespeare in the Park. It was suggested that the noise might be attributable the use of “jake brakes” as trucks decelerate due to traffic conflicts and congestion. Noise levels will be studied as part of the environmental review process. There may be opportunities (to be investigated) to improve the physical roadway and intersection geometrics, effectively reducing truck related noise impacts.
x The address for the project website will be www.\NYSDOT.gov\Scajaquadacorridor. This website should be up and running by mid to late June 2007.
Page 5 of 9 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
x Alternatives identified for study at this time include:
Alternative 1: Null or “No Build”. Routine maintenance only.
Alternative 2: Two lanes each direction, landscaped median, traffic signals, speed limit 40-45 mph
Alternative 3A: Two lanes each direction, landscaped median, roundabouts, speed limit 40-45 mph
Alternative 3B: Two lanes each direction, landscaped median, roundabouts, speed limit 30-35 mph
Alternative 4: One lane each direction, landscaped median, roundabouts, speed limit 30-35 mph
x Alternative 4, was dismissed in the EPP and will be studied now for examination of traffic diversion only.
x The Main Street interchange is included in the project limits. If a goal is to slow traffic down through Delaware Park, it would be most effective to realize a decrease in speed before westbound traffic gets to this intersection. The alternative development process will look at feasible ways to accomplish this.
x Enforcement will not be relied upon as a primary way to influence traffic speeds. Speed reduction through geometric design and roadside character is preferred.
x The alternative development process will examine which interchanges could be converted to signalized intersections, roundabouts, or should remain grade separated.
x Pedestrian safety and vehicular flow at proposed roundabouts was cited as potential items of concern. These will be examined as part of the alternative development and traffic analysis process.
x A desire was voiced to maintain the facility’s convenience for those who use the roadway to access and patronize business and institutions within the project area.
x A reference was made to discussion during the EPP suggesting that the expressway be closed on a Sunday to “see where traffic goes”. Though they involve a lot of work and coordination, short term closures of a portion of the roadway might be considered for future cultural or recreational special events. Examples cited included closures of the Inner Loop in downtown Rochester, closures of University Avenue in Rochester, and closures of major highways in Paris, France for art events.
x The Forest Lawn Group expressed a concern over roadway profiles and grading, drainage, and plant material between Delaware and Parkside. They would appreciate an opportunity to review concepts and plans as they become available for comment.
x Maintenance of plant material and the selection of appropriate (“survivable”) species is a concern for local groups as they are often the ones who assume responsibility for upkeep after construction. Page 6 of 9 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
x A draft “Purpose and Need” statement was presented to the group. A copy was provided in the Stakeholder Group binders. This statement will be revised and refined into a shorter version as the project progresses. It will be utilized often during the development and refinement of alternatives as ultimately the preferred alternative must satisfy the purpose and need that the project was based upon.
x Studies and preliminary design are expected to take place over the next few years with publication of the Final Environmental Impact Statement and selection of the preferred alternative slated for 2011. Detailed design is tentatively scheduled for 2012 through 2013.
x Pending the availability of funding, construction would begin in 2014 and last for approximately 2 to 3 years. Improvements will be designed as a whole, but the project may be phased if necessary for funding purposes. It is expected that through traffic would be maintained on NYS Route 198 during construction, providing continued access to businesses, homes, and institutions.
VI. Next Steps (Action Items)
x The project team will attend an environmental “get start” meeting in Albany to initiate the NEPA scoping and environmental coordination process (June 14, 2007).
x Introduce the project website (June 2007).
x The Martin House and Sisters Hospital should be added to the Stakeholder list (June 2007).
x An e-mail list of Stakeholder Group members will be developed (June 2007).
x Contact those Stakeholder Group invitees who did not attend today’s meeting to invite them again to get them involved (June 2007).
x Traffic data will be compiled and summarized (June and July 2007).
x A base VisSim (microsimulation) traffic model will be developed for existing and no-build conditions along the project corridor (June - August 2007).
x A project newsletter will be developed and distributed (Summer 2007).
x A project walk-thru with Stakeholder Group members and the project team is planned. Date, time, location, schedule, and transportation for this event are to be determined (Summer 2007).
x A public information meeting is planned. Date, time, location, and format will be discussed further (Fall 2007).
x Keep the project visible to the general public via the project website, newsletters, press releases, and other press events (Ongoing effort).
Page 7 of 9 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached at this meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards, BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager cc: All in Attendance John Burns, FHWA BA Project 6861 file
Page 8 of 9 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
STAKEHOLDER GROUP MEMBERS NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 PIN 5470.22 AAA Western and Central New York Albright-Knox Art Gallery Black Rock-Riverside Alliance Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Buffalo State College Buffalo Zoo City of Buffalo Common Council Representatives City of Buffalo Department of Public Works, Parks, & Streets. Delaware Park Steering Committee Erie County Department of Environment and Planning Erie County Department of Public Works Federal Highway Administration Grant-Amherst Business Association Greater Buffalo Niagara Regional Transportation Council Leadership Buffalo Martin House (added) Mayor of the City of Buffalo Medaille College New Millennium Group New York State Assembly, 141st District, Crystal Peoples - 141st District New York State Assembly, 144th District, Sam Hoyt New York State Department of Environmental Conservation New York State Department of Transportation New York State Senator Antoine M. Thompson Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority North American Transportation Council Parkside Community Association Sisters Hospital (added) The Forest Lawn Group The Preservation Coalition United States Army Corps of Engineers United States Congressman Brian Higgins United States Congresswoman Louise Slaughter United States Senator Charles Schumer United States Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton
Page 9 of 9 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Stakeholder Group Meeting #2 – Project Corridor Tour Thursday September 13, 2007 @ 3:00 PM Corridor Vantage Sites and Parkside Lodge, Buffalo, NY
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING Darrell Kaminski NYSDOT R5 Design Craig Mozrall NYSDOT R5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT R5 Design Nimish Shah NYSDOT R5 Design Douglas Macaulay NYSDOT R5 Design Christopher Church NYSDOT R5 Planning Ken Kluck NYSDOT R5 Landscape Arch Sylvia Jones NYSDOT R5 Environmental Tim Bender NYSDOT Consultant Mgt. Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Mark Johns Bergmann Associates Ken Meding Bergmann Associates Dean Gowen DWG Planning & Design Elizabeth Cheteny University at Buffalo Jason Babcock Stiner University at Buffalo Connie Greco Albright-Knox Gallery Stevan Stepanovich Black Rock Riverside GNPA Sally Treanor Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society Donna Fernandes Buffalo Zoo Seyed Ghasemi City of Buffalo DPWP&S David Lampe Delaware Park Steering Committee James Morrell NFTA Bernhard Wagner Parkside Community Assoc. Justin Azzarella The Elmwood Village Assoc. Dennis Crahen The Forest Lawn Group Brian Dold Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Jesse Kregal The Scajaquada Pathway Committee Robert Biniszkiewicz Pyramid Brokerage David Lacki Buffalo-Niagara Convention & Visitors Bureau Maragaret Wooster Buffalo-Niagara Riverkeeper
Page 1 of 6 The purpose of this meeting was to tour the Scajaquada Expressway Corridor together by coach bus, stopping at various locations and vantage points along the way to generate ideas, discuss issues and opportunities, and learn more about the project first hand. This event would also get the group thinking about the project’s Purpose and Need Statement (attached) which was distributed and discussed following the tour.
Tour Stop Locations
1. I-190 Ramps to Grand Street 2. Lincoln Parkway Pedestrian Bridge 3. Grant Street Interchange 4. Parkside Avenue at Agassiz Circle 5. Main Street to Humboldt Parkway 6. Delaware Avenue Interchange
Participants congregated at the Parkside Lodge (84 Parkside Avenue) at 3:00 PM, toured the corridor between 3:30 PM and 6:30 PM, and returned to the Lodge for a light dinner and follow-up discussion. Each participant was provided with a handout containing useful colored renderings and graphics and information relevant to each of the tour stops. The following are comments, concerns, and ideas shared by those in attendance during the tour and meeting.
General Discussion, Concerns, Ideas, Opportunities, etc.:
Investigate the possibility of providing a pedestrian connection below the Scajaquada between Lincoln Parkway (near the Albright-Knox Art Gallery) and the multi-use path (toward the Buffalo & Eire County Historical Society Museum).
Provide additional parking adjacent to Scajaquada Creek near the Albright Knox Art Gallery. There are many limousines that stage and park in this area on Saturdays.
Step up law enforcement to lower speeds. Provide a constant presence as a deterrent.
Create a new roundabout for NYS Route 198 and Lincoln Parkway.
Remove vehicular traffic from the Olmsted Bridge on Lincoln Parkway. Retain bridge as a pedestrian and bicyclist route, connecting parkland in a more effective manner.
It may be difficult to accommodate the concept section shown in the City of Buffalo’s EPP (wide planted median) near Lincoln Parkway, especially if both the existing pedestrian bridge and existing NYS Route 198 bridge over Scajaquada Creek remain.
Maintain good neighborhood connections between the residential areas north of Nottingham Terrace and the Lincoln Parkway adjacent to Hoyt Lake.
Participants witnessed numerous pedestrians, runners, and bicyclists using the existing pedestrian bridge over NYS Route 198 during their visit.
The Scajaquada Pathway was recently completed, connecting the Delaware Park bike path to the Niagara River bike path under the I-190 and the RR bridge in the 198/190 interchange area.
Page 2 of 6 Suggestion was made that we should examine with the City the possibility of relocating or reducing the footprint of the City Maintenance facility contained within Delaware Park west of Parkside. Stakeholders commented that the driveway to the facility is in a dangerous location also, due to sight distance and accel/decel concerns.
It was suggested that the polluted conditions of Scajaquada Creek are most likely due to industrial contamination from past land use operations and not significantly attributed to highway runoff.
Removal of the Grant Street ramps would be seen by some participants as a significant improvement.
The NYS Route 198 corridor is constrained near Grant Street between adjacent land uses and Scajaquada Creek. One participant suggested consideration of covering the creek (with a culvert or other structure) to open up more space.
One participant suggested that concrete pavement should be avoided because in their opinion, it is too noisy.
The design team should investigate similarities between a recent project on the Saw Mill River Parkway and the Scajaquada Expressway when addressing the proximity of Scajaquada Creek to the roadway.
Slowing traffic effectively as it comes off the I-190 interchange presents a significant challenge.
Establish a significant visual entrance to Delaware Park at Parkside Avenue and Agassiz Circle.
There is a Locally Administered Project to reconstruct Main Street (NYS Route 5) taking place in March 2008. That project will bring the landscaping and medians from the north down to Humboldt Parkway.
There is a depiction of a large Frederick Law Olmsted statue in the center of a roundabout at NYS Route 198 and Parkside Avenue in the City of Buffalo’s EPP. That depiction evoked a negative reaction from some tour participants.
The Trinidad Neighborhood Association should be invited to join the Project Stakeholder Group.
Are there any creative ways or alternate routes that could be improved to reduce the amount of volume using NYS Route 198 between NYS Route 33 and Parkside Avenue?
A cobblestone pavement surface may help to lower vehicular speeds. Noise concerns?
Construct an elevated pocket park in the triangle between Main Street and Kensington Avenue. That may be an expensive proposition.
A new continuous care facility called Heritage Manor will be constructed on Fillmore Avenue.
Missing trees along Humboldt Parkway were not killed because they were too close to the road, but rather because they suffered irreparable storm damage from the October 2006 snow event.
Page 3 of 6 Lower the NYS Route 198 roadway between Parkside Avenue and Delaware Avenue to reduce noise experienced in Delaware Park and to make the roadway less visible.
This project should provide better visual and pedestrian connectivity between Delaware Park and Forest Lawn Cemetery.
Pat Cavanaugh is a local historian, with a wealth of area knowledge. He could be contacted through Dennis Crahen.
Several Participants, including Brian Dold of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy gave favorable reviews to the concept of bringing NYS Route 198 down to meet Delaware Avenue at a modern roundabout. Traffic volumes and operations among other issues would have to be studied carefully to evaluate the true feasibility of this option.
Some participants suggested that this option was not carried further during the EPP stage because that team believed that the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation would not allow vehicular (highway) traffic to be removed from the existing bridge. The NYS Route 198 bridge over Delaware Avenue was originally used for a bridal path crossover and not motorized vehicles. This may be supporting evidence for realigning the highway to a new at-grade intersection with Delaware Avenue, south of the existing bridge. The bridge could be returned to pedestrian and park vehicle use.
A reference to Scajaquada Creek as an adjacent resource to consider should be added to the Purpose and Need Statement.
A concern was voiced about the volume of traffic passing along the Scajaquada at Parkside Avenue. Not confident that a roundabout at this location will work with the heavy traffic loads.
Participants noted that the current width of the Scajaquada may not be able to accommodate the proposed median, two traffic lanes for vehicles in each direction, and a pedestrian pathway.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached during the site tour and meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Craig Mozrall, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 All in Attendance, BA Project 6861 file
Page 4 of 6 August 7, 2007 Draft version:
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) I-190 to NYS Route 33 PIN 5470.22
Draft Purpose and Need Statement
NYS Route 198 (the Scajaquada Expressway) is an Urban Principal Arterial Expressway on the
National Highway System connecting Interstate 190 and NYS Route 33 with traffic volumes between 34,000 and 54,000 vehicles per day, a design speed of 55 mph, and grade separated interchanges. The expressway was constructed in the 1950’s through the middle of the historic,
Olmsted-designed Delaware Park. Park features on the north side of the expressway include the
Buffalo Zoological Gardens, Delaware Park Golf Course, Mirror Lake and the Buffalo and Erie
County Historical Society. These are separated from other park facilities on the south side of the expressway including the Marcy Casino, Hoyt Lake, the statue of David and the nationally renowned Albright-Knox Art Gallery. Other community resources in the expressway corridor include higher education institutions (Buffalo State and Medaille College), the historic Forest
Lawn Cemetery, the Buffalo Psychiatric Center, residential neighborhoods and some commercial centers. A number of the bridges in the corridor are historic, including the Lincoln Parkway
(south) bridge over the Delaware Park Lake outlet and the Scajaquada Bridge over Delaware
Avenue. Most of the traffic on the expressway serves the surrounding corridor with only 7% to
22% of the traffic on the expressway operating as through traffic. Delaware Park, educational and cultural institutions, residences and businesses that surround the Scajaquada corridor also generate numerous pedestrian and bicycle trips within the study area.
Page 5 of 6 The expressway facility is at odds with the context of the surrounding culturally rich community resources - acting as a barrier, dividing the park and hindering the use of these resources by the pedestrians and bicyclists. Motorists on the expressway are not able to appreciate the surrounding cultural and natural features due to the traffic speeds and volumes.
Transportation needs of the expressway itself include:
a poor Level of Service (a measure of congestion) at one or more intersections
higher than expected rates of accidents
areas of poor pavement conditions
deteriorating drainage systems that fail to function as designed
The purpose of this action is to convert the Scajaquada Expressway into a feasible and prudent transportation facility that is more in harmony with the surrounding community character. The facility should provide improved connectivity between the various features and resources in the adjacent area for vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians. All modes of transportation should be coordinated to provide safe and efficient transportation throughout the affected area. The conversion should also address poor pavement conditions and failing drainage systems.
Page 6 of 6 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22 Public Meeting NEPA Scoping Meeting November 28, 2007 @ 6:00 PM Medaille College Lecture Hall
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING
Chris Gatchell FHWA John Burns FHWA Darrell Kaminski NYSDOT R5 Design Craig Mozrall NYSDOT R5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT R5 Design Nimish Shah NYSDOT R5 Design Gary Gottlieb NYSDOT R5 Planning Ken Kluck NYSDOT R5 LA Steve Adams NYSDOT R5 Real Estate Sylvia Jones NYSDOT R5 Environmental Tim Bender NYSDOT Consultant Mgt. Hasibul Khan NYSDOT DQAB Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Jim Boggs Bergmann Associates
The purpose of this meeting was to introduce the public to the project and to solicit initial comments on the Purpose and Need statement, on existing environmental resources in the study area and on potential environmental impacts. Each participant was provided with an agenda, a current copy of the Draft Purpose and Need statement, and an informational handout.
The meeting began with an open house at 6:00 PM during which New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) representatives were present to answer individual questions and project displays were set up for viewing. A formal presentation, utilizing PowerPoint, began at 6:30 PM. The presentation covered the following agenda items:
I: Welcome, Introductions, and Purpose of Public Outreach II. Introduction to the Preliminary Design and Environmental Analysis Process III. Importance of Purpose and Need IV. Project Overview V. Discussion (Question and Answer)
Page 1 of 5 A copy of the formal presentation graphics is available at http://www.dot.ny.gov/scajaquadacorridor. The following text summarizes discussions that took place during the question and answer period.
Topics Discussed, Public Comments Received, Questions, and Answers:
The NYSDOT will publish a project newsletter in early January 2008.
The next stakeholder meeting will be held in early February 2008.
Q: Who has determined that this is an essential project?
R: The need for the project was identified in the City of Buffalo’s 2005 Expanded Project Proposal and is a direct result of that study’s public participation process. The Null (“do nothing”) alternative remains under consideration. Funding has been committed for preliminary engineering and environmental studies. Money for construction must be obtained from the next Federal transportation bill.
Q: How much money has been committed for preliminary engineering and environmental studies?
R: A total of $4 Million dollars has been committed for this phase of the project which will last through 2011.
A representative of the Buffalo Riverkeeper commended the FHWA and the NYSDOT for providing this early opportunity to learn about and comment on the project and asked if such opportunities would continue throughout the detailed design phase.
R: Public involvement will continue throughout detailed design. Landscape architecture elements could be heavily influenced by public and other interested groups (e.g., the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy) given many historic and significant local features. For example, other projects within the Region, including one in East Aurora, have featured bi-weekly aesthetics task force meetings throughout detailed design.
Surface water quality, the effects of roadway runoff, and public access to Scajaquada Creek were noted as concerns by an individual representing the Buffalo Riverkeeper. It was suggested that bioengineering solutions such as natural filtration should be incorporated into the project design. Opportunities to dovetail this project with other ongoing efforts to improve Scajaquada Creek should be investigated and leveraged.
Q: Do the traffic volumes collected by the NYSDOT take into account conditions after tolls were removed from I-190?
R: Yes, traffic counts were taken both after the tolls were removed from I-190 and after the toll barriers were physically removed for comparison purposes.
Q: A representative of the Elmwood Village Association asked if the renderings provided at the second stakeholder group (tour) are available on the project website.
R: The project tour graphics are available on the website under the “stakeholder group” tab. Alternative renderings included in that binder were copies of those produced by the City of Buffalo in
Page 2 of 5 2005 and may be obtained from their website. There is a link to the City’s Expanded Project Proposal on the NYSDOT project website (http://www.dot.ny.gov/scajaquadacorridor).
An individual representing the New Millennium Group noted that this project has evolved from what was originally a simple reconstruction project. They are pleased with the public involvement process thus far. There are other examples of corridor transformations nationwide and it should be a goal for this effort to become another great national example upon conclusion. The selected alternative should not inhibit other long-term community plans including those for the Lincoln Parkway and the Humboldt Parkway. Planned and known actions will be considered by the NYSDOT during the course of this study. Care will be taken so that the scope of the project remains focused and does not expand to try to meet all of the needs in the Buffalo area.
Q: Given the extension of the study to the NYS Route 33 ramps, has consideration been given to filling in the existing expressway and developing an at-grade facility or covering the roadway as it exists today?
R: This study will generally focus its efforts in the Main Street and Kensington area on improving operations on the ramps and service roads. Raising or covering the expressway may be looked at thoughtfully during alternative development. Estimated construction costs would likely be high.
A meeting participant suggested that high speeds are not prerequisite to adequate roadway capacity. They also noted that roundabouts are prevalent in other countries, including New Zealand, where they both move traffic and improve safety.
Q: A representative of Buffalo State College asked if the traffic data collection effort on Grant Street had taken into account time periods when Buffalo State College was in session. They also noted significant delays on Grant Street at certain times of the day adjacent to the college. They would like to see this project do something to ease that problem.
R: Counts were taken last spring, prior to the end of the college’s academic year. Delays on Grant Street when the college “gets out” have been observed by members of the NYSDOT project team. This is an issue that could be taken up in further detail at future stakeholder meetings.
A representative of the Grant Amherst Business Association suggested this project presents an opportunity to re-knit together broken neighborhoods and that the existing facility is not functioning correctly for the speeds at which it is being driven citing the lack of break-down lanes as an example. This project should look at how neighborhoods can be reconnected, for example using Lincoln Parkway. The Delaware Avenue/Nottingham Terrace ramp was cited as a difficult place to make a right turn and enter the expressway. The McKinley and Assumption schools should be involved in the project.
Q: What is the best way to submit comments on the current Purpose and Need statement?
R: Members of the public may “mark-up” a copy of the draft and send it to the NYSDOT or submit revisions and comments through the project website.
Q: Are adjacent neighborhood associations and/or property owners represented?
Page 3 of 5 R: There are a few private citizens, representing some neighborhood organizations on the stakeholder group. Other ways for private individuals to participate include coming to public meetings, adding their names to the mailing list, reviewing the website, and submitting comments and ideas. Members of the public are encouraged to call or write the NYSDOT for more information, with questions, or comments.
Q: Are the members of the stakeholder group identified on the project website?
R: The meeting minutes posted on the web site reflect stakeholders who attended and participated in each meeting. A listing of the “invited: stakeholder group member agencies will be added to the project website in the near future.
Q: Will the traffic studies for the NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor Project take into account the possible future Ambassador Bridge project?
R: A Major Investment Study has not been completed for that facility at this time. Therefore, it will not be considered as part of this project. Future analyses for a new bridge must consider conditions on the Scajaquada corridor.
Q: What was the thought process behind expanding the limits of this study beyond those of the City of Buffalo’s 2005 Expanded Project Proposal?
R: The City of Buffalo’s project studied the Scajaquada Expressway from Grant Street to Parkside Avenue. This project will study the facility from the I-190 interchange to the NYS Route 33 interchange, not inclusive of the interchange ramps themselves. Work on the Grant Street interchange would involve the ramps between that facility and I-190. In addition, this project seeks to produce changes in driver behavior (reduced speeds and increased awareness of pedestrians and bicyclists) before motorists reach Grant Street or Parkside Avenue (Delaware Park). Changes need to occur as soon as one leaves the ramps at each interchange. Speeds are already reduced on those ramps by geometry and the NYSDOT would like to take advantage of that condition before they accelerate to speeds in excess of the 50 mile per hour posted limit.
Q: When was it determined that the limits of study would be extended beyond those covered by the City of Buffalo’s Expanded Project Proposal?
R: During scoping with the project Consultant team.
Q: Has the NYSDOT been designated Lead Agency under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) or is this just assumed?
R: The NYSDOT is joint lead agency with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process and is the lead agency for the SEQRA process [under 17 NYCRR Part 15]. NYS Route 198 is a State Highway, paid for with Federal transportation funding, that is owned and maintained by the NYSDOT. This is the basis for the NYSDOT participation as Lead Agency under SEQRA.
Page 4 of 5 The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached at this meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Craig Mozrall, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 BA Project 6861 file
Page 5 of 5
NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Stakeholder Group Meeting #3 Wednesday, April 23, 2008 @ 3:00 PM Buffalo State College, Grover Cleveland Building – Room 418, Buffalo, NY
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING Darrell Kaminski NYSDOT R5 Design Craig Mozrall NYSDOT R5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT R5 Design Nimish Shah NYSDOT R5 Design Cleo Jones NYSDOT R5 Alma Williams NYSDOT R5 Ron Hayes NYSDOT R5 Sylvia Jones NYSDOT R5 Environmental Tim Bender NYSDOT Consultant Mgt. Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Stevan Stepanovich Black Rock Riverside GNPA Donna Fernandes Buffalo Zoo David Lampe Delaware Park Steering Committee Bernhard Wagner Parkside Community Assoc. Justin Azzarella The Elmwood Village Assoc. Dennis Crahen The Forest Lawn Group Brian Dold Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Robert Biniszkiewicz Pyramid Brokerage
The purpose of this meeting was to provide a general project status update, review and seek additional input concerning the current draft of the “Purpose and Need” statement for the project, review the Section 106 consultation process for historic preservation issues, review comments received to date concerning the project, and discuss a plan and methodology for additional outreach and future alternative development work sessions.
The project team is still finalizing the base traffic volume information that they will then carry forward into alternative development and comparison. The removal of the I-190 toll barriers has had some effect on traffic volumes along the Scajaquada Expressway and the surrounding street network. To best assess these changes some additional traffic count information has recently been obtained that still needs to be evaluated. We expect to have a decision on the base traffic conditions to move forward with within the next several weeks. The traffic data is considered representative of typical, average daily traffic conditions.
Page 1 of 3 The following are comments, ideas and discussion points were shared by those in attendance during the meeting.
General Discussion, Concerns, Ideas, Opportunities, etc.:
Stakeholder review, input and general agreement/consensus of the “Purpose and Need” statement is requested at this time so that we can move forward together in developing and comparing the project alternatives. The current version of this statement (attached) was distributed and discussed at this meeting. When asked, no major concerns or suggestions for modifications were offered by those in attendance during the meeting. The stakeholders were each provided a copy and asked to review the Purpose and Need statement again and provide their comments within the next few weeks.
Getting more participation by area residents and neighborhood organizations is important as we start to develop and evaluate the project alternatives. In seeking to share information and build support for the project, a proposed methodology for developing ideas and alternatives along the corridor was presented. The project corridor can be logically segmented into 5 distinct focus area sections as presented in the meeting handouts. Future alternative design working meetings would focus on one of these sections at a time, with the meeting involving the neighborhoods and block groups that exist in or near this section of the project corridor. Stakeholders in attendance agreed with this general plan, requesting that these sessions involve more local representation than just the members of the stakeholder group.
The DOT also offered to provide information in support of any future neighborhood meetings and will attend whenever asked to participate.
Region 5 DOT will be reviewing the entire list of area neighborhood organizations and will be contacting them to invite them to participate in the project development process.
Chuck Banas offered to share information on successful “road diet” projects across the United States. The project team will review any information provided for possible ideas and relevance to this project.
The following agencies and individuals where identified as possible project Stakeholders : o Buffalo Sewer Authority o Erie County Parks Dept. o Hamlin Park Neighborhood o Canisius College
Several stakeholders in attendance (Buffalo State College, Buffalo Zoo, Medaille College, etc.) stated that they want to pursue a beautified project corridor that is more in harmony with the surrounding environs, but not a drastic reduction in access or traffic capacity. Efficient truck and vehicular access via the Scajaquada corridor is considered vital to their facilities and day to day operations. A reduction in operating speeds and modifications at the interchanges would go a long way in improving conditions along the corridor.
Question was raised if the City is willing to consider relocating their parks maintenance facility to another location? The DOT has had some recent discussions with the City on this matter. The facility is currently planned to remain in operation at this location. However the discussion of other possibilities will continue through this project’s evolution.
Page 2 of 3 The Section 106 Consultation process for historic properties and archaeological resources was discussed at the meeting. Stakeholders were encouraged to identify and invite any individuals who are well versed or have an interest in this aspect of the project to participate as “consulting parties”. The NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society are already engaged in this process.
Pat Cavanaugh is a local historian, with a wealth of area knowledge. He should be contacted (through Dennis Crahen?) and invited to participate as a consulting party on this project.
Forest Lawn Cemetery is interested in making a daytime trail connection to the cemetery, if a feasible and safe connection can be made. The trail would not be open at night within the cemetery.
The Scajaquada Creek trash rack was mentioned as needing to be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. It is believed this maintenance responsibility lies with the Buffalo Sewer Authority.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached during the site tour and meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Craig Mozrall, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 All in Attendance, BA Project 6861 file
Page 3 of 3 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Stakeholder Group Meeting #4 Wednesday, April 29, 2009 @ 3:00 PM Buffalo Zoo, Grover CRC Conference Room
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING
Craig Mozrall NYSDOT R5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT R5 Design Nimish Shah NYSDOT R5 Design Ron Hayes NYSDOT R5 Tim Bender NYSDOT Consultant Mgt. Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Ken Meding Bergmann Associates Keith Mortimer Fisher Associates Brent Long Fisher Associates Sally Treanor Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society Tullis Johnson Burchfield Penney Art Center Teresa Glanowski Assemblymember Hoyt’s Office Brad Hamm Office of Councilmember Michael LoCurto – Delaware District Mark Lee Erie County Environment and Planning Hal Morse GBNRTC Bob Biriszkiewice Elmview Pl. Block Club Ruth Lampe PCA Katherine Winkles Buffalo Niagara River Monica Pellegrino Richardson Center Fanx Corporation Joseph E O’Donnell 17 Burbank Drive Steve Shaffer Buffalo State College Dave Lampe Delaware Park Steering Com. Kathleen Heyworth Burchfield-Penney Art Center Justin Azzarella Elmwood Village Association Brian Dold Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy
Page 1 of 4 The purpose of this meeting was to provide a general project overview and status update, including a summary review of the draft Chapter 2 EIS information that has been prepared, summarizing existing conditions and needs along the project corridor. The meeting also allowed for additional input from stakeholders concerning the current draft of the “Purpose and Need” statement for the project and discussion of a plan and methodology for additional outreach and future alternative development work sessions.
A PowerPoint presentation following the attached agenda handout was used to guide the meeting. Copies of the current “Purpose and Need” statement (attached) were distributed to attendees for further review and discussion. Also the current updated project schedule with target phased project construction dates in 2015, 2017 and 2019 (attached) was provided.
Fisher Associates was in attendance providing a working 3D model of the existing project corridor, including an accurate representation of existing peak hour traffic operations. This model was used to view significant resources and locations of interest along the corridor, areas of traffic congestion during the peak hour, high accident locations, etc.
The following are comments, ideas and discussion points that were shared by those in attendance during the meeting.
General Discussion, Concerns, Ideas, Opportunities, etc.:
Stakeholder review, input, and general agreement (consensus) regarding the “Purpose and Need” statement is needed at this time so that we can move forward together in developing and comparing project alternatives. Modest changes were made in recent months; the current version of this statement (attached) was distributed and discussed at the meeting. When asked, no major concerns or suggestions for modifications were offered by those in attendance. The stakeholders were each provided a copy and asked to once again review the “Purpose and Need” statement and provide their comments within the next few weeks.
Current complete documents were shown at the meeting as the progress on the project is moving forward. The Draft Chapter 2 of the EIS and Wetlands and Hazardous Waste Screening reports have been completed. Review and comments from the NYSDOT are still being made to the Draft Chapter 2 EIS report.
A question was raised about the designation of NYS Route 198 as a truck route. NYS Route 198 has always been a designated truck route ever since its original planning and design in the 1950’s.
A question was raised about possibly regulating NYS Route 198 to not allow truck traffic to travel its entire length. This type of restriction is not likely for the NYS Route 198 project for it may put all of the federal funding into jeopardy as this is a designated truck route. Also, a fully contiguous truck route would still have to be maintained so a designated alternative truck route would have to be identified, likely using the local streets which is not a practical.
A comment was made that the Martin House may attract more traffic after its recent rehab and improvements.
Page 2 of 4 A request was made to refer to the Richardson-Olmsted Complex in the Purpose and Need statement, referring to its historic classification.
A question was raised inquiring if there was a change in truck percentages along the NYS Route 198 corridor after the toll barriers came down on NYS Route 190. Removal of tolls and toll barrier appears to have caused a slight reduction in daily total traffic and daily truck traffic over the length of the Scajaquada corridor. The average daily traffic, based on an average of five sections, traveling within the corridor reduced by approximately 4,000 vehicles and the number of trucks by 200. The percentage of heavy vehicles (dual tires and at least 2 axles) remains at approximately 4% of the total traffic flow.
Stakeholders mentioned the McKinley High School should be included in the stakeholder meetings.
Richardson-Olmstead will send Bergmann Associates a group contact list.
Stakeholders raised concern about publicity of these meetings. NYSDOT can assist with advertisement but has a limited budget. Local and community newspapers will be considered for ads and flyers. Stakeholders suggested that it will be better if these meeting notices are not placed in the newspaper’s legal notices sections. Stakeholders are asked to help with this process.
An updated project newsletter has been requested.
A question was raised about possibly decreasing the speed to 35 or 45mph? The alternatives to be evaluated will test lower speed limits / operating speeds in this range.
Getting more participation by area residents and neighborhood organizations is important as we start to develop and evaluate the project alternatives. In seeking to share information and build support for the project, a proposed methodology for developing ideas and alternatives along the corridor was discussed. The project corridor can be logically segmented into 4 or 5 distinct focus areas (segments along the corridor). Future working meetings would focus on alternative development over one section at a time. Working meetings can involve neighborhoods and block groups that exist in or near that segment of the project corridor. Stakeholders in attendance agreed with this general plan, requesting that these sessions involve more local representation than just the members of the stakeholder group and that these sessions do not just cover a single segment but the adjoining segments as well.
Page 3 of 4 The stakeholder group is still okay with the current plan of workshops to develop alternatives. These workshops are currently scheduled to start in the summer of 2009. The general preference is to start at the Main Street and Parkside segments and work west. Working on both segments simultaneously would save time and efficiency due to constituency overlap. Buffalo State College is also interested in knowing early on alternatives in the Grant Street to Elmwood Avenue area that could influence their planned developments. A time frame of 6:30 to 8:30 PM has been chosen to conduct these workshops. Stakeholders have suggested having actual data on hand for the development of the alternatives. These workshops would be scheduled over a 1 to 1.5 year span of time.
Buffalo State College can accommodate these workshops during the summer and evening periods. Burchfield Penney is another possible location to hold these workshops.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached during this meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Craig Mozrall, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 All in Attendance, BA Project 6861 file
Page 4 of 4 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES – July 9, 2009 – Buffalo State Campus
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33
P.I.N. 5470.22
Purpose: Update on Status of Buffalo State College Development Plans and Studies, and the College’s Comments and Concerns on NY 198 project.
In Attendance:
Steve Shaffer Buffalo State College Craig Mozrall NYSDOT R5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT R5 Design Nimish Shah NYSDOT R5 Design
Issues discussed:
Proposed Stadium:
Feasibility study progressing. 3500-4000 seats. Two sites possible – City impound lot, or off Iroquois Dr. where tennis courts currently are.
New Ramps from /to NY 198:
The previously discussed possible new off ramp between elevated section and Grant St. would bisect the City impound lot site, therefore Buff State is not in favor of this option. An exit off the 198 closer to the 190 interchange would be preferable, out letting onto the north-south street (Letchworth St.) south of the Grant/ Rockwell intersection.
Buff St. does not support new 198 off ramps onto the campus between Grant and Elmwood. The possibility of an on ramp from Iroquois Dr. onto 198 would be the only thing that would be even a consideration.
Richardson Complex – development plans have potential to increase traffic on surrounding roadway including Rockwell. This should be considered when developing alternatives in this area. Project issues that Buff state supports: x Access to Scajaquada Bike Path x New Pedestrian Bridge between Grant and Elmwood x Bike Path facilities on the south side of the expressway and Scajaquada Creek x Partnering with DOT on stormwater treatment strategies. (LaBella is currently preparing a study on retention / treatment facilities for Buff state.)
Buffalo State’s major concern with the project and proposed modification of 198 interchanges and functional classification is that is not result in any increase in delays for students and faculty. Currently students and faculty leaving in peak periods (4:30 pm example cited) can expect it to take up to half an hour to get from the parking lots onto the 198. This is a major complaint of students.
Action Items:
x DOT to find out who has ownership and maintenance responsibility for the retaining wall adjacent to Iroquois Drive near Elmwood ramps. o Based on our record plan information, we believe that the retaining wall is on Buffalo State property and is not owned or maintained by the State.
x DOT to find out who owns and maintains Scajaquada Bike Path o It is our understanding that the City of Buffalo owns and maintains the path.
x S. Shaffer to forward record plan information on existing storm water outlets and other Buff State utilities crossing the 198 corridor.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed during this meeting. Please notify the undersigned with any errors or omissions.
Best regards, Dave Hill
Cc: All in attendance NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Interactive Design Workshop #1 Focus on NYS Route 198 from I-190 through the Grant Street Interchange Wednesday, September 16, 2009 @ 6:30 PM Burchfield Penney Art Center, Buffalo, NY
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING Darrell Kaminski NYSDOT R5 Design Craig Mozrall NYSDOT R5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT R5 Design Nimish Shah NYSDOT R5 Design Ken Kluck NYSDOT R5 Landscape Arch Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Jim Dill Bergmann Associates Ken Meding Bergmann Associates Seyed Ghasemi City Hall James Lee Forest District Civic Jordan Dalton UB Dept. of Media Study Steve Shaffer Buffalo State College Mark Kubiniec Grant Amherst Business Assoc. Tullis Johnson Burchfield Penny Art Center Brad Hamm Common Council – Delaware District Mark Lee Erie County Planning Peter Burakowski Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society Brain Dold Tom Mead Pam Maglietto Marc Rebmann Kristen Allen Monica Bower Francis A Wagner Hal Morse GBNRTC Janet Sciohino Jo-Ann Mecca Bill Field Tim Scanlon Kathleen Heyworth Burchfield Penny Art Center Katy Brown Buffalo Niagara River Keeper Bill Licata Council Staff City Hall Ruth Lampe Dave Lampe Delaware Park Steering
Page 1 of 5 NAME REPRESENTING Lonnell M. Williams The Academy at School #44 Larry Brooks Buffalo Niagara River Keeper Katherize Winkler Buffalo Niagara River Keeper Carlos Gartin Peter Lisker Zachary A. Sadler Senator Antoine M. Thompson NYS Senate 60th Jennifer Diagostino Sam Hoyt Office Steven P. Riverside GNPA Stipanovazh Phil Barone Franklin Lavoie
Summary
This was the first in a series of public workshops to help the Department shape the future of the Scajaquada Corridor. The workshop presented an opportunity for the community to take an active role in guiding the future of the Scajaquada Expressway Corridor and to provide immediate and dynamic feedback on concept solutions for the segment of NYS Route 198 from I-190 through the Grant Street interchange. The goal was to develop usable outcomes, responsive to the community’s needs that will inform the project team as they move into preliminary design.
The meeting began with a welcome and introductions, followed by a brief presentation to the group as a whole. The purpose of the presentation was to familiarize those who may not have participated in the project before with its purpose and need as well as the results of past studies. Environmental considerations, roadway geometry, drainage features, traffic control, accident history, and community context were covered.
Attendees then broke into two (2) groups for a “thinking session.” Each group was facilitated by two members of the project team. The groups brainstormed ideas, talked over concepts presented at each table, and proposed improvements that would work close up (for pedestrians and bicyclists) and far away (for motorists, commuters, and trucks). Each group discussed ways to improve safety, connectivity, and to bring the facility into better harmony with the surrounding community character and natural environment.
At the conclusion of the breakout session, each group reported back. This was followed by a brief discussion to identify common points and to build consensus. The following is a summary of comments recorded at the meeting.
Page 2 of 5 Focus on NYS Route 198 from I-190 through the Grant Street Interchange
If constructing a pedestrian connection over Scajaquada Creek from Buffalo State College to the Scajaquada Pathway, consider moving that connection farther west than the location shown on the graphics presented at the meeting. A level crossing without ADA ramps or stairs would be preferred.
Provide improved signage and wayfinding for pedestrian and bicyclist resources as well as historic sites throughout the corridor. There are points of interest related to the War of 1812 along the Scajaquada Pathway.
Consider the development of a portage around the existing finger dam in Scajaquada Creek to improve access for watercraft. It is important to note that the dam results in downstream currents that can be dangerous to canoes. The location for a portage should be chosen accordingly.
Pocket parking along Scajaquada Creek is a good idea to enhance access. If constructed, Buffalo State College Student parking would need to be regulated.
Removing the Grant Street ramps to and from westbound NYS Route 198 would allow for connection of the Scajaquada Pathway without an at-grade crossing of Grant Street.
The removal of select vegetation to improve the visibility of Scajaquada Creek should be balanced with a desire to maintain or perhaps establish additional vegetation to protect its banks, riparian buffer, and general ecology.
Access should be enhanced with good lighting, visible connections, and marked crosswalks. The design of at-grade crossings will be particularly important if they are to be well utilized.
The flow of traffic at the Grant Street, NYS Route 198 eastbound ramps, and Buffalo State College entrance intersection needs improvement. There is a need to work with Buffalo State College to improve general circulation and roadway connections in this area.
Consider installing a sidewalk along the south side of NYS Route 198. Determine if that sidewalk can be constructed at grade with Iroquois Drive rather than down along the roadway. People may prefer to walk away from moving traffic.
Without shifting the roadway’s alignment, a sidewalk on the north side of NYS Route 198 would require a retaining wall for support. Construction of a wall could be expensive, may damage the creek’s riparian buffer, and may present a potential safety concern for water craft. Consider shifting the roadway to the south to provide this sidewalk access along the creek without negatively impacting its banks.
Page 3 of 5 The possibility of extending Letchworth Street to Tonawanda Street should be further investigated along with a dedicated eastbound off-ramp from NYS Route 198 if proposed development is supportive. Traffic around Buffalo State College is cyclical in nature. The impact of traffic on neighboring homes from an extended Letchworth Street should be considered.
A speed transition zone must be developed between I-190 and Grant Street using visual cues to “tame” traffic speeds.
An existing problem with headlight glare caused by opposing vehicles along the curves approaching and on the elevated section should be further investigated and mitigated if possible.
Agreements regarding the continued maintenance of sidewalks, shared use paths, and pedestrian bridges constructed under this project will be critical to upkeep and future success. Local agencies will need to be involved and have some responsibility. Participation by local community groups is also a possibility.
There is a desire to promote greater usage of the existing Scajaquada Pathway through good connections and sound maintenance.
The installation of rain gardens beneath and along the elevated section of NYS Route 198 should be further investigated. This is one potential way to improve the quality of water discharged to Scajaquada Creek from the roadway.
Diversion of traffic from NYS Route 198 on to adjacent, parallel local streets is a significant public concern.
No preference for the proposed roundabout or signalized intersection alternatives was clearly stated. It was noted that the roundabout concept is in keeping with the Olmsted heritage of the surrounding area. More analysis is necessary.
An increase in travel time along the corridor would be acceptable as long as traffic can be kept moving at a reasonable pace on a reliable, daily basis.
There is a concern over the ability of traffic to negotiate around disabled vehicles or other blockages given a narrowed section.
Police enforcement is not a desirable way to encourage lower speeds. It is desirable to encourage proper motor vehicle speeds by design of the roadway to the greatest feasible extent.
If the Scajaquada Expressway were to be built to current standards, it would likely be a much larger facility with interchanges having a greater footprint. Reconfiguration to an urban arterial roadway is desirable alternative.
Page 4 of 5 It is important for members of the surrounding communities to reach out to their elected officials and support the identification of funding for construction of proposed improvements. At this time, only the preliminary design and environmental study activities are fully funded as part of the New York State Department of Transportation’s program.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached during the meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Craig Mozrall, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 All in Attendance, BA Project 6861 file
Page 5 of 5 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Interactive Design Workshop #2 Focus on NYS Route 198 from Parkside Avenue to NYS Route 33 Wednesday, November 4, 2009 @ 6:30 PM St. Mary’s School for the Deaf, Buffalo, NY
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING Craig Mozrall NYSDOT R5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT R5 Design Nimish Shah NYSDOT R5 Design Doug Macaulay NYSDOT R5 Design Alan Lesniak NYSDOT R5 Design Mike Christner NYSDOT R5 Design Tim Bender NYSDOT Consultant Mgmt. Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Tom Detrie Bergmann Associates Monica Bower Lynne Adamczyk Sean Myers Charles Banas Liz Savage, SSJ Ryan Bugess Time Warner News - YNN Hal Morse GBNRTC Jim Nowicki Brad Hamm Common Council – Delaware District Dan Cadzow Sister Philip Marie Ken Kruly Tom Greene Steven Stipanovich Black Rock - Riverside GNPA Tom Ziobro Krysta Doerfler Zachary A. Sadler Senator Antoine M. Thompsons NYS Senate 60th Donna Fernandes George Zornick Peter Burakowski Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society James Rozanski Tom Cannavo Brain Dold S. S. Rick Wolf Tom Mead Buffalo Olmstead Parks
Page 1 of 5 NAME REPRESENTING Chris Colley Oswaldo Mestre Chris Fahey Congressman Higgins Chris Hawley City of Buffalo Justin Pomietlarz Jo-Ann Mecca Bill Licata Council Staff City Hall Ruth Lampe Parkside Comm. Assoc. Dave Lampe Parkside Comm. Assoc. Kristin Allen Parkside Comm. Assoc. Joan Baizer Parkside Comm Assoc. Seyed Ghasemi Mark Kubiniec Grant Amherst Business Assoc. Mark Lee Erie County Planning Michael Meyer Flynn Battaglia Architects Janice Barber Amy Minser David Gerber Todd Mitchell Albert Titus David Woollatt Pam Maglietto Rich Powers David DeBoy Bob Kilduff Nate Marton Medaille College
Summary
This was the second in a series of public workshops to help the Department shape the future of the Scajaquada Corridor. The workshop presented an opportunity for the community to take an active role in guiding the future of the Scajaquada Expressway Corridor and to provide immediate and dynamic feedback on concept solutions for the segment of NYS Route 198 from Parkside Avenue to NYS Route 33. The goal was to develop usable outcomes, responsive to the community’s needs that will inform the project team as they move into preliminary design.
The meeting began with a welcome and introductions, followed by a brief presentation to the group as a whole. The purpose of the presentation was to familiarize those who may not have participated in the project before with its purpose and need as well as the results of past studies. Environmental considerations, roadway geometry, drainage features, traffic control, accident history, and community context were covered.
Attendees then broke into three (3) groups for a “thinking session.” Each group was facilitated by a member of the project team, with two additional members available to take notes and assist with the graphics. The groups brainstormed ideas, talked over concepts presented at each table, and proposed improvements that would work close up (for pedestrians and bicyclists) and far away (for motorists, commuters, and trucks). Each group discussed ways to
Page 2 of 5 improve safety, connectivity, and to bring the facility into better harmony with the surrounding community character and natural environment.
At the conclusion of the breakout session, each group reported back. This was followed by a brief discussion to identify common points and to build consensus. The following is a summary of comments recorded at the meeting.
Focus on NYS Route 198 from Parkside Avenue to NYS Route 33
Consider an alternative that would construct a large traffic circle at Parkside Avenue, matching the radius of Agassiz Circle. Access and traffic impacts to the adjacent homes were noted as potential concerns.
Consider lowering NYS Route 198 five to six feet adjacent to Delaware Park. This, coupled with appropriate ground level screening, would help screen the view of passenger cars from the park.
Add an entrance/exit to Delaware Park from NYS route 198.
Reconfiguration of the Main/Kensington intersection should involve coordination with Sisters Hospital. Ambulances use Kensington Avenue to access the emergency room, which is located off Kensington Avenue.
The option of constructing a tunnel beneath Parkside Avenue for NYS Route 198 through traffic was favorably received. Blasting (for rock removal) and its potential impacts to neighboring residents, along with cost and the extension of the “expressway” to Delaware Avenue were discussed as concerns.
Consider increasing the number of connections to the local street network, especially between Main Street and NYS Route 33. This would ease the pressure on existing intersections and interchanges and reconnect neighborhoods severed by the original construction.
It was suggested that a three-lane roundabout at the Parkside intersection would be confusing and difficult to navigate.
It was suggested that if the Main/Kensington intersection were improved, traffic may use what is perceived as excess capacity on Main Street and migrate away from Parkside Avenue. An increase in capacity at the Parkside intersection would be undesirable.
Consider returning Humboldt Parkway to its original condition/design prior to the construction of NYS Route 198.
Ensure that truck access is maintained as part of any of the improvements.
Scale the road down to a local road.
Investigate a boulevard concept for NYS Route 198 with intersecting streets.
Page 3 of 5 A suggestion was made to test a single lane in each direction for the length of NYS Route 198 with jersey barrier for 6 months to help with an assessment of diversion.
Consider dual roundabouts at Main Street and Kensington Avenue to maintain all current maneuvers.
Consider improving the conditions east of Main Street. High traffic volumes, congestion, air, and noise impacts are of concern to neighboring residents. There is also a lack of connectivity and pedestrian routes across the expressway.
Consider a pedestrian underpass at Parkside Avenue with an at-grade roundabout, however, security inside this tunnel would be of concern.
Medaille College Students park on the north side of NYS Route 198 and cross to the college at Parkside. Create a safer crossing for pedestrians at this location.
Move the Buffalo Parks Department maintenance garage in order to construct a pedestrian bridge closer to Parkside Avenue. Have the pedestrian crossing east of the existing garage location.
Improve access to NYS Route 33 from Main Street.
Consider the effects of traffic movements and their effect on the quality of life in the area.
Add street lights for improved visibility. Consider placing lights in a location where they will not be susceptible to being struck, such as within a raised median.
Improve pavement markings at the NYS Route 198 and NYS Route 33 interchange.
To some, increased delay or travel time would not be a concern if the project puts the facility more in harmony with its surroundings while increasing safety, connectivity, and property values.
What impact would improve mass transit facilities have on the corridor? Would this help relieve congestion?
Local streets lose at least 25% of their width during the winter months due to snow banks.
Speed reduction is a necessity in order to create a safe roadway for vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
This area has an urban planning problem not a highway geometry problem.
Increase pedestrian and bicycle accommodations to improve mobility.
Consider having a charrette as an effective forum for alternative development and idea gathering. This would better allow for a true sharing of ideas.
Page 4 of 5 Consider a boulevard with two lanes in each direction for Humboldt Parkway surrounding two or more lanes in each direction for NYS Route 198. Intersections would be at grade and signalized.
Streetscape improvements should be a requirement of the project.
It is important for members of the surrounding communities to reach out to their elected officials and support the identification of funding for construction of proposed improvements. At this time, only the preliminary design and environmental study activities are fully funded as part of the New York State Department of Transportation’s program.
Consider/Research examples such as Ocean Park Boulevard and Embarcadero Boulevard.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached during the meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Craig Mozrall, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 All in Attendance, BA Project 6861 file
Page 5 of 5 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Interactive Design Workshop #3 Focus on NYS Route 198 from Elmwood Avenue to Delaware Park Thursday, April 29, 2010 @ 6:30 PM Delaware Park Marcy Casino, Buffalo, NY
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING Craig Mozrall NYSDOT R5 Design Darrell Kaminski NYSDOT R5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT R5 Design Nimish Shah NYSDOT R5 Design Alan Lesniak NYSDOT R5 Design Alma Lafferty NYSDOT R5 Design Tim Bender NYSDOT Consultant Mgmt. Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Tom Detrie Bergmann Associates Michael Muehlbauek T. J. Pignato Buffalo News Janice Burnett Forest Lawn Jo-Ann Meca Jeff Zimbell Bill Park City of Buffalo OSP Warren Glover Gary Witulsky City of Buffalo OSP Steve Krumm John Metzen Jennifer Diagostino NYS Assm Sam Hoyt Steven Shaffer Buffalo State College Eugene Setel David DeBoy Robert Biniszkiewicz Joseph O’Donnell Robbyn Drake Alan Oberst Buffalo-Niagara Riverkeeper Kathleen McGuigan-
Sadoff
Thomas Herrera- Buffalo Olmsted Parks
Mishler Conservancy Fran Wagner Scajaquada Cr. Canoe Club Jordan Dalton SUNY Buffalo – Media Study Kris Allen Cindy Gorski
Page 1 of 5 NAME REPRESENTING Paul Gorski Gary Gottlieb NYSDOT Andres Hverta Chuck Barnes Monica Bower Hal Morse GBNRTC Jim Nowicki Ken Kruly Tom Ziobro Krysta Doerfler Brian Dold Tom Mead Buffalo Olmstead Parks Ruth Lampe Parkside Comm. Assoc. Seyed Ghasemi Grant Amherst Business Mark Kubiniec Assoc. Mark Lee Erie County Planning Albert Titus
Summary
This was the third in a series of public workshops to help the Department shape the future of the Scajaquada Corridor. The workshop presented an opportunity for the community to take an active role in guiding the future of the Scajaquada Expressway Corridor and to provide immediate and dynamic feedback on concept solutions for the segment of NYS Route 198 from Elmwood Avenue to Delaware Park. The goal was to develop usable outcomes, responsive to the community’s needs that will inform the project team as they move into preliminary design.
The meeting began with a welcome and introductions, followed by a brief presentation to the group as a whole. The purpose of the presentation was to familiarize those who may not have participated in the project before with its purpose and need as well as the roadway’s features, traffic control, accident history, and community context for this section of the corridor. At the end of the presentation, various alternative concepts were introduced to those in attendance.
Attendees then broke into three (3) groups for a “thinking session.” Each group was facilitated by a member of the project team, with two additional members available to answer questions, take notes, and assist with the graphics. The groups brainstormed ideas, talked over alternative concepts presented at each table, and proposed improvements that would work close up (for pedestrians, bicyclists, and waterway users) and far away (for motorists, commuters, and trucks). Each group discussed ways to improve safety, connectivity, and to bring the facility into better harmony with the surrounding community character and natural environment.
At the conclusion of the breakout session, each group reported back. This was followed by a brief discussion to identify common points and to build consensus. The following is a summary of comments recorded at the meeting.
Page 2 of 5
Focus on NYS Route 198 from Elmwood Avenue to Delaware Park
Good pedestrian and bicyclist accommodations are extremely important along this segment of the corridor. The Scajaquada Pathway and Delaware Park ring road are valuable existing resources. The project should take advantage of opportunities to add to and enhance the existing network of paths and sidewalks. More plentiful and convenient pedestrian connections were requested including access to/from the Wegmans Plaza from Buffalo State College.
A consensus emerged that modern roundabouts with more than two through travel lanes would not be desirable along the Scajaquada corridor. This directly applies to a three (3) lane alternative concept presented for the junction of NYS Route 198 and NYS Route 384 (Delaware Avenue). Concerns were raised that while “Olmsted-esque”, roundabouts would create large expanses of pavement, a complex system of pavement markings and signing leading to driver confusion, long pedestrian crossings, and significantly reduce capacity on NYS Route 198.
Traffic signals are proficient at handling heavy peak hour through volumes while providing gaps for lower volume side street movements. Many attendees were in favor of the signalized alternatives presented and requested that traffic signals be fully investigated as alternatives to roundabouts where ramps are eliminated. It was noted that signalized intersections do allow some direct vehicular and pedestrian conflicts that do not exist in roundabouts. It was also noted that signals can increase the potential for vehicle idling, which is perceived as a potentially negative impact to Delaware Park (e.g. idling trucks).
Removal of the existing ramp in the southwest quadrant of the Elmwood Avenue interchange could allow for future use of that property by Buffalo State College. A desire to eliminate the eastbound off ramp to Iroquois Drive was also stated. In general, a desire to eliminate ramps and increase green space while addressing safety concerns was expressed.
Removal of the existing ramp in the southwest quadrant of the Delaware Avenue interchange would visually and acoustically benefit the atmosphere of Delaware Park adjacent to Hoyt Lake.
Consider lowering NYS Route 198 between Lincoln Parkway and Delaware Avenue and Delaware Avenue and Parkside Avenue to improve physical and visual connectivity while potentially reducing the impact of traffic noise. This might also increase opportunities to site and construct pedestrian bridges that reflect the style of Frederick Law Olmsted.
Consider raising the profile of NYS Route 198 where it passes over Scajaquada Creek to allow for a pedestrian underpass. A suggestion was made to fully reconnect Lincoln Parkway across NYS Route 198. A modern roundabout or signal could be used to control this new full access intersection.
The creation of a “boulevard feel” along NYS Route 198 was generally met with a favorable response. It was noted that while narrowing the pavement is desirable from a
Page 3 of 5 traffic calming and pedestrian access perspective, adequate space should be retained to accommodate regular maintenance activities and incident management. The use of non-expressway design features was encouraged.
Consider the use of street trees with an appropriate spacing to give motorists on NYS Route 198 the perception that they are moving faster than they actually are.
Consideration should be given to providing direct connections to and from heavy traffic generators where feasible. It was suggested that a direct exit from Buffalo State College to NYS Route 198 could take some traffic load off the local street system (Elmwood Avenue).
A comment was made that since NYS Route 198 had been resurfaced in 2009, traffic noise had increased. It was suggested that quieter pavement treatments be investigated as part of the design process.
A suggestion was made to consider crossing NYS Route 198 and NYS Route 384 (Delaware Avenue) at grade, off the existing Delaware Avenue bridge, at a signalized intersection. This would allow for the use of the Delaware Avenue bridge by pedestrians and bicyclists.
Consider a boardwalk in lieu of a paved pathway along the southern shore of Scajaquada Creek at the western end of the project to protect the riparian buffer.
It was suggested that the focus of efforts along the entire corridor should be the protection and enhancement of community assets rather than handling traffic.
A participant asked why design concepts couldn’t start with 10 foot or 11 foot lane widths and work their way up to 12 foot if necessary rather than vice versa? It was explained that NYS Route 198 is a Qualifying Highway on the New York State Designated system of Truck Access Highways. According to accepted design standards, 12 ft lanes meet the minimum standard for a Qualifying Highway and 13 ft lanes are typical. The current alternatives begin with 12 ft wide lanes. Lanes 11 ft wide may be considered in the future as a design exception.
A participant asked if trucks could be prohibited from NYS Route 198. It was explained that it is a Qualifying Highway on the New York State Designated system of Truck Access Highways and truck access needs to be provided unless a suitable alternative route was developed, which does not exist today.
Some participants expressed a desire to maintain the Scajaquada’s function as a through roadway. It would not be desirable to turn the roadway into a local street. The diversion of traffic to local streets would be of concern, especially under winter (snowy) conditions.
Consider the feasibility of adding on-street parking along NYS Route 198.
Consider the integration of features that enhance the experience of users other than motorists. For example, consider bridge treatments that would be seen by and appeal to pedestrians and canoeists, even if they cannot be seen by passing motorists.
Page 4 of 5
A suggestion was made to explore the possibility of allowing two-way traffic over the existing Lincoln Parkway bridge.
Ensure that the drainage system is properly designed to address both water quantity and quality.
Investigate ways to light the roadway that will not be prone to damage each winter and spring from plowing operations and errant vehicles (i.e. move the lights farther away from the roadway than they are today).
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached during the meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Craig Mozrall, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 All in Attendance, BA Project 6861 file
Page 5 of 5 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Stakeholder Group Meeting #5 Thursday, April 28, 2011 @ 3:00 PM Delaware Park Marcy Casino, Buffalo, NY
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING Craig Mozrall NYSDOT R5 Design Frank Billittier NYSDOT R5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT R5 Design Peter Hart NYSDOT R5 Design Tim Bender NYSDOT Consultant Mgmt. Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Tom Detrie Bergmann Associates Cheryl Liberatore Bergmann Associates James Lee Forest District Civic Assoc. Bernard Wagner Darwin Martin House Kristi Moscato Wegmans Russell Weaver Senator Mark Grisanti Brad Hamm Councilmember Michael LoCurto Gary Witulsky City of Buffalo OSP Justin Azzarella Elmwood Village Assoc. Ruth Lampe Parkside Comm. Assoc. Dave Lampe Buffalo Park Steering Comm. Jennifer Diagostino NYS Assemblyman Sam Hoyt Renata Kraft Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper Steven Shaffer Buffalo State College Henry Szymula Forest Lawn Group Nate Martin Medaille College Masten District Common Todd McAlister Council Tom Kelly - Thomas Herrera- Buffalo Olmsted Parks
Mishler Conservancy Hal Morse GBNRTC Buffalo Olmstead Parks Tom Mead Conservancy Seyed Ghasemi City of Buffalo DPW Mark Kubiniec Grant Amherst Bus. Assoc. Mark Lee Erie County Planning
Page 1 of 8 Summary
The purpose of this meeting was to update the Stakeholder Group on the status of the project, discuss schedule, present future no-build traffic volumes, and provide early insight from the analysis of alternative traffic data. The meeting also included a summary of ideas from last year’s series of Interactive Design Workshops. Attendees were given an opportunity to review and comment on a conceptual layout of a feasible build alternative.
Project Status Update:
Frank Billittier introduced himself to the group. Craig Mozrall has assumed the role of Acting Regional Design Engineer within the Department and Frank has taken over leadership responsibilities for the Scajaquada Corridor project.
A significant amount of traffic data was generated and obtained from the GBNRTC over the course of the past year. Analysis of that data began in earnest this April.
The design team is targeting summer 2012 for the selection of a preferred alternative. Overall, the project is on target for completion of the Environmental Impact Statement in 2013. This would allow for construction between 2016 and 2020. As noted at previous meetings, construction funding has not yet been identified.
Regional Traffic Forecast Model Results:
Background
The morning and evening peak hours of commuter traffic along NYS Route 198 occur from 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM and 4:15 to 5:15 PM, respectively. These representative periods are being studied. There are other times and locations where traffic is heavy, such as along Grant Street during the Buffalo State College peak (3:30 PM). Consideration to these will also be given in the design.
Attendees were provided with copies of existing (Year 2008) and future no-build (Year 2040) traffic volumes for the morning and evening peak hours. It was noted that some minor adjustments may be made to future volume projections as the study progresses.
GBNRTC’s travel demand model was used to generate traffic forecasts for the future no-build and build (alternative) conditions on and around the Scajaquada Corridor. It was also used to make informed assessments of potential traffic diversion. The model is based on population and employment trends, households and planned developments, and origin/destination information. In-person interviews and surveys were also conducted to help calibrate the model results during the early stages of model development.
The GBNRTC travel demand model meets Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) standards for calibration and validation.
Forecasts of population and employment changes have been made based on past trends and with input from a committee of local experts.
Page 2 of 8
A modest increase in population and employment is anticipated across the Buffalo region through 2035. Immediately adjacent to the Scajaquada Corridor, a slight population increase on the order of 2% is expected during this time period, primarily resulting from increased student housing and dormitory facilities in the vicinity of Buffalo State College. Employment within the Scajaquada Corridor is expected to drop by 11% by the year 2035.
No-Build Traffic Information
No-Build traffic projections suggest roughly 10% growth in traffic throughout the corridor between 2008 and 2040, or approximately 0.3% per year. The design should anticipate that increase.
As traffic builds, peak hour congestion at the following locations is anticipated to grow:
o Intersection of NYS Route 198 at Parkside Avenue o Westbound NYS Route 198 off-ramp to Nottingham Terrace and Delaware Avenue o Intersection of Grant Street and the NYS Route 198 ramps
In addition to those along the corridor, up to 36 “outlying” intersections (signalized and unsignalized) will be studied on parallel and alternative routes to assess the potential effects of traffic diversion onto alternative routes. Some congestion occurs at these intersections today, primarily along the Elmwood and Delaware corridors. Known peak hour congestion on these routes can discourage traffic from using them as diversion routes off of the NYS Route 198 corridor.
Initial Traffic Diversion Results
Initial results suggest traffic will not divert away from NYS Route 198 as much as previously expected. Early thoughts on why include:
o Lack of parallel routes with convenient alternate access to I-190 and NYS Route 33. o NYS Route 198 acts locally as principal access to the regional transportation system. o The times to reach, use, and traverse parallel routes remain longer than the time required using NYS Route 198, even with large increases in delay factored in. o Most trips using NYS Route 198 (upwards of 80%) begin at or are destined for areas within the corridor so most of the traffic has a local origin or destination.
Additional delay and travel time information will be presented at a future stakeholder meeting as it is developed.
Initial results show the average diversion realized along NYS Route 198 as follows:
o -15% for Alternative 2 (four lane arterial with traffic signals at 40-45 mph) o -20% for Alternative 3A (four lane arterial with roundabouts at 40 – 45 mph) o -25% for Alternative 4 (two lane arterial with roundabouts at 30-35 mph) o < 5% diversion at the Parkside and Main/Kensington intersections under any scenario
The following corridors received diverted traffic:
Page 3 of 8
o South of NYS Route 198 - Forest, Delavan, Ferry, and Main o North of NYS Route 198 – Amherst, Hertel, Military, Delaware, Nottingham, and Colvin
Early diversion results on I-190 and NYS Route 33 show +3% and -6%, respectively.
Signals vs. Roundabouts (Comparisons)
Initial results suggest single and multi-lane modern roundabouts will not have adequate capacity to handle the anticipated traffic demand, even with anticipated diversion factored in.
Participants at the Interactive Design Workshops generally did not approve of modern roundabouts with more than 2 circulating lanes for this corridor.
Multi-lane roundabouts are more operationally complex than their single-lane counterparts having an increased number of conflict points. Experience has shown an elevated risk of sideswipe accidents related to lane departures.
Questions have been raised regarding pedestrian accessibility (especially for the blind) at modern roundabouts. Though pedestrians need only cross only one direction of traffic at a time, they must rely upon the proper behavior of motorists (yielding) in multiple lanes to complete their movement.
Recent information on Roundabout experience in the United States is available in the Transportation Research Board’s NCHRP Report 672, “Roundabouts: An Informational Guide – Second Edition.”
Signalized intersections are generally better suited to handle heavily peaked traffic that is not balanced over multiple approaches when compared to modern roundabouts.
While pedestrians must still rely on motorists obeying the “rules of the road” for crossing safety at signalized intersections, the signals do assign phases for crossing. There is an opportunity to incorporate median refuges at signalized intersections, which can offer some of the same benefits of two-stage crossing realized at a roundabout.
Initial results suggest signalized intersections with a minimum of two through lanes in each direction and auxiliary (turn) lanes can provide enough capacity to accommodate the projected peak hour volumes with a modest increase in congestion, operating at or just over capacity during the peak hour in 2040.
Interactive Design Workshop(s) - Results
Significant conclusions drawn from the interactive design workshops were reviewed. Please refer to the meeting handout attached to these minutes.
Page 4 of 8 Initial Concept (Work in Progress) of a Feasible Build Alternative
The initial concept under development is based on Alternative 2. It involves changing NYS Route 198 into a four-lane, median divided arterial with signalized intersections as replacements for the existing higher speed ramps. Its development has been informed by the results of the interactive design workshops, Olmsted Park plans, etc.
The concept offers the following benefits, which are in keeping with the project’s Purpose and Need (current statement reviewed at the meeting).
o Non-expressway, principal arterial facility o Relative overall safety improvement o Improved pedestrian connectivity o Reduced travel speeds o Improved harmony with surrounding community character and environment o Does not significantly erode the existing level of service
Issues to consider at the local street connections include concentrated traffic volumes at fewer locations, increased congestion, long pedestrian crossings, longer traffic signal cycle lengths, and potential impacts to adjacent property. It should be noted that these issues exist exclusive of whether signals or roundabouts are used on NYS Route 198.
The concept will result in an increased travel time across the NYS Route 198 corridor. Travel time projections are currently being developed and will be shared at a future Stakeholder Group meeting.
Air quality and noise impacts will be investigated as the study progresses. Changing from an expressway (free flow) to stop-and-go traffic (signals and/or roundabouts) may result in an increase in emissions and noise.
Profile adjustments to improve visual and physical connectivity between Lincoln Parkway and Delaware Avenue and Delaware Avenue and Parkside Avenue are being evaluated. Snow drifting and increased winter maintenance activities must also be considered.
The Department is committed, per the Purpose and Need Statement, to maintaining an arterial roadway through this corridor. NYS Route 198 will not be eliminated by this project. However, feasible alternatives will attempt to accomplish the shared goal of bringing the corridor into better harmony with its surroundings.
Light poles were shown in the median on the conceptual typical sections distributed at the meeting for illustrative purposes only, though this is a desirable treatment. Final decisions on the locations of light poles will be made as design progresses.
Proper handling and treatment of storm water and desired surface water quality enhancement measures, as deemed feasible, will be part of the project’s design.
If the roundabout alternative with a 30-35 mph speed limit were dismissed, the possibility of a reduced speed limit could still be investigated in conjunction with a different alternative. It is important to note that speed limits are set by the anticipated
Page 5 of 8 (and after construction, actual) 85th percentile speed. That term is defined as the speed which 85% of the traffic travels at or exceeds under free-flow conditions.
Comments on the Conceptual Alternative
In lieu of moving NYS Route 198 closer to Buffalo State College and away from Scajaquada Creek to accommodate a sidewalk on that side of the highway, consider the feasibility of an easement for sidewalk construction and maintenance by Buffalo State College on the south side of the road.
Buffalo State College will send parking lot counts to the design team (lots adjacent to Grant Street).
Buffalo State College would prefer to see a pedestrian overpass moved farther west, to line up with a gap between the residence halls.
A path connection that eliminates the need to cross Grant Street is desirable. Improved pedestrian accommodation is desirable at the Grant Street intersections.
Review the possibility of having an eastbound and westbound NYS Route 198 connector roadway at the Grant Street interchange, where the present day ramps reside. This would split the large volume of traffic destined to NYS Route 198 across two intersections instead of one.
Consider relocating the parking, canoe launch, and creating a pocket park between the proposed Elmwood Avenue connector from NYS Route 198 and the Elmwood Avenue overpass.
Further investigate connectivity for Lincoln Parkway across NYS Route 198. Pedestrian connectivity was generally thought of as more important than vehicular connectivity. An at-grade crossing of NYS Route 198 for pedestrians could be accomplished in conjunction with a new signalized intersection at Lincoln Parkway or via an underpass where NYS Route 198 passes over Scajaquada Creek.
Consider a canoe launch just west of Lincoln Parkway, south of NYS Route 198. Canoes could portage around the dam.
Interest remains in possibly relocating the existing parks maintenance facility. A concern was voiced regarding moving equipment in and out of the facility. It is not anticipated that the Scajaquada project will impact the existing facility or its access to the extent that the site is no longer viable. Without a significant impact, federal funds cannot be used to fund relocation. Consideration will be given to improving access to the facility as design progresses. If the City has plans to move/eliminate the existing building, that information should be shared with the design team. The NYSDOT plans to have a separate meeting with the City Parks Department to discuss this facility and its future in greater detail.
Maintain a minimum of two lanes out of Medaille College and approaching NYS Route 198 at Parkside Avenue.
Page 6 of 8 It was stated that recent pedestrian improvements (pedestrian signals, marked crosswalks, curb ramps) at the Parkside intersection have vastly improved the ability to cross at that location.
Retain the existing sidewalk on the west side of the Medaille College entrance drive as part of the concept shown.
Consider a grade separated pedestrian crossing of NYS Route 198 just west of Parkside Avenue to improve connectivity between the southern neighborhoods, Medaille College, and Delaware Park.
Consider improved vehicular access to Delaware Park. Explore a new entrance to the parking area from NYS Route 198 westbound and/or a new right-in/right-out.
The Olmsted Parks Conservancy would still like to see Agassiz Circle formally reestablished. Restoration of the circle is at odds with accommodating the high volume of traffic projected to continue to utilize this intersection well into the future. Preliminary results show only 4% diversion would occur here. Construction of a tunnel allowing through traffic to bypass the intersection would be costly (estimated at $120M) and would extend the higher speed “expressway feel” to Delaware Avenue. Another option is to reflect Agassiz Circle in other elements such as pedestrian facilities, landscape features, etc around the intersection.
The goal at the Main and Kensington “triangle” is to reduce conflict points, improve safety, and promote smoother operation. Multiple options have been screened including a single point urban intersection, elevated median u-turns, a one-way connector bridge at Kensington Avenue, and a two-way connector bridge. Capacity, connectivity, impacts and cost need to be balanced here. Consideration could also be given to closing off access to Kensington Avenue at Humboldt Parkway. This could significantly affect Sisters Hospital.
No level of improvement at Main and Kensington is expected to provide enough additional capacity to draw measurable traffic away from the Parkside intersection with NYS Route 198.
Next Steps:
Complete the Year 2040 Future No-Build traffic analyses Update draft Chapter 2 of the EIS Continued alternative development Continued assessment of alternatives from a traffic analysis standpoint including capacity, delay, and travel time. Review progress at the next Stakeholder Group meeting, targeted in another 3 months.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached during the meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Page 7 of 8 Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Frank Billittier, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 All in Attendance, BA Project 6861 file
Page 8 of 8 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Buffalo Olmsted Parks Board Meeting Thursday May 26, 2011 @ 9:00 AM Delaware Park Marcy Casino, Buffalo, NY
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING Frank Billittier NYSDOT R5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT R5 Design Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Thomas Herrera-Mishler Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Brian Dold Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Tom Mead Buffalo Olmstead Parks Conservancy Greg Robinson Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Charles Gordon Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Tony James Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Richard Cummings Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Otis Glover Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Victor Rice Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Gary Mucci Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Ruth Lampe Parkside Comm. Assoc. Dave Lampe Delaware Park Steering Comm. Peter Flynn Flynn Battaglia Architects, P.C. Mark Mistretta Wendel-Duchscherer
Summary
This was a joint meeting of the Design Review Committee and Long Range Planning Committee of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Executive Board. The purpose was to provide an update on the NYS Route 198 Scajaquada Corridor project. The goal of this meeting was to continue a productive two-way dialogue where the project team revisits the BOPC vision for a transformed corridor while also sharing the complexities of the planning process and real traffic issues with the BOPC that are leading to some of the initial conclusions.
Introductions were followed by a brief history of the Scajaquada Corridor presented by Brian Dold. The presentation covered past comments made by the BOPC. Representatives of the NYSDOT and Bergmann Associates next provided an update on the traffic analysis and alternative development process. The meeting concluded with a summary of next steps.
By the end of the meeting, attendees generally agreed that due to existing and proposed traffic demands, it is unlikely that the Scajaquada Corridor project will be able to recreate Agassiz Circle in the image of Frederick Law Olmsted’s original vision. NYS Route 198 serves as the primary gateway to Buffalo’s regional network of arterials and interstates for
Page 1 of 3 the homes, businesses, and cultural institutions located along the corridor. There are no other convenient ways to access I-190 and NYS Route 33. As a result, even with geometry and speed limit changes along NYS Route 198, only 15% to 20% of traffic is expected to divert. Furthermore, less than 5% of vehicles would divert away from the NYS Route 198 and Parkside Avenue intersection.
The Department is committed to planning a non-expressway alternative that meets many of the Conservancy’s goals, however in the interest of the community, economy, and overall mobility; it is not prudent to build a facility that would introduce significant additional delay. An opportunity remains to use pedestrian facilities, landscaping, or other streetscape elements to reflect the original circle in the ultimate plan, even if the circular roadway itself cannot be reestablished.
Given the most current traffic data available, the design team has initially concluded that a modern roundabout with no more than two circulating lanes would have insufficient capacity to handle existing and projected traffic. It would be especially difficult for Parkside Avenue traffic to enter the intersection. This desired concept however, will continue to be tested and thoroughly evaluated using an animated traffic model. The results of that model will be shared with the project’s stakeholders, including the BOPC, at a future meeting.
Future traffic projections are based on the Greater Buffalo Niagara Regional Transportation Council’s travel demand model which predicts traffic patterns based on population, employment, and origin-destination data. The model has been validated to Federal Highway Administration Standards and calibrated to local conditions.
It is important to note that while the design team anticipates a signalized intersection at Parkside Avenue will perform better than its roundabout counterpart, it too will continue to suffer from congestion during the morning and evening peak traffic periods. Options that would eliminate congestion, such as a grade separated tunnel are considered too costly to build and/or unnecessarily disruptive to the unique character of the surroundings. They would likely also result in a higher speed traffic condition extending even further west of Parkside.
The Design Team shared graphics depicting an initial concept for a feasible build alternative. The design is a work in progress with much more evaluation and decision making still to occur. This alternative introduces a landscaped median along NYS Route 198, removes many of the existing expressway ramps, creates at-grade traffic signal controlled intersections, improves pedestrian connectivity, reduces vehicular speeds, and improves overall safety. Given these improvements, driver expectancy would be better matched with the facility’s form and function.
Items the BOPC would like to see considered as design progresses:
x The speed limit reduced to 30-35 miles per hour x A “complete streets” arterial boulevard with “Olmsted Character”
x An improved streetscape with appropriate gateway features
x Improved access to Delaware Park from NYS Route 198 and Parkside Avenue
Page 2 of 3 x Relocation of the existing pedestrian overpass x Safer pedestrian crossings that develop a strong linkage between parts of the park x Extension of Letchworth Street from Grant Street to Niagara Street, matching the character of Rockwell Road (Note: the BOPC did not express a preference for roundabouts or signalized intersections at the Grant Street interchange) x Narrowing of Delaware Avenue to two through lanes south of and beneath the NYS Route 198 overpass. x Introduction of a curve into the alignment of NYS Route 198 near the McMillan Monument that more closely resembles the historic alignment
The BOPC voiced concerns against:
x Pull-off parking adjacent to Scajaquada Creek x Opening the existing Lincoln Parkway bridge to two-way traffic. The BOPC preferred an approach where the pedestrian experience on the bridge would be maintained or upgraded.
It was noted that the City of Buffalo may be studying the future viability of the park maintenance facility. The BOPC uses only a small part of the existing facility. The NYSDOT will be holding a separate in-person meeting with the City to discuss future plans for the buildings.
Next Steps:
Complete the Year 2040 Future No-Build traffic analyses Update draft Chapter 2 of the EIS Continued alternative development Continued assessment of alternatives from a traffic analysis standpoint including capacity, delay, and travel time. Review progress at the next Stakeholder Group meeting, targeted in approximately 3 months. The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached during the meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager
cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Frank Billittier, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 All in Attendance, BA Project 6861 file
Page 3 of 3 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Stakeholder Group Meeting #6 Wednesday, February 15, 2012 @ 3:00 PM Delaware Park Marcy Casino, Buffalo, NY
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING Craig Mozrall NYSDOT R5 Design Frank Billittier NYSDOT R5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT R5 Design Peter Hart NYSDOT R5 Design Tim Bender NYSDOT Consultant Mgmt. Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Tom Detrie Bergmann Associates James Lee Forest District Civic Assoc. Brad Hamm Councilmember Michael LoCurto Ruth Lampe Parkside Comm. Assoc. Steven Shaffer Buffalo State College Nate Martin Medaille College Hal Morse GBNRTC Seyed Ghasemi City of Buffalo DPW Mark Lee Erie County Planning Heath Lagoe Fisher Associates Lorenzo Rotoli Fisher Associates Stevan Stipanovich 119 Bidwell Pkwy, Buf 14222 William Murray Forest Lawn Cemetery Steve Balesteri Senator Grisanti Newell Nussbaumer 121 Norwood, Buf 14222 Buffalo Olmsted Parks Brian Dold Conservancy David Vitka Catholic Health Gary Constantino Catholic Health Michael Hoffert City of Buffalo Street Lightings Buffalo Olmsted Parks Greg Robinson Conservancy Bob Biniszkiewicz Elmview Place Block Club
Page 1 of 6 Summary
The purpose of this meeting was to update the Stakeholder Group on the status of the project and share an updated concept for the feasible build alternative (Alternative 2). Traffic simulation results for the feasible build alternative were also shared. Graphics illustrating the feasible build alternative were made available for review. Segments of the graphic were shown and described during a slide presentation. Attendees were given an opportunity to review and comment on the graphics at the close of the meeting.
Project Status Update:
While the detailed design and construction phases remain unfunded at this time, the Department is moving forward with the development of the preliminary design and Environmental Impact Statement. Having a completed Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision at the end of this process may help with securing future funding, if it becomes available.
The design team continues to target summer 2012 for the selection of a preferred alternative. Overall, the project remains on target for completion of the Environmental Impact Statement near the close of 2013.
Description of the Feasible Build Alternative (Alternative 2):
As described in the purpose and need statement, the intent is to convert NYS Route 198 to a “non-expressway” facility. The feasible build alternative would change the existing facility into a median divided arterial and provide:
x An improved driver, bicyclist, and pedestrian experience x Improved pedestrian connectivity x Enhanced safety x A better match between the roadway’s design and operating speeds
NYS Route 198 Viaduct: The design team is beginning to give thought to the development of appropriate gateway features that will draw motorist attention to the change from an expressway environment to an urban arterial. These would be located on approach to the proposed Grant Street connector intersection.
Grant Street: Existing ramps would be removed and replaced with two connector roadways. Both the intersections with Grant Street and NYS Route 198 would be signalized. A proposed addition to the Jesse Kregal Pathway would pass beneath the proposed westbound connector roadway where it crosses over Scajaquada Creek.
Buffalo State College: A new pedestrian bridge is being considered to cross over NYS Route 198 linking a central campus walkway with the Jesse Kregal Pathway. This connection would facilitate future access to Wegmans and/or the Amherst Street corridor.
Page 2 of 6 Elmwood Avenue: Existing ramps would be removed and replaced with one connector roadway. Both the intersection with Elmwood Avenue and NYS Route 198 would be signalized. Removal of the existing NYS Route 198 westbound off ramp to Elmwood Avenue northbound would eliminate an existing vertical clearance “pinch point” over the Jesse Kregal Pathway.
Elmwood Avenue Bridge: The NYSDOT is currently studying a separate project to replace the existing Elmwood Avenue bridge over NYS Route 198. If timing works out, that project could be integrated with the corridor project.
Iroquois Drive: The exiting Lincoln Parkway bridge over the waters between Hoyt Lake and Mirror Lake would become a pedestrian only facility. A new roadway would connect NYS Route 198 (eastbound only) with Iroquois Drive at the site of the former ramps. A signal would be installed at the intersection of the connector roadway and Iroquois Drive (in front of the Albright Knox gallery). It would be possible to add a new pedestrian feature (plaza) around the statue of David in homage to the historic “West Bluff Concourse.”
Stakeholders have asked for a direct connection between the Lincoln Parkway Bridge and the Jesse Kregal Pathway at Lincoln Parkway. The design team investigated several different ways to realize a grade separated crossing. A connection beneath the existing bridge would be both difficult to build and maintain and be cost prohibitive (estimated $1 million cost).
Existing Pedestrian Bridge: The design team considered lowering NYS Route 198 to allow installation of a new, ADA accessible bridge, however the cost of doing so was judged prohibitive given the following considerations. The structure itself is in good condition and warrants rehabilitation rather than replacement at this time. Though not in the park itself, there is an available ADA accessible route over the Elmwood Avenue bridge. Pending NYS Government approval, this feature is expected to be dedicated as the “9/11 Memorial Bridge” by 9/11/13. This would be accompanied by the creation of a small memorial at the bridge site. The selection of this site was made in part due to the visual prominence (twin spiral ramp towers) which would be eliminated with its removal.
Delaware Avenue: Existing ramps, including the ramp connecting NYS Route 198 westbound with Nottingham Terrace, would be removed. Removal of the interchange would eliminate accidents associated with stop controlled ramps and congestion associated with the Nottingham ramp which occurs primarily during the evening peak hours. The existing ramps would be replaced with a single connector roadway between NYS Route 198 and Delaware Avenue (NYS Route 384). Both new intersections would be signalized.
Curves introduced on NYS Route 198 west of the bridge over Delaware Avenue would more closely reflect the historical parkway design.
There is the potential to create a storm water facility that mimics the shape of the former “East Bay” and to restore an old pathway alignment connecting to the McMillan Monument.
Page 3 of 6 A one to 2 foot lowering could be accomplished along NYS Route 198 between the Delaware Avenue bridge and Buffalo Parks Maintenance Facility. The ability to lower further is constrained by the adjacent Buffalo Police radio station, proximity to South Meadow Drive, access to the parks maintenance building, and snow drifting concerns.
The Buffalo Parks Maintenance Building will remain. The removal and/or relocation of 8 parking spaces in front of the facility adjacent to NYS Route 198 would improve sight lines for vehicles approaching NYS Route 198. This would need to be done in cooperation with the City of Buffalo Department of Public Works, Parks, and Streets.
Parkside Avenue: The existing signalized intersection would be retained at this location. The NYS Route 198 westbound auxiliary lane leading away from the intersection would be extended to balance lane utilization on the westbound approach, thus reducing peak hour congestion. This improvement would involve some right-of-way acquisition from Delaware Park.
There is the potential to add a new access to and from Delaware Park to the west of Parkside Avenue.
Consideration is being given to a triple-left configuration on Parkside Avenue. This feature would cut morning queue lengths in half. The “slip ramp” to westbound NYS Route 198 could potentially be removed, eliminating one pedestrian crossing. Few changes to intersection geometry and little additional pavement would be needed to create the triple left.
Main Street & Kensington Avenue: The current concept would simplify the intersection eliminating the “triangle” formed at Main Street (NYS Route 5) and Kensington Avenue by constructing a new bridge for Kensington Avenue over NYS Route 198. Issues under investigation include the ability to meet design standards on NYS Route 198 beneath the proposed bridge, potential impacts to a pump station and subterranean drainage system, potential impacts to the adjacent retaining walls and their foundations, possible impacts to the NFTA subway, reduced weaving lengths at the Humboldt Parkway exchanges, and difficult truck turning movements. It is known that the proposed changes would not significantly improve capacity or operations. The potential benefits do not appear to outweigh the scope of civil engineering changes necessary or the significant cost of those changes. Other configurations including single point intersections and roundabouts have already been considered and dismissed for similar reasons.
Travel Speed: Today, average operating speeds on NYS Route 198 are approximately 49 mph. The feasible build alternative in its current form is anticipated to result in average mid-block speeds of 44 mph. This would be a 10% reduction.
Travel Time: While the addition of signals to the corridor would increase delay, it is estimated that on average the time it takes to get from one end of the corridor to the other (now 4 to 6 minutes) would generally increase by up to one minute during peak hour periods. Travel time would decrease slightly in the westbound direction (up to one minute) during the evening peak. This would result from the elimination of congestion generated the combination of geometry and traffic control at the westbound off ramp to Nottingham Terrace and Delaware Avenue.
Page 4 of 6 Diversion: As discussed at a previous meeting, significant volumes of vehicular traffic are not expected to divert from NYS Route 198 to the local street system (less than 15% on average). There are no convenient, parallel routes and NYS Route 198 provides necessary access to the regional network of arterials and interstates for nearby homes, businesses, and cultural institutions.
Traffic Operations: Intersections under the feasible build alternative would operate near or at capacity during the morning and evening peak hour in the design year, 2040. Some individual movements would continue to suffer peak hour congestion and delay, however the vehicular system would function acceptably overall. Pedestrian crossing distances and times were taken into consideration as part of the analysis.
Stakeholder Comments on the Feasible Build Alternative (Alternative 2):
Consider a roundabout at the new intersection on Iroquois Drive.
Consider the construction of a tunnel beneath NYS Route 198 near the site of the existing pedestrian overpass.
Consider how Buffalo State’s peak traffic periods may affect traffic on Grant Street and along the connectors to NYS Route 198.
The improvements along Parkside Avenue appear to facilitate the movement of traffic. Will we be encouraging more traffic to use this intersection?
Proposed lighting should be installed within the new median wherever possible.
Can the proposed right-in, right-out driveway from Delaware Park near Parkside be converted to right-in only? This would prevent frustrated drivers on Parkside Avenue (during the morning peak) from using the parking lot and driveway as an alternate route to access NYS Route 198 westbound. It would also eliminate an access point in the middle of the proposed (extended) auxiliary lane.
Can the proposed right-in, right-out driveway be located or redesigned to reflect the missing fourth quadrant of Agassiz Circle?
Investigate the potential impacts of reducing or eliminating some access at the Main Street and Kensington Avenue intersections with the Humboldt Parkway to improve operations and safety at the “triangle.”
Would the proposed improvements at the Main Street and Kensington Avenue intersections with the Humboldt Parkway result in an air quality improvement near the Catholic Health (Sister’s Hospital) campus? Not likely, but air quality will be studied as the Department develops the Environmental Impact Statement.
A preference was stated for sidewalks and pathways with separation from the roadway.
Page 5 of 6 Consider improving pedestrian safety by adding refuges at large intersections wherever possible.
Consider other ways (narrower lanes, 40 mph speed limit) to reduce projected speeds.
Next Steps:
Revise the concept for the feasible build alternative based on comments received at this meeting.
Complete traffic analyses for the feasible build alternative.
Address NYSDOT Main Office and FHWA comments on Draft Chapter 2 of the Environmental Impact Statement when available.
Meet again with the Olmsted Parks Board and other interested groups regarding the feasible design alternative.
Continue environmental studies.
Continue the development of conceptual landscape, streetscape, and gateway features for the corridor.
Develop Draft Chapters 3 (Alternatives) and 4 (Environmental) of the Environmental Impact Statement
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached during the meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Frank Billittier, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 All in Attendance, BA Project 6861 file
Page 6 of 6 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Buffalo Complete Streets Coalition and Bike / Ped Advisory Group Representatives Friday, March 16, 2012 @ 10:00 AM City Hall, Room 502, Buffalo, NY
In Attendance:
Dave Hill NYSDOT Region 5 Peter Hart NYSDOT Region 5 Chris Church NYSDOT Region 5 Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Eric Schmarder City of Buffalo – DPW Gary Witulski City of Buffalo Justin Booth Complete Streets Coalition Alan Oberst Complete Streets Coalition Leslie Green Options Buffalo Mark Mistretta Buffalo Green Fund Evelyn Vossler Black Rock-Riverside Good Neighbors Planning Alliance Amy Weymouth GBNRTC Jessie Gouck Barbara Rowe Vision Niagara Aliesa Adelman Wendel
Summary This meeting was held to present the status of the project development and share an updated concept for the feasible build alternative (Alternative 2) under consideration. A PowerPoint presentation and rendered plan view graphics were used at the meeting.
Project Status Update:
While the detailed design and construction phases remain unfunded at this time, the Department is moving forward with the development of the preliminary design and Environmental Impact Statement. Having a completed Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision at the end of this process will help with securing future funding.
The design team continues to target summer 2012 for the selection of a preferred alternative. Overall, the project remains on target for completion of the Environmental Impact Statement near the close of 2013.
Page 1 of 6 Description of the Feasible Build Alternative (Alternative 2):
As described in the purpose and need statement, the intent is to convert NYS Route 198 to a “non-expressway” facility. The feasible build alternative would change the existing facility into a median divided arterial and provide:
x An improved driver, bicyclist, and pedestrian experience x Improved pedestrian connectivity x Enhanced safety x A better match between the roadway’s design and operating speeds
NYS Route 198 Viaduct: The design team is beginning to give thought to the development of appropriate gateway features that will draw motorist attention to the change from an expressway environment to an urban arterial. These would be located on approach to the proposed Grant Street connector intersection.
Grant Street: Existing ramps would be removed and replaced with two connector roadways. Both the intersections with Grant Street and NYS Route 198 would be signalized. A proposed addition to the Jesse Kregal Pathway would pass beneath the proposed westbound connector roadway where it crosses over Scajaquada Creek.
Buffalo State College: A new pedestrian bridge would cross over NYS Route 198 linking a central campus walkway with the Jesse Kregal Pathway. This connection would facilitate future access to Wegmans and/or the Amherst Street corridor.
Elmwood Avenue: Existing ramps would be removed and replaced with one connector roadway. Both the intersection with Elmwood Avenue and NYS Route 198 would be signalized. Removal of the existing NYS Route 198 westbound off ramp would eliminate an existing vertical clearance “pinch point” over the Jesse Kregal Pathway.
Elmwood Avenue Bridge: The NYSDOT is currently studying a separate project to replace the existing Elmwood Avenue bridge over NYS Route 198. If timing works out, that project could be integrated with the corridor project.
Iroquois Drive: The exiting Lincoln Parkway bridge over the waters between Hoyt Lake and Mirror Lake would become a pedestrian only facility. A new roadway would connect NYS Route 198 (eastbound only) with Iroquois Drive at the site of the former ramps. A signal would be installed at the intersection of the connector roadway and Iroquois Drive (in front of the Albright Knox gallery). It would be possible to add a new pedestrian feature (plaza) around the statue of David in homage to the historic “West Bluff Concourse.”
Stakeholders have asked for a direct connection between the Lincoln Parkway Bridge and the Jesse Kregal Pathway at Lincoln Parkway. The design team investigated several different ways to achieve a grade separated crossing. A connection beneath the existing bridge would be both difficult to build and cost prohibitive (estimated $1 million cost) and difficult to maintain.
Page 2 of 6 Existing Pedestrian Bridge: The design team considered lowering NYS Route 198 to allow installation of a new, ADA accessible bridge, however the cost of doing so was judged prohibitive given the following considerations. The structure itself is in good condition and warrants rehabilitation rather than replacement at this time. Though not in the park itself, there is an available ADA accessible route over the Elmwood Avenue bridge. Pending NYS Government approval, this feature is expected to be dedicated as the “9/11 Memorial Bridge” by 9/11/13. This would be accompanied by the creation of a small memorial at the bridge site. The selection of this site was made in part due to the visual prominence (twin spiral ramp towers) which would be eliminated with its removal.
Delaware Avenue: Existing ramps, including the ramp connecting NYS Route 198 westbound with Nottingham Terrace, would be removed. Removal of the interchange would eliminate accidents associated with stop controlled ramps and congestion associated with the Nottingham ramp during the evening peak hours. The existing ramps would be replaced with a single connector roadway between NYS Route 198 and Delaware Avenue (NYS Route 384). Both new intersections would be signalized.
Curves introduced on NYS Route 198 west of the bridge over Delaware Avenue would more closely reflect the historical parkway design.
There is the potential to create a storm water facility that mimics the shape of the former “East Bay” and to restore an old pathway alignment connecting to the McMillan Monument.
A one to 2 foot lowering could be accomplished along NYS Route 198 between the Delaware Avenue bridge and Buffalo Parks Maintenance Facility. The ability to lower further is constrained by the adjacent Buffalo Police radio station, proximity to South Meadow Drive, and access to the parks maintenance building.
The Buffalo Parks Maintenance Building will remain. The removal and/or relocation of 8 parking spaces in front of the facility adjacent to NYS Route 198 would improve sight lines for vehicles approaching NYS Route 198. This would need to be done in cooperation with the Buffalo Parks Commission.
Parkside Avenue: The existing signalized intersection would be retained at this location. The westbound auxiliary lane leading away from the intersection would be extended to improve overall traffic flow.
There is the potential to add a new access to and from Delaware Park to the west of Parkside Avenue.
Consideration is being given to a triple-left configuration on Parkside Avenue. This feature would cut morning queue lengths in half. The “slip ramp” to westbound NYS Route 198 could potentially be removed, eliminating one pedestrian crossing. Few changes to intersection geometry and little additional pavement would be needed to create the triple left.
Main Street & Kensington Avenue: The current concept would simplify the intersection eliminating the “triangle” formed at Main Street (NYS Route 5) and Kensington Avenue by constructing a new bridge for Kensington Avenue over NYS Route 198. Issues
Page 3 of 6 under investigation include the ability to meet design standards on NYS Route 198 beneath the proposed bridge, potential impacts to a pump station and subterranean drainage system, potential impacts to the adjacent retaining walls and their foundations, possible impacts to the NFTA subway, reduced weaving lengths at the Humboldt Parkway exchanges, and difficult truck turning movements. It is known that the proposed changes would not significantly improve capacity or operations. The potential benefits do not appear to outweigh the scope of civil engineering changes necessary or the significant cost of those changes. Other configurations including single point intersections and roundabouts have already been considered and dismissed for similar reasons.
Travel Speed: Today, average operating speeds on NYS Route 198 are approximately 49 mph. The feasible build alternative in its current form is anticipated to result in average mid-block speeds of 44 mph. This would be a 10% reduction.
Travel Time: While the addition of signals to the corridor would increase delay, it is estimated that on average the time it takes to get from one end of the corridor to the other (now 4 to 6 minutes) would increase by up to one minute during the peak hour.
Diversion: As discussed at a previous meeting, significant volumes of vehicular traffic are not expected to divert from NYS Route 198 to the local street system. There are no convenient, parallel routes and NYS Route 198 provides necessary access to the regional network of arterials and interstates for nearby homes, businesses, and cultural institutions.
Traffic Operations: Intersections under the feasible build alternative would operate near or at capacity during the morning and evening peak hour in the design year, 2040. Some individual movements would continue to suffer peak hour congestion and delay, however the vehicular system would function acceptably overall. Pedestrian crossing distances and times were taken into consideration as part of the analysis.
Comments:
A productive exchange of ideas and comments occurred throughout the meeting with the following items of discussion noted:
x It was noted that the Grant Street corridor is on the GBNRTC 2008 Bike/Ped Master Plan. NY198 project related improvements to Grant Street should also tie into and incorporate any planned enhancements that improve bicycle and pedestrian mobility along the corridor.
x The existing NY198 is posted at 50 mph. General consensus by attendees is that a lowered posted speed limit is preferred. The project design does attempt to improve safety and reduce anticipated travel speeds along the corridor. However, corridor land use constraints (Scajaquada Creek, Delaware Park, Forest Lawn Cemetery, etc.) prevent any significant geometric alignment modifications that could further reduce speeds. A possible 40 mph posted speed limit is being investigated but studies to date indicate 45 mph is more representative of future driver behaviors along this corridor. It was noted that a greatly reduced speed limit cannot be arbitrarily assigned if actual
Page 4 of 6 operating speeds are expected to be much higher as safety and liability issues must be accounted for. More analysis and discussion is needed on the issue and it will be further investigated moving forward.
x Bike path connections and crossings from Nottingham Terrace and across Elmwood Avenue should be an important consideration. These connections will be factored into the future project design and connectivity analysis.
x It was noted that there is a project being let to introduce a multi-use path along the west side of Elmwood Avenue from Iroquois to Forest. The City provided the NYSDOT a set of the project plans to be copied and returned. The design team will incorporate these improvements into the overall project design and connectivity analysis.
x Justin Booth was invited to be a Stakeholder Group Representative for the Complete Streets Coalition /Buffalo Bike & Ped Advisory Board for the NY198 corridor project.
x Discussion that the proposed Delaware Avenue interchange conversion to signalized intersection(s) will likely lead to an increase in the traffic on Nottingham Terrace for those drivers coming from the north and east of Delaware/Nottingham seeking to go westbound on NY198. These changes in traffic patterns are noted and are reflected in the traffic modeling analysis.
x A request was made to see if the usable sidewalk width could be increased across the recently reconstructed NY198 bridge over Delaware Avenue. No major geometric or structural changes will be made to this historic bridge. However it may be possible to gain some additional sidewalk width by incorporating narrower traffic barriers or narrower travel lanes across the bridge. This possibility will be assessed during detailed design.
x Is there room for a sidewalk along the east side of Delaware Avenue from the new southern intersection north to Nottingham Terrace? The preliminary plans currently don’t show one. This possibility will be evaluated.
x It was noted that flooding occurs in the eastbound left hand travel lane of NY198 along the Delaware Park frontage, between the Delaware northbound on-ramp and the maintenance garage. A large pool forms and vehicles hit the puddle and splash all the way onto windshields of oncoming westbound cars. This was noted as being an ongoing issue for the past several years after heavy rains. Dave Hill will bring this situation to the attention of the NYSDOT Maintenance group to see if drainage system cleaning or repairs are needed.
x Brian Dold asked us what the maximum vertical grade is that can be used on a roadway of this kind. Subsequent to the meeting, it was confirmed that a maximum grade of 7 % - 8% can be considered for a “rolling” principal arterial roadway, dependent on the posted speed limit / design speed limit that is being applied. However, it was noted at the meeting that the fixed elevations of abutting land uses and bridges to remain along the NY198 corridor will prevent the introduction of significant grade changes from what exist today. Profile adjustments will be considered wherever feasible, if deemed beneficial, as the design process evolves.
Page 5 of 6 x General agreement at the meeting that the design should strive to maximize the distance from the proposed future Delaware intersection to the parks’ existing restroom facility, and minimize the overall size of the intersection to the extent possible. However, only subtle changes from what is currently depicted are expected to be feasible. This will be further evaluated as the design process evolves.
x A question was raised as to how to handle sheet flow runoff within the Delaware park parking lot near Parkside Avenue. In addition to closed drainage system opportunities, permeable pavement and rain gardens were discussed as alternative measures for consideration.
x Meeting attendees noted that the Mayor recently approved funding for a traffic calming study for all of Parkside Avenue. The NY198 project design will certainly seek to incorporate and complement any feasible recommendations that are identified. The City will need to share the study results with the NYSDOT when they are available.
x Triple left turns were noted as an operational and safety concern of Chris Church, NYSDOT. More review and discussion on the topic will be conducted at later date in determining the viability or real need to establish triple lefts at Parkside Avenue.
x Incorporation of interpretive displays at Agassiz Circle were suggested. This idea will be discussed with the Olmsted Conservancy and can be a final design detail if deemed appropriate.
x Parallel parking on NY 198 along the Delaware Park meadow was suggested, either as a separate lane or using the right hand travel lane during off peak travel times. More discussion will be necessary with Olmsted Conservancy, as well evaluation with the NYSDOT Traffic and Safety Unit to determine the feasibility and need.
x Justin Booth asked for PDF copy of the rendered plan view displays of feasible Alternative 2. These will likely be made available in the near future and also posted to the project web site.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached during the meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager
cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Frank Billittier, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 All in Attendance, BA Project 6861 file
Page 6 of 6 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Buffalo Olmsted Parks Board Meeting Monday, March 26, 2012 @ 1:00 PM Delaware Park Marcy Casino, Buffalo, NY
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING Frank Billittier NYSDOT R5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT R5 Design Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Thomas Herrera- Buffalo Olmsted Parks Mishler Conservancy Buffalo Olmsted Parks Brian Dold Conservancy Buffalo Olmsted Parks Greg Robinson Conservancy Buffalo Olmsted Parks Tony James Conservancy Buffalo Olmsted Parks Otis Glover Conservancy Buffalo Olmsted Parks Gary Mucci Conservancy Buffalo Olmsted Parks Kevin Hanna Conservancy Ruth Lampe Parkside Comm. Assoc. Frank Kowsky DRC Andrea Schillaci DRC Steve Ricca LRPC Andy Rabb COB-DPW/DRC Judy Dean LRPC Ann Harding-Joyce LRPC Dean Gowen DWG Planning & Design Buffalo Olmsted Parks Kevin Hanna Conservancy
Summary This was a joint meeting of the Design Review Committee and Long Range Planning Committee of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Executive Board. The purpose was to review rendered plan view graphics of the feasible build alternative, Alternative 2, presented by the NYSDOT at a recent NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Corridor) Stakeholder Meeting (2/15/12). Members of the Olmsted Parks Conservancy offered draft comments on the Alternative using a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation.
Page 1 of 4 Introductions were followed by a brief review of Alternative 2 by Mark McAnany using the rendered plans. Brian Dold presented the Olmsted Board’s draft comments on and suggestions for Alternative 2 using a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation. The following are items from the draft BOPC comments presented at the meeting:
x Utilize practical features that have realistic maintenance and operation requirements while emphasizing historic quality and character.
x Restoration of historic grades: In areas where ramps would be removed, the BOPC would like to see the landscape returned as closely as possible to its historic grade and character.
x Restoration of historic alignments: For example, while the curvature introduced to the west of Delaware Avenue resembles the historic alignment, the BOPC would like to see additional curvature that more fully matches the historic condition.
x The shape of water quality features should reflect historic features (e.g. shorelines) wherever possible.
x Alternative bicycle routes (paths, bike lanes, etc.) that encourage bicycle traffic to bypass the Jesse Kregal Pathway adjacent to the Erie County Historical Society building and the Japanese Gardens. The path was characterized as a “victim of its own popularity” in this area, leading to conflicts between slower (passive) pedestrians and faster (active) bicyclists. The construction of a new pedestrian bridge over Scajaquada Creek just west of Mirror Lake in conjunction with a bicycle facility along NYS Route 198 westbound on the bridge over Scajaquada Creek was suggested by the BOPC as one possibility. Other path alignments around Mirror Lake were also shown.
x Pedestrian connectivity beneath the Elmwood Avenue bridge in conjunction with the removal of ramps and auxiliary lanes.
x Reduction of travel speeds on NYS Route 198 at all times of the day through the inclusion of streetscape and traffic calming elements along the corridor. For example, the BOPC maintains standards for lighting along Olmsted “parkways.” The selected design speed (40 to 50 mph under consideration) and anticipated operating speeds (currently targeting 40 to 45 mph) are of concern to the BOPC.
x Consideration of westbound, on-street, parallel parking adjacent to Delaware Park and South Meadow Drive, in conjunction with the elimination or narrowing of the proposed green median.
Page 2 of 4 x A replacement Elmwood Avenue bridge over NYS Route 198 that is more attractive than the current structure and evokes the design of the original Elmwood Avenue bridge.
x Move the proposed “Iroquois Connector” on to the Three Tribes (Lincoln Parkway South) Bridge. This could be done in conjunction with reducing pavement width on Lincoln Parkway and the construction of a modern roundabout at the intersection of Lincoln Parkway and Iroquois Drive. The feasibility of making this change, while retaining the existing bridge, and connecting to NYS Route 198 with adequate sight distance would need to be studied further. The existing Three Tribes Bridge is owned and maintained by the City of Buffalo.
x Lowering NYS Route 198 west of Delaware Avenue and the existing tennis courts to allow for the future construction of a new pedestrian overpass.
x Relocation of NYS Route 198 farther away from the existing Comfort Station (Bath House) than it is currently shown in the Alternative 2 plans. At the meeting, the BOPC indicated it considers the existing Comfort Station has historic value and its location is a good fit for park activities.
x Pedestrian access to Forest Lawn Cemetery at Delaware Avenue. The BOPC suggested that the Forest Lawn Group has asked about this. In the past, the Forest Lawn Group indicated preference for no new access to the design team.
x Minimization of the green median concept (width) adjacent to Delaware Park to maintain the “park buffer” along both sides of NYS Route 198.
x Improved physical connectivity between the Buffalo Parks Maintenance Facility and Delaware Park. Maintenance equipment, including large mowers need to get from one side of NYS Route 198 to the other. These movements were characterized as heavy during the morning (7 a.m.) and evening (3 p.m.) peak periods. Currently this equipment is brought up to Meadowview Place. Ideas discussed included:
o Formal access to Meadowview Place o Alternative entrance and exit configurations at NYS Route 198 o An actuated signal to allow access to NYS Route 198 eastbound only o An actuated signal to allow a crossing of NYR Route 198 o Tunnel beneath NYS Route 198 o New bridge over NYS Route 198 just west of Parkside Avenue in conjunction with a lowered Parkside Avenue intersection (see below)
x Lower the NYS Route 198 and Parkside Avenue intersection (+/- 15 ft). The intent was to separate pedestrian movements from vehicular traffic and hide the intersection from view of the park. Substantial infrastructure investments in retaining walls and pump stations would be required to realize this modification.
Page 3 of 4 x Landscaping that evokes the form of Agassiz Circle
x Consider alternative alignments and locations for entrance to and exit from Delaware Park on NYS Route 198 west of Parkside Avenue.
Closing Comments:
The City of Buffalo representative noted that they have not, as of yet, endorsed the additional paths, water quality features, and green median treatments for construction or maintenance.
The City of Buffalo indicated they have no plans for projects to improve the intersection of Main Street and Kensington Avenue. Previous information suggested that a milling, resurfacing, and landscape enhancement project was being considered for Main Street south of NYS Route 198.
The NYSDOT asked the BOPC for a written determination as to whether the existing Comfort Station (Bath House) must remain or if a new facility at a different location would be preferred.
Next Steps:
The BPOC indicated that formal comments and a copy of the presentation would be provided the NYSDOT and design team in the near future.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached during the meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager
cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Frank Billittier, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 All in Attendance, BA Project 6861 file
Page 4 of 4 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Buffalo Olmsted Parks Board Meeting Monday, March 26, 2012 @ 1:00 PM Delaware Park Marcy Casino, Buffalo, NY
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING Frank Billittier NYSDOT R5 Design Dave Hill NYSDOT R5 Design Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Thomas Herrera- Buffalo Olmsted Parks Mishler Conservancy Buffalo Olmsted Parks Brian Dold Conservancy Buffalo Olmsted Parks Greg Robinson Conservancy Buffalo Olmsted Parks Tony James Conservancy Buffalo Olmsted Parks Otis Glover Conservancy Buffalo Olmsted Parks Gary Mucci Conservancy Buffalo Olmsted Parks Kevin Hanna Conservancy Ruth Lampe Parkside Comm. Assoc. Frank Kowsky DRC Andrea Schillaci DRC Steve Ricca LRPC Andy Rabb COB-DPW/DRC Judy Dean LRPC Ann Harding-Joyce LRPC Dean Gowen DWG Planning & Design Buffalo Olmsted Parks Kevin Hanna Conservancy
Summary This was a joint meeting of the Design Review Committee and Long Range Planning Committee of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Executive Board. The purpose was to review rendered plan view graphics of the feasible build alternative, Alternative 2, presented by the NYSDOT at a recent NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Corridor) Stakeholder Meeting (2/15/12). Members of the Olmsted Parks Conservancy offered draft comments on the Alternative using a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation.
Page 1 of 4 Introductions were followed by a brief review of Alternative 2 by Mark McAnany using the rendered plans. Brian Dold presented the Olmsted Board’s draft comments on and suggestions for Alternative 2 using a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation. The following are items from the draft BOPC comments presented at the meeting:
x Utilize practical features that have realistic maintenance and operation requirements while emphasizing historic quality and character.
x Restoration of historic grades: In areas where ramps would be removed, the BOPC would like to see the landscape returned as closely as possible to its historic grade and character.
x Restoration of historic alignments: For example, while the curvature introduced to the west of Delaware Avenue resembles the historic alignment, the BOPC would like to see additional curvature that more fully matches the historic condition.
x The shape of water quality features should reflect historic features (e.g. shorelines) wherever possible.
x Alternative bicycle routes (paths, bike lanes, etc.) that encourage bicycle traffic to bypass the Jesse Kregal Pathway adjacent to the Erie County Historical Society building and the Japanese Gardens. The path was characterized as a “victim of its own popularity” in this area, leading to conflicts between slower (passive) pedestrians and faster (active) bicyclists. The construction of a new pedestrian bridge over Scajaquada Creek just west of Mirror Lake in conjunction with a bicycle facility along NYS Route 198 westbound on the bridge over Scajaquada Creek was suggested by the BOPC as one possibility. Other path alignments around Mirror Lake were also shown.
x Pedestrian connectivity beneath the Elmwood Avenue bridge in conjunction with the removal of ramps and auxiliary lanes.
x Reduction of travel speeds on NYS Route 198 at all times of the day through the inclusion of streetscape and traffic calming elements along the corridor. For example, the BOPC maintains standards for lighting along Olmsted “parkways.” The selected design speed (40 to 50 mph under consideration) and anticipated operating speeds (currently targeting 40 to 45 mph) are of concern to the BOPC.
x Consideration of westbound, on-street, parallel parking adjacent to Delaware Park and South Meadow Drive, in conjunction with the elimination or narrowing of the proposed green median.
Page 2 of 4 x A replacement Elmwood Avenue bridge over NYS Route 198 that is more attractive than the current structure and evokes the design of the original Elmwood Avenue bridge.
x Move the proposed “Iroquois Connector” on to the Three Tribes (Lincoln Parkway South) Bridge. This could be done in conjunction with reducing pavement width on Lincoln Parkway and the construction of a modern roundabout at the intersection of Lincoln Parkway and Iroquois Drive. The feasibility of making this change, while retaining the existing bridge, and connecting to NYS Route 198 with adequate sight distance would need to be studied further. The existing Three Tribes Bridge is owned and maintained by the City of Buffalo.
x Lowering NYS Route 198 west of Delaware Avenue and the existing tennis courts to allow for the future construction of a new pedestrian overpass.
x Relocation of NYS Route 198 farther away from the existing Comfort Station (Bath House) than it is currently shown in the Alternative 2 plans. At the meeting, the BOPC indicated it considers the existing Comfort Station has historic value and its location is a good fit for park activities.
x Pedestrian access to Forest Lawn Cemetery at Delaware Avenue. The BOPC suggested that the Forest Lawn Group has asked about this. In the past, the Forest Lawn Group indicated preference for no new access to the design team.
x Minimization of the green median concept (width) adjacent to Delaware Park to maintain the “park buffer” along both sides of NYS Route 198.
x Improved physical connectivity between the Buffalo Parks Maintenance Facility and Delaware Park. Maintenance equipment, including large mowers need to get from one side of NYS Route 198 to the other. These movements were characterized as heavy during the morning (7 a.m.) and evening (3 p.m.) peak periods. Currently this equipment is brought up to Meadowview Place. Ideas discussed included:
o Formal access to Meadowview Place o Alternative entrance and exit configurations at NYS Route 198 o An actuated signal to allow access to NYS Route 198 eastbound only o An actuated signal to allow a crossing of NYR Route 198 o Tunnel beneath NYS Route 198 o New bridge over NYS Route 198 just west of Parkside Avenue in conjunction with a lowered Parkside Avenue intersection (see below)
x Lower the NYS Route 198 and Parkside Avenue intersection (+/- 15 ft). The intent was to separate pedestrian movements from vehicular traffic and hide the intersection from view of the park. Substantial infrastructure investments in retaining walls and pump stations would be required to realize this modification.
Page 3 of 4 x Landscaping that evokes the form of Agassiz Circle
x Consider alternative alignments and locations for entrance to and exit from Delaware Park on NYS Route 198 west of Parkside Avenue.
Closing Comments:
The City of Buffalo representative noted that they have not, as of yet, endorsed the additional paths, water quality features, and green median treatments for construction or maintenance.
The City of Buffalo indicated they have no plans for projects to improve the intersection of Main Street and Kensington Avenue. Previous information suggested that a milling, resurfacing, and landscape enhancement project was being considered for Main Street south of NYS Route 198.
The NYSDOT asked the BOPC for a written determination as to whether the existing Comfort Station (Bath House) must remain or if a new facility at a different location would be preferred.
Next Steps:
The BPOC indicated that formal comments and a copy of the presentation would be provided the NYSDOT and design team in the near future.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached during the meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager
cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Frank Billittier, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 All in Attendance, BA Project 6861 file
Page 4 of 4 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Stakeholder Group Meeting #7 Thursday, March 21, 2013 @ 3:00 PM Delaware Park Marcy Casino, Buffalo, NY
Summary
The purpose of this meeting was to update the Stakeholder Group on the status of the project and share an updated concept for a revised feasible build alternative (Alternative 2A). Graphics illustrating Alternative 2A were shared along with a 3D animated model. The meeting concluded with a question and answer period.
Approximately 50-60 persons attended this meeting. In addition to the assigned stakeholders and agency representatives, several individuals from the general public and local advocacy groups were also in attendance. The following graphics and video clips related to the meeting content will also be posted on the NYSDOT Project Website for viewing by the Stakeholders and general public:
Photo-simulations Overview Plans (Alternative 2A) Updated Purpose and Need Statement Animation of the proposed roundabout on Iroquois Drive near the Art Museum Animation of the Parkside Avenue – NYS Route 198 traffic signal Animation of the Grant Street – NYS Route 198 intersections Animation of the Elmwood Avenue – NYS Route 198 traffic signal Animation of the Delaware Avenue – NYS Route 198 intersection
Project Status:
The Purpose and Need Statement has been updated. This document, along with the Range of Alternatives and Methodologies has been reviewed by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and their comments are currently being addressed.
The project design team has developed a pre-draft of the Design Report/Environmental Impact Statement. The full document will be shared with the public after NYSDOT, FHWA, and other required agency reviews have occurred.
Several comment letters are on record including those received from the following groups. Written comments from other project stakeholders are welcome.
o The Olmsted Parks Conservancy o Parkside Community Association o Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board
Page 1 of 5 o Western New York Environmental Alliance o City of Buffalo Councilmember Michael LoCurto
A Record of Decision on the project and a preferred alternative are expected by the close of 2014.
Final design and construction funding have not yet been identified for the project. Community support and consensus on a preferred alternative remain critical to obtaining funding and realization of a transformative project. We encourage comments pertaining to the proposed draft preferred Alterative 2A, with specific suggestions to improve the project both in relation to the needs of your organization as well as for all users and stakeholders.
Feasible Alternatives:
A total of nine (9) alternatives were initially considered, including the no-build (maintenance alternative) and an alternative that would seek to bring NYS Route 198 into conformance with existing expressway (freeway) design standards (Alternative 1A). All alternatives were screened against the Purpose and Need. Two feasible alternatives remain under consideration:
o Alternative 2: Four-lane median divided boulevard with signals, 45 mph speed limit
This alternative would transform NYS Route 198 from an urban expressway into an urban arterial between the I-190 and NYS Route 33 ramps. The design speed would be 50 mph. The posted speed limit would be 45 mph. Interchange ramps at Grant Street, Elmwood Avenue, and Delaware Avenue would be replaced with connector roadways and signalized intersections on NYS Route 198. The new arterial would feature two 12 ft wide travel lanes in each direction with 2 ft curb offsets. Both the outside and inside edges of the new roadway would be curbed. The median would be raised, landscaped, and include lighting and guiderail. Pavement, drainage systems, signing, and marking would also be improved or replaced to address existing deficiencies. The alternative would include landscape, streetscape, and other enhancement features to bring the facility in greater harmony with the surrounding community character and natural environment.
o Alternative 2A: Four-lane median divided boulevard with signals, 40 mph speed limit, and reduced lane widths
This alternative would be similar to Alternative 2, but instead utilize a design speed of 45 mph and a posted speed limit of 40 mph in response to stakeholder requests for a lower speed limit. To support this change and in the spirit of the FHWA publication Flexibility in Highway Design, travel lane widths would be reduced from 12 ft to 11 ft and curb offsets would be reduced from 2 ft to1 ft.
Travel time increases across the corridor would be limited to 1 minute or less, even with the introduction of traffic signals and a lower speed limit. Westbound evening peak hour travel times would actually improve by 1 minute given the elimination of congestion associated with the ramp to Nottingham Terrace and Delaware Avenue.
Page 2 of 5
In assessing “complete streets” features and possibilities, the design team recommends an overall narrowed roadway pavement width solution, incorporating narrower travel lanes and curb offsets to induce lower speeds, while also improving connectivity and functionality of the parallel corridor trail system. Bike lanes were evaluated and are not recommended as they will greatly increase the overall pavement width and parkland impacts while also physically promoting increased vehicular speeds along the corridor.
It is anticipated that a low profile barrier (20 inches high) application would be used along the median of NYS Route 198. It would likely be colored and textured to replicate the stone look of the existing bridge over Delaware Avenue.
Water quality in Scajaquada Creek would be improved. Impervious areas (pavement) along mainline NYS Route 198 would be reduced by 20%. A water quality treatment area would be incorporated between the proposed Elmwood Avenue Connector, Elmwood Avenue, NYS Route 198, and Scajaquada Creek. There are other opportunities for linear water quality treatment features along the corridor, particularly at its western end.
Speed transition zones would be instituted between I-190 and Grant Street and NYS Route 33 and Main Street. Overhead (expressway style) guide signs would be removed between Grant Street and Parkside Avenue.
New lighting along NYS Route 198 would be primarily installed within the raised median and match the City of Buffalo approved style for larger Olmsted parkways. Pedestrian scale lighting would also be used in specific locations, including the proposed pedestrian space on the existing Lincoln Parkway bridge over Scajaquada Creek.
Landscaping and gateway features would be incorporated to enhance the aesthetics of the project area and place NYS Route 198 in greater visual harmony with its surroundings.
New signalized pedestrian crossings of NYS Route 198 with refuge islands would be installed at Elmwood Avenue, Delaware Avenue, and Parkside Avenue. A new pedestrian bridge could link Buffalo State College with the Jesse Kregal Pathway and the adjacent Grant-Amherst Neighborhood.
New shared use path connections would allow pedestrians and bicyclists to travel from the project’s western limit to Parkside Avenue on a separate, parallel facility. Experienced bicyclists would still be able to use NYS Route 198 between Grant Street and Parkside Avenue although a designated bike lane will not be constructed due to space limitations and the competing goal of lowering speeds along the corridor.
Today NYS Route 198 passes through Delaware Park but does not have a continuous dedicated right-of-way. A transfer of parkland would be necessary to formally establish highway boundaries for the improved arterial. The 4(f) and 6(f) park land conversion processes will be important parts of the project approval effort moving forward.
Page 3 of 5 Key Points from the Q & A:
A modern roundabout would not have adequate capacity to handle the anticipated traffic demand throughout the project design year (2040) at the Parkside Avenue intersection. Furthermore, traffic would not divert in significant amounts to alternative routes, increasing congestion and safety issues that already exist in this area.
No feasible major build alternative has been identified for the Main Street (NYS Route 5) and Kensington Avenue “triangle” that would significantly improve operations and safety without significant property impacts and construction cost. Even with significant impacts and costs incurred, the measure of increased operational benefits achieved would be fairly low. Moving forward, more localized intersection improvements are still being evaluated in an ongoing attempt to improve safety and operations at this location. The results of these potential solutions will be provided once available.
No improvement at the Main Street (NYS Route 5) and Kensington Avenue “triangle” would encourage any meaningful amount of traffic to abandon Parkside Avenue and use this location as an access point to NYS Route 198. Main Street is already a highly utilized corridor.
The proposed intersections along NYS Route 198 have been designed to accommodate the design vehicle – a full size tractor trailer. That is necessary to support the viability of adjacent commercial businesses and cultural institutions that rely on truck deliveries.
The Environmental Impact Statement will contain a Smart Growth Analysis as required by New York State law.
A request was made that consideration be given to elimination of the yield controlled connector roadway between Nottingham Terrace at Lincoln Parkway and NYS Route 198 westbound.
The proposed connector between NYS Route 198 eastbound and Iroquois Drive cannot be eliminated as it is necessary to keep some traffic off the proposed Elmwood Avenue Connector or it will not function acceptably.
A 30 or 35 mile per hour posted speed limit is not a realistic expectation for NYS Route 198. The speed differential that would occur between the small percentage of motorists obeying the posted limit and those traveling at a comfortable speed (expected to be 40- 44 mph under Alternative 2A) would degrade safety for all users along the corridor.
Next Steps:
Issue a project newsletter
Continue the development of the Draft Design Report / Environmental Impact Statement
Conduct NYSDOT and Agency reviews of the Draft Design Report / Environmental Impact Statement
Continue ongoing environmental analyses including noise and cultural resource studies
Page 4 of 5 Continue the 6(f) conversion process for the coordination of parkland transfer
Hold a public information meeting
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached during the meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, with any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, P.E. Project Manager cc: Tim Bender, NYSDOT Consultant Management Bureau Frank Billittier, NYSDOT Region 5 Dave Hill, NYSDOT Region 5 All in Attendance, BA Project 6861 file
Page 5 of 5 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Subject: Main St. / Kensington Alternative Assessment Review Location: Parkside Community Association Office Date: Tuesday, April 23, 2013 Time: 3:00 PM to 5:15 PM
This meeting was held to present a summary overview of the various alternative solutions that had been assessed in seeking feasible and prudent improvements at the Main Street, Kensington Avenue and NYS198 / Humboldt Parkway intersection(s), aka the “Terrible Triangle”….
In support of this discussion, Mark McAnany provided a summary matrix handout that detailed a range of alternatives considered at this location, their anticipated benefits and drawbacks/fatal flaws and rough order of magnitude costs. A PowerPoint presentation with handouts was also utilized that provided context and issues associated with the subject location and also depicted plan view design concepts of each of the alternatives tested.
The alternatives tested ranged in scope and scale from approximately $1 million+/- for localized improvements to $35 million +/- for a major reconfiguration concept. The specific ideas included:
A. Retain Existing Configuration (localized enhancements) $1 million +/- B. Remove Kensington Avenue Bridge $2 million +/- C. New Kensington Avenue Bridge $16 million +/- D. NYS198 At-Grade with Modern Roundabout $18 million +/- E. NYS198 Below Grade with Modern Roundabout $33 million +/- F. Single Point Intersection, Allowing Through Movements $26 million +/- G. Single Point Intersection, Restricting Through Movements $26 million +/- H. Single Point Intersection, Including NB Kensington Movement $29 million +/- I. Indirect Left Turns (Humboldt) with New Bridges $26 million +/- J. Diverging Diamond $35 million +/-
As discussed at the meeting, the results found Alternatives B through J to be either fatally flawed, having excessive impacts or providing insufficient operational benefits to justify their high costs and associated impacts. As such, the NYS198 project will move forward with the expectation that more modest, localized improvements will be made at the Main and Kensington location, although all new ideas will be tested if additional ideas are identified.
In addition to the alternatives presented, discussion was held concerning a very recent concept that has been identified that would provide for a realigned southern intersection configuration, possibly eliminating a troublesome conflict point and island crossing within the intersection. This concept has not been detailed as of yet and is still being investigated. This modification holds promise as potentially providing some safety and operational benefits and will certainly be investigated further. All in attendance were in support of investigating and implementing this improvement if determined to be feasible. The results of the upcoming investigations will be shared with this group once finalized.
Page 1 of 2 Discussion also occurred concerning evaluations conducted to date and the resulting improvements targeted for the Parkside intersection in conjunction with the NYS198 project. Roundabout intersection treatments had been investigated at this location but determined not to be feasible – fatally flawed – as they did not have anywhere near sufficient capacity to process the traffic that will continue to utilize this route in the future, factoring in all expected diversion of traffic and future travel/transit pattern trends.
The proposed feasible alternative(s) for the NYS198 project would retain a signalized intersection at Parkside with several modifications incorporated. The proposed modifications incorporate modest changes to enhance safety and operational efficiencies; plus an anticipated 10 MPH reduction in posted and operating speeds. Changes include narrowed lane widths (resulting in an overall reduction of 10 feet in pedestrian crossing distances across the NYS198), expanded pedestrian refuge islands within the intersection, gateway signing and a new park entrance off of NYS198.
Following this meeting, additional relevant information pertaining to the Parkside intersection analysis and preliminary design was forwarded on to the Parkside Community Association. The PCA will review this information and the details of the currently proposed improvements at Parkside and provide a list of comments and questions to the NYSDOT for consideration. A follow up meeting can be held if necessary to discuss any additional thoughts pertaining to the future Parkside Avenue approach and intersection with the NYS198. The intersection can be modified further in response to any proposed modifications the City may elect to make to Parkside in the future.
Next Steps:
1. Bergmann and NYSDOT will continue to evaluate the feasibility and benefits of the realigned southern intersection concept at Main and Kensington. A plan view layout and Synchro traffic analysis will be prepared in determining the expected benefits and operational issues associated with these modifications. Follow up information will be provided concerning this idea once available.
2. PCA will review the preliminary design for the Parkside intersection with NYS198 and provide a list of questions and comments. If needed, a follow up meeting will be held to further discuss potential improvements at this location.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached at this meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, of any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, PE Project Manager
Page 2 of 2 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Subject: Review of Draft Preferred Alternative 2A Location: Albright-Knox Art Gallery Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2013 Time: 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM
Bryan Gawronski Albright-Knox Art Gallery Jennifer Bayles Albright-Knox Art Gallery Maria Scully-Morreale Albright-Knox Art Gallery Kenneth Walker Albright-Knox Art Gallery Dave Hill NYSDOT Region 5 Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates
This meeting was held to present a summary overview of the various alternative solutions that had been considered for the corridor and also review in detail the features of Draft Preferred Alternative 2A. In support of this discussion, Mark McAnany provided each attendee a set of plan view renderings of Alternative 2A and the associated set of photo-sim “existing” and “proposed” comparison images, a copy of the Purpose and Need Statement, and conceptual renderings of the proposed roundabout on Iroquois Drive, positioned along the north side of the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.
An hour and a half information exchange occurred in answering any questions the art gallery representatives had concerning the project. The gallery representatives in attendance considered Alternative 2A to be a significant improvement over existing conditions, improving safety and beautifying the corridor while also providing the necessary accessibility to and from their facility. They uniformly were in support of the roundabout on Iroquois Drive and agreed that it had the potential to be a significant gateway feature to the art gallery.
Art gallery representatives were encouraged to provide any follow-up questions or comments they may have concerning the project and the details associated with Alternative 2A. They were also asked to submit their comments or opinions in writing so the gallery’s viewpoint and ideas/concerns are part of the official record.
The project website was identified as a helpful source of information for art gallery officials in seeking additional information. https://www.dot.ny.gov/scajaquadacorridor/outreach
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached at this meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, of any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, PE Project Manager
Page 1 of 1 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Subject: Public Meeting Location: Bulger Communications Center, Buffalo State College Date: Wednesday, April 9, 2014 Time: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
This meeting was held in conjunction with Assemblyman Sean Ryan. It was the latest in a series of public meetings to discuss a proposed project to transform NYS Route 198, the Scajaquada Expressway, form an urban expressway to a lower speed urban boulevard. The purpose was to summarize the history of the project, review input received from the public and stakeholders to date, describe a vision for the corridor’s future, and to obtain additional input.
The meeting began with an open house at 5:00 PM where members of the public were invited to review informational displays regarding the project and to ask questions of New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) staff one-on-one. The event then transitioned to a formal meeting administered by Assemblyman Sean Ryan.
A short PowerPoint presentation on the proposed four-lane boulevard alternative was given by NYSDOT staff. The presentation covered the following agenda items:
I. Welcome II. Project History and Input to Date III. Vision for the Corridor IV. Next Steps V. Questions and Answers
Graphics and handouts made available at the meeting can be found on the world wide web at https://www.dot.ny.gov/scajaquadacorridor/ (Community Outreach tab).The following text summarizes discussions that took place during the question and answer period.
Comment: The project should include features that will enhance water quality in Scajaquada Creek. More pedestrian and bicyclist amenities are welcome. Aesthetic enhancements should be included on the proposed pedestrian bridge over NYS Route 198 at Buffalo State College. The history of the 1901 Pan Am Exhibition should be highlighted at the proposed (Lincoln Parkway bridge) terrace. The history of the name Scajaquada should be highlighted in the center island of the proposed roundabout.
Response: These suggestions can be considered as design progresses. The current vision plan includes features to improve the quality of stormwater runoff before it reaches Scajaquada Creek.
Page 1 of 5 Comment: The segment of the corridor between Niagara Street and Elmwood Avenue is still considered parkland and should be treated appropriately. The Scajaquada Expressway should be made into a parkway with a 30 mile per hour speed limit and “complete street” features.
Response: The exact limits of Delaware Park are currently being investigated. The proposed vision plan would turn the Scajaquada Expressway into a “parkway-like” facility. The roadway cannot be designated a parkway because in New York State, that designation legally prohibits use by commercial trucks. Posted speed limits of 30 and 40 miles per hour remain under consideration.
Comment: The proposal as presented is still a highway through a park. The Scajaquada should become a 2-lane street. Past mistakes should be erased. The project should focus on more than moving local vehicular traffic. Local traffic can use city streets.
Response: Extensive traffic modeling has been completed in cooperation with the Greater Buffalo Niagara Regional Transportation Council. Studies have shown that while some traffic will divert, heavy demand for travel on NYS Route 198 will continue, even as a two-lane street. This would result in congestion at access points to the corridor, affecting adjacent neighborhoods.
Comment: The project should be about moving people not traffic. Has a transit (trolley) solution been considered? NFTA should be at this meeting to discuss how they would apply transit.
Response: NFTA is a member of the project stakeholder group. The current vision plan would make the corridor more transit friendly. If desired by the NFTA, bus stops could be located along the redesigned corridor.
Comment: What will happen if you remove the highway? The Buffalo Zoo, colleges, hospitals, and adjacent businesses all depend on NYS Route 198. The community at-large has not asked for its complete removal. Transportation drives a sustainable economy including new development and industry.
Response: Additional studies can be conducted to assess the potential effects of removing NYS Route 198.
Comment: Delaware Park is a beautiful community resource. The Scajaquada Expressway is a barrier. Today it is not possible to get across. Restore Agassiz Circle, reconnect Delaware Park. The current expressway lies on parkland, not lands owned by the State of New York.
Response: Delaware Park is a valuable community resource. The current vision plan would substantially increase the number of pedestrian crossing locations in an effort to reconnect Delaware Park. Right-of-way implications will undergo further study as design continues.
Comment: The Scajaquada Expressway should never have been built. Its construction changed behavior and this project can change that again. We should add value to the community not subtract from it. The removal of the Embarcadero Freeway (California) did not cause “carmageddon” and neither would the removal of the Scajaquada Expressway. A 30 mile per hour speed limit is needed. There should be fewer and narrower lanes.
Response: The current vision plan recommends narrower lanes to balance traffic calming with truck accommodation. Additional studies can be conducted to assess the potential effects of reducing the Scajaquada Expressway to a two-lane city street and reducing the posted speed limit to 30 miles per hour.
Page 2 of 5
Comment: The current proposal has too many traffic lights. It should include roundabouts. There should be a roundabout at Lincoln Parkway. The depressed section at Main Street and Kensington Avenue should be filled and local street continuity restored. The Scajaquada needs to be a local street, not an expressway.
Response: Single-lane roundabouts have been studied and would not have adequate capacity to handle the anticipated vehicular demand. Past public and stakeholder input suggested that multi-lane roundabouts were not desirable in the context of the Scajaquada Corridor and Delaware Park because they would not provide better pedestrian accommodation as compared to signals. Consideration can be given to the impacts of bringing the intersection of NYS Route 198, NYS Route 5 (Main Street) and Kensington Avenue up to grade.
Comment: The Scajaquada Corridor should have a lower speed limit and less traffic. The plan as proposed is better than what is out there today but does not go far enough. Traffic will find alternate routes. This is a chance to correct a past mistake. The Main Street and Kensington Avenue intersection should also be improved.
Response: The current vision plan includes a proposed reduction in the posted speed limit. Both a 40 and 30 mile per hour speed limit remain under consideration. Several options have been reviewed that would make improvements at the Main Street and Kensington Avenue intersection. The currently preferred option, which could be incorporated into a build alternative pending further study of potential impacts and costs, would eliminate the triangular island at the southern tip of the intersection, thus improving both pedestrian and vehicular safety.
Comment: The City of Buffalo is missing out on an opportunity to enhance the community by making this a neighborhood street. The existing “curly que” pedestrian bridge should be removed. The proposal for a new pedestrian bridge at Buffalo State College is good. The proposal to convert the Lincoln Parkway Bridge into a terrace is good. The Expressway itself should be removed and replaced with a 30 mile per hour street with one lane in each direction and roundabouts. If drivers utilize that street at 40 miles per hour, they should be ticketed.
Response: Additional studies can be conducted to assess the potential effects of reducing the Scajaquada Expressway to a two-lane city street and reducing the posted speed limit to 30 miles per hour.
Comment: I am pleased with the proposal as it represents a step in the right direction, however it is not good enough. Will the exit by the tennis courts [from NYS Route 198 westbound to Nottingham Terrace and Delaware Avenue] be removed? What can the public do to help the NYSDOT make this a parkway? This is a political problem, not an engineering problem. Why does Ohio Street get a complete street and Delaware Park gets this? Make the Scajaquada Corridor something grossly different.
Response: Yes, the current proposal would eliminate the exit by the tennis courts. As previously noted, changing the Scajaquada Expressway into a parkway would legally require the elimination of commercial truck traffic.
Comment: Hertel Avenue and Delaware Avenue downtown have one lane in each direction and traffic moves just fine. The Scajaquada Corridor needs only one lane in each direction and bicycle lanes. More accommodations are needed for pedestrians. The road through the park is not needed. If a road must remain, it should be much smaller so Delaware Park can be brought back to what it once was.
Page 3 of 5 Response: Additional studies can be conducted to assess the potential effects of reducing the Scajaquada Expressway to a two-lane facility or removing it in its entirety.
Comment: I agree that this proposal is not there yet. Why is level of service back in the Purpose and Need Statement? Can we talk about a totally different design if we don’t reference level of service? The current plan is just a variation on an expressway. A 30 mile per hour design is needed. The design should adhere to the Institute of Transporation Engineers’ “Recommended Practice for Designing Walkable Urban Thoroughfares – A Context Sensitive Approach.” If we wouldn’t think of designing the Scajaquada Expressway the same way today, why wouldn’t we correct that mistake?
Response: Potential impacts to traffic must be considered, along with other potential cultural, environmental, and economic impacts as a requirement of the federal funds being used to progress the study. Many of the features for the proposed boulevard are consistent with the ITE recommended practice cited by the commenter.
Comment: Trucks provide vital services to the adjacent neighborhoods and institutions. They should not be banned from the Scajaquada Corridor.
Response: Comment noted.
Comment: The speed limit should be set at 30 miles per hour. Those that don’t travel the speed limit should be ticketed. The proposed 20% reduction in impervious area is a step in the right direction. What other proactive approaches can be taken to improve water quality? Can rain gardens be constructed adjacent to bicycle paths? Can pervious pavements be used? Simply reducing the amount of runoff produced is not sufficient.
Response: The incorporation of additional “green” features that would improve stormwater quality prior to reaching Scajaquada Creek and reduce runoff can be considered as design progresses.
Comment: Analyses should not be quantified using vehicular LOS. Multimodal LOS should be used. What timeframe are you studying? This corridor should not be sized to accommodate peak hour traffic. Do the models take into account time-shift behavior? Was the NFTA involved? How can we get them to do more? Buses would get people off the road.
Response: Multimodal accommodation is a key component of the current vision plan, however peak hour vehicular traffic operations do require consideration. NFTA is a member of the project stakeholder group. Coordination with the NFTA on potential bus service and stop locations will continue as the design develops.
Comment: A posted speed limit of 40 miles per hour is too high for pedestrians. Speed limits need to be enforced by the police. Can we add features to the corridor that would encourage regular enforcement? Will the traffic signal systems be programmed to be pedestrian activated and be adaptive to different traffic patterns at different times of day rather than pretimed?
Response: Currently both 40 and 30 mile per hour posted speed limits are under consideration. Features that encourage speed enforcement can be considered as design progresses. The current vision plan calls for actuated traffic signals with pedestrian push buttons. Traffic control equipment would be capable of being programmed with different time of day plans.
Page 4 of 5
Comment: The expressway should not be totally removed. Can we do something like the “Big Dig” in Boston? The truth is some people like the Scajaquada Expressway and there are locations out there where people are envious of Buffalo for its well-connected network of highways and streets. It is not reasonable to think that 40 to 60 thousand vehicles a day will just disappear. If the roadway is changed to a 35 mile per hour city street it will cause gridlock. Hertel Avenue already has lots of traffic and that should not be made worse. Remember that gridlock results in idling vehicles and more pollution. This plan is trying to reach balance. Accidents are also a concern. We should not lull people into a false sense of security with an artificially low speed limit. The Scajaquada Expressway is vital to businesses and people rely on it for quick travel to the ECMC [Erie County Medical Center].The area can be beautified with more berms and hedges. New bridges should incorporate a stone facing. Olmsted was a man of his time so to assume he would not adapt to the 21st Century is wrong and short sighted. He would not have denied the existence of the automobile.
Response: Comments noted. The current vision plan seeks to balance the needs and accommodation of all users along the corridor.
Comment: I represent Niemiec Builders Supply and I am not in favor of eliminating truck traffic from the Scajaquada Corridor. If you do, it will send that traffic to the local streets and result in congestion. Trucks need to be accommodated on the Scajaquada Corridor. Drainage issues along the corridor should be corrected. I like the way the proposal looks but I am concerned that the high concrete median will be dangerous and that the narrowed road will leave no room for breakdowns. I am in favor of the traffic lights but not so many. The Grant-Amherst Business Association wants Scajaquada Creek cleaned so people can use this resource. How will the proposed changes affect the creek? A lower speed limit looks good. Get it done.
Response: The current vision plan would accommodate trucks on the Scajaquada Corridor. Features would also be incorporated to improve the quality of stormwater before it is discharged to Scajaquada Creek.
Comment: There are other viable alternative routes. Go on a “Scajaquada Diet.” Try it and see for yourself.
Response: Comment noted.
Subsequent to the meeting, Assemblyman Sean Ryan asked the NYSDOT to study alternatives that would convert the Scajaquada Expressway to a two-lane city street with a 30 mile per hour speed limit or remove it entirely from Delaware Park.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached at this meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, of any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, PE Project Manager Page 5 of 5
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Subject: Public Information Meeting Location: Frederick Law Olmsted School Date: Thursday, September 16, 2015 Time: 5:00 PM
This meeting provided an update on recent traffic studies conducted as part of the proposed project to transform NYS Route 198, the Scajaquada Expressway, from an urban expressway to a lower speed urban boulevard. There was also a panel discussion. Members of the public were asked to provide written questions for a panel. The panel read and responded to questions after the formal presentation.
The presentation covered the following agenda items:
I. Welcome II. Project History III. Update on Project Alternatives IV. Panel Discussion & Questions V. Closing
A copy of the presentation delivered at the meeting can be found on the World Wide Web at https://www.dot.ny.gov/scajaquadacorridor/ (Community Outreach tab). Major summary points are as follows:
There is much interest in having the Scajaquada Expressway better complement its surroundings, including Frederick Law Olmsted’s Delaware Park.
The long term plan, first laid out in the City of Buffalo’s Expanded Project Proposal (EPP) in 2005, was a median divided, four lane boulevard with roundabouts connecting NYS Route 198 to Grant Street, Elmwood Avenue, and Parkside Avenue. The plan also included a traffic signal where NYS Route 198 connected to Delaware Avenue. The proposed speed limit was 30 miles per hour. The plan included sidewalks, shared use paths, and bicycle lanes.
The NYSDOT has had a leadership role in moving a project forward since 2007. It is working with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) toward the development of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
Public involvement has been an integral part of the process. A stakeholder group representing 3 dozen different agencies, organizations, etc. was formed and have been actively engaged in the process.
The purpose of the action is to convert the Scajaquada Expressway into a feasible and prudent transportation facility that operates in a safe manner and in greater harmony with the surrounding community character and natural environment.
Page 1 of 3 As of this time, several different alternatives have been studied, including: - An expressway - A median divided, four-lane boulevard with signals - A median divided, four-lane boulevard with roundabouts - A median divided, two-lane street - An undivided, two-lane street - Removal of the roadway between Elmwood Avenue and Parkside Avenue
Studies of how these alternative might operate and their potential effects on the adjacent neighborhoods were done in conjunction with the Greater Buffalo Niagara Regional Transportation Council (GBNRTC).
Travel time studies were conducted along the corridor and on two convenient, parallel routes. When the expressway was posted at 50 miles per hour, the data showed that a trip along the Scajaquada took about 6 minutes. After the speed limit changed to 30 miles per hour, the same trip took about 1 ½ minutes longer. A trip between the same two points, along the alternate routes, took between 13 and 17 minutes. The alternate routes are longer and use city streets with signals.
Other results from the studies include: - Changing the projected speed limit from 40 mph to 30 mph is not expected to result in a large increase in diversion
- Changing from a 4-lane boulevard to a 2-lane street is also not expected to result in a large increase in diversion. This is because it would take longer to utilize one of the alternate routes and they aren’t particularly convenient as a replacement for a direct trip along the Scajaquada. The result would be significant peak hour congestion and delay along the Scajaquada.
- Removing the roadway between Elmwood Avenue and Parkside Avenue would divert a large amount of traffic to the local street system.
Comments received at tonight’s meeting will be incorporated into the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). The project will undergo more review. The DEIS will eventually be made available for public review and comment. A formal public hearing will also be held as part of the process. Eventually a preferred alternative will be selected and the DEIS will be finalized.
The project is estimated to cost on the order of $120 million to construct and could take up to four years depending on how it is phased. Phasing decisions will be made during detailed design. Currently a source of funding for the final design and construction phases has not been identified.
Page 2 of 3 The panel discussion followed. Written questions received from the public were read by Regional Director Darrell Kaminski and answered by members of the panel which included Rosemary Powers (NYSDOT), Craig Mozrall (NYSDOT), Hal Morse (GBNRTC), and Mark McAnany (Bergmann Associates). The proceedings were recorded by a stenographer. Readers may refer to the official transcript for a complete record of the panel question and answer session.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached at this meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, of any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, PE Project Manager
Page 3 of 3 DRAFT Meeting Notes
Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Interim Improvements Date Held: November 17, 2015 Location: 100 Seneca Street. Buffalo, NY
Attendees: · Stakeholders: See attached sign in sheet · NYSDOT: Rosemary Powers, Darrell Kaminski, Craig Mozrall, Dave Hill, Renjit James
Meeting Summary:
1. Rosemary Powers/Darrell Kaminski – Welcome / Introduction
2. Brian Dold – Presented project history from Stakeholder perspective.
3. Craig Mozrall – Presented PowerPoint summary of Interim Improvements.
4. Justin Booth – Recommended transition zones at each end. 190 to Grant, Parkside to 33.
5. Amber Small – Suggested lane narrowing in these transition areas should be done now.
6. Mike DeLuca – Asked for classification change update.
7. NYSDOT - Sent letter to FHWA requesting to change from Principal Arterial Expressway to Principal Arterial Other.
8. Kent Bostock – Asked for justification behind these interim changes which are inconveniencing thousands of motorists.
9. NYSDOT - Public safety is the primary factor.
10. General Stakeholder Consensus - Re: Ped x-ings – Stakeholders want these in as part of a holistic overall traffic calming, not before all of the rest of the measures.
11. Mike DeLuca - Incorporate the recommended SCC’s 13 Points, including signage replacement, plus short-term EPP recommendations. [It was noted that there were not, in fact, short term recommendations in the EPP – these were from a draft version and were not published in the approved EPP - they were investigated in development of the EPP and were eliminated from further consideration.]
12. 13 Points – It was agreed that next meeting will go through each of the 13 Points to discuss whether these can be incorporated and whether they should be a part of the interim measures or the long-range plan.
13. Melissa Brown - Current problems exist with the Nottingham / Elmwood area due to the closure of the Elmwood off ramp. Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Interim Improvements Date Held: November 17, 2015 Page 2 of 3
14. Bryan Gawronski – Drives NY 198 several times a day for work at Albright Knox - seems more dangerous now, than before, due to the interim measures such as stop signs, differing speeds, inconsistencies. Seems like the expressway is having little bit of an “identity crisis”.
15. Amber Small – Agreed that speed differential is a problem and people need to be encouraged to go slower. “Visual cues.” Stated that current cues suggest that this is an expressway.
16. Matt Carver – Offered that the left turn into Medaille is now easier coming from NY 33 due to interim changes.
17. Mike DeLuca – Suggested narrowing ramps from NY 33 down to one lane to encourage slower speeds on the NY 33 to Parkside section of westbound NY 198.
18. Brian Dold – Offered short-term recommendations for signing on NY 33 and I-190 – should not say Scajaquada “Expressway”; add rumble strips, luminaries, Gateway signing entering NY 198.
19. Discussion on removal of center median barrier guiderailing to help change visual cues – stakeholders suggested to remove it now. Darrell Kaminski stated the center curbed median would have to be removed. Stakeholders asked why if it is only a 30 MPH roadway. Safety is the concern with removing this, due to the possibility of higher speed vehicles striking the curb and vaulting into the opposing lanes..
20. Mike DeLuca - Suggested re-striping an offset to push traffic AWAY from the center median rather than toward it. Justin Booth disagreed and suggested striping for a right- hand bike lane protected by plastic reflector bollards be incorporated. Craig Mozrall suggested that some drainage inlet grates may be an issue with pushing traffic toward outside curbline [this would have to be looked at].
21. Brian Dold – Suggested putting guiderails next to travel lane within existing pavement.
22. NYSDOT & City of Buffalo Response – Problem with snow removal, problem with deflection of guiderail and vaulting concerns with curb within deflection distance. 23. Mike Deluca – Asked if a one-lane option a consideration for interim improvements.
24. NYSDOT – No, it’s too big of a change in travel patterns to be considered as an interim improvement.
25. Councilman Feroleto – Concerned about enough sight distance for x-walks due to speeding trends.
26. NYSDOT – Sight distance is considered in evaluating the suitability of any crossing.
27. Justin Booth – Suggested following list of NACTO guidelines for interim and long-range measures.
28. Matt Carver - Whatever changes proposed at the Route 198/Parkside intersection should fully consider, and be safe for, all the students/faculty walking over from the Delaware Park side of NY 198. Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Interim Improvements Date Held: November 17, 2015 Page 3 of 3
29. Melissa Brown – Suggested that a white paper for the general public be provided on where we are in the process, how the process works, etc.
30. Rosemary Powers - In response to stakeholder concerns, stated that NYSDOT is concerned not only with traffic but with health, property values, economic development, land use planning, etc.
31. Next Steps:
a. Rosemary Powers – Would like to have additional meetings ASAP, January and again in February, hoping to come to a decision and move to construction
b. NYSDOT – Stated meeting on the NY 198 EIS project will be held in December. [Due to non-availability of staff and the holiday season, the meeting will be rescheduled.] DRAFT Meeting Notes
Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Interim Improvements Date Held: January, 2016 Location: 100 Seneca Street. Buffalo, NY
Attendees: · Stakeholders: See attached sign in sheet · NYSDOT: Roderic Sechrist, Darrell Kaminski, Dan Hitt, Craig Mozrall, Dave Hill, Catherine Leslie, Renjit James · Agenda: See attached Agenda
Meeting Summary:
1. Roderic Sechrist/Darrell Kaminski – Welcome / Introduction
2. Craig Mozrall – Presented the discussion of the “13 points”, and applicability to interim vs long-term project
3. Tim Dressler – Objects to the 30 MPH speed limit and wants speed limit returned/changed to 45MPH. Spend the $150 million for other infrastructure projects. Do not cause inconvenience to the 65,000 drivers using the Scajaquada. Keep the Scajaquada an Expressway. If park users do not want to see the expressway, build a landscaped berm to block the view.
4. NYSDOT – The EIS will evaluate all the options and speed limits
5. Ed Willis – At what point did the 30 MPH become reality? DOT recommended a speed limit of 45 in 2012.
6. NYSDOT – Governor reduced the speed limit to 30MPH for safety reasons after the fatal accident. The EIS process will determine the appropriate long range speed limit.
7. Mike DeLuca - In the November meeting Rosemary Powers said the speed limit is going to be 30 MPH. Did it change?
8. NYSDOT - As part of the NEPA process we do not want to be decisional before the process is complete. The 30 MPH exists now, and we are looking at 30 MPH as an alternative.
9. Craig Mozrall – Discussed the various traffic calming measures which were implemented and/or considered for both the interim and long range plan.
10. Andy Rabb – Maintenance of the raised landscaped median is a problem. Therefore the City would prefer the landscaping on either side rather than in the middle.
11. Renata Kraft – Agrees with Andy’s suggestion. Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Interim Improvements Date Held: January 14, 2016 Page 2 of 6
12. Bradley Bethel - Scajaquada was a historic parkway. Should look into something bigger and better. Consider a connection to Riverside Park, bike path and connection to neighborhoods, and brown field development opportunities.
13. Andy Rabb – There are plans being developed by the City of Buffalo to provide a better bike connection to Riverside Park from the Jesse Kregal Pathway.
14. Ed Willis – Where is the police enforcement? Rather than spending money to rebuild the roadway, hire more police officers for traffic enforcement on Route 198.
15. Brian Dold – Is the traffic calming memo available for public.
16. NYSDOT – The memo will be included in the DEIS which will be available for public review when completed.
17. Tim Dressler – Add an overpass over and tunnel under the expressway for pedestrians and bicyclists and leave the Expressway alone.
18. Mike Deluca – The position of the SCC is that the Park was there first and then the roadway was constructed.
19. Kent Bostock – It should be a balancing act between competing values. What can be done short term and long-term.
20. Dan Hitt (NYSDOT) – Gave a brief overview of National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) requirements including 4(f), 6(f) and 106 processes regarding parks and historic resources
21. Renata Craft – Is sidewalk considered as a transportation or recreation facility?
22. NYSDOT – It can be considered either. Will discuss with FHWA for their interpretation in this case.
23. Steve Shaffer – At Buffalo State College we are advocating a bicycle friendly campus. Suggest building the sidewalk on the south side of the corridor with a connection to the Jesse Kregal Path.
24. Renata Kraft – Was the elimination of the “redundant” Iroquois drive and using the reconstructed 198 considered by Buffalo State College?
25. Steve Shaffer – Buffalo State has talked about removing Iroquois Drive, but has not pursued it to any degree. It is an internal campus roadway necessary for circulation within the campus.
26. Mike Deluca – Can we put in on street bike lanes on the roadway instead of including the median? Who determines what is park land?
27. NYSDOT – The determination is made first by the owner (NYSDOT) and then FHWA/NPS
28. Kent Bostock – Is there any temporary option to lease land to enhance park property. Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Interim Improvements Date Held: January 14, 2016 Page 3 of 6
29. NYSDOT – Any changes in the park for more than 6 months would require 6(f) and section 106 involvement.
30. Bradley Bethel – A roundabout should be considered at the intersection of Route 198 and Parkside Avenue.
31. NYSDOT – A single lane as well as a multilane roundabouts were analyzed for this location and it showed that with the amount of traffic, the roundabout would fail.
32. Mike Deluca – Currently pedestrians have to cross 8 lanes of traffic. Less lanes should be the goal at Parkside. Reduce lanes coming from Route 33. Take out the WB slip lane at the intersection. Reduced lanes at this intersection would improve the pedestrian crossing.
33. Mike Finn – The whole intersection will be looked as a system, balancing the need for traffic, pedestrian crossing. etc.
34. NYSDOT – Discussion regarding the Route 198/Main Street/Kensington Avenue interchange. Several options were looked at including an at grade roundabout.
35. Mike Deluca – Was an at grade intersection looked into? Is concerned about some of or all of the 20,000 vehicles using Parkside to avoid the Route 198/Main Street interchange.
36. NYSDOT – An at grade intersection would not operate acceptably at the location of Rte198/Main Street if 198 traffic volumes were included.
37. Darrell Kaminski asked “What is the difference between point 2, 3 and 7 in the “13 points”?”
38. Justin Booth – Point 2 suggests additional crossings, Point 3 says if additional crossings are added, make them safe, and point 7 is requests provisions for all modes through and along the Scajaquada Corridor.
39. Ed Willis – what is 7 & 8, Sidewalks or Pedestrians on the road?
40. NYSDOT – What was the intent. Sidewalk adjacent to the road?
41. Justin Booth – Continuous and connected pathways was the focus. Not point to point facilities.
42. Mike Finn – Citywide master plan did not include the 198 corridor.
43. Justin Booth – Citywide master plan was meant for the City’s on-street facilities.
44. Bradley Bethel - The intent should be connecting different parts of the park longitudinally and transversely. Don’t just focus on vehicles. Wants to connect Agassi Circle and Parkside Community
45. Ed Willis – There are several existing crossings. Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Interim Improvements Date Held: January 14, 2016 Page 4 of 6
46. Amber Small – There are crossings but some of them are not ADA compliant. Not everybody can use them.
47. Renata Kraft – Mentioned that there are two academic campuses on this corridor.
48. Steve Shaffer – Buff State was originally concerned with reducing the speed limit. As it turns out 30MPH did not cause “carmogedon”. Endorses 30 MPH.
49. Mike Deluca – Parkside community feels that the 30MPH has reduced the noise level and benefits the community.
50. Renata and Bradley – There are other instances in other cities where parkways/expressway were removed and it did not cause big traffic back ups. E.g. Embarcadero.
51. Nicole Matteson – People advocate for speed limit on a sliding scale. Is NYSDOT considering a sliding scale like from 55mph to 40 mph to 30 mph. The ends still look like expressways (visual cues).
52. Seth Amman - The ends still look like expressways. The design doesn’t fit.
53. Mike Deluca - Noise, speeds not appropriate for the area. Less lanes.
54. Amber Small – Advocates for 30 MPH
55. NYSDOT – Concern over the 30 MPH speed limit. Conflicting views with 30 MPH vs a step down.
56. Seth Amman – Too much length for speeding at the ends. Design changes needed.
57. Justin Booth – Transition Zones at the ends should be implemented.
58. Tim Dressler – Petitions are coming from the expressway advocates/travelling public.
59. Mike Deluca - There is community support for 30 mph. 3,500 signatures.
60. Kent – To reduce traffic, put toll booths
61. Louis Haremski – DOT is fixated on the throughput. In other cities where parkways/expressway were removed, the traffic found other routes. The same thing will happen here. Traffic diversions will help business along the routes.
62. NYSDOT – We have the follow the NEPA process and determine the environmental impacts and mitigate the impacts along the detour routes.
63. Renata Kraft – We respect the NEPA process
64. Ed Willis – DOT should be organizing a survey to find out what people, including the travelling public, want. Get feed back from the trucking association, AAA, etc.
65. Louis Haremski – The Route 198/I-190 interchange also should be looked into. Maybe eliminate the elevated viaduct section Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Interim Improvements Date Held: January 14, 2016 Page 5 of 6
66. Mike Deluca – Frustrating, we are covering the same issues and providing disjointed feedback. Nothing getting accomplished.
67. NYSDOT – What do you want?
68. Mike Deluca – Short term, interim and long term.
69. DOT - it is hard to piecemeal. Short term is what we implemented, long term requires going through the NEPA process.
70. Mike Deluca/Amber Small – What is short term and long term? What can DOT do right now to make it safer?
71. Justin Booth – What is the outcome of the meeting supposed to be? How can we change the process to look at expressways around the state? Can DOT look at the “10 page letter” based on the recommendations for the short term improvements in the EPP and respond. Rosemary said we will address the short term measures in February or March.
72. NYSDOT – Noted that we were asked at the last meeting to discuss the 13 points at this meeting. Asked if the 10 page letter was referencing recommendations from a draft version of the EPP and not the actual published EPP? Those recommendations were eliminated in the EPP process. NYSDOT will look at the “10 page letter” and respond.
73. Bradley Bethel – Need to look at 190 and 33
74. NYSDOT – We are trying to get a reasonable project without expanding too far on either side to the expressways.
75. Brian Dold – Draft EPP short term aspects should be included. High crash locations, access point modifications, stop signs. Can we make changes at these locations? Would like a “green, yellow red” response to each suggestions in the”10 page letter”.
76. Mike Deluca/Ed Willis – Do we have traffic data and accident after the speed was changed? And can we get it?
77. NYSDOT – Yes we took traffic counts in summer. NYSDOT will share the traffic data. We are still waiting for the accident data. What is your take of speed limit of 30 MPH in the park vs outside of the park?
78. Ed Willis – Why is 30 MPH the magic number? Is it the speed differential?
79. Brian Dold – Safety. The accident severity and the fatality rate is much lower below 30 MPH as compared to above 30 MPH.
80. Renata Kraft – It is the perception of speed and impediments like parking pedestrian activities, bikes etc.
81. NYSDOT – We have to have some give and take to transform the expressway. Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Interim Improvements Date Held: January 14, 2016 Page 6 of 6
82. Ed Willis – NYSDOT has to do a better job of public outreach. Survey, contact AAA, trucking association etc.
83 Mike DeLuca - DOT has done a great job with public outreach. They have had over 30 meetings including stakeholders meeting, public meeting etc.
84. Next Steps: Share meeting notes; NYSDOT will look again at “10 page letter”; work will continue on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (which will be made available for public review and comment when the draft is complete); we will discuss scheduling another stakeholder meeting.
MEETING MINUTES
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Subject: Public Meeting Location: Bulger Communications Center, Buffalo State College Date: Wednesday, February 10, 2016 Time: 7:00 PM
This meeting provided an update on the proposed project to transform NYS Route 198, the Scajaquada Expressway, from an urban expressway to a lower speed urban boulevard. The purpose was to summarize the history of the project, review input received from the public and stakeholders to date, describe a vision for the corridor’s future, and to obtain additional input.
The meeting started at 7:00 PM. Assemblyman Sean Ryan provided opening remarks and thanked everyone for their work on the project thus far. He also thanked Commissioner Matthew Driscoll for making this project a priority and coming to Buffalo to discuss the Scajaquada Expressway. Assemblyman Ryan explained that the Commissioner would discuss the expedited timeline to change the Scajaquada from an expressway into a roadway.
Commissioner Driscoll thanked everyone in the room for attending the meeting and for their opinions and efforts in this project thus far. He then proceed to deliver the presentation.
The presentation covered the following agenda items:
I. Welcome II. Project History III. Action Plan IV. Next Steps
A copy of the presentation delivered at the meeting can be found on the World Wide Web at https://www.dot.ny.gov/scajaquadacorridor/ (Community Outreach tab). Major summary points are as follows:
The NYSDOT is continuing to work through the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process, in conjunction with the community and various stakeholders, to arrive at the best options for redesigning the Scajaquada.
The Department is committed to a safe transportation network that serves all users including pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists. It is also committed to providing solutions that are compatible with Frederick Law Olmsted’s Delaware Park.
This project is a land use planning effort. The Department wants the solution to be responsive to community needs. Over 30 meetings have been held with stakeholders and local interest groups. Ideas have been presented and many comments and suggestions have been heard. The NYSDOT will continue to listen and obtain input.
Page 1 of 6 This project will convert the Scajaquada Expressway into the Scajaquada Boulevard. It will have two vehicular lanes in each direction. The Scajaquada now has a 30 mile per hour speed limit. Design features, including traffic calming measures, will be put into place that make it feel more natural and comfortable to drive at 30 miles per hour.
Reducing the roadway to one vehicular travel lane in each direction or removing it completely would displace up to 50,000 vehicles per day and pose many problems including traffic congestion and air pollution on neighboring streets which would detract from the city’s quality of life.
When the road was originally designed and constructed there was a focus on moving vehicular traffic efficiently. Today our focus is to ensure that the road is compatible or in harmony with the surrounding environment and its users.
The design will incorporate accommodations for pedestrians and bicyclists. At-grade crossings will be incorporated into the design.
The historical context of Delaware Park, along with community and stakeholder input, will be used to inform design, aesthetic, and sustainable decisions.
Large overhead signs will be removed. The new boulevard will have more modest signage.
Gateways will be established to announce arrival at historic Delaware Park.
Analyses necessary to realize these changes will be complete within one year.
The following short term actions will be taken by the start of this summer:
- Installation of temporary gateway features - Travel lanes at the eastern end of the corridor will be restriped and narrowed - Rumble strips will be installed on the western end of the corridor - Additional variable message signs with speed indicators will be installed
The Department will have discussions with the City of Buffalo to explore the possibility of a separate project to improve safety at the intersection of Main Street, Kensington Avenue, and Humboldt Parkway.
The environmental review process will be expedited. The Department will be working toward a final decision with the community by the end of 2016. Final design will happen next year. A construction contract will be issued in 2017.
Continued participation and input from the public will be important. The Department expects to release a Draft Environmental Impact Statement in the fall of 2016 followed by a formal Public Hearing. There will also continue to be other attritional opportunities for input.
The following text summarizes discussions that took place during the question and answer period. Comments and responses have been paraphrased for brevity.
Comment: Consideration needs to be given to the part of the Scajaquada that does not run through Delaware Park. Part of the corridor, at the eastern end, runs through a minority community? What will be done there?
Response: Please continue to stay involved in meetings moving forward as the Department is here and willing to listen to your concerns. As previously stated, this project is a land use planning effort.
Page 2 of 6 Comment: Before ground is broken and adjustments are made, please get the full scope of exactly what is going on, especially as it relates to truck traffic in residential areas.
Response: Thank-you.
Comment: If a majority of people in Buffalo were to come out and advocate for keeping their expressway, do we get to keep it or is the decision already made?
Response: The intent is to make a boulevard workable for everyone and to progress the plan laid out during this meeting. If the overwhelming majority of people were opposed to something, obviously that will be considered.
Comment: How, within the State’s proposed five-year budget, will the Department deliver on the promise to the community? Current funding levels are unable to keep up with the burden of maintenance on the existing system. Will the funding come from federal sources as well as state sources or will it increase the burden on our own state agencies?
Response: This project will not result in additional financial burden. Funding is in place. It is estimated that construction will cost around $100 million, but that can change during the design phase. The upcoming transportation budget is more than adequate to not only maintain but to enhance systems across the State of New York. The project will be built, but not at the cost of doing maintenance work across the state.
Comment: I’m opposed to this idea. We need an expressway. Other highways and expressways feed the Scajaquada at high speed. I suggest areas outside of the park before Delaware Avenue and beyond Grant Street have a higher speed limit.
Response: Thank-you.
Comment: We need to find middle ground. A 30 mile per hour speed limit is not really a boulevard: it is a street. Crosswalks and traffic lights are a street. The proposed changes won’t get people to drive 30 miles per hour. It can be made better and still be 45 miles per hour. Who will be responsible for maintaining the proposed median when the work is done?
Response: The median is conceptual. Whether or not there should be a median is a discussion the Department will have with the stakeholders.
Comment: Does the current proposal cover the entire length of NYS Route 198 from I-190 to NYS Route 33 or does it cover just the area in Delaware Park?
Response: The current proposal is focused primarily on the roadway from Grant Street to Parkside Avenue. The extent of reconstruction is equally focused in those areas. The Department does not envision this project doing major work outside these limits. The proposed plan does not preclude future studies of those areas
Comment: Right now the speed limit is 30 miles per hour for the entire length of NYS Route 198. In my opinion it should remain that way. I think it is ridiculous to have part of the same street be 50 miles per hour and then go down to 30 miles per hour and back up to 50. Will 30 be enforced? When the corridor is redesigned it should not look like an expressway if you want people to drive at 30.
Response: We will be looking at that as part of our study.
Page 3 of 6 Comment: I think it should be increased to 40 or 45 toward the western end at least. I would also like to keep the expressway pretty much as it is. The expressway serves the whole area, not just the community around the park. It seems like a decision has been made and it’s not going to be that way. Would adding level crossings and bike lanes increase safety? I don’t think the traveling public has been well represented in the decision making process. I urge a compromised solution and to find out what the Scajaquada Expressway users would like to see.
Response: Thank-you.
Comment: If the roadway is going to be a 30 mile per hour street, it should just be a regular street and not a gateway. It doesn’t need barriers. I like the idea of medians tricking people into thinking they should go slower. I would also like to see more mention of addressing human health concerns. We need to do this project right because it won’t happen again in our lifetimes.
Response: Thank-you.
Comment: We have a unique opportunity here to change what has been a detriment for so many into what can really be an asset for the community. My request is that we seriously look into the transition zones. I really want to put forward that this is one of the most important aspects of the project. If we don’t address them, and the speed that drivers are moving as they pass through them, this project will never succeed. Also, who will maintain the facility once the work is done?
Response: The transition zones are important. The Department will identify signage and other techniques to address these areas. Maintenance responsibility for the road will remain with the Department.
Comment: A boulevard, by definition, is still wider than a street. I’m thinking it would be better to have it as a street (30 miles per hour and less than two vehicular lanes in each direction). What is proposed isn’t really reintegrated into Delaware Park because you still have this very wide, four lane roadway, even if it is a narrower four lane roadway. You should set people up, when they exit I-190 or NYS Route 33, for the expectation that they are entering a city street, like Best Street.
Response: Thank-you.
Comment: I would point out to my highway user friends that the difference in traveling the route of the Scajaquada Expressway between 50 miles per hour and 30 miles per hour is a minute and a half on average. Reducing the speed of the Scajaquada Expressway will inconvenience very few. I quit the Scajaquada Expressway about a year ago. I have found it just as convenient to use Delaware Avenue and Lafayette to get to NYS Route 33. Returning more cars to the city streets will increase commercial prospects.
Response: Thank-you.
Comment: Those here who think that eliminating the road, or reducing the road to 30 miles per hour, will suddenly make their lives difficult, have overlooked the realities. Putting more cars onto city streets will in fact enhance the economic vibrancy that has grown in Buffalo today.
Response: Thank-you.
Page 4 of 6 Comment: I ride a bike but I also own a car. I do use the Scajaquada on a regular basis but I also walk it and bike it. We need to be looking at how we reduce car trips, not just how we avoid car delays and car congestion. How do we change our process so we don’t get stuck in the same box? This conversation keeps coming up and the first state that has really looked at revamping their Environmental Impact Statements is California. It is time for our state to reimagine how we utilize our legacy infrastructure.
Response: Thank-you.
Comment: Making the Scajaquada a four lane, lower speed highway or boulevard seems like a compromise to me. We now need to move forward and make the design one we can all live with. We talk about how we move 50,000 cars more gently and safely through the park, but what we really should be thinking about is how we move those people. I encourage you to include NFTA in the planning. They are going through the process of redesigning and reevaluating themselves, so this redesign should be one of the things that they consider as part of their process.
Response: Thank-you.
Comment: I would like to see the speed limit increased. It is excruciating at 30 miles per hour and to have stop signs. I have seen so many rear-end accidents. I know it’s a transition thing and you will get there but there are a lot of cars getting messed up in the process. How much longer are we going to do construction assuming this goes forward? What will be done with the Parkside Avenue intersection?
Response: We anticipate the project will take two full years of construction if it is done all at one time. A decision on phasing will be made during detailed design. We have studied the Parkside Avenue intersection for years and will continue to look at ways it can be improved as we move forward.
Comment: In my mind this is an economic development project. Infrastructure development is important for business recruitment and retention.
Response: Thank-you.
Comment: It is important to understand that Delaware Park was here nearly 150 years ago. The highway was put through this beautiful park. I want to applaud what is happening here tonight. I think it’s important to focus on land use, quality of life, and economic development. I encourage us to continue educating and coming together and having more of these meeting. I believe in the process you are following and encourage more dialogue.
Response: Thank-you.
Comment: What I see here is “lipstick on a pig”. The boulevard is the lipstick on the pig highway. I don’t see this road getting any narrower and giving land back to the park. This and other roads would never be built today. There is a solution to that: remove this road. The NYSDOT should be looking to the future. There are several cities that have taken down their highways and it has been nothing but positive. Why do you think Buffalo can’t get by as other cities like Milwaukee and San Francisco got by without those highways?
Response: I would like to clarify that the freeway removed in Milwaukee was a spur of a large and complex transportation system. This plan includes walkable solutions. We believe that this is not “lipstick on a pig”, rather it will convert the expressway into a boulevard with the elements outlined tonight. The park is an asset. Lots of people use it. The Albright-Knox Museum is another example. It is prudent to support those assets in a way that protects people, provides walkability, and allows automobiles to safely traverse through the area in a safe and manageable way.
Page 5 of 6 Comment: I am an avid cyclist. I want to say thank you for including bike facilities in your overall plan for changes. Will there be dedicated bicycle lanes?
Response: We don’t know that answer yet. That is part of the discussion the Department would like to have with the stakeholders.
Comment: I speak for the faculty members of Medaille College. I applaud the efforts being made to slow down the Scajaquada. There is a lot of foot traffic at the Parkside Avenue intersection. The road needs to be slowed down way before that point to protect those users. How would narrowing the road impact access to the Medaille campus as it has its only entrance from NYS Route 198? Please think about rush hour traffic as an issue.
Response: The Department intends to narrow the lanes, but not eliminate them. These issues will be addressed as part of the Environmental Impact Statement process.
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached at this meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, of any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, PE Project Manager
Page 6 of 6 STAKEHOLDERS MEETING AT SISTER’S HOSPITAL MARCH 2, 2016 - 6:00 PM
Attendees: Heather Sporn, Craig Mozrall and Patrick Meredith 35 community members attended the meeting.
Larry Williams gave an introduction: -He lived on Humboldt Parkway since the 1950s. His family came from the south and his Father worked 2 jobs to own a house.
-He’s been working to restore his parent’s house.
-He thinks the 30 MPH speed limit is causing more traffic to exit onto Main Street at Humboldt Parkway. He wants something done to reduce the traffic effects.
-Larry introduces Assistant Commissioner, Patrick Meredith.
-Larry mentioned many issues to Patrick when they walked around the neighborhood.
-Steven Stepniak said that the City looks forward to working with DOT to address some issues at Main, Humboldt and Kensington.
-Patrick Meredith said that DOT will work with the City to address some immediate needs and notes that the DOT will engage the community.
-Larry mentioned issues with parking in the neighborhood.
-City Councilman, Ulysees O. Wingo, Jr., wants to know what can be done on Humboldt Parkway from Parkside to Delevan. He wants an answer from the DOT.
-Warren Galloway said the State of New York made some changes without considering all the effects that instituting a 30 MPH speed limit would entail. -The way the west side of Main Street and the east side of Main Street are treated is not equal. All the focus has been on Delaware Park. - The traffic back ups have been worse. There is an air pollution problem.
-Patrick talked about finding out what the best way is to get information out.
-Brad Bethel from ROCC talked about the connection between Parkside and Ferry Street on Humboldt Humboldt Parkway. He says the Scajaquada project and Humboldt need to be coordinated. -Mike DeLuca complained abut traffic in the neighborhood but said that traffic has not gone up since the speed limit was changed, it has always been horrible according it him. -He said the project must deal with the area east of Parkside. -Deal with the Main Street-Kensington-Humboldt Parkway intersections. -Said there should not be a need for 2 lanes coming off of the 33 in each direction.
-Larry Williams said given Canisus College, Medaille College and Sister’s Hospital, may be the Bishop’s office should be talking. -Drivers have no regard for pedestrians on Main Street. -Property values are dropping. What can be done to stop that? -The communities along Humboldt have been split by the expressway and pedestrians need access across the roadway. -There is soot on the houses that needs to be addressed.
-A different homeowner said there is a safety issue with all the cars trying to exit the 198 westbound onto Main Street. The safety issue needs to be addressed. Vibrations from the traffic are damaging foundations. -Make changes to the eastern transition to improve safety. -People speed on Humboldt Parkway. This needs to be addressed.
-Larry Williams said both sides of Humboldt have problems. Need more signage on Humboldt. -Expressway does not look like a 30 MPH street.
-ROCC member stated that there is a need for more signage to show where the speed limit on the 33 inbound speed goes up.
-Stephanie Barber from the ROCC states” the Fumes in the bathtub section are causing health issues.
-Mike DeLuca wants to see a community planner to work with the community groups. -He also wants Kensington Ave closed between Humboldt east and west.
-The group wants another meeting to start solving problems. When will that be?
-Stephanie Barber brought up air quality issues on Humboldt in the bathtub section, again.
MEETING SUMMARY
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Subject: Consulting Parties Meeting Location: 100 Seneca Street, Buffalo, NY Date: Tuesday March 22, 2016 Time: 2:00 to 3:00 PM
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING Jessica Prockup NYSDOT – Main Office Lori Blair NYSDOT – Main Office Craig Mozrall NYSDOT – Region 5 Dave Hill NYSDOT – Region 5 Sylvia Jones NYSDOT – Region 5 Andy Brayman NYSDOT – Region 5 Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Jim Boggs Bergmann Associates Yolanda Stewart Parkside Community Association Brian Dold Buffalo Olmsted Parks Commission Shannon Luce For Carley Hill of the Richardson Complex Steve Shaffer Buffalo State College Daniel Sack Campaign for Greater Buffalo Andy Rabb City Parks & Rec Janine Siren Albright-Knox Art Gallery Jessie Fisher Preservation Buffalo Niagara Amber Small Parkside Community Association Donna Fernandes Buffalo Zoo Marissa Brown The Buffalo History Museum Christine Krolewicz Richardson Olmsted Complex
Cc. Tim Bender NYSDOT Consultant Mgt.
The purpose of this meeting is to re-engage Consulting Parties in the Section 106 process for the Scajaquada Corridor Project, to provide an overview and update on the Project, the current status of the Section 106 process, and identified historic properties. Consulting Parties were given an opportunity to discuss the upcoming assessment of effects.
The following agenda was used for the meeting:
1. Welcome, Housekeeping, Introductions, & Meeting Objectives 2. Project Overview & Update 3. Overview and Status of Section 106 Process
Page 1 of 6 Consulting Parties Meeting of 3/22/16
4. Overview of Identified Historic Properties 5. Roundtable Discussion 6. Summary & Next Steps
The following are highlights from the PowerPoint presentation.
The Section 106 process under the National Historic Preservation Act is being carried out concurrently with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process for the NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Corridor) project.
The purpose of the project is to provide geometric and operational improvements to NYS Route 198 in its current location from the Grant Street interchange to the intersection of Parkside Avenue, including the segment through Delaware Park. These improvements will be made while maintaining local connectivity and an efficient transportation link between I-190 and NYS Route 33, and providing enhanced compatibility with adjacent land uses. In short, the project will improve the facility’s fit with the park’s unique character and landscape as well as safety for all users.
Interim traffic calming measures were installed beginning in May 2015 and will be complete by the end of summer 2016
The production of the Design Report and Environmental Impact Statement (DR/EIS) is being expedited and the Draft DR/EIS is targeted for this fall.
At a public meeting in February 2016, the Commissioner of the NYSDOT announced an intent to create the Scajaquada Boulevard. This would include:
o Conversion of the expressway to an urban boulevard o Two travel lanes in each direction o Enhanced pedestrian accommodations o Enhanced bicyclist accommodations o Streetscape features appropriate for a city park setting o Enhancements faithful to and that preserve the history of Delaware Park o A 30 mile per hour speed limit from Grant Street to Parkside Avenue
Bicycle accommodations will be consistent with the City of Buffalo’s Bicycle Master Plan to the extent practicable.
An effort will be made to restore as many historic path alignments as possible.
Median refuges will be provided to shorten at-grade pedestrian crossings.
The Department is working with multiple institutions including The Buffalo History Museum, Olmsted Parks Conservancy, etc. as the design progresses.
The project will incorporate gateway features that provide a sense of arrival both for the Corridor and Delaware Park.
The project will strive to maintain the character of Delaware Park while also maintaining a viable transportation network for the City of Buffalo.
Page 2 of 6 Consulting Parties Meeting of 3/22/16
Federal agencies must take into consideration how their actions may affect designated historic resources and those resources eligible to be placed on the National Register. Consultation is part of this process.
The steps in the Section 106 process include: 1. Initiate Section 106 Process 2. Identify Historic Properties 3. Assess Adverse Effects 4. Resolve Adverse Effects
In identifying historic properties, archaeological work was performed for five surveys: o 2004 Phase I Survey o 2010 Addendum Phase I Survey o 2010 Phase II Archaeological Site Examination o 2013 Addendum Phase I Survey o 2014 Phase II Archaeological Site Examination
In identifying historic properties, architectural work was performed in three of the surveys: o 2004 Phase I Survey o 2010 Addendum Phase I Survey o 2013 Addendum Phase I Survey
The following is a summary of questions asked and statements made during the discussion period:
Q: What are the limits of the Scajaquada Boulevard Project?
A: The Grant Street interchange to Parkside Avenue
Q: Will impacts to The Buffalo History Museum and Albright Knox Art Gallery be considered?
A: Yes, both are on the National Register of Historic Places
Q: Is the Julia Boyer Reinstein Center being evaluated?
A: Yes, that facility was also evaluated.
Q: Are the Department’s Cultural Resource Study documents available online?
A: Information is available on the State Historic Preservation Office’s Cultural Resource Information System (CRIS); however, not all of the NYSDOT’s information is reflected in its entirety. The earlier studies have not been digitized and placed on CRIS. Also, information is not available to the public regarding archaeological sites so the general public can’t identify and potentially disturb them. Information on historic structures is included.
Page 3 of 6 Consulting Parties Meeting of 3/22/16
Q: Is there a map available showing the Area of Potential Effect (APE)?
A: A map will be published in the Draft Design Report/ Environmental Impact Statement (DDR/DEIS). The original APE was identified in text form. The NYSDOT is now compiling a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) map that can be superimposed on the project plans to help identify and avoid potential impacts to historic and archaeological sites.
Q: What is the anticipated phasing sequence for the project?
A: Decisions regarding project phasing will be made sometime next year after the DDR/DEIS is accepted and a preferred alternative has been chosen.
Q: Where are the proposed roundabouts?
A: Roundabouts are under consideration as follows:
- Grant Street: This roundabout would require bypass lanes to handle the expected volume of traffic; however, there are no pedestrian crossings planned at this location. The roundabout would have no impact on parkland. Traffic analyses need to be conducted to determine if operations would be acceptable, especially given the short distance between NYS Route 198 and Grant Street and the volume of traffic that would be using the Grant Street signal at SUNY Buffalo State.
- Iroquois Drive: This roundabout would sit at the intersection of Iroquois Drive and the Iroquois Drive connector. It would adequately handle the anticipated traffic volume, including full size tractor trailers. Calculations are underway to determine if it would have a greater impact on parkland than the signalized option. The Albright Knox Art Gallery has plans for an expansion, including a loading dock, adjacent to this intersection that are also being taken into consideration.
- Elmwood Avenue: Traffic projections show that this roundabout would effectively handle the anticipated traffic demand; however, it needs bypass lanes to do so and many of those would require pedestrian crossings. Based on visual inspection, it appears as though the roundabout would have a greater impact on parkland; however, calculations are underway to verify that assumption.
- Delaware Avenue: This roundabout would also require bypass lanes, with pedestrian crossings, to handle the projected volume of traffic. Furthermore, it is likely to have a more significant impact on parkland than the signalized intersection option. Calculations are underway to verify that assumption.
- Parkside Avenue: A roundabout was considered for this location, however it would not have adequate capacity to handle the anticipated volume of traffic without creating congestion and heavy backups on both NYS Route 198 and Parkside Avenue; therefore, it has been dismissed from further consideration.
It is anticipated that the preferred option for each of the subject intersections will be identified in the DDR/DEIS.
Page 4 of 6 Consulting Parties Meeting of 3/22/16
Q: Are improvements being considered that would make the Parkside Avenue intersection more pedestrian friendly?
A: Yes. Planned features under consideration include pedestrian refuge islands, more crosswalks, and changes to the traffic signal system. It will be important to see what effect the City of Buffalo’s proposed changes along Parkside Avenue (lane reductions) have on traffic patterns when those alterations are complete.
Q: Can you expand upon the nature of the Department’s conversations with the NFTA?
A: NYSDOT representatives sat down with the NFTA to see if they would like to look into adding additional routes along NYS Route 198 under the boulevard alternative. NFTA will be looking at their trip origin and destination data to determine the best way to serve their customer base. At this time they do not anticipate adding any routes, but the planned improvements would not preclude that from happening and more conversations will be forthcoming.
Q: There are four steps in the Section 106 process. What step is the Department currently at?
A: We are currently at Step 2. Information is needed on the potential impacts of a preferred alternative in order to move forward. That information will become available as more decisions are made and the DDR/DEIS gets closer to completion.
Q: Will this Consulting Parties group have an opportunity to reconvene and reassess the Department’s findings?
A: Additional information will be provided in the DDR/DEIS. Another meeting may be held. When a preferred alternative is picked, a Findings Documentation will be prepared. This group will have an opportunity to review the draft Findings Documentation and comment prior to its publication as part of the DDR/DEIS.
Q: Are you aware that full size tractor trailers will need to access the Albright Knox art gallery to support future plans?
A: Yes, we are aware of this based on past meetings with art gallery representatives.
Q: My perception of this Section 106 review is that the alternative has already been decided upon and the Department is now looking for ways to mitigate it. We should be asking how we can heal our city and then design that project. Can we stipulate as follows?
This highway would never be built today; Large roads draw large volumes of traffic; Generations past were wrong; and Motor vehicles are unsustainable.
The proposed use is sustaining a model from the 1950’s that is unsustainable. There should be no large roads in parks. We should return our resources to what they once were. Smaller roads mean less traffic and they are safer. Medians only speed up traffic. We should be thinking not
Page 5 of 6 Consulting Parties Meeting of 3/22/16
about how we can defend our historic resources, but what we can build that will result in the right amount of traffic. There are other roads in the City that want more traffic.
A: Thank-you for your comment. Q: I would like to state an opposing viewpoint to the prior statement. The community has invested upwards of $100 million in its cultural assets and we need to make sure that visitors have a way to get there that is convenient, especially those arriving from out of town.
A: Thank-you for your comment.
Q: Will the project stakeholders get to see the DDR/DEIS before the formal public hearing?
A: The document will be available for public inspection for at least two (2) weeks before a formal public hearing is held.
Q: Will all the alternatives considered in the DDR/DEIS have two (2) lanes in each direction?
A: Yes, as announced by Commissioner Driscoll in February 2016.
Q: Will the ultimate decision be fleshed out in a report?
A: Another public meeting is being planned for May 2016, a formal public hearing is anticipated in December 2016, and a Final Design Report/Final Environmental Impact Statement (FDR/FEIS) is targeted for January 2017.
Q: So there will be another opportunity for the public to review the proposed design?
A: Yes. There will also be additional meetings with members of the project Stakeholder Group.
Q: Can the sign in sheet from today’s meeting be circulated?
A: Yes, we will circulate the sign in sheet along with the meeting minutes.
Action Items:
None
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached at this meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, of any errors or omissions.
Best regards, BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, PE Project Manager Page 6 of 6
MEETING SUMMARY
NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I-190 to NYS Route 33 P.I.N. 5470.22
Subject: Consultation Meeting with Tribal Nations Location: 100 Seneca Street, Buffalo, NY Date: Wednesday March 23, 2016 Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
In Attendance:
NAME REPRESENTING Jessica Prockup NYSDOT – Main Office Lori Blair NYSDOT – Main Office Craig Mozrall NYSDOT – Region 5 Dave Hill NYSDOT – Region 5 Renjit James NYSDOT – Region 5 Sylvia Jones NYSDOT – Region 5 Andy Brayman NYSDOT – Region 5 Mark McAnany Bergmann Associates Mike Croce Bergmann Associates Jim Boggs Bergmann Associates Nathan Montague UB Archaeological Survey Jay Toth Seneca Nation of Indians-THPO Christine Abrams Tonawanda Seneca Nation
Cc. Tim Bender NYSDOT Consultant Mgt.
The purpose of this meeting is to re-engage Consulting Tribal Nations in the Section 106 process for the Scajaquada Corridor Project, to provide an overview and update on the Project, the current status of the Section 106 process, and identified historic properties. Participants were given an opportunity to discuss the upcoming assessment of effects.
The following agenda was used for the meeting:
1. Welcome, Housekeeping, Introductions, & Meeting Objectives 2. Project Overview & Update 3. Overview and Status of Section 106 Process 4. Overview of Identified Historic Properties 5. Roundtable Discussion 6. Summary & Next Steps
The following are highlights from the PowerPoint presentation.
The Section 106 process under the National Historic Preservation Act is being carried out concurrently with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process for the NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Corridor) Project.
Page 1 of 4 Consultation Meeting with Tribal Nations of 3/23/16
The purpose of the project is to provide geometric and operational improvements to NYS Route 198 in its current location from the Grant Street interchange to the intersection of Parkside Avenue, including the segment through Delaware Park. These improvements will be made while maintaining local connectivity and an efficient transportation link between I-190 and NYS Route 33, and providing enhanced compatibility with adjacent land uses. In short, the project will improve the facility’s fit with the park’s unique character and landscape as well as safety for all users.
Interim traffic calming measures were installed beginning in May 2015 and will be complete by the end of summer 2016
The production of the Design Report and Environmental Impact Statement (DR/EIS) is being expedited and the Draft DR/EIS is targeted for this fall.
At a public meeting in February 2016, the Commissioner of the NYSDOT announced an intent to create the Scajaquada Boulevard. This would include:
o Conversion of the expressway to an urban boulevard o Two travel lanes in each direction o Enhanced pedestrian accommodations o Enhanced bicyclist accommodations o Streetscape features appropriate for a city park setting o Enhancements faithful to and that preserve the history of Delaware Park o A 30 mile per hour speed limit from Grant Street to Parkside Avenue
Bicycle accommodations will be consistent with the City of Buffalo’s Bicycle Master Plan to the extent practicable.
An effort will be made to restore as many historic path alignments as possible.
Median refuges will be provided to shorten at-grade pedestrian crossings.
The Department is working with multiple institutions including The Buffalo History Museum, Olmsted Parks Conservancy, etc. as the design progresses.
The project will incorporate gateway features that provide a sense of arrival both for the Corridor and Delaware Park.
The project will strive to maintain the character of Delaware Park while also maintaining a viable transportation network for the City of Buffalo.
Federal agencies must take into consideration how their actions may affect designated historic resources and those resources eligible to be placed on the National Register. Consultation is part of this process.
The steps in the Section 106 process include: 1. Initiate Section 106 Process 2. Identify Historic Properties 3. Assess Adverse Effects 4. Resolve Adverse Effects
Page 2 of 4 Consultation Meeting with Tribal Nations of 3/23/16
In identifying historic properties, archaeological work was performed for five surveys: o 2004 Phase I Survey o 2010 Addendum Phase I Survey o 2010 Phase II Archaeological Site Examination o 2013 Addendum Phase I Survey o 2014 Phase II Archaeological Site Examination
In identifying historic properties, architectural work was performed in three of the surveys: o 2004 Phase I Survey o 2010 Addendum Phase I Survey o 2013 Addendum Phase I Survey
A draft Findings Document will be prepared. That document will be made available to the Tribal Nations for review and comment prior to it becoming part of the DDR/DEIS. The following is a summary of questions asked and statements made during the discussion period:
Q: The Seneca Nation of Indians-THPO would like to review the data recovery sites with the UB Archaeological Survey. Trees and other landscaping should make use of native plants (e.g. oak trees). The trees should be planted in a way that provides plenty of open space and avoids crowding.
The median should be mounded and planted with native grasses and wildflowers to reduce future maintenance cost as opposed to keeping it flat and covered with bluegrass. Doing so would also help educate the public on native grasses and plants. An example would be median treatments for the Madison, WI airport.
Lighting should be solar powered. This could be coordinated with a nearby solar panel project.
A stormwater management system is needed. Storm sewers should be separated from sanitary when possible and natural treatment is desirable before it gets into our waterways.
A: These comments are noted and will be considered as design progresses.
Q: Note that there are four new sites for data recovery including numbers 4, 8, 13, and 14. They are thought to be the sites of former butcher facilities. Site 2 is not eligible and does not need to be avoided by the project.
A: Thank-you for the information.
Q: What do you do when you have a site that could be impacted by the project?
A: The first measure would be avoidance. If avoidance is not possible, we would seek to minimize impacts, and do artifact recovery in advance of construction.
Page 3 of 4 Consultation Meeting with Tribal Nations of 3/23/16
Q: Are the Department’s Cultural Resource Study documents available online?
A: Tribal Nations should have received hard copies of the reports. In addition, information is available on the State Historic Preservation Officer’s Cultural Resource Information System (CRIS), however not all of the NYSDOT’s information is reflected in its entirety. The earlier studies have not been digitized and placed on CRIS. Also, information is not available to the public regarding archaeological sites so the general public can’t identify and potentially disturb them. Information on historic structures is included. At the meeting, NYSDOT Region 5 offered to provide copies of the reports on CD ROM if requested.
Q: Where are we in the process?
A: A data recovery plan has been written, but is currently on hold because the project has changed over the past two years. Once the design of the build alternative is further refined, we can determine if a particular site is unavoidable. In that case, we will plan for data recovery. The Department is currently locating and mapping all sites using GPS so that they can be superimposed on the proposed design to aid in avoiding and/or minimizing impacts. The next step is to create a draft Findings Documentation. That document will be made available for review and comment by the Tribal Nations. After that step, the data recovery plan can be amended. The amended plan would also be made available to the Tribal Nations for review. If there will be an adverse effect on a resource, a memorandum of agreement will be drafted. Data recovery cannot actually begin until after design approval has been granted for the project.
Action Items:
None
The above constitutes our understanding of issues discussed and decisions reached at this meeting. Please notify the undersigned, in writing, of any errors or omissions.
Best regards,
BERGMANN ASSOCIATES
Mark J. McAnany, PE Project Manager
Page 4 of 4 DRAFT Meeting Notes
Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Interim Improvements Date Held: May 12, 2016 Location: 100 Seneca Street. Buffalo, NY
Attendees: · Stakeholders: See attached sign in sheet · NYSDOT: Darrell Kaminski, Craig Mozrall, Dave Hill, Renjit James
Meeting Summary:
1. Darrell Kaminski – Welcome / Introduction
2. Craig Mozrall – Presented the discussion of the graphics depicting the different median options as well as the bicycle/pedestrian options, the department is evaluating. Also mentioned about the open house on May 19th.
3. Brian Dold – Is DOT looking for overall comments or just for the median and pedestrian (multimodal) options?
4. NYSDOT – We are looking any comments you might have.
5. Mike DeLuca – How would a 4’ median look like?. Are there any improvements east of Parkside Ave and west of Grant Street?
6. NYSDOT – We are working on finalizing the proposed work for the transition areas. We may have something to show for the open house.
7. Amber Small – Who is going to take care (maintenance) of the landscaping in the median? Are there any pedestrian crossings at the maintenance facility with the 20’ wide median option?
8. DOT – NYSDOT maintains the existing grass median. We had discussions with the city and they had concerns about the maintenance of the median. Along with the decision on a median option, a decision will be made regarding the maintenance of the landscaping.
9. Mike DeLuca – Any changes to the park road (Meadow drive) to eliminate cut through traffic.
10. NYSDOT - We met with COB and Parks to discuss the concerns and possible solutions. We haven’t finalized any work. We have come up with couple of solutions, and will work with Parks and COB to implement the best option.
11. Sarah Reid – Why can’t we close the entrance from Lincoln Parkway at Nottingham?
12. NYSDOT – It is currently being utilized by many vehicles. By eliminating this entrance, we will be sending more vehicle along Nottingham to Elmwood Avenue. Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Interim Improvements Date Held: May 12, 2016 Page 2 of 3
13. Lou Harmeski – Removing the exit/entrance ramp from Iroquois Drive will help Albright Knox Art gallery.
14. NYSDOT – NYSDOT was at the Architecture firm presentation last week. By having the ramp at that location did not seem to have any impacts on the Art Gallery Expansion.
15. Sarah Reid – Why do we need a 4’ wide median. Why can’t we have just yellow stripes.
16. NYSDOT – Due to safety concerns, it was decided to include at a minimum 4’ wide median.
17. Kent Bostock – Are we going to add any parking within the existing Delaware Ave. interchange after the reconstruction.
18. Sarah Reid/Mike Deluca/Amber Small – Is the speed limit going be changed. Is guide rail going to be installed in the median? People are going to use the wide median as walkway
19. NYSDOT – No intention of changing the speed limit. We are not planning on putting any median barrier as part of the design.
20. Sarah Reid – Should provide the smallest median possible
21. Mike Deluca – From the displays, it looks like the same design from 2 years ago. What is the difference between the 45mph design and the 30 mph design? Was hoping for significant changes from the previous design.
22. NYSDOT – Pointed out few of the differences between the 45 mph and the 30mph design.
23. Mike Deluca/Louise Harmeski – Provide an at grade pedestrian crossing at Buffalo State College, not a pedestrian bridge. Also remove the existing pedestrian bridge at Lincoln Pkwy.
24. NYSDOT – At Buffalo state college there is grade difference which would require a pedestrian over bridge. Will check the elevations to see if an at grade ped crossing would work at this location. Regarding the removal of ped bridge at Lincoln parkway, we heard from a group of people who would like us to remove the bridge and from another group of people who wants us to keep the bridge. Our intention at this time is to maintain the existing bridge.
25. Sarah Reid – What are we doing for storm water retention. Buffalo State would like to have a crossing from Buff state to the north side of the creek.
26. NYSDOT – We have couple of locations identified, but haven’t decided on the type or location.
27. Justin Booth – NYSDOT is missing out on a great opportunity to improve/transform this corridor from I-190 to Route 33, not just between Grant Street and Parkside Avenue. We need to design this corridor for 25 mph so that people will travel at 30mph. There should be connectivity between Buffalo State and the Humboldt metro Station. A bike track as Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Interim Improvements Date Held: May 12, 2016 Page 3 of 3
shown in Delaware Park is not acceptable. There should be a separate on street bike track provided as part of this project. We expected more of a transformative project, not this same old same old “crap”. If NYSDOT is showing all these same design at the Open House, I expect people are going to be very upset and there will be fallout.
28. Kent Bostock – Roads are designed for transportation to accommodate cars and trucks
29. Louise Harmeski – Building the Route 198 corridor has hurt the Grant/Amherst business district by diverted traffic from Grant Street and Amherst Street. Redesign the roadway to carry only half of the traffic and rest of the traffic will go through the business district.
30. Brian Dold – Connect the multi use paths to the intersections. We (BOPC) are not big fans of a divided bike track on the ring road. This will create addition crossing points as well as additional conflict point between bicycle and pedestrians. DRAFT Meeting Notes
Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Improvements Date Held: June 23, 2016 Location: 100 Seneca Street. Buffalo, NY
Attendees: · Stakeholders: See attached sign in sheet · NYSDOT: Patrick Meredith, Heather Sporn, Craig Mozrall, Dave Hill, Renjit James
Meeting Summary:
1. Patrick Meredith/Craig Mozrall – Welcome / Introduction. Meeting setup to discuss pedestrian access between Buffalo State Campus and Grant Amherst Neighborhood. Two concepts – One is grade separated (pedestrian Bridge) and one showing at grade crossing Iroquois drive and Scajaquada Corridor, and a bridge over the Scajaquada Creek.
2. Heather – The drawings are just base point for discussion/concepts/general layout not design “do not take it literally
3. Justin Booth – Where is the location of the proposed crossing and why that location was picked.
4. Craig Mozrall – The proposed location has an existing pedestrian facility connecting to the Buffalo State Campus sidewalk/pathway network.
5. Patrick Meredith – Did Buffalo State have input in the location of the pedestrian crossing and is there any logic in having this at any other location.
6. Justin Booth - Okay with the proposed location.
7. Steven Shaffer – Buff State did have input in selecting the location of the crossing. From engineering as well as an economic point of view, the location makes sense.
8. Renata Kraft - We should consider the complete street design not a access controlled roadway. We should take the time and go back to the drawing board and consider a complete street design which would provide a city street which would accommodate all modes. Also consider eliminating redundant transportation facility by combining/eliminating Iroquois Drive with Scajaquada corridor. This would provide more room for the restoration of Scajaquada Creek.
9. Patrick Meredith - This will have a very large impact on the Buff State campus
10. Steven Shaffer – Ideally college would like to reduce the pavement footprint in front of the college. Logically Iroquois drive is the service road which should serve all the building efficiently. Have concerns about the operational and access issues. Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Improvements Date Held: June 23, 2016 Page 2 of 5
11. Renata Kraft – Realizes the gravity of this option on the design as well as the schedule and on Buffalo State campus. But, this is our one chance to consolidate. Reconnect the street grid to the campus.
12. Steve Shaffer – Security is not a concern. Would like to reconnect the campus to the community. Want to be a part of the community. Would like to promote the campus as creek side campus with access to the creek
13. Lou Haremski - Re-establishing the historical alignment of creek should be goal also.
14. Renata Kraft – Restore the creek to its original width, shallow depth. The obstacle is the roadway. Sees this as an opportunity to accomplish this goal.
15. Justin Booth – At grade crossing will provide room to create access to the creek.
16. Lou Harmeski – Can utilize the additional room between the creek and the relocated roadway for creek access. Limited access means expressway, drivers tend to speed. Make drivers worry about what is on the road.
17. Renata Kraft – Being on a bridge is scary. Sometimes it does not feel safe. The pedestrian bridge across I-190 is an example, broken bottles, garbage and some times people just hanging out, making it feel little uncomfortable.
18. Justin Booth – Safety is a concern. Put the crossing at grade where it is more visible and more desiarable.
19. Sarah Reid – Families also stay at the dorm. The crossing will give an opportunity for families to cross the roadway and creek to access the play ground north of the creek.
20. Renata Kraft –If the crossing is at grade, would there be a traffic control device
21. Patrick Meredith – If the crossing is at grade, it will be controlled by a hawk signal. The cross walk will be on a curve, may need to install advance warning.
22. Justin Booth – Provide an offset crossing. This will force the pedestrian to turn towards the oncoming traffic and look.
23. Renata Kraft – What if this is a complete street with sidewalk not a limited access roadway.
24. Heather Sporn – We could put a street here providing accessibility for pedestrians, bicycles, refuge for pedestrian with medians.
25. Renata Kraft – If cars are going slow, we do not need to provide refuges for the pedestrians.
26. Steven Shaffer – Provide separate walkway
27. Sarah Reid – If we put a median, it gives an environment/impression to the drivers that they can speed. Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Improvements Date Held: June 23, 2016 Page 3 of 5
28. Lou Harmeski – Design to make it look like a city street. Like Delaware Avenue. No need for median, just double yellow line.
29. Renata Kraft – The original street grid was deigned when this area had double the population
30. Craig Mozrall – In 1950, did we have double the number of Cars?
31. Reneta Kraft – No we did not, but had better mass transit, people walked or biked. I do not want Buffalo to be the laughing stock
32. Patrick Meredith – Does Buffalo State college have any preference in the type of crossing, pedestrian bridge or at grade?
33. Steven Shaffer – I do not see any disadvantage of having an at grade crossing.
34. Patrick Meredith – How wide should the crossing be to accommodate pedestrians and bicyclist.
35. Justin Booth 10 feet minimum, provide a wider section for maintenance vehicles.
36. Craig Mozrall – Shoreline Trail is 13 feet wide.
37. Renata Kraft – Have consideration given to allow vehicular traffic over the bridge over Scajaquada Creek. This would allow connecting to the street network.
38. Justin Booth – This will allow to connecting to the street network
39. Mike Finn – There is a City Park between the creek and the end of the street. Any option to take property from the park will have to consider 4(f) and 6(f) issues.
40. Steve Shaffer/Sarah Reed – Does not see the reconnect as an advantage.
41. Heather Sporn – We will need a wider street bridge crossing the creek.
42. Renata Kraft – Does not matter. The issue is not a creek issue.
43. Steve Shaffer – Goal to reconnect to the park would served better if the bridge over the creek is just a pedestrian bridge rather than a combined ped/vehicular bridge.
44. Lou Harmeski – As a member of the Grant/Amherst business associations point of view, the landing point be not at the backyard of Wegmans. Push it to the west to Bush/Howell Street. 45. Lou Harmeski – What will be the Work Zone Traffic Control Method used during construction of this project.
46. Craig Mozrall/Pat Meredith – Most probably this project will be built in sections. We will look at all different options and come up with best method to minimize the impact on the travelling public and the surrounding community. Also since this is an important corridor, we have to take into consideration Governor Cuomo’s Drivers First initiative. Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Improvements Date Held: June 23, 2016 Page 4 of 5
47. Lou Harmeski – During construction if we provide only one lane in each direction, it make people slow down and get used to the slower traffic. This train/encourage drivers to go at 30mph when the new slower speed roadway/boulevard is open for traffic.
48. Heather Sporn - We are committed to enforce speed through design features.
49. Mike Finn – City of Buffalo will be supportive of pedestrian connection between Buff State and the neighborhood. Will work to integrate Jesse Kreigal pathway. State should maintain the bridge. If we are looking at reconnecting the city street grid, people living along the dead end street as well as COB has concerns. Can work together to remove the trash rack/finger dam in the creek. Would need to get input from the community regarding the ped/bicycle path.
50. Sarah Reed – Access to the creek as well as the park will be great benefit for the students.
51. Justin Booth – Would like to see a separate/protected on-street bike path for commuters along the corridor. Something similar to what is being built on Niagara Street.
52. Steve Shaffer – Buff State have a concern about campus wide storm water treatment. Would like to use DOT property to treat storm water.
53. Craig Mozrall – We could accommodate that as a part of this project under a betterment agreement for construction and future maintenance between the Campus and the DOT.
54. Justin Booth – Is there an opportunity for DOT to come up to with a plan to combine Iroquois and Route 198.
55. Steve Shaffer – Would like to know who has ownership and maintenance jurisdiction of the retaining wall between the campus and Route 198.
56. Craig Mozrall - None of the DOT record plans show that DOT actually built the retaining wall. Hence it should have been built by the University/NYS Dormitory Authority as part of the campus construction
57. Craig Mozrall - DOT will send the historic ROW plans to Buff State.
58. Steve Shaffer – The wall needs to be prepared. In the meantime Buffalo State would like to put banners, logos or some kind of branding on the wall. Who owns the rusty fence?
59. Patrick Meredith. Isnt a portion of Iroquois Drive on state right of way?
60. Sarah Reid – It is possible.
61. Patrick Meredith/Dave Hill – At the public information meeting, Buff state had discussed if it would be possible to provide a right in right out access from the new Route 198 between Grant Street and Elmwood Avenue.
62. Steve Shaffer – Buff State is spending great effort to improve the entrances at Grant Street and Rockwell as well as Elmwood and Rockwell. The intention is to make these the main entrance into the campus and provide way finding signs from Rockwell. WE do not want to encourage/promote the entrance from the back side (Iroquois Drive) of the Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Improvements Date Held: June 23, 2016 Page 5 of 5
campus. A connection to the new signalized intersection of Route 198 and the Elmwood Connector would be of no benefit to the campus. May be just a right only exit to EB Route 198 may be beneficial but not a priority to the campus. A pedestrian crossing across the road and the creek would be beneficial and critical to the campus.
63. Dave Hill – Are there continuous sidewalks there.
64. Steve/Sarah – no.
65. Craig Mozrall – We are trying fit a path between the creek and the roadway. We have room there, but would have to provide some positive barrier between the road and path where they are very close to each other.
66. Steve Shaffer – The intent of Buffalo State is to keep all the vehicular traffic on the perimeter and make the interior of the campus more pedestrian friendly.
67. Patrick Meredith – Are you (Buff State) working with any engineering firms in the effort to rebuild Iroquois Drive.
68. Steve Shaffer – Not yet, but will be in few months. We expect to bring an engineer on board as the state completes the EIS in the fall.
69. Patrick Meredith – Any thoughts/comments from Assemblyman Ryan’s staff.
70. Alex Lynch/Cody Meyers – Just reiterating what have been said. We can’t miss this great opportunity to make something great. An at grade pedestrian crossing will be preferred. A city street design would be preferred.
71. Patrick Meredith – Should we have included anybody else in today’s discussion.
72. Justin Booth – Olmstead Parks should have been included in this meeting. They maintain a portion of the Jesse Kreigal Path. They should be consulted on the design of the bridges over the creek.
73. Renata Craft – Albright Knox should be included.
74. Patrick Meredith – We will put together the meeting notes and send it to out. Also we will have more meeting to discuss this project. DRAFT Meeting Notes
Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Improvements Date Held: July 12, 2016 Location: 100 Seneca Street. Buffalo, NY
Attendees: · Buffalo State College: William Benfanti, Steven Shaffer, Sarah Reid · NYSDOT: Patrick Meredith, Heather Sporn, Craig Mozrall, Renjit James
Meeting Summary:
1. Craig /Patrick Heather – Welcome / Introduction. Meeting setup to discuss options to combine Iroquois Drive and Scajaquada Expressway between Grant Street and Elmwood Ave, thus creating space between the creek and new roadway. Explained the option of combining these two roadways and eliminating the redundancy.
2. Steve/Sarah – Why is there a wide median?
3. Craig/Heather – The median is being provided to shadow the turn lanes. And is narrower away from the turn lanes. Also it provides for the pedestrian refuge.
4. Sarah/Steve – The building is at the end of the dormitory building the building where we get all our mail delivered and picked up, and is also where the custodial staff picks up all their supplies. With the new configuration, it makes it difficult to the staff to pick up and deliver mail and the custodial supplies. They would have to get out to the new Scajaquada Blvd, turn around at Elmwood Ave and get back into the campus. Also we are trying to convert the internal roadway into a pedestrian only (except emergency vehicle traffic) roadway and were planning to keep all the vehicular traffic on the out side loop (Iroquois Drive).
5. Heather – According to your plan to make the internal road pedestrians only, what was your plan for the vehicular traffic
6. Steve - Buff State were going to rebuild Iroquois as it stands and provide vehicular access on that roadway. Smaller delivery vehicles will be allowed on the internal roadway. Would prefer to have more room closer to the campus than providing another bike/ped lane.
7. Craig – The path between the campus and the roadway will be provide better access for the students and the one between the creek and the roadway will provide access to the creek.
8. Steve - One option Buff State would like and the one NYSDOT wouldn’t like is the option of one lane in each direction with a two way left turn lane for the WB traffic to turn into the campus. Short of that, everything else will have a big impact on the operation of the campus. Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Improvements Date Held: July 12, 2016 Page 2 of 3
9. Sarah - Buff State would like to guide/direct visitors to come through the Rockwell entrance which is the better part of the campus, not on the back side of the campus. All the existing signage is being directed towards the Rockwell entrance. There are access to the parking lots from Iroquois Drive.
10. Steven – How would the trucks access the loading dock/bay
11. Craig – Trucks would have to parallel park or back into the loading dock.
12. Patrick – During move in or move out day how do the students bring in their stuff
13. Sarah - They are allowed to short term parking along the internal roadway. There is no direct access from Iroquois drive to the apartments. No overnight parking on the internal roadways, except Iroquois
14. Patrick – Under the proposed scenario approximately 50 parking spaces will be lost.
15. Steve/Sarah – We cannot reduce the number of faculty/employee parking which is a union negotiated benefit. The number of student parking may be reduced.
16. Heather – What if we provide an access with an u-turn or a right turn bay.. We cannot have random entrances and exits from Scajaquada. Have to have discrete safe entrances.
17. Steve/Sarah – We would like to have people to get to Iroquois drive or the building without going out to the Scajaquada Blvd.
18. Steve – Thinking about this to maintain the connectivity, we would need to add two or three more entrances from Scajaquada. This will allow anybody get around without going too far out of their way. All the three parking lots are connected. It may increase the traffic on Scajaquada from all the staff and students using Scajaquada to get around the campus.
19. Sarah/Steve – Can NYSDOT provide way finding signs with building names on Scajaquada?
20. Craig/Patrick –If the signage is on Scajaquada, the signs would have to follow the federal standards and not to the same level as what the campus can do on Iroquois.
21. Craig – The difficulty here is that to maintain the accessibility and service we have to maintain stubs of Iroquois open. Also where we are proposing to send traffic is where buff state is proposing to closing to traffic.
22. Heather – Since Buffalo State is planning to make some of the roads pedestrian only, needs to keep Iroquois Drive open for localized/internal circulation. This precludes NYSDOT from combining these two roadways. Scajaquada will become the campus road and may not be safe.
23. Steve – The discussion with River Keepers, there was a discussion about connecting the street grid Stakeholder Meeting - NY 198 Scajaquada Corridor Improvements Date Held: July 12, 2016 Page 3 of 3
24. Craig – There was no street grid connected. There was only a railroad bridge over the creek.
25. Patrick – By connecting the roads will reduce the property value of houses on the dead end streets on the north side of the creek.
26. Sarah – Can we provide some space between the creek and the road without combining the roadways?
27. Craig Then we would have to build a retaining wall between Scajaquada and Iroquois. Is that the look we want?
28. Steve – That is why we would suggest the number of pathways and reduce the width of the median. Do we need a separate commuter bike path?
29. Heather Would by reducing the length of the consolidated roadway be better
30. Sarah – This option will have a big impact on Buff State’s plan to build a soccer field with under ground parking in the area where the new connecting roadway is proposed.
31. Steve – Why is the option of moving Jesse Kriegel Park to the north and widening the creek to the north is not being explored.
32. Heather/Craig – Would like to include the work as part of this project. Also, the creek banks are steeper on the south side and there are sections of bank vertical with sheet piling. Lot more mature trees and the slopes lend to be worked on the south side.
33. Steven Shaffer – Would we still need the other ramp either it is a round about or signalized intersection
34. Craig – It would require a wider ramp to accommodate all the movement especially the heavy left turning movements.
35. Craig – Please take the plan sheets and take a look at it discuss it internally and let us know your comments as soon as possible. 1
1 2 NEW YORK STATE 3 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 4 ------5 Public Hearing of January 25, 2017, Regarding: 6 NYS ROUTE 198 7 THE SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 8 ------9 10 Public Hearing in the Above-Titled Matter: 11 12 Location: Frederick Law Olmsted School 874 Amherst Street 13 Buffalo, New York 14216 14 15 Date: January 25, 2017 16 17 Time: 4:00 p.m. 18 19 20 21 22 Reported By: KIMBERLY A. BONSIGNORE 23 Alliance Court Reporting, Inc. 24 120 East Avenue, Suite 200 25 Rochester, New York 14604
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1 A P P E A R A N C E S 2 Appearing on New York State Department of Transportation: 3 Frank P. Cirillo, Regional Director 4 Renjit P. James, P.E. Region 5 5 New York State Department of Transportation 100 Seneca Street 6 Buffalo, New York 14203 7 8 * * * 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2017; 3 (Proceedings in the above-titled matter 4 commencing at 5:41 p.m.) 5 * * * 6 (The following exhibit was marked for 7 identification: EXH Number 1.) 8 MR. CIRILLO: On behalf of Matthew 9 Driscoll, the Commissioner of the Department of 10 Transportation for the State of New York, and Peter 11 Osborn is the Administrator for the Federal Highway 12 Administration's New York Division, I welcome you to 13 this public hearing about the Draft Environmental 14 Impact Statement -- 15 THE AUDIENCE: Can't hear you. 16 MR. CIRILLO: All right. I'll repeat. 17 On behalf of Matthew Driscoll -- is that 18 better? -- Commissioner of the Department of 19 Transportation for the State of New York and Peter 20 Osborne, the Administrator for the Federal Highway 21 Administration's New York Division, I welcome you to 22 this public hearing about the Draft Environmental 23 Impact Statement prepared for the New York State Route 24 198 Scajaquada corridor project. 25 My name is Frank Cirillo and I'm the
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Regional Director of Region 5 of the New York State 3 Department of Transportation here in Buffalo. I'm 4 serving as the moderator for this evening's meeting. 5 At this time I would like to welcome and 6 introduce Assemblyman Sean Ryan, who would like to say 7 a few introductory words. 8 ASSEMBLYMAN RYAN: Good evening, 9 everybody. Come on, you all will be talking. Good 10 evening, everybody. 11 THE AUDIENCE: Good evening. 12 ASSEMBLYMAN RYAN: So we've been in this 13 auditorium several times for several meetings over the 14 years, and just glad to see this big turnout tonight. 15 I don't have to remind anyone that this 16 has been a long process. It certainly predates my 17 time in office and the governor's time in office, but 18 I just want to assure everyone that tonight is the 19 continuation of this conversation. 20 So the DOT is all here. They have open 21 ears. They want to hear what you have to say. So I 22 would invite you, if you're a spectator, but you might 23 want to say something, to say it. This is your chance 24 for the official public comment. 25 So I know you want to hear what your
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 neighbor's have to say, but don't be shy, because it's 3 because of forums like this that we've been able to 4 push this project in positive directions throughout 5 the years. 6 So this is, you know, part of the process 7 that DOT has to go through as part of the federal 8 requirements. But tonight is really the opportunity 9 for the public to be heard. I'm happy to hear you 10 tonight. I'm happy to hear what people have to say. 11 And to remind you again, it's not the end of the 12 process, there's still many more steps. 13 So thanks for coming out tonight. Your 14 involvement in this is appreciated. 15 MR. CIRILLO: To begin with, I'd like to 16 point out the emergency exits to the rear of the room 17 and to my right. Public restrooms are located in the 18 hallway, outside the auditorium. 19 The New York State Department of 20 Transportation is looking to improve the safety of the 21 Scajaquada corridor for everyone who uses it. The 22 goal is to create a low-speed urban boulevard that 23 fits with the character of historic Delaware Park 24 while accommodating all users. The change will be 25 transformative.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 The New York State Department of 3 Transportation has implemented a variety of short-term 4 measures over the last 18 months to calm traffic and 5 improve safety, including reducing the posted speed 6 limit from 50 miles per hour to 30 miles per hour on 7 May 31, 2015. Many of the improvements made so far 8 were the result of suggestions from the public and 9 project stakeholders and all are independent from the 10 project we are here to discuss tonight. 11 The short-term improvements include the 12 guide rail that was installed to separate vehicle and 13 pedestrian traffic. The guide rail was designed to be 14 in keeping with the aesthetics of Delaware Park. The 15 guide rail was installed in some of areas of the park 16 in the fall of 2015 and more was installed along the 17 rest of the corridor last year. 18 The roadway was restriped in the 19 summer/fall of 2015 to create narrower lanes, reducing 20 lane widths from 12 feet to 11 feet. Last year, lane 21 widths were reduced in the western and eastern 22 transition zones leading to the park. Hatched 23 striping on wide areas of the shoulders provides 24 additional visual cues to motorists. Any further 25 reduction of lane widths would require approval of the
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Federal Highway Administration. 3 To further calm traffic, additional speed 4 limit signs were installed in the fall of 2015, and 5 permanent "Reduced Speed Ahead" signs with flashing 6 beacons were installed last fall to provide advanced 7 warning of the lowered speed limit. 8 Radar-controlled signs that display 9 vehicle speeds were installed last fall to encourage 10 slower speeds. 11 Special pavement markings and audible 12 rumble strips were installed last summer on ramps from 13 Interstate 190 and Route 33. 14 Bollards were installed last fall on the 15 Humboldt Parkway on-ramp to prevent illegal vehicle 16 movements. 17 The overhead sign structure just west of 18 Grant Street was removed last fall, providing another 19 visual cue that the corridor speed has been reduced. 20 Median fencing was replaced last fall. 21 Repairs to the masonry walls at the Main 22 Street underpass were completed last fall. 23 All of these safety improvements 24 previously implemented were independent of the project 25 we're talking about tonight. If you have comments or
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 questions about the improvements that already have 3 been made, please see one of the department's 4 representatives that are here this evening. Comments 5 made at tonight's public hearing should focus only on 6 the proposed Scajaquada Corridor Project. 7 We will now begin tonight's formal public 8 hearing. This meeting is the public hearing for the 9 Draft Environmental Impact Statement that has been 10 prepared for the Route 198 Scajaquada Corridor Project 11 in the City of Buffalo, Erie County, New York. 12 The hearing is sponsored by the two 13 agencies that are serving as the lead agencies for the 14 Environmental Impact Statement: the New York 15 Department of Transportation, the lead state agency, 16 and the Federal Highway Administration, the lead 17 federal agency. 18 The Draft Environmental Impact Statement 19 for the Route 198, Scajaquada Corridor Project, is 20 being prepared in accordance with the following laws 21 and regulations: 22 The National Environmental Policy Act of 23 1969 as amended and implemented by the Council on 24 Environmental Quality Regulations; 25 The Federal Highway Administration
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Environmental Impact and related procedures; 3 The New York State Department of 4 Transportation's procedures for the implementation 5 requirements of the New York State Environmental 6 Quality Review Act; 7 This hearing also satisfies the 8 requirements of Article 2 of the State Eminent Domain 9 Procedure Law, and a number of other federal and state 10 regulations and requirements. Among them are 11 Presidential Executive Order 12898, Environmental 12 Justice; Section 106 of the National Historic 13 Preservation Act, and section 4(f) of the US 14 Department of Transportation Act. 15 Under Section 4(f) FHWA, in conjunction 16 with New York State DOT, is informing the public that 17 the proposed project will have an impact on section 18 4(f) resources. 19 Dan, are you coming up? 20 MR. SACK: Is there anyone here that needs 21 a Spanish translation? 22 THE AUDIENCE: No. 23 MR. SACK: If there's one person, I think 24 it's worthwhile. I'm just asking. Is there one 25 person who needs a Spanish translation?
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 THE AUDIENCE: The better question is, how 3 much longer are we going to wait for this -- 4 MR. SACK: One thing at a time. One thing 5 at a time. 6 AUDIENCE MEMBER: It's not fair to exclude 7 the Spanish language -- 8 MR. SACK: I agree. 9 AUDIENCE MEMBER: -- even if that person 10 doesn't want to admit that they want. We can 11 abbreviate this period. 12 MR. SACK: That's why we're asking the 13 question. If we stop the Spanish translation, any 14 objection from any Spanish-speaking people? 15 THE INTERPRETER: No objection. 16 MR. CIRILLO: We're simply trying to -- 17 the project proposes the temporary and permanent use 18 of section 4(f) resources, including Delaware Park and 19 the Olmsted Parks and Parkways Local Preservation 20 District. 21 Other section 4(f) uses include moving the 22 National Register eligible "Spirit of Womanhood" 23 statue, converting the Lincoln Parkway (Three Sisters) 24 bridge to include parking and pedestrian use and 25 obtaining temporary easements from the National
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Register eligible properties at 17 Parkside Ave. and 3 23 Agassiz Circle. 4 This meeting provides the public with an 5 opportunity to make formal statements about the 6 content of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 7 and section 4(f). You will be able to submit your 8 comments at this meeting in several ways, which I will 9 explain shortly. We cannot respond to comments 10 received tonight, all comments received will receive 11 consideration and will be addressed in the Final 12 Environmental Impact Statement for this project. 13 The notice of availability of the Draft 14 Environmental Impact Statement for this project was 15 published in the Federal Register on November 25, 16 2016. The public comment period for the Draft 17 Environmental Impact Statement will be open through 18 the end of Wednesday, February 8, 2017. Comments will 19 be addressed in the Final Environmental Impact 20 Statement, or FEIS, which will be issued along with 21 the Record of Decision. 22 The Draft Environmental Impact Statement 23 and other related project information is available for 24 review at the project's website, 25 www.dot.ny.gov/scajaquadacorridor. That address can
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 also be found in the Project Information Brochure 3 available this evening. The Draft Environmental 4 Impact Statement is also available at the City of 5 Buffalo Downtown Library, the City of Buffalo City 6 Hall, New York State Department of Transportation Main 7 Office in Albany, New York State Department of 8 Transportation of Regional office on Seneca Street 9 here in Buffalo, also at the Buffalo State College 10 Library, the Canisius College Library and the Medaille 11 College library. A copy of the Draft Environmental 12 Impact Statement is also available this evening for 13 review at the written comment table. 14 The proceedings of this meeting are being 15 recorded by a stenographer. A verbatim written 16 transcript will be prepared and will become part of 17 the Final Environmental Impact Statement. 18 We ask that everyone sign in at the 19 registration tables located at the entrances to the 20 building so that we can make a record of all those who 21 participated in this meeting. After these opening 22 remarks, there will be prerecorded presentations which 23 will explain various aspects of the project. 24 In this room, there will be an English 25 version of the prerecorded project presentation. In
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 the media center, there will be a Spanish version of 3 the exact same prerecorded presentation. After both 4 the English and the Spanish presentations have been 5 completed, everyone will be encouraged to return to 6 this main area for the oral comments. Everyone 7 wishing to make oral comments may do so by completing 8 a speaker card, which is available at the registration 9 table or at the written comment table and giving the 10 completed cards to the staff at those locations. 11 Persons completing a speaker card will be 12 given three minutes to present their comments. I will 13 call each person up to the microphone at the 14 appropriate time. Mr. Renjit James will have three 15 color-coded cards -- green, yellow, and red -- and 16 will display them so that each speaker has an 17 indication of their time remaining. The green card 18 will be shown when two minutes remain. The yellow 19 will be shown when one minute remains. The red card 20 will be shown when the speaker's time has expired. We 21 ask as a courtesy to others, and so that we can offer 22 as many people an opportunity to speak as possible 23 within the time frame allotted to this meeting, each 24 speaker please respect the three-minute limit. 25 Two Spanish language interpreters are
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 available to assist with translations of any project 3 information or with providing written comments. 4 Please contact the registration table if you need 5 assistance. 6 You may also file written statements about 7 the Draft Environmental Impact Statement. Written 8 statements may be submitted in any of three ways -- 9 and this information is also on the board at the 10 registration table -- at this meeting, where you may 11 fill out and submit a comment form available at the 12 written comment table; via email, sent to the project 13 email address. The email address can be found in the 14 Project Information Brochure, which is available at 15 the registration tables or at the written comment 16 table, or via US mail to the address indicated in the 17 Project Information Brochure. 18 All written comments must be submitted by 19 email no later than Wednesday, February 8, 2017, or 20 postmarked no later than Wednesday, February 8, 2017. 21 Written statements will be given the same weight and 22 consideration as oral statements made at this meeting. 23 Again, if you wish to make an oral 24 statement, you must fill out one of the speaker cards 25 at the registration desk, if you have not already done
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 so. If someone would like to provide oral statements 3 privately, the stenographer will be available after 4 all the oral comments have been received during this 5 meeting. 6 At this time, we will give the 7 presentations on various aspects of the project. The 8 presentation is prerecorded and is available in both 9 English and Spanish. Again, the Spanish in the media 10 library. After both of the presentations have 11 concluded, we will take your oral comments. 12 Thank you. 13 (At this time the prerecorded presentation is 14 played.) 15 (The following exhibit was marked for 16 identification: EXH Number 2.) 17 MR. CIRILLO: Thank you, everyone, for 18 your patience. 19 We're now ready to hear from those who 20 wish to make oral statements. We cannot respond to 21 comments tonight. All comments received will receive 22 consideration and will be addressed in a Final 23 Environmental Impact Statement for this project. I 24 remind you that anyone who wishes to speak at this 25 meeting must fill out a speaker's card located at the
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 registration desk in the foyer. 3 In accordance with our policy, elected and 4 appointed officials or their representatives will be 5 given the first opportunity to speak, others will then 6 be called to make their statement in the order in 7 which they are registered. 8 In order to allow as many people as 9 possible to be heard, it is necessary that we restrict 10 individual comments to three minutes. We ask those 11 speaking to please observe the system of colored cards 12 described before the technical presentation and the 13 three-minute time limit. 14 If your comments are in writing, you can 15 simply hand them to a project team representative at 16 the registration desk in the entrance of the building. 17 Again, to remind you, written comments will be 18 accepted by the Department through Wednesday, February 19 8, 2017. 20 And I should also mention to you that 21 anyone who wants to just simply have a stenographer 22 record their submission, there is another stenographer 23 in the gym. You would not have to wait until the end 24 of the presentation. So if anyone wants to do that, 25 they can feel free to go over there right now.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 I would like to call the first two 3 speakers in this order. First Justin Booth and second 4 Larry Williams. 5 Justin, either side. 6 MR. BOOTH: Thank you, Frank. 7 Thank you, everyone, for coming here 8 tonight. 9 And thank you, Department of 10 Transportation, for your continued outreach to the 11 community on this project. 12 We've had multiple meetings over many 13 years, many conversations about what the future of the 14 Scajaquada was going to be, and I'm really excited to 15 see that you guys have continued to move this process 16 forward with the community. However, I think there's 17 still some elements that many in the room here 18 tonight, many people that we've spoken to and engaged 19 with, I submit, doesn't go far enough. 20 The number one thing is the intersection. 21 If you look closely at the intersections, we're 22 looking at anywhere from seven to nine lanes in some 23 locations that we have to cross as a pedestrian, and 24 some look like they're at the intersection of Maple 25 Road and Niagara Falls Boulevard right in the middle
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 of Delaware Park. Really major concern how that is 3 going to affect people's ability to cross into the 4 park. 5 The size of the medians take away from the 6 park user experience, take away from the ability for 7 us to do other elements in the park and doesn't 8 provide the traffic calming that we would like to see. 9 Many people, I'm sure in the city of 10 Buffalo, can experience -- have experience with 11 medians on Main Street, and the pictures that are 12 shown in the plans never really come to fruition, with 13 salt spray and everything else happening, and the 14 inability for us to properly maintain them. 15 The opportunities to add dedicated bicycle 16 facilities, not just for recreational users, but to 17 separate cyclists from pedestrians, from the park 18 users using it as a transportation mode, connecting 19 them to one of the most underutilized bike rail 20 stations on -- the Humboldt station on Main Street 21 would be incredibly important for us to move people 22 towards, and really getting us to a point where we 23 cannot design this corridor for traffic, but designing 24 it for people. Getting more people to move to the 25 corridor.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 These are the things that the community 3 wants to see. We're seeing cities across New York 4 State, whether it's Niagara Falls or Rochester, 5 Syracuse, Albany, Poughkeepsie, the Bronx, across the 6 country are looking to remove their expressways. You 7 guys are on the cusp of doing something really, really 8 exciting for Buffalo. And we here tonight to really 9 let you guys know that a good job so far, but we're 10 looking as a community to make it move a little bit 11 further, get past designing for traffic, and let's 12 start designing this roadway for people. 13 Thank you. 14 MR. WILLIAMS: Good evening. I'm Larry 15 Williams. I live on the Scajaquada. I live at -- 16 THE AUDIENCE: Can't hear. 17 MR. WILLIAMS: Did that affect my two 18 minutes? Anyway, I do live on -- at 232 Humboldt 19 Parkway, and last year I went to Buff State because 20 what -- I noticed was that in these projects, we talk 21 about redoing the 33, we talk about the 198 up to Main 22 Street. I live in no man's land. 23 When they get -- come from Parkside at 30 24 miles an hour, they try to cut that 3 minutes from the 25 190 down from Parkside past my house. In the morning
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 and in the evening, I get a cluster of cars, a 3 gridlock of cars that are getting off at Sisters 4 Hospital. People are sitting there, they're 5 frustrated, they're throwing their latte cups on the 6 ground, they're banana peels, and the whole nine 7 yards. And I'm saying this because what's going on 8 here is affecting surrounding neighborhoods. Thank 9 God for people like Patrick Meredith, they were sent 10 there to help us from some of these problems. 11 My mother and father passed both away in 12 the home. Subsequently, when I returned to the house, 13 I saw a neighborhood, which is called "Trinidad," in 14 decline. I went to some people and I began to speak 15 about the problems over there. If you've noticed, 16 we've got the Humboldt section repaved, they cut the 17 trees. So progressively we're doing things. 18 Now, there are things that we wanted that 19 it's, like I was saying, like the Rolling Stones, "You 20 can't always get what you want." We have to come to a 21 compromise or we'll end up like we did in this last 22 election. I hope you're happy with that eight years 23 of gridlock. Nothing got done, people were 24 frustrated, and we ended up not moving along. 25 When I was a child, a lady that was a
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 teacher of mine recommended that I read this play 3 called "Waiting for Godot" that I hope some of y'all 4 have read. And it starts out with a man standing at a 5 fork of the road, and the guy asks him, "Where are you 6 going?" 7 He said, "I'm waiting on Godot." The last 8 statement in the thing says, "I'm waiting on Godot." 9 I believe he was Godot. We are Godot. We 10 have to get past this gridlock. Twelve years is too 11 long. I'm 64 years old; I would like to live to see 12 this. I would like for my grandchildren to still be 13 able to ride their bikes and have fun, but within this 14 we're not moving progressively along. 15 My suggestion is that at some point we 16 have to sit down at the table and it has to be a 17 give-and-take. It has to be a give-and-take between 18 the state and there has to be a give-and-take between 19 the people that surround us. We cannot get everything 20 that we want. 21 I love -- I remember the Scajaquada and 22 the Olmsted. I was 3 years old when I moved here from 23 Jim Crow South. The bottom line is, within that, it 24 was like going to heaven and then all of a sudden 25 everything changed.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 But anyway -- and I'd like to thank these 3 ladies here that are translating. Boy, I need to come 4 work with y'all. I might be able to lose a couple of 5 pounds. 6 Thank you. 7 MR. CIRILLO: Thank you, Mr. Williams. 8 The next two speakers, Brian Dold -- Brian 9 Dole and Shawn Prenatt. 10 MR. DOLD: I'm Brian Dold. I'm Brian 11 Dold, the Director of Planning & Advocacy with Buffalo 12 Olmsted Parks Conservancy. I would just like to offer 13 a little bit of historical perspective on this 14 project. 15 In 1868, Patrick Olmsted laid out a 16 revolutionary plan for the park and parkway system 17 here in Buffalo; building on a structure of our city 18 growing around its parks. The center piece of that 19 system was Delaware Park, a large open meadow, 20 rambling woodland, a serpentine lake and a network of 21 roadways and pathways to enjoy the diverse park 22 scenery separated from the sights and sounds of 23 everyday traffic. 24 North and south through the center of 25 Delaware Park was Delaware Avenue, which Olmsted
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 strategically incorporated into his plan, lowering the 3 roadway and designing a naturalistic stone bridge over 4 the road, separating the park user from the business 5 travel. A concept that Olmsted had incorporated into 6 his plan for Central Park ten years prior. 7 In the 1950s and '60s, the powers in 8 Buffalo decided to construct a limited access highway 9 network around the city, splitting Delaware Park in 10 half and bringing that high-speed traffic right across 11 the stone bridge Olmsted so carefully designed for 12 park use. An expressway through the middle of the 13 park is the legacy of the 1950s, something that was so 14 clearly a mistake. 15 This project will be our legacy. We will 16 be living with the decisions made here and now for the 17 next 75 years and we will be judged for them. Olmsted 18 intended better for our city, evident in Central Park, 19 where there is something better, where thousands of 20 vehicles cut through Central Park every day, and as a 21 park user, you would know it, because Olmsted designed 22 their sights and sounds obscured. 23 Delaware Park is listed on the National 24 Register, and the Conservancy will be submitting 25 several comments related to various adverse impacts
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 associated with this project by the February 8th 3 comment deadline. And we encourage everyone to do so; 4 it's very important. 5 But, furthermore, I submit to you all 6 today that these are not just parks to be preserved 7 and restored, but their historic significance, which 8 is significant. They are to be preserved and restored 9 because the parks are everyone's backyard, and the 10 Olmsted Park system is the City of Buffalo's greatest 11 single asset in rebuilding the quality of life for our 12 community. 13 Through the construction of this roadway, 14 we lost so much of the park experience Olmsted 15 intended, and by looking back to Olmsted's design 16 philosophy, we can improve this plan for everyone. 17 Thanks. 18 MR. CIRILLO: Shawn Prenatt? 19 MR. PRENATT: Yes. 20 MR. CIRILLO: Okay. You're up. 21 MR. PRENATT: Good evening, everyone. I 22 drive on the Scajaquada every single day, and I just 23 wanted to mention some of my experiences and concerns 24 I have about this project. 25 The Scajaquada is a vital artery during
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 peak traffic hours for those seeking a quick way to 3 get on Kensington Expressway, the I-190 North, South, 4 or I-90 East and West. What happens with peak traffic 5 congestion early in the morning and later in the 6 afternoon, going to and coming from Greater Buffalo, 7 the Northern and Southern Tier, if the Scajaquada 8 Expressway is tangent to a boulevard or a 9 30-mile-per-hour parkway, won't traffic congestion 10 result in longer idle time for vehicles near Delaware 11 Park? 12 If the Scajaquada is turned into a 13 boulevard or a 30-mile-per-hour parkway, alternate 14 routes to gain quick access to the Kensington 15 Expressway, I-190 North and South and I-90 East and 16 West will likely result in higher volumes of speeding 17 traffic down many and all residential side streets 18 during the peak traffic hours that coincide with 19 school busing operations. 20 How will local commerce and commercial 21 trucking operations be affected? How it will be 22 affected if the Scajaquada is turned into a boulevard 23 or a 30-mile-per-hour parkway? Without an interrupted 24 system of expressways and thruways for commercial 25 traffic to make its way around Greater Buffalo, won't
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 delivery and pickup times receive significant delays, 3 thus noticeably affecting the rate of commerce within 4 and from our region, especially when operating in an 5 area around the current Scajaquada Expressway? 6 With the resident support for and against 7 the Scajaquada Expressway, we could entertain the 8 notion of running the Scajaquada Expressway under 9 Delaware Park. 1.1 miles would be a four-lane tunnel 10 starting from Parkside Avenue, removing the expressway 11 entrance and exits here, as well as at Nottingham 12 Terrace and Delaware Avenue, and ending just before 13 the crossing at Hoyt Lake to allow entrancing and 14 exiting from Elmwood Avenue. 15 This would turn the Scajaquada Expressway 16 into a true expressway that is not inhibited by one 17 section of traffic signals and another treacherous 18 section to exit onto Delaware Avenue. All the while, 19 we will have 1.1 miles of clear area to run a parkway 20 over the underground tunnel section of the Scajaquada 21 Expressway. 22 Thank you. 23 MR. CIRILLO: The next two speakers are 24 Randy Hoak and Stephanie Crockatt. 25 MR. HOAK: Good evening. My name is Randy
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Hoak. I'm here with AARP New York. And AARP New York 3 was very excited as Governor Cuomo announced, as he 4 rolled out his statement of state, that his help 5 across all policies effort called to expand to the New 6 York Department of Transportation and to implement 7 action to make New York the first age-friendly state 8 in accord with the eight age-friendly livable 9 community domains outlined by the World Health 10 Organization and AARP. 11 Right here in Erie County, there is work 12 going on to look at the eight domains of livability, 13 some of them include transportation and open spaces. 14 So certainly relevant here. The Department of Senior 15 Services Erie County and University at Buffalo are 16 spearheading that work locally. 17 The network of age-friendly communities 18 exists throughout New York State and throughout the 19 United States. New York is poised to become the first 20 age-friendly state. To that end, AARP is taking 21 notice of this project, and when we dive into the work 22 involved in the eight domains of livability, certainly 23 walkability is a major impact on these design 24 decisions and planning, as well as pedestrian access 25 and bicycle use as well.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 So in addition to encouraging the 3 department to look at these domains of livability and 4 continue to look at walkability and pedestrian safety 5 and access in this project, we also are interested to 6 know about the checklist for complete legislation on 7 this project. 8 I know you're not giving answers today, 9 but we would like the question to be reflected to make 10 sure that that checkbox was completed and the impact 11 that it is had on the final plan, as well as design. 12 Thank you. 13 MS. CROCKATT: Hi. I'm Stephanie Crockatt 14 with the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy. 15 Can you hear me okay? 16 THE AUDIENCE: No. 17 MS. CROCKATT: Did you break it for me? 18 Better? Not better? Better? 19 Okay. You really have to talk into this 20 thing, for the next person that comes up. 21 I wanted to let you know, on day two, in 22 my new executive director position with the Buffalo 23 Olmsted Parks Conservancy there was a tragic 24 automobile accident in Delaware Park, which took the 25 life of a toddler, and it changed the way we all look
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 at this expressway. 3 I quickly learned that for the last 15 4 years the 198 has been argued, contemplated and 5 studied with no creative solution, just frustration 6 and excuses. And, in fact, there were calls to rip 7 the road out just months after it was built in the 8 1960s. 9 I also quickly learned that we have a very 10 responsive governor, who cares about making a 11 difference. His reduction of the 198 Expressway to 30 12 miles per hour was a significant move, and his 13 dedication of over $100 million to its redesign and 14 reclassification is outstanding. 15 Stakeholder input and collaboration were 16 renewed in 2016 thanks to Commissioner Driscoll and 17 Deputy Commissioner Patrick Meredith. Yet the ideas 18 put forth by DOT for short and long term were 19 basically a lather, rinse, repeat of what has been 20 happening in the past. And although where we are 21 today is a bit better than where we were, there's a 22 lot more to do and Buffalo deserves better. 23 Other communities around the nation are 24 working with the Federal Highway Administration to 25 rebuild and undo intrusions. The design solutions
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 we're seeing are not new and they're not responsive. 3 The transformation the governor is 4 expecting for this corridor shouldn't be waved off 5 with federal highway excuses or limitations. You are 6 skilled engineers with the DOT and Buffalo deserves 7 better. 8 The Conservancy has maintained its 9 position that it wants to see a park-appropriate road, 10 which allows us to reconnect the two halves of 11 historic Delaware Park, the way Olmsted had originally 12 designed. The Conservancy does not want planted 13 medians. The plants belong in the park not in the 14 road. 15 We want more access for bikes. We want 16 park users to be able to cross this low-speed roadway 17 to enjoy their park and neighborhoods with a feeling 18 of safety and reassurance. 19 The Conservancy's position can be found on 20 our website. We are very proud of Olmsted and his 21 many parks and parkways, and we want Buffalo to shine, 22 as we welcome the nation to celebrate the 150th 23 anniversary of this park system in 2018. 24 Your park system not the roads are the 25 curb appeal of this great renaissance city and Buffalo
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 deserves better. 3 MR. CIRILLO: Next we have Louis Haremski 4 and on deck is Dennis Stuart. 5 MR. HAREMSKI: Well, Stephanie took a 6 little bit of my thunder, because I was going to open 7 with "We deserve better," but my second line was going 8 to be "We deserve more." 9 This plan does not go far enough. When 10 the EPP started this process some dozen years ago, it 11 went from the 190 to the 33 and it stayed that way for 12 about ten years. Somewhere in the last couple of 13 years someone made the decision that Grant Street was 14 going to be the western border and Parkside was going 15 to be the eastern. 16 So the problem that Mr. Williams 17 articulated will never be solved by what's being done 18 here, because the DOT doesn't want to touch it. The 19 DOT does also not want to touch anything west of Grant 20 Street, because that horrible collection of roads that 21 connect the 198 to the 190 could not be built today. 22 It would not meet EPA standards. It would not meet 23 traffic standards. So rather than trying to deal with 24 it, they decided to ignore it. We deserve better and 25 we deserve more.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Unfortunately, I've given up complaining 3 about the traffic engineers, because they're traffic 4 engineers. This is what they do; they design roads. 5 What this project has lacked from the outset is any 6 input from an urban planner. Nobody in Albany, nobody 7 from the legislature, nobody locally has seen fit to 8 engage an urban planner to see what we can do if we 9 approached it differently. 10 Look at the designs. That roadway doesn't 11 move more than 50 feet north or south from its current 12 location. How much ingenuity did it take to throw in 13 a couple of roundabouts and a few crosswalks and lower 14 the speed limit? Not much. 15 I'm part of another group. I'm part of 16 the Scajaquada Corridor Coalition, so I've been 17 meeting with these folks for about 18 months. I'm 18 also part of another little splinter group called the 19 Western Scajaquada Corridor Coalition. 20 We were able to cobble together a couple 21 of grants totaling $10,000; 5 from the Baird 22 Foundation and 5 from Councilman Golombek. And we 23 used that money to hold a stakeholders meeting and 24 engage an urban planner to answer the question "What 25 could happen if we disconnected the 198 from the 190?"
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 And do you know what? It's amazing. There's about 3 100 acres of land that could be developed, Buffalo 4 Riverkeeper could do everything they would love to do 5 to the Scajaquada to take it back to its original 6 banks, which is part of their problem. 7 The drainage ditch that we see now was not 8 what was there 100 years ago. And what it could be 9 could rival, totally rival the Buffalo River in terms 10 of a recreational area. And with virtually no money 11 in city infrastructure improvement, it would be a 12 developer's haven to step in and build. 13 So we have a lot of alternatives. We have 14 a program; we've been handing them out tonight. It's 15 also on the Black Rock Riverside Historical Society's 16 website. Take a look at it. Force the DOT to step 17 out of their traffic model and look at this from an 18 urban-planning standpoint. 19 MR. CIRILLO: Dennis Stuart. 20 MR. STUART: Dennis Stuart. Thank you for 21 the work you've done so far, but I would like to echo 22 those comments. 23 The job does not go far enough. Where is 24 the vision in all this? Look at what's happening in 25 downtown Buffalo with the university medical school.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Look what's happening to property values. Where is 3 the vision in all this? Where is the urban planning 4 in all of this? 5 I have just three things to say. One, I 6 would like to echo the comments earlier made, "Why 7 can't this be connected to the existing station at 8 Humboldt Parkway for the subway?" This would be 9 pedestrian friendly. This would help AARP people, the 10 elderly, of which I am one. 11 This should be a park for walking and for 12 pedestrians. The vision would be to connect it to the 13 existing station at Humboldt Parkway. Be visionaries 14 not just transportation people for cars. 15 Thank you. 16 MR. CIRILLO: Next two speakers are 17 Mr. James Gribbins and Bill -- I believe its "Wachob." 18 MR. GRIBBINS: I came up from Long Island 19 35 years ago, and I was looking at this plan. It 20 seemed vaguely familiar. And I realized, I've seen it 21 before. On Long Island we have the Northern State and 22 Southern State Parkways. You know, we're calling it a 23 boulevard, but this is like a Long Island State 24 Parkway. It's 50 miles to 70 miles an hour. It has 25 trees. Looks pretty, but it's a highway. This really
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 isn't for us. This is designed to move cars from A to 3 B. 4 You know, I live on Amherst Street. My 5 son was hit by a car driving exceedingly fast. And I 6 tell you, this is not helping us. This is dangerous 7 here. And they're just going to allow this to 8 continue. 9 This isn't what Olmsted designed. This 10 isn't what we need. This is truly to move people from 11 A to B who do not live in our neighborhood. I think 12 it's a farce. It won't help us. 13 MR. WACHOB: Thank you. Bill Wachob, 14 resident. I'm agreeing with a lot of what people are 15 saying. My comment is that it's still -- we still 16 have a highway going through a park. What I would 17 advocate and like to see is returning the park to a 18 park, not as an attractive surrounding for a thruway 19 boulevard. 20 Traffic in the park are not users of the 21 park, but interlopers. And that's the way I see it. 22 We have a park here with a highway going through it. 23 We need to remove the highway from going through the 24 park. 25 And the entrance to the park really ought
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 to be for users of the park. We haven't really 3 changed that in terms of we're still having traffic 4 and we're making little tweaks so that people on 5 bicycles and pedestrians are safe in their park. We 6 need to get the highway or the boulevard out of the 7 park. 8 Thank you. 9 MR. CIRILLO: The next two speakers or 10 Peter Sowiski and the David Elder. 11 MR. ELDER: Is Peter first or... 12 MR. CIRILLO: Well, he should be, if he's 13 here. 14 Peter Sowiski. 15 MR. SOWISKI: Yes, I'm Peter Sowiski. I 16 would also like to probably reiterate and reinforce a 17 lot of the comments that were just previously made. 18 Primarily I just wanted to speak as a good ole 19 American, just plain citizen. 20 I moved here from Ohio 43 years ago, and 21 I've lived my entire adult life in the Elmwood 22 Village, Buffalo State and Delaware Park area. I'm 23 intimately familiar with all aspects of the park, as 24 well as the Scajaquada Expressway, which I've enjoyed 25 using for that same number of years.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 As I view the presentation and looked at 3 the objectives and listened to the comments and 4 discussed this with people, I've noticed a couple of 5 tragics. Number one, there's been a tragic past taken 6 by DOT regarding this project and it has to do with 7 the scope of the project. 8 I can reiterate what Lou just said, it was 9 basically we're missing a drastic opportunity to do 10 something between the 190 and the 33. And just to 11 parcel the middle of it, put some window dressing on 12 it is really missing the boat. It's taking us 60 some 13 years to get to this point, and we have to realize 14 what we're about to embark on here is probably not 15 going to, as mentioned before, change for another 40, 16 60 to 75 years. And it would be sorely missing 17 Olmsted's vision, which is also our vision in Buffalo. 18 The second tragedy is getting down to 19 maybe some brass tacks about the scope of the project 20 as it now stands. And that if you want to calm the 21 traffic and improve accessibility, you've got to do 22 more than beautify it with a median, add some paths 23 and bike paths, a few intersections, crossways and 24 rotaries, that's not enough, because you're still 25 leaving it as an expressway.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 If you really want to calm the traffic, 3 turn it into a street through the park. Get rid of 4 the guardrails, get rid of the median; allow parking. 5 I noticed that it doesn't seem dangerous at all on 6 Chapin Parkway or Bidwell Parkway or Lincoln Parkway. 7 I come in from the 290 on Main Street and 8 through Snyder, Main Street has a 40-mile-an-hour 9 speed limit, no guardrails, parking. That seems to be 10 a workable situation. I don't see light posts being 11 knocked out of that stretch. 12 So I would implore to relook at the 13 project as it now stands, to look at some other very, 14 very pedestrian ways to calm this traffic, make it 15 accessible and really get us a little bit closer to 16 what we deserve. 17 Thank you. 18 MR. CIRILLO: Mr. Elder. Dave Elder. 19 MR. ELDER: Well, after those comments, 20 I'm not really sure I have all that much to 21 contribute. And you should listen to those people. 22 Every one of them have made some good points. I'm not 23 sure what to think about the tunnel, but that would be 24 interesting. 25 We can't overemphasize the value of the
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 original intent and design of Delaware Park. It can't 3 be overemphasized. That's the perspective that you 4 need to take. I appreciate whatever hard work you've 5 put into it and expertise; however, these proposals 6 are not enough. 7 I stand by Brian at the Scajaquada 8 Corridor Coalition, and that was very well put. The 9 corridor is in the park. It's very important that the 10 public has multimodal access to the Scajaquada 11 roadway. I love the idea of removing it as an 12 expressway or even a boulevard. Make it a street, 13 that's fine. It's not enough to have other paths 14 throughout the park. The community wants dedicated 15 bike lanes in a complete street fashion. 16 Thank you very much. 17 MR. CIRILLO: Next we have Jordan Then and 18 Ethan Johnson. 19 Jordan Then or Ethan Johnson. Jordan Then 20 or Ethan Johnson. 21 MR. JOHNSON: My name is Ethan Johnson. 22 I'm one of the owners of Campus WheelWorks Bike Shop 23 on Elmwood Avenue. Most of all of my ideas have 24 already been said, but I just want to echo especially 25 what Justin said and many other people.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Obviously I'm a bike shop, so I care a lot 3 about bicycle transportation and infrastructure. I 4 think this would be an excellent opportunity to have 5 an east-destination built in for people who commute by 6 bicycle to cross the city east to west. We have a lot 7 of north and south, but not very many good east to 8 west safe passages for cyclists. 9 I think the intersections proposed in the 10 plan seem kind of daunting. Somebody mentioned the 11 Maple Road intersections. I've ridden my bike through 12 those intersections, and every time I do, I feel like 13 I'm taking my life in my own hands. So it still 14 doesn't really invite me to go ride in the street 15 there. And if I'm not going to do it, most other 16 people aren't, because I take more risks than the 17 average person. 18 I guess the last thing I would say is -- 19 you know, yes, I own a bike shop that would definitely 20 see a financial benefit from having this kind of 21 infrastructure in our neighborhood, really close to 22 our community. 23 I'm also -- we also have a 501(c)(3) 24 nonprofit, which puts on 125 events a year. A lot of 25 cycling events, group rides, we go through the park.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 This would be an entirely new area that we can ride, 3 take people safely, rather than crossing Delaware 4 Avenue at Nottingham and every time throwing myself in 5 front of cars to save, like, kids and whoever is 6 riding with us. Because you literally can't get a 7 group of people through that intersection without the 8 light changing. 9 So thank you and please -- 10 MR. CIRILLO: Jordan Then? Jordan is not 11 here? 12 All right. Mark Kubiniec and Dave 13 Saunders. 14 Mark? 15 MR. KUBINIEC: Thanks for having us here 16 tonight and to listen to us in this public hearing. 17 A couple things I would like to reinforce. 18 This project no longer includes the Parkside to Main 19 Street section nor the Grant Street to Niagara Street 20 section of the Scajaquada. And I think that's an 21 omission that will result in the continuation of use 22 of substandard infrastructure, where there's a lot of 23 accidents, and it will continue an unsafe condition to 24 the peril of not only the traveling folk in vehicles, 25 but the people underneath and next to those highways.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 The DOT's actions will, by adopting the 3 plan that's proposed tonight, will continue to have 4 dangerous conditions. 5 One of the things that's not been 6 mentioned is that the Scajaquada Creek, the Black Rock 7 Harbor, Hoyt Lake are part of Buffalo's waterfronts. 8 It's a legally defined part of Buffalo's waterfront as 9 is. Again there's harbors, the Outer Harbor, Buffalo 10 River. 11 This plan will continue to overwhelm the 12 opportunity to use this part of the waterfront for 13 recreation. It will pollute our waters again. As it 14 has been mentioned, it is an open sewer. And it will 15 separate this -- this highway will separate the 16 neighborhood from using this recreational resource. 17 One of the other things that also has been 18 mentioned is that along Scajaquada Creek and Black 19 Rock Harbor and Hoyt Lake and Delaware Park is the War 20 of 1812 historic sites that are there and completely 21 covered over. There's maybe one paltry little metal 22 sign on Niagara Street that says, "This is where 23 Commodore Perry's ships were kept and refurbished over 24 the winter of 1812 that were used to win the Battle of 25 Lake Erie."
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 There's not a mention of the Battle of 3 Scajaquada Bridge, which was an important battle that 4 turned the tide of the war in this region and has 5 helped to define why we are living in Buffalo, United 6 States, not in Canada. If it wasn't for us winning 7 that battle, we wouldn't be here today, we would be in 8 Canada. 9 These items, I think, are really ignored 10 and need to be thought about and put into plans. 11 There's not a word of that -- if we'd have to talk 12 Justin Trudeau about all this. These items, I think, 13 really are ignored and need to be thought about and 14 put into plan and considered. 15 Thank you. 16 MR. CIRILLO: David Saunders and on deck 17 is Gregory Kuhaneck. 18 MR. SAUNDERS: So right now we have an 19 expressway through a historic park. And what I want 20 to do is ask the DOT to reflect in the final statement 21 why are we not taking the Dutch method into account. 22 Why are we -- the Dutch see motor vehicles 23 as guests in that space occupied by bicycles and 24 pedestrians. And that is where the park is. It is 25 occupied by pedestrians and bicycles and everyday
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 people. So why we are not making the motor vehicles 3 the guests through the park not -- the pedestrians and 4 bicycles are currently the guests to the park in the 5 proposed plan. 6 MR. CIRILLO: Next is Greg Kuhaneck and on 7 deck is Judy Catalano. 8 MR. KUHANECK: Has any study been done to 9 remove the 198 and what the traffic flow would be? I 10 guess that's my question. Because the 198 basically 11 runs through Delaware Park and everybody has said they 12 really don't like that. Has any studies been done to 13 eliminate it altogether and run traffic in other 14 directions so that the park can go back to being a 15 full park again? 16 The second question I have to you is, if 17 you do the medians and stuff -- I've seen them in 18 other states and other places, who maintains it? With 19 the salt and everything else, it's going to destroy 20 the trees, destroy the growth. Who's going to 21 maintain all that it keep it as beautiful as it should 22 be if the parkway is still installed? 23 That's all I have. Thank you. 24 MR. CIRILLO: Judy Catalano and on deck 25 Joseph DiSpenza.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 When folks come up, would you please 3 repeat your names for the stenographer. 4 MS. CATALANO: I'm Judy Catalano. Okay. 5 I was going to say that I thought the plans were 6 lovely, but I guess no one is going to agree with me. 7 But I do agree that maybe it's a waste to put plants 8 in the median. They might not stay very healthy. 9 And I was told before this meeting that, 10 when we were looking at the maps, that the entire road 11 will be ripped out. That is the case. I guess that's 12 what someone told me from Bergmann Associates. And 13 just so you can reduce the width of the roads, and I 14 don't really -- you know, by just a foot or so. I 15 don't really see -- I don't know where it's really 16 needed, and I know that you don't even want a road, 17 but in case there's a road in the future. That's a 18 lot of -- that's going to be a road out of commission 19 for a long time. 20 And also where do you dump all that stuff, 21 you know, the old road, you know, where -- what 22 landfill is that going to be put into? 23 But also I'm not really comfortable if 24 that road is going to be -- the width is even going to 25 be -- to me the road is closer -- close now when
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 you're driving, close enough to the person next to 3 you. So I don't really see why, you know, the road 4 should be done -- should be -- the width should be 5 reduced from what it is now. 6 So anyways, I'm all for putting some more 7 flowering and trees around and stuff like that. So -- 8 thank you. 9 MR. CIRILLO: All right. Thank you. 10 Jones DiSpenza and on deck is Daniel Sack. 11 MR. DiSPENZA: Joseph DiSpenza. My 12 colleague, William Murray, will not be speaking 13 tonight, so there's three minutes off your night. It 14 will just be the two of us, and I'll respect for time. 15 So I will tell you I'm not an urban 16 planner. Bill does teach at UB; he's an attorney. I 17 am not a naturalist or a botanist like my colleagues 18 in Olmsted Park. What I am is a cemetarian for 30 19 years now. And I have to give compliments and 20 accolades to the DOT and the designs that I have seen, 21 from my perspective. 22 If you look at my colleague's 23 cemeteries -- and I have a very close business 24 relationship with him, personal relationship, if not 25 weekly, at least every other week, that would be Mount
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Auburn, the very first rural cemetery in the nation in 3 Cambridge, Massachusetts, Forest Hills in Roxbury, 4 Massachusetts, Woodlawn in the Bronx, Green-Wood in 5 Brooklyn, West Morrow Hill in Philadelphia, Allegheny 6 Cemetery in Pittsburgh and, of course, Colma Cemetery, 7 the historic cemetery of the San Francisco Bay area. 8 Never has a cemetery enjoyed the 9 relationship with foresight that Forest Lawn is 10 enjoying with the DOT to include us in this project. 11 Some of it you've seen with that 12 intersection up by -- I guess that's the north part of 13 Delaware Avenue by Middlesex, that's the very northern 14 tip of Forest Lawn. If you can visualize it, it's 15 where that large Pratt cathedral mausoleum is, right 16 on the ramp going up to the 198, to actually get rid 17 of traffic there, slow it down and allow public to 18 walk and people to ride their bikes. 19 Further, they've been open and actually 20 inclusive of -- and I don't know if I can say it or 21 not, but it's my time, so I'm going to -- looking at 22 actually connecting down Delaware Avenue and Delaware 23 Park a little bit, connecting the current bike path 24 and walking path right into Forest Lawn. 25 Right along where Delaware Avenue turns,
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 where we have a brand new major waterway project with 3 the Buffalo Sewer Authority, the Corps of Engineers 4 expanding that Scajaquada Creek watershed and then 5 allowing those bike traffic folks and walking and 6 pedestrians to exit up by that new intersection at 7 Delaware Avenue. 8 So I'm almost out of time. From the 9 cemetery's perspective, on a national scale, none of 10 my colleagues have enjoyed a working relationship with 11 this kind of a project in any other major city. 12 Typically those municipalities and DOTs in those areas 13 isolate the cemetery. That hasn't happened here. As 14 citizens of Buffalo, you should know that. Whether 15 you agree with them or not, they've been inclusive and 16 are trying to help involve the cemetery in this 17 project, and I thank you for that. 18 MR. CIRILLO: Daniel Sack is up and Robert 19 O'Donnell is on deck. 20 MR. SACK: Thank you. 21 I'm going to be echoing some of the 22 earlier comments about the designers who are working 23 on this project. 24 I'm sad that our governor has chosen the 25 wrong people to design our city, because this is what
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 it is, it is designing in our city. We don't need 3 highway engineers, we need park designers and 4 urban designers. The DOT naturally designs a highway. 5 That's what they do. 6 We are concerned about our city. You are 7 concerned about your highway. Taking of parkland in 8 New York State for a highway would not be legal today, 9 and taking it again, should not be allowed. There 10 should be no grandfathering for a highway in a park. 11 The highway engineers' assumptions are 12 very wrong. Their ideas even about the basic concept 13 of safety are wrong. Contrary to what might appear 14 obvious, for example, wider lanes are safer is wrong. 15 Narrow lanes are safer. 16 Narrow lanes, sharp corners, oncoming 17 traffic, that is what makes a road safer. It makes a 18 road safer because it appears more dangerous and 19 drivers slow down. I know that sounds 20 counterintuitive, especially to transportation 21 engineers. But forward-thinking urban designers, such 22 as Jeff Speck, who was here in Buffalo a couple of 23 years ago, he's the author of Walkable Cities, 24 preached that street design that appears to be more 25 dangerous is actually safer. And if you think about
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 it, it makes sense. Because when something appears 3 safer, you slow down. Slower is safer. Slower is 4 safer. 5 A road that is narrow, with sharp corners, 6 is safer. Not large radius corners, sharp corners. 7 Trucks turn on narrow city streets with sharp corners 8 every minute of every day across the world. And when 9 they travel slowly around these narrow streets and 10 sharper corners, there's fewer accidents. Maybe a car 11 gets scraped or sideswiped, but rarely is someone 12 injured. 13 So you have to rethink this. Our governor 14 has to rethink this. Our politicians need to rethink 15 this. We need to have someone else designing our 16 city, not highway engineers. 17 Thank you. 18 MR. CIRILLO: Next is Robert O'Donnell and 19 on deck is Dana Saylor. 20 MR. O'DONNELL: Hi. Robert O'Donnell and 21 thanks for letting me speak. 22 I like the 198. I like being able to go 23 to the airport in 15 minutes. I like being able to go 24 downtown in 10 minutes. I enjoy it. 25 I live in the city. I live at Fordham
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Drive. That's why I moved to the city. This is 2017. 3 Sorry, Mr. Olmsted, I read about you -- I go for walks 4 five days a week at least. All right? I walk to 5 Delaware Park. I walk over what we call -- our kids 6 used to call the "Curly Bridge," which is the safest 7 way to get to this park. All right? 8 I rarely see many people walking in that 9 neighborhood. I'm sorry. I see less bicyclists, all 10 right, most of the year. They're just not there. I 11 look at this roadway, I'm looking at six lights, and 12 I'm saying, "Goodness, gracious, I mean, this is going 13 to destroy the expressway." 14 But that seems to be the intent and 15 purpose of a small group of minority people who seem 16 to forget about the men and the working women who use 17 this to get home and to work quickly. 18 I forgot what I was going to say. I do 19 have two questions, though. It is interesting how a 20 minority of so-called community -- because the 21 community I speak with likes the expressway, likes the 22 convenience. The community, the stakeholders that I 23 see, enjoy the quickness of getting from here to 24 there. 25 The other thing is -- and I don't know if
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Assemblyman Ryan is here, or has he left -- I'll 3 direct this to him and it's on the record, so that 4 will do it. No one is saying $101 million for a 2.2 5 roadway. And you know the prices are going to go up. 6 Is there no shame anymore from New York 7 State? I mean, do -- New York State politicians, can 8 they ever say "no" to a spending project that perhaps 9 isn't as necessary as what this is being proposed? 10 Thank you. 11 MR. CIRILLO: Dana Saylor and Steve 12 Lakomy. 13 Dana. 14 MR. SAYLOR: Hi. My name is Dana Saylor 15 and I'm an artist historian and I'm a cyclist. I am 16 that minority. 17 However, what I feel that's really 18 interesting about this is -- you know, maybe a quote 19 before I read the quotes that are pithy. "If you 20 build it, they will come." Right? This applies to 21 traffic. You build four lanes, traffic fills in those 22 lanes. 23 They say -- trying to make a diet, you 24 know, you need to road diet -- that's why they use 25 that phrase -- to reduce the number of lanes,
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 because -- or to narrow lanes, because slower is 3 safer, and also there's a concept called "induced 4 demand" that my urban-planning friends have taught me 5 about. 6 So "If you build it, they will come" not 7 only means if you build more lanes and more space or 8 make it faster, cars will fill that in, go faster, do 9 the things that they feel free to do. But on the 10 opposite side of things, maybe the reason you don't 11 see so many people walking and biking in that 12 neighborhood is because it's inhospitable to do so. 13 It's incredibly dangerous to be a cyclist 14 or a pedestrian in this world, in this America that we 15 have right now. And unless you live in like one of 16 the really cycling-pedestrian-friendly cities, it's 17 just tough. I'm out there almost every day, and -- 18 wintertime included. Today I was out there. It's 19 dangerous. 20 So, you know, I, as a cyclist, cannot get 21 safely from the Elmwood Village area, from the 22 Delaware area, up across Amherst Street without 23 practically getting killed. And I'm a fast -- I'm a 24 strong cyclist. I don't know how people with kids do 25 it, I don't know how pedestrians do it, women pushing
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 baby carriages -- I mean, I've seen them do it, and 3 they're risking their lives. Is that what we want? 4 I'm part of an organization that's helping 5 to plan an event that's happening next year, and one 6 of the phrases that we came up with is "What kind of 7 city do we want?" 8 What kind of city do we want? Do we want 9 the kind of city that encourages future development in 10 this positive way, or do we want the kind of city that 11 discourages it and thinks primarily of getting people 12 through, fast, dangerous, doesn't matter? Is that the 13 city we want? No. 14 I'll leave you with a couple of quotes. 15 "The pseudoscientist planning seems almost neurotic in 16 its determination to imitate empiric failure and 17 ignore empiric success." Jane Jacobs. 18 And then finally John Norquist, one of the 19 co-founders of the Congress for the New Urbanism says, 20 "Cities are for people. A city is where people come 21 to work and raise their families and spend their money 22 and to walk in the evening. It is not a traffic 23 corridor." 24 Thank you. 25 MR. CIRILLO: Next is up Steve Lakomy and
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 then on deck is Robert Nesbitt. 3 Steve? Mr. Lakomy? Is Mr. Lakomy here? 4 No. 5 Mr. Nesbitt. 6 MR. NESBITT: You've missed an 7 opportunity -- I've looked at your plan and you've 8 missed an opportunity to make the intersection and 9 leaving it at Parkside safe. 10 Right now you have an extra lane heading 11 westbound. You have an extra lane on the right hand, 12 which encourages aggressive drivers to pull in on the 13 right and cut people off. You are changing the design 14 to have a golf course entrance 200 yards up, and the 15 designs I see intend to keep that third lane, in which 16 case it will still encourage aggressive drivers to get 17 on the right and then try to cut into traffic further 18 up. 19 The golf course itself is never going to 20 have such an overflow of crowds that it will back up 21 into the expressway. All you need to do is have it 22 divide there and people can pull off and they can go 23 golfing. You don't need that extra lane, which 24 encourages aggressive drivers to make the situation 25 unsafe.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 When we head in the other direction from 3 Parkside, out the 33, both the airport-bound and 4 downtown-bound lanes come down to one single lane 5 before they merge. But we have three lanes there. 6 As you approach the airport side, which is 7 on the right, you have aggressive drivers come down on 8 the left, even on the third lane over, all the way 9 down and try to cut into people, which causes a 10 traffic jam there. 11 I usually take the downtown exit to the 12 left, and I have people sometimes stop in front of me 13 because they couldn't get into that, where they're 14 trying to cheat and get into -- to get over to the 15 airport side. 16 Also, as I go further up towards the 17 downtown exit, it merges to one lane before we get to 18 the 33. And often impatient, aggressive drivers -- 19 I'm going 30 -- and they pass me on the right and then 20 they don't realize they have to merge. 21 I have a map to give you that would help, 22 but it's a little extinct after seeing the rest of 23 your plans. So I will submit this in the mail in 24 detail as well. 25 Thank you.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 MR. CIRILLO: Next is -- it looks like 3 Lynn Snadas and on deck is Anthony Duddy. 4 Lynn? Is there a Lynn on Meadowview? 5 No. 6 Or Anthony Duddy? 7 No. 8 Gary Hill and on deck is Dan -- "Caden"? 9 Cadzow. Sorry. 10 MR. HILL: Good evening. I'm Gary Hill. 11 I live in the City of Buffalo. I ride my bicycle and 12 I use Delaware Park and I use the Elmwood corridor, up 13 Delaware Avenue five times a week in the summertime. 14 The north-south roads are difficult to bicycle on. 15 The east-west roads are very calm. The east-west 16 roads -- somebody mentioned earlier that we don't have 17 good service for bicyclists going east-west. This 18 plan has plenty of paths for bicyclist going east- 19 west. So that's going to fill the void that we 20 currently have. 21 The corridor is in the park. The corridor 22 is going to stay in the park, so we just have to work 23 with the DOT to get what we feel is going to help us. 24 There are shortcomings. The large intersections are 25 big. You know, there might be some ways that the DOT
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 can find a way for the large intersections on the 3 north-south routes. 4 My concern is that this is going to put 5 more traffic on the east-west roads, whether it's 6 Amherst Street, Forest Avenue, Delham, it's going to 7 put more traffic on it. For anyone that lives in the 8 city, you know that there's, on the east-west roads, 9 they're narrow and there's no turning lanes. And 10 Amherst Street, driving over that to get here is 11 atrocious. 12 So prior to construction, I would hope 13 that the DOT would work with the city, improve these 14 east-west corridors, because during construction they 15 are going to get more traffic. So take that in mind 16 to make sure that you do some permanent improvements 17 on the east-west corridors that will be useful after 18 the construction, but also during the construction. 19 I have worked with the DOT. Besides 20 living in the City of Buffalo, I'm a highway 21 contractor. Two projects that I was recently involved 22 with were the Gateway project and the Fuhrmann 23 Boulevard projects. 24 Earlier this, Sean Ryan said this is just 25 a process -- or a step in the process. I can tell
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 everyone in this room that the projects that we built 3 at Gateway and Fuhrmann Boulevard, the people at DOT 4 continued to make changes after the contract was 5 awarded, major changes. They came out to the 6 community. So I just encourage you to stay in Buffalo 7 and trust this group. And they are the right people, 8 they are not the wrong people. 9 Thank you. 10 MR. CIRILLO: I just want to thank 11 everyone adhering to time constraints. This is 12 actually moving very well. 13 The next one is Dan Cadzow and on deck is 14 Carley Hill. 15 MR. CADZOW: Dan Cadzow. I live on 16 Humboldt Parkway. We bought our house in 2009, when 17 the 2005 EPP was the State of New York document that 18 called for a 30-mile-per-hour speed limit and other 19 traffic-calming measures. And if that wasn't out 20 there, we wouldn't have bought our house. It was a 21 dump. And I can fix up a dump, but I can't fix an 22 expressway. 23 And since then our property value has 24 doubled because of the work I've done, because you 25 have done nothing but backpedal, especially on our
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 stretch of the road. 3 Now, living there with small kids, I 4 became concerned about traffic pollution, because 5 nothing was happening. So as a graduate student, I 6 started doing research in peer-reviewed journals that 7 I had access to, and I put together a petition calling 8 for safety and improved vegetative buffers. 9 Our roadway, Humboldt Parkway, is 200 feet 10 wide, the right-of-way, and 180 feet of it are paved 11 right now. So I canvassed 6 blocks, got 134 12 signatures and submitted it to the DOT. And when the 13 project-scoping document was released, that's supposed 14 to have a comprehensive summary of public comments. 15 It was omitted. 16 After badgering Dave Hill, the traffic 17 engineer, he amended the document to have it included, 18 but it doesn't list that 134 people signed it. You 19 know, it's just a petition, there's no names on it. 20 So that and a follow-up email, that 21 included additional research about the traffic 22 pollution effects, were also omitted. So Dave Hill 23 assured me that these projects would be included in 24 the DEIS and receive full consideration. 25 Well, when the DEIS was released, they
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 were again omitted. So I started digging around, and 3 I found that another letter that I submitted, pointing 4 to changes in federal transportation policy under 5 Secretary Foxx, that releases DOTs from prioritizing 6 the level of service over all else, that you're 7 allowed to consider health and safety and social 8 justice and other issues that plague our segregated 9 city, that was omitted. 10 The letter I sent that called for transit 11 to be included in this -- because most of the time you 12 haven't even allowed for bus stops on this thing, and 13 that's horrible. That was half-omitted, because you 14 included my call for transit, but you left out the 15 information about a free technical workshop put forth 16 by the Federal Transit Administration and the Smart 17 Growth America. 18 You also left out two full-length reports 19 published by the Partnership for the Public Good 20 called "Traffic Equity in Buffalo, New York" and 21 "Redesigning the Scajaquada Expressway" that were 22 produced as a result of this project. And I submitted 23 those electronically and paper copy; there's no reason 24 they shouldn't be in the DEIS. 25 You excluded the letter from the
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Scajaquada Corridor Coalition. 3 You excluded Sean Ryan's petition. You 4 mentioned it, but it had over 3,000 signatures. It's 5 not in there. 6 You excluded Parents For a Safer Delaware 7 Park petition with over 1,300 signatures. It's not in 8 there. There's references to both of them, but not 9 the content or how many people signed them. 10 What you didn't exclude was a petition to 11 retain the expressway. That majority, 74 people 12 signed it, but you included it 75 times in its 13 entirety. Once to introduce it and then once again 14 for every single person who signed it. 15 You're trying to dominate the dialog, but 16 you won't. This is our corridor. We own it, you 17 don't. 18 MR. CIRILLO: Next up is Carley Hill and 19 on deck is someone who just signed in as Matthew. 20 MS. HILL: I would just like to thank the 21 school who hosted this and the DOT for the open 22 dialog. 23 One thing I would like to point out, I 24 work for -- I represent a committee called the Fair 25 Committee. We've been around for 30 some years and we
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 we work to make sure that Western New York, the 3 communities of Western New York receive their fair 4 apportionment of infrastructure revenue. Because what 5 I've seen, from historical data, is that when we stop 6 fighting for funding, it disappears. There's a big 7 vacuum called "downstate." 8 I'm sure you guys have heard about this 9 place, beautiful to visit, but it is hungry. And if 10 there isn't such a thing as cooperation on this 11 project, it's going to probably take what I've seen -- 12 the paths of many other projects that are slated for 13 Western New York, and what will happen is nothing. 14 And we won't be having a dialog about the 15 new space in Forest Lawn Cemetery. We won't be having 16 a dialog on how to improve the walkways across the 17 intersections. We won't be having a dialog about the 18 new pathways in the park and which way they should 19 turn. We will not have any dialog on which following 20 trees are the best to deal with pollution mitigation 21 and congestion relief. You can forget it. 22 The median design is beautiful. I think 23 that that parkway design is actually -- if Olmsted 24 could sit here and envision what was going to happen 25 with our dependence on transportation, which every
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 single person in this room is dependent upon, he 3 probably could have seen where this is a reasonable 4 compromise. But we'll never know; he's not here to 5 ask. 6 I understand that it is a jewel. I sit on 7 the board of the history museum and I love our park 8 system, but I also understand what transportation 9 systems require. This design is not traffic first. I 10 can tell you it's going against everything ingrained 11 in these guys to design what they designed. Trust me, 12 because we've seen these projects, and this is forward 13 first for the community. 14 We, like has been pointed out, have many 15 major complex projects that DOT has put together, and 16 they do continue to engage the community, but you have 17 to stay involved. 18 I know I've worked with the Olmsted people 19 on other projects, and they've called us. We've 20 gotten involved. I do a lot of work on infrastructure 21 projects and they do respond. But there's a lot on 22 the plate when it comes to managing our systems, which 23 every single one of us puts a demand on. And I just 24 urge everybody here to understand that if there isn't 25 a way to compromise, we're going to be stuck with
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 exactly what we have today. 3 That's all I have, so thank you. 4 MR. CIRILLO: Thank you. 5 Is there someone that goes by Matthews, 6 Matthew? 7 On deck is Sarah Martin. 8 MR. MATTHEW: Hey, my name is Matthew. I 9 commute by bicycle 12 months out of the year, for the 10 few people that don't know me. As a environmentalist, 11 I would like for -- like half of the population to be 12 riding bicycles to where they're going at any given 13 point in time, most of the cars don't need to be 14 there. But as a libertarian, I realize you can't just 15 take away people's cars. They want to drive them 16 either for they're lazy or they don't like to get wet 17 in the winter. For whatever reason, they're going to 18 be there. 19 It's my opinion that the 198 was 20 ill-conceived. I find it utterly amazing that it went 21 50 years before anybody was injured. When I first 22 learned how to drive and rode the 198 for the first 23 time in a car, Circa 1980, I could see an accident was 24 going to happen. And nobody responded to my letters 25 that I sent to the administration back then. They
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 didn't seem to really care about the safety concerns. 3 But somebody did die. In spite of that, 4 the fact remains the 198 was built for a reason. It 5 took care of a problem that they had back in the 6 1960s, and it is the most efficient way to get from 7 the 33 to the 190. You can't take away that. 8 It seems like the solutions that we're 9 trying to come up with are driving people -- making 10 the driving more inefficient. It's simply going to 11 make more people driven out of the community with 12 these half-hearted solutions. 13 I think we need to address everybody's 14 concerns, and the best way to do that is to make a 15 tunnel. And I'm glad I'm not the only person that 16 conceived this idea. It seems so obvious. If we can 17 make a tunnel go underneath the park -- we have much 18 greater technology and engineering and excavation to 19 dig it down 20 or 30 feet and then put a roof over the 20 top of it and fill it up with dirt and we could 21 restore the park the way Olmsted intended it in its 22 entirety and we can still have that corridor 23 underneath. 24 We need to -- we can take the 198 that 25 goes underground and go back up to 55 miles an hour
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 instead of making people slow down to 30 miles an 3 hour. And it seems to me like that's the best way to 4 do it. 5 And we can also reduce the fossil fuel 6 use, which gets into environmentalism. If people are 7 going 55 miles an hour instead of slowing down to 30 8 and taking back roads with sharp turns and lots of 9 stop lights, every time a car comes to a complete 10 stop, you're wasting more of that fossil fuel. And I 11 think, you know, Buffalo needs a tunnel to solve this 12 problem, and I think Buffalo deserves a tunnel. 13 Thank you. 14 MR. CIRILLO: Sarah Martin and then Jack 15 Stephen is on deck. 16 MS. MARTIN: Hi. I'm Sarah Martin. I'm 17 not originally from Buffalo, but I found much here to 18 love, and Scajaquada is unfortunately not one of those 19 things. 20 I drive, I take the bus, I ride my bike 21 and I walk. And I don't do walking and biking as much 22 as I would like to mostly because of the lack of 23 facilities. Someone earlier said that hardly anyone 24 bikes along that corridor. Well, duh. Good luck. 25 It's not safe.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 I attended a conference in Vancouver last 3 year. It was a pro walk, pro bike, pro place 4 conference. And an urban planner said to me, "You 5 don't measure the demand for a bridge by the number of 6 people swimming." 7 Everything that I have seen tonight is a 8 vast improvement over the current situation on the 9 Scajaquada, and I do want to recognize DOT for their 10 efforts. I see those through the lens of a citizen. 11 I also see this as someone who works in community 12 health. 13 Believe it or not, I spend most of time 14 researching and promoting how to build an environment 15 in an urban setting that encourages healthy behavior, 16 and the epitome of that is that walkable community. 17 The benefits, physical, mental, economic, 18 environmental cannot be denied or overstated. It's 19 that rare moment when government and private sector 20 and nonprofits all agree on something: Walking does a 21 body good. 22 Now, I have liked many of the things that 23 I have seen, as I said. I will ask, however, that you 24 reconsider the size of the intersections. There are 25 too many lanes to provide a safe crossing zone,
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 especially as someone mentioned earlier, when you have 3 rush-hour traffic and you know those drivers are just 4 waiting for the light to turn green, they're not 5 looking for pedestrians. 6 Please provide equal and due consideration 7 to those not traveling by car. And I do not mean that 8 we forget about cars, because they are a valid part of 9 this conversation, I simply ask that we not merely 10 accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists, but that we 11 actively encourage walking and biking with safe and 12 attractive design for nonmotorized transit. 13 This isn't just a road, it's not just a 14 way to get from point A to point B, it's a treasured 15 piece of our city. Delaware Park, Medaille, Buff 16 State, Parkside Community is all part of our 17 community. 18 So let's take this opportunity to reclaim 19 this space for all; the young, the old, the 20 handicapped and the able. This is a space for people. 21 Everyone deserves safe and equal access. 22 Thank you. 23 MR. CIRILLO: Jack Stephen here? Jack 24 Stephen? 25 Next is Gene Witkowski.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Is Gene here? 3 MR. WITKOWSKI: Here. 4 MR. CIRILLO: And on deck is James 5 Moffitt. 6 MR. WITKOWSKI: Hi. Gene Witkowski. Can 7 everybody hear me? 8 First of all, I can say right now you're 9 not going to like what I have to say. But the problem 10 with Delaware Park is everybody's talking about using 11 one section of Delaware Park, which is the northern 12 part as the southern part and the southern part as the 13 northern part. The two parts are -- the two parts of 14 Delaware Park are offset; in other words, the park 15 north of -- the Hoyt Lake part is Nottingham Avenue. 16 If you want to go to Nottingham Avenue, 17 you can go to Nottingham Avenue the way it is right 18 now. If the other part of Delaware Park, which is the 19 golf course and the walking or bicycling circle around 20 the area, is -- in other words, the park has two 21 distinct flavors, if you will. 22 One has the walking area around the golf 23 course, you can bicycle around it, the other part, 24 Hoyt Lake, has a walking area and the bicycling lane 25 around -- by the lake, and if you wanted to -- you
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 know, take care of the flavor, if you will, it goes to 3 the south one and it goes to the north one. I don't 4 see the need to have another -- introduce pedestrians 5 and bicyclists into a fast -- it's not a fast-driving 6 roadway anymore, but we have the spiral near the 7 Statue of David. 8 We have Elmwood Avenue, where people can 9 go across, and we have Delaware Avenue. The people 10 who go to Delaware Avenue can go -- you know, they can 11 go north -- they can go to either side. If you go 12 north, either spiral down Elmwood Avenue, the only way 13 you can connect with the other part of Delaware Park 14 is to go through Nottingham Avenue. 15 And I don't see a lot of bicyclists 16 traveling on Nottingham Avenue, so it would make it 17 dangerous for them to do that. 18 And I think the other thing too is that to 19 introduce pedestrians in crosswalks is a bad idea, 20 because you're -- people today are looking at their 21 cell phones when they cross streets. I don't care 22 what anybody says; they're distracted. They don't 23 even look if the light changes, cars are stopped and 24 they go right across. 25 We're going to be creating more people in
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 handicap places in the future if we keep this system 3 of thought. That's all I have to say. 4 Thank you. 5 MR. CIRILLO: James Moffitt. On deck is 6 Chuck Banas. 7 MR. MOFFITT: Hi. I'm James Moffitt. I 8 would like to thank you guys for all your efforts. 9 And I would just like to take a moment to ask you to 10 listen to some of the comments of people like Justin 11 Booth, that we are very much looking for the park to 12 come back. 13 At these crosswalks, I ask that you put in 14 ample signage, you know, "Yield to Pedestrians," 15 "Yield to Cyclists," so that, you know, if it does 16 come through with all these lanes and everything, that 17 drivers are encouraged to look for pedestrian traffic. 18 I would also ask that you look into the 19 merge of the 198 and the 33. This is one of the big 20 reasons why I do not use the 198. Merging from the 33 21 to the 198 can have oncoming traffic on the right 22 side. If you're trying to leave the 198, going to 23 Main Street, it's also impossible. You have people 24 speeding up, going of almost speeds of 40, 45, to get 25 ahead of you. And so you're forced to yield, hold up
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 traffic and eventually snake your way over to Main 3 Street. 4 I think a tunnel, starting there, would be 5 a smart idea. And I think you could even bring back 6 the original Humboldt Parkway, bring back a light rail 7 trolly system that used to exist in the city, or so 8 I'm told. 9 There is a lot of examples of draw for 10 cyclists in the city. Some of the examples, we Slow 11 Roll campuses, Tuesday rides and various rides that 12 are organized between cyclists. The Slow Roll draws 13 at least a thousand riders almost every time from all 14 over Western New York. 15 So please listen to our comments and 16 create a space for the people not for these cars. 17 Thank you. 18 MR. CIRILLO: Chuck Banas. Next on tap is 19 Vanessa Elder. 20 MR. BANAS: Hi. My name is Chuck Banas. 21 I've been a local activist and been an urban designer 22 these days. I was on the original working group for 23 this project 15 years ago. It's hard to believe it 24 was that long ago. The plan at that time was headed 25 pretty much in the right direction under the auspice
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 of the then Region 5 director and it was better, in 3 many respects, than the current plan. 4 I am personally rather tired of a lot of 5 the half-baked and half-measured, over-engineered 6 project put forth by DOT. There's been some great 7 stuff that's been added to the current plan, some 8 aspects of it are pretty good, but there's been little 9 heed paid to context or community consensus in the 10 end. That's because of the narrow purview that DOT 11 seems to have. 12 This is because traffic engineers are 13 inherently evil. I don't know their political or 14 department pressures, but I do know engineers want to 15 creatively solve problems, they want good 16 evidence-based solutions, they want to work on worthy 17 projects. But apparently they've been given the wrong 18 problem to solve time and time again, and this is 19 resulting in consistently mediocre dysfunctional 20 solutions. 21 Now, cities such as San Francisco, New 22 York, Portland, Paris, Seoul, South Korea and a lot of 23 others have removed expressways, all of which had 24 higher traffic volumes than 198 currently has. Every 25 one of them. Cities like New Orleans and Rochester
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 are considering or in fact now removing urban 3 freeways. 4 With respect to the gentleman that spoke 5 earlier, this is 2017, this is certainly not the 6 Olmsted era. Removing expressways and recognizing 7 mistakes are what progressive and enlightened cities 8 are doing today. There is this expectation to this 9 assumption that traffic is going to get worse. 10 But in every case where an urban freeway 11 has been removed, traffic congestion and decreased 12 property values, have increased the cities' -- or 13 reconnected most importantly with the waterfronts; 14 they put neighborhoods back together. And this has 15 always been over the objections and the models of 16 DOTs. Everywhere DOT has objected to this. 17 So I haven't heard yet a good reason as to 18 why this couldn't happen here. Do state DOT and the 19 governor think Buffalo doesn't deserve what San 20 Francisco, Portland, New York City or Rochester have 21 gotten? 22 This project is also slated for funding 23 under the Buffalo Billion Program, the governor's 24 Regional Economic Development Council, which 25 administers the funds for a time frame of smart
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 growth. And that doesn't go far enough in that regard 3 either. 4 It's also been seemingly segmented. I'm 5 no lawyer, but we're taking a small section out of a 6 larger freeway, and the assumption seems to be, 7 because there's an expressway to the west of it and an 8 expressway to the east of it, that middle portion is 9 the only part we're studying and artificially limiting 10 the scope. That I don't like either. 11 This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to 12 undue a long-recognized mistake, and the current 13 proposal doesn't solve the essential problem. It's 14 really a band-aid solution and set of compromises that 15 really solves nothing in the end. 16 It's still a barrier. It's still going to 17 be a traffic sewer through the park. Slower speeds, 18 perhaps, but overbuilt. So any chance to do something 19 truly great for our city and posterity, let's not 20 squander that chance. 21 MR. CIRILLO: Vanessa Elder and Patrick 22 McNichol. 23 MS. ELDER: I'm Vanessa Elder. I am a 24 year-round cyclist. I ride my bike every single day 25 of the year. I have four jobs. I live in the city.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 And I try every single day to live in my activism. So 3 I'm trying to reduce my carbon footprint all the time. 4 And, you know, efficiency biking is important. 5 It doesn't need to be an expressway. It's 6 a barricade dividing our city. It's inefficient. And 7 echoing what the person before me said, it's like 8 2017, like we don't need there to be an expressway 9 there. 10 There should be full bike lanes going both 11 ways. I've never rode my bike, like, on the 12 expressway; it's super dangerous. Every day, when I'm 13 riding to one of my four jobs, I have to usurp my 14 route in order to avoid, you know, being in danger. 15 And like David Saunders said, the 16 motorists should be guests in our park. That's it. 17 MR. CIRILLO: Patrick McNichol and on deck 18 is Michael DeLuca. 19 MR. McNichol: I'm Patrick McNichol. I 20 served on the Scajaquada Advisory Committee back in 21 2002 through 2004. There's an over-longing consensus 22 that the decision back in the 1950s to build the 23 Scajaquada Expressway was a huge blunder. 24 We shot ourselves in the foot. Let's not 25 reload the gun. Call it what you want, but what is
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 being proposed is not fundamentally different than 3 what we currently have. It's still a high-capacity 4 roadway through our largest and most heavily used 5 park, Olmsted Park, it's unacceptable. Remove it. 6 It was a mistake in 1952 and it's a 7 mistake now. Would anyone feel safe allowing their 8 child to cross a highway to enter any park, in some 9 places eight lanes, would anyone feel just 10 comfortable -- I know I wouldn't -- going across eight 11 lanes of traffic. 12 I stood out there the other day. It's no 13 place for humans, it's a place for cars. We need to 14 do better. Governor Cuomo has made Smart Growth a 15 state priority and has been a guiding principle for 16 this, studying of public dollars through his Regional 17 Economic Development Council. And the proposed 18 removal of Interstate 81, the highway that rips 19 downtown Syracuse in half, he said, "I-81 did a lot of 20 damage, a classic planning blunder. Let's build a 21 road and bisect an entire community. That's an idea, 22 yeah. Let's write that down." 23 I agree, Governor. So why are you 24 proposing rebuilding our highway that bisects our 25 community?
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 In the state address, Governor Cuomo said, 3 "We've allocated $30 million for the Scajaquada 4 Expressway to reunite a long-divided community that 5 should have been done decades ago." 6 Again, I agree, Governor. So why are you 7 proposing to rebuild that expressway that divides us? 8 Rebuilding an expressway from bygone era isn't smart 9 growth, it's dumb growth. 10 With stagnant population, it's imperative 11 that we spend infrastructure money wisely. Each 12 project should add lasting value, be built for humans 13 not cars, increase property values and increase 14 equity. Rebuilding the highway does none of those. 15 Finally, John Norquist, former mayor of 16 Milwaukee and president of the -- and former president 17 of the Congress for New Urbanism, came to Buffalo 18 years ago, prior to the reconstruction of the Route 5 19 expressway on our waterfront, he famously quoted, 20 "Rebuilding this highway would be breathtakingly 21 stupid." 22 Well, we did and he was right. Let's 23 remove the highway in our park. Do this one right. 24 We deserve better. 25 Thanks.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 MR. CIRILLO: Mr. Mike DeLuca. And next 3 is Peter -- it looks Peter Spira or Spina. 4 MR. DeLUCA: Mike DeLuca. I'm a member of 5 the Parkside Community Association, a board member and 6 a founder of the SCC. So I came up here with a list 7 of things to say, but the overwhelming community has 8 said the things that we've been saying to the DOT for 9 years. And even Patrick stole quotes that I was going 10 to use from the governor, so I'm failing miserably 11 here. But I ask you, implore you to listen to the 12 many things you've heard tonight. 13 The overwhelming majority in the room, by 14 my count, is asking for us to look at this road 15 differently. You know, the governor said in the 1950s 16 we had a better idea, but it turned out to not be a 17 better idea, and I echo that. You know, he's been 18 pushing us to stride to be better in Buffalo. He's 19 been adding money to Buffalo left and right, and 20 people ask again, "What do we want Buffalo to be and 21 where do we want to be in the future?" 22 And if anything has shown us, canal side 23 is our piece that we should look back at. How long 24 were we told that we had to have vast crowd and how 25 long did the community fight the vast crowd, and look
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 at where we are today. So I think the community's 3 voice is very strong and we hear it and we're echoing 4 it. 5 The pieces I want to make sure that's said 6 and have been said many times to DOT, the pieces that 7 are outstanding right now that need to be reviewed is 8 the intersection sizes, they're overwhelming, the 9 bicycles are forgotten, the pedestrians are forgotten 10 and the medians are too big. 11 But the one point, going all the back to 12 Larry, the second speaker tonight that I don't want to 13 lose, is the segmentation of the community. So when 14 the governor says you're going to reunite the 15 neighborhoods, right now the only thing we're 16 reuniting is the park in the form that you have. 17 The Parkside intersection all the way to 18 33 leaves Hamlin Park, Trinidad and Parkside 19 neighborhood forgotten. On the other side, Riverside 20 and Black Rock are forgotten. When the study started, 21 it included the whole distance of the road, and it 22 needs to continue. 23 While we can talk about where the funding 24 is and when the funding comes in mind, this project 25 should give us a plan for the whole thing, and then we
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 can figure out how we're going to get there. Just 3 doing a portion of it won't lead to success for the 4 community. 5 So I ask again, "What Buffalo do you 6 want?" I think we've heard tonight a much better one 7 than we're seeing today. 8 Thank you. 9 MR. CIRILLO: Is Peter Spira or Spina 10 available? 11 Next would Anthony -- Anthony Johnson, 12 Anthony Amir Johnson. And on deck will be, it looks 13 like Colby -- well, Colby. 14 MR. JOHNSON: Good evening. Hello. Good 15 evening. Much less people when I turned around this 16 time. 17 So most folks really do have the similar 18 feelings that I do. The last gentleman spoke so 19 perfectly to one of the feelings that I have, "This is 20 meant to connect the park system itself." We're 21 speaking about a very short distance. This really 22 must connect all of the parks of Western New York. 23 The park system itself was designed by 24 Mr. Olmsted to be one connective park, to be the City 25 of Trees. This is a real concept, and that's the
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 concept that went around the creation of Buffalo, all 3 the way to Niagara Square. And right in front of City 4 Hall is the most trees you'll find in almost any city 5 in the United States of America. 6 To go further, the creation of the 33 and 7 the 198 must be a conversation that we have together, 8 because that's a conversation that took place at the 9 same time in the 1950s. Historically Robert Moses 10 built these highways across the State of New York to 11 separate neighborhoods in an unbelievable, 12 well-thought-out way. These are things that have an 13 historic-lasting effect, a negative-lasting impact on 14 these neighborhoods. 15 This is a real historical -- it's the 16 context of hate that existed at that time. It's the 17 context of disruption that was made for those 18 communities. So if we are to take a step forward, we 19 must take a step backwards indeed and undoing this 20 completely. 21 I love the idea that it kept on turning to 22 that tunnel. A tunnel -- well, I never thought a 23 tunnel about the 198, but I certainly thought we 24 should bury the 33 where it lays. 25 The 33 must go away, and the park from
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Delaware all the way to what was Humboldt Park must be 3 connected. And that entire parkway should exist, the 4 33 must be buried, it must connect all the way down at 5 Summer Street where the park starts and come all the 6 way back here into North Buffalo. It can't exist 7 otherwise without it. 8 That's it, guys. Thank you. Thank you 9 all. 10 MR. CIRILLO: Colby, Kids in the 11 Neighborhood. Colby here? 12 AUDIENCE MEMBER: He's rides his bike. 13 He's 10. He's a great kid. 14 MR. CIRILLO: All right. If no Colby, 15 Alan Bozer. And on deck is Robert Niemiec. 16 MR. BOZER: Thank you very much. My name 17 is Alan Bozer. I'm a trustee of the Buffalo Olmsted 18 Conservancy. I'm very proud to be a part of the 19 Conservancy. We do a lot with the few dollars that we 20 get, if anybody wants to contribute. We take care of 21 the parks, and so we are especially interested in 22 this. 23 I know a lot of us are speaking to each 24 other this evening, because there are three parts to 25 what's going on: One is political, one is
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 administrative and then there's the judicial. 3 The political sets the goals. Governor 4 Cuomo has given a mandate to go out and improve the 5 Scajaquada corridor, reconstruct the 198. 6 The administrative is the DOT, and they 7 are there to take care of that mandate. So as much as 8 we sit here and we talk about how this is a bad idea, 9 a bad idea to have a parkway in the park, we're 10 talking to the people who are charged with doing it, 11 not what the people who have the discretion about what 12 to do. 13 Now, administratively the DOT has to 14 consider a number of things. I'm going to talk to two 15 specifics. Number one, we've been talking about 16 segmentation. The law says that there must be a 17 logical termini to a project plan. That is where is 18 it logical to begin, where is it logical to end. 19 DOT regularly says in their DEIS statement 20 that it is crucial to connect the 33 with the 190. 21 Therefore, the logical connections are from the 33 to 22 the 190. And by arbitrarily deciding we're only going 23 look from Parkside to Grant, you have gone beyond the 24 mandate of the law, because the law says what are the 25 logical termini.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Now, if you look at the DEIS, I read 3 through it, up until 2014, the DOT minutes reflect 4 that the main Kensington intersection was an integral 5 part of planning. Up until 2014, the western 6 terminus, the Niagara section of the Thruway and the 7 198, were an integral part of the planning. But 8 somebody made a decision in 2014 and, I submit, it's 9 contrary to the law. 10 The second item I want to address, is 11 there are two intersections now planned in the DEIS at 12 the Point of the Meadow. I was a coach of Delaware 13 Soccer and on the board for ten years there. Fifty 14 yards from one of those intersections, you have 15 hundreds of kids playing. That's at the 198. The 16 second intersection is from the Point of the Meadow 17 down at Delaware Avenue. 18 You've got two intersections now, if 19 somebody wants to walk from the Meadow to the lake, 20 they have to go across seven lanes at the 198 and 21 seven lanes at Delaware Avenue. That's 14 lanes. It 22 discourages people going from the Meadow to the lake. 23 As a trustee of the Conservancy, I'm concerned about 24 that. 25 The Delaware Avenue bridge was built to
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 connect the park. I want to announce that Congressman 3 Higgins issued his support for the Conservancy, give 4 the Delaware bridge back to the Conservancy for park 5 users, that will allow bicyclists and pedestrians to 6 go unimpeded from the Meadow to Hoyt Lake. 7 Congressman Higgins' position will be in the paper in 8 the morning. 9 Thank you. 10 MR. CIRILLO: Next up is Robert Niemiec. 11 And on deck is Joel R-O something. I can't read it. 12 MR. NIEMIEC: Good evening, everyone, and 13 also a late one. First I humbly ask us all to have a 14 moment of silence on behalf of Maksym so that we all 15 never will forget the tragedy that was avoidable. 16 Hopefully, the right things will be done. 17 (There was a pause in the proceeding.) 18 MR. NIEMIEC: Slower speed, bicycles have 19 done safe, tunnel by Delaware Park, some changes are 20 good, a lot just don't make sense. Six signals, 21 absurd. Center median, no. Not continuing into Route 22 33 and Humboldt Parkway with the scope, bad idea. 23 I have a 65-year-old family business and 24 have lived alongside Route 198 my entire life so far 25 peacefully. The DOT has never acknowledged our family
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 because of our location to be on the stakeholders, not 3 until last year, which was too late because most ideas 4 were already drafted. 5 Route 198 is now more dangerous than ever. 6 Rear-end accidents are far more frequent. I live 7 right next to the on-ramp. Stop signs on the on-ramp 8 are a bad idea. Most accidents are not reported, so 9 no police are dispatched, thus no record of them 10 happening. The ramps back up onto Grant Street. 11 Narrowing of lanes is ridiculous. It's 12 not safe. Ask the men and women who drive 18-wheelers 13 to all the businesses in the area on a daily basis, 14 I'm sure they'll have choice words. Their jobs are 15 tough enough. 16 Now, this talk about a roundabout by 17 Grant, I say forget about it. There's not enough room 18 for cars and 18-wheelers to co-exist in this circle 19 safely. I'm sure someone is going to get hurt 20 unfortunately, at some time, ending up where this all 21 started. 22 Thank you. 23 MR. CIRILLO: Joel R -- I can't tell you 24 what else. No address. 25 All right. If no Joel, David Caligiuri.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 And on deck, Tara Mancini. 3 MR. CALIGIURI: Hi. I'm David Caligiuri. 4 I'm just a regular citizen of the city. I use the 5 park at least once a week, usually twice a week. I 6 ride my bike. I'm part of Slow Roll Buffalo as well. 7 I grew up in the city, on the west side to 8 begin with and then north side; now I'm in Black Rock. 9 I live right by the Grant Street exit. I take the 10 expressway a couple times a week at least. The 11 whole -- people talking about changing the expressway 12 for years, but everything came to a head when the 13 accident happened, tragic accident. 14 So the knee-jerk reaction was to drop the 15 speed limit to 30 miles an hour. But speed wasn't 16 even a cause of that accident, somebody falling asleep 17 was the cause of that accident. So they put in a 18 guardrail that will protect the park for now. 19 The rest of the stuff, I don't understand 20 how you're going to get 30,000 to 40,000 cars to slow 21 down. This traffic-calming idea, they're talking 22 about the same thing for Niagara Street. You don't 23 just get traffic to calm down, you get people more 24 upset. 25 With all these intersections, there's
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 going to be more accidents, there's going to be more 3 people put at risk. Having kids cross the expressway, 4 I can't even imagine how many accidents we're going to 5 have. Most of the accidents I think right now on the 6 expressway happen at the Parkside intersection. So 7 you're going to put in more intersections and you 8 think you're not going to have more accidents? I 9 don't understand how that's even plausible. 10 You're going to spend $101 million on a 11 2.2 mile stretch of road. How many homes can be -- 12 and houses built for that? How many starving people 13 can be fed for that kind of money? 14 This concept of going back to bicycles and 15 walking, that's great. It's a nice concept, if you 16 can handle it somewhere, but this is the second 17 largest city in the state. We've got a lot of 18 traffic, we've got a lot of business, we've got people 19 moving from place to place, point A to point B, that's 20 the point of the expressway. 21 The fact that it goes through a park, 22 that's not ideal, but that's what we have. We have an 23 expressway going between a Thruway and another 24 expressway. How else is the traffic going to go; up 25 and down Amherst Street? Have you driven down Amherst
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Street right now? There's no way extra traffic is 3 going to be able to be maintained on that section of 4 road. All the other little side -- east to side west 5 side streets, those aren't going to handle all the 6 extra traffic. 7 So I understand that it's nice to have 8 bicycles and things like that -- we've have a path for 9 bicycles right now. You know, walking the park, you 10 can walk in the park, you can walk to the other side 11 of the park, you go around the lake, that's all fine. 12 It would be nice if we didn't have all these cars, but 13 we do have cars. That's the reality of the situation. 14 So to waste all this money on all this 15 effort to put it back to just being a park, to get rid 16 of it altogether, it's nonsense. And then it's a 17 slippery slope. Oh, we're going to get rid of the 33 18 as well. Where is all this traffic going to go? You 19 just can't do that. So that's all I have to say. 20 Thank you. 21 MR. CIRILLO: Thank you. 22 Tara Mancini. And on deck is Alma and it 23 looks Brown. 24 MS. MANCINI: Tara Mancini. First I would 25 like to -- I want to support Justin Booth and the
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Conservancy, Brian Dold and Stephanie Crockatt. 3 I also do see that the engineers at the 4 DOT did listen to the people. They asked for things 5 like at-grade crossings and circles, and they did give 6 it to them. But I do think that, which is above where 7 the engineers are able to go, is that the full scope, 8 a full transportation plan, a comprehensive plan that 9 includes the mayor, who I don't see here, needs to be 10 included all the way from the 198 or the 190 all the 11 way to the 33. 12 And here's the reason. I grew up in a 13 business family. We actually own a distribution 14 company regionally wide; we did Buffalo, we did 15 Rochester. We never used the 198. 16 We didn't use the 198, because once you 17 come into the city, you hit Niagara Street, you hit 18 Grant Street, you hit Elmwood, you hit Hertel and then 19 you head over to Fillmore, and that's how you 20 distribute. You don't use the 198; you go from street 21 to street to street. You use Delaware, you use 22 Elmwood, that's how we got around. 23 As an adult, I found myself driving 24 22-footers. I've driven them all over the city. I 25 don't use the 198, I don't use it as an expressway,
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 and I don't use it even when it's downgraded. 3 So from a business perspective, deliveries 4 or moving equipment, or whatever it is you're doing, 5 we just don't use it. It's not effective. It's not 6 efficient. So from a business aspect, that's what I 7 believe. 8 I left Buffalo and I came back to Buffalo 9 recently. I brought a lot of jobs. We pay an average 10 of $100,000 a year with full benefits. I came back to 11 Buffalo because I heard about things, like the park is 12 getting restored. That's what's attractive to 13 companies and business owners like I am. It's why we 14 come back. It's why we pay so much, because I want to 15 be here. I don't want to be back in Manhattan. 16 I actually found driving in Manhattan to 17 be easier in some ways than driving in Buffalo, in all 18 honesty. I can whip around Manhattan no problem, up 19 and down the West Side no problem, which got a full 20 upgrade. The West End Highway, by the way, has 21 at-grade crossings every couple blocks. And in 22 Manhattan, you stop. You stop because the police will 23 club you if you don't. You don't run over 24 pedestrians. 25 In Buffalo, people pass you on the right
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 and through the parking spaces. It's incredible. 3 They run red lights. I don't understand where the 4 traffic cops are. I heard there are none. Major 5 problem. If you have this parkway, you need to have 6 spots where policemen sit, otherwise it's not going to 7 be effective. 8 So from a business perspective, if you 9 want to attract companies that pay $100,000 per 10 employee, you need to have things like nice parks, 11 otherwise we don't want to be here, because I have to 12 raise my family here. And I don't use Delaware Park, 13 I don't use it a lot, because it's dangerous. 14 MR. CIRILLO: Alma. Is Alma here? 15 Okay. No Alma. 16 Bernie Kolbe? Mr. Kolbe? 17 All right. Mike Hohl? Is Mike Hohl here? 18 How about Anthony James? 19 AUDIENCE MEMBER: What number are you on, 20 by chance? 21 MR. CIRILLO: I just got one added. 673. 22 I'm just kidding. I'm on 64 and there's 75. 23 So no Mike Hohl. 24 Anthony James. 25 MR. JAMES: Anthony James. Yes, thank you
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 for the opportunity to speak. Many of the speakers 3 have said things that I would have said. I would like 4 to say, because one of the recent speakers was 5 speaking about the speed that -- I'm a community 6 resident. I use the 198, sometimes multiple times a 7 day, and the 30-mile-an-hour speed is wonderful. And 8 I am very glad that it's retained in the new design, 9 because I feel like I'm no longer taking my life in my 10 hands when I try to get on it. 11 There are some significant issues with the 12 proposed design still, after all our community input. 13 There are issues of traffic calming, park user access, 14 historic preservation and economic development. Lou 15 Haremski spoke eloquently about the need for a plan 16 that looked beyond just the traffic issues, because 17 the reconstruction of the 198 has an effect far beyond 18 just traffic. 19 It also affects the economic development 20 of the adjacent areas and, as the previous speaker 21 mentioned, the attractiveness of Buffalo to outside 22 investors or companies looking for a new place to 23 settle their business, having a place that's 24 attractive and not just riddled with highways is a big 25 plus.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 I want to speak specifically to some of 3 the points of the proposed design. And one of the 4 issues is traffic calming, and presently the traffic 5 lights are one of the main ways that traffic calming 6 is accomplished in this design, but I would propose 7 that during rush hour you have four lanes of traffic, 8 but at nonrush hour there would be parking allowed 9 that would allow direct access to the park and would 10 be a great benefit to city residents and park users. 11 I would like to suggest that the two 12 intersections, which were mentioned at Delaware Avenue 13 by Alan Bozer, those could be combined into one 14 intersection by moving the traffic lanes off the 15 bridge, as Alan mentioned. And I would support that 16 idea entirely. 17 The one intersection would just be at 18 Delaware Avenue. That would increase the time that 19 people would have to take to get through the area if 20 they're coming on or off at Delaware Avenue, so that 21 would be a very good idea. 22 And also an issue at Elmwood Avenue is the 23 traffic into Buff State, where right now you have to 24 get off the expressway or the Urban Boulevard onto 25 Elmwood, go through several traffic lights, and get
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 into Buff State, when there could be a direct 3 connection at the new Elmwood Avenue and 198 4 intersection. 5 And one last point. The Parkside 6 intersection. So as I live very close to there, it 7 seems like the present intersection is difficult to 8 get across, and I have on many occasions walked across 9 there. But the new intersection seems to have even 10 more paving and a greater length for pedestrians to 11 cross. So I would urge that you make things more 12 pedestrian friendly. 13 Thank you very much. 14 MR. CIRILLO: Thank you. 15 Next is Joe M. I don't have anything 16 other than Joe M. 17 No Joe M. 18 How about Bill Banas? 19 On deck is Nathan Peracciny. 20 MR. BANAS: Hi. My name is Bill Banas, 21 and I am a long-time City of Buffalo and Elmwood 22 Village resident, and I also happen to be a professor 23 of engineering at UB and a long-time local activist. 24 I was at one time the Director of the Transportation 25 Action Group of the New Millennium Group.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 The New Millennium Group are the folks 3 that recently brought you the Green Codes that our 4 group had started over ten years ago. 5 First off, I want to thank the DOT. I 6 think, again, this project is better than it used to 7 be, and it seems to be headed in the right direction, 8 but it still, again, has a long way to go. 9 I agree with a lot of what's been said 10 this evening in regard to urban planning, expanding 11 the scope of the project. Justin Booth's comments, 12 the first guy up, were particularly good. And some of 13 the comments my brother said as well, among others. 14 The bottom line is -- and I think we need 15 to look at this project from a perspective as if it 16 were never there in the first place, the Scajaquada 17 were never there in the first place. 18 If, you know, the Scajaquada was not there 19 right now, I don't think anybody would be clamoring 20 for an expressway or a large road through the middle 21 of Delaware Park. And, in fact, in the City of 22 Buffalo, there were several expressways that were 23 planned but never built. 24 One expressway was slated to connect the 25 33 and the 190 right through the middle of Allentown
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 and never got built for obvious reasons. People stood 3 up and opposed it. And the irony of that, if it had 4 been built, you would be hearing from some people that 5 we couldn't tear it down; right? We couldn't remove 6 it, because, "Oh, my God, where would the traffic go?" 7 So I want to reiterate again that this 8 highway removal has been done in other places. One 9 example, Seoul is a city of 28 million people, there 10 were 180,000 cars a day using the expressway, and they 11 replaced it with nothing. It's a creek and it's a 12 beautiful public place and the traffic finds other 13 places to go. This has happened in San Francisco, in 14 Portland and other cities. We can do this here in 15 Buffalo, in little ole Buffalo. 16 So what I'm saying is, I guess, we can't 17 be held hostage to a mistake. And I know that 18 engineers, it's almost antithetical to them, for them 19 to reduce the level of service of a roadway, but in 20 this case this is what we need to do. And I think 21 that more direction needs to come from Governor Cuomo 22 in this respect. 23 About 15 years ago, New Millenium Group 24 came up with a vision for the Scajaquada corridor. 25 And it had in it, among things, like Agassiz Circle
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 needs to be a circle and the Lincoln Parkway must be 3 reconnected with itself and the Hoyt Lake shoreline 4 needs to be restored to its original shoreline. And 5 those are the kinds of things that we need to do in 6 this project. 7 Lastly, I want to say that the 8 neighborhoods in and around Delaware Park and Delaware 9 Park itself should be a destination not a doormat for 10 cars and trucks. 11 Thank you. 12 MR. CIRILLO: Nathan? 13 All right. On deck is William Tuyn. 14 MR. PERACCINY: Hello, everyone. The 15 crowd has kind of thinned out, so if my message 16 resonates with anybody, please -- that's left, please 17 just share it. 18 I'm the gentleman that made the video for 19 the Scajaquada Corridor Coalition. I'm a media ally, 20 so I tell narratives. I give strategy to those things 21 and I try to give a voice to the voiceless. I see 22 this narrative going two ways. 23 A little while back I worked for John 24 Paget and we made "Buffalo: America's Best Design 25 City." That brought a lot of momentum to the city.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 It was a positive message and it also looked at both 3 sides of our history; some were negative and some were 4 positive with this momentum. 5 I see a redesign that puts people first as 6 being an opportunity to just do something amazing and 7 take back our narrative. I travel a lot for work. 8 First thing I say to people, "I'm from Buffalo." 9 They're like, "You're from Buffalo?" 10 I'm like, "Yeah, Buffalo, New York. I'm 11 great at what I do and I live there. I didn't move 12 when I graduated and I was able to maintain a 13 business." And then I tell how great it is and our 14 water and our food and our people, because our people 15 is our greatest resource not cars. 16 I'm sorry, but really we need to think 17 about how we're going to bring us back to our health, 18 to our people and also honoring the gem that we have, 19 which is Olmsted Park. And that can also be a huge, 20 huge generator for tourists, business as well, if we 21 have this iconic park. 22 So I'm willing to, if you guys -- I'm an 23 ally of Justin Booth and the Scajaquada Corridor 24 Coalition, so if you guys need to -- want to have a 25 dialog with us, but -- we are willing to tell a
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 narrative of this that promotes you guys and do it in 3 an effective manner and promotes this whole project 4 being done right. 5 There's also the alternative side to that. 6 So if anybody feels at a point where your voice hasn't 7 been heard in this meeting, is something like "What do 8 we do next?" I'm willing to point a camera at anybody. 9 I'm willing to tell that story and I'm willing to work 10 with any group that wants to challenge the design 11 going further. 12 There's two options here, and I'm 13 definitely down to what's best for my city, because I 14 love it. I chose to put actual time in here. I have 15 family here, but I just want this done right. And to 16 me, having it done right is putting people first. 17 So that's all I've got to say. 18 MR. CIRILLO: Next is William Tuyn. And 19 then on deck is Barbara Rowe. 20 MR. TUYN: Love your film. It brings a 21 tear to my eye every time I see it. 22 MR. PERACCINY: Thank you. 23 MR. TUYN: My name is William Tuyn. I'm 24 the Vice President of Development for Forbes Capretto 25 Homes, among many hats I wear. I'm vice chairman for
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 the board Partners for a Livable Western New York and 3 I'm also the co-chair for CNU 22. So I'm very pleased 4 to hear a lot of people under the names of John 5 Norquist and Jeff Speck and folks like that. 6 I have some comments. I've been a land 7 use consultant for about 34 years now. So these are 8 all constructive criticisms. I know everyone's a 9 critic and I appreciate where you're at. So my 10 comments are offered as not arrogant, these are my 11 objective observations of the design. 12 I think, number one, it's better than 13 what's out there today. But I agree with a lot of the 14 speakers, it still has a long way to go, primarily 15 because drivers will not drive to a speed limit sign. 16 And you see that every day today just by following 17 behind the cars on the Scajaquada. No one drives 30, 18 they just don't and they won't, because drivers will 19 drive to the speed they feel comfortable with based on 20 the physical configuration of the environment and the 21 geometry of the roadway system. 22 And in this case, the road is a highway. 23 And the design, while better, is still a highway. 24 It's not a road. It's not what folks call "Smart 25 Growth." It doesn't add assessed valuation. It isn't
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 a street. It's still going to be a highway. It's not 3 an urban boulevard, in my opinion. And so it lacks, 4 number one, intersection density. 5 The roundabout is good; it could use some 6 work. Instead of the traffic signals, roundabouts 7 would be a better solution, but they need to be 8 intersections at grade, not ramps, with a right-hand 9 move that has a signal before people can proceed again 10 or a pedestrian crossing. They need to be full 11 intersections. 12 You have an opportunity to reestablish a 13 connection for Lincoln Parkway. Maybe it needs to be 14 a peanut roundabout to make sure that the alignment 15 works, because it's offset at that point. But that 16 would be something good. 17 Eleven-foot lanes aren't narrow enough to 18 slow people down. On-street parking, would be 19 helpful. And I would suggest that it isn't necessary 20 to keep a uniform geometry and speed the entire length 21 of the corridor, through the park, important. 22 From Main Street to the 33, or from 23 outside of the park, all the way down the 90, the way 24 it's laid out right now, the way it's connected to the 25 neighborhoods, doesn't demand a 30-mile-an-hour speed
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 limit. It's just foolish to do that. 3 If you want to make it that way, there's 4 an opportunity potentially to open up the Scajaquada 5 Creek corridor and put on street parking and connect 6 it to the neighborhoods, connect it at grade to the 7 campus of the college, a number of opportunities if 8 you really truly want to see the physical form change 9 and drivers respect the speed limit. 10 And I have a lot of other things to say, 11 but I know time is short; the yellow light is about to 12 turn red. So I will leave you with this thought, 13 because a lot of people tonight have talked about -- 14 not a lot, but several people have talked about the 15 traffic patterns, the need to keep this high-speed 16 corridor in place because they like it, whether that 17 be with a tunnel or whether it be at grade, don't 18 change it. 19 But I would ask you sincerely to ask 20 yourselves and everyone else if this were a park that 21 didn't have this corridor going through the middle of 22 it already, if none of us had ever experienced that, 23 got used to those traffic patterns, do you really 24 think you would get approval? If you came before any 25 public body and did an Environmental Impact Statement
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 and asked to get approval to build a highway through 3 the park, would it be approved? My guess is it 4 wouldn't. But I offer that as something to consider, 5 not something that I've already reached a conclusion 6 on, but I would be doubtful it would ever happen. 7 I've got the red light. Sorry. 8 MR. CIRILLO: Thank you. 9 Barbara Rowe. And on deck is Karen 10 Stanley Fleming. 11 MS. ROWE: I'm Barbara Rowe and I would 12 just echo everything that he just said and a lot of 13 speakers have said. There have been so many good 14 points, and a lot of the things I've been thinking I 15 was going to write in, but I felt like it was 16 important to add my voice to it as well. 17 There are improvements. I started going 18 to some of the meetings and I saw some of the plans at 19 least -- I don't know how many years ago -- four or 20 five years ago, and they have improved and there does 21 seem to be some concessions. 22 But I've heard a few speakers talk about 23 how we need to compromise to get this done. And I 24 understand, I feel like we compromise all the time 25 around here. This is like a once in a lifetime,
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 though, so, you know, we've got to push it further. 3 We really need this to be more visionary. 4 Some of the points that I've heard I 5 hadn't even thought about, bus stops and also talked 6 about in terms of -- you know, this isn't your area, 7 but traffic cops. 8 That Preconsole, I've been there. I've 9 seen it. It was covered by a road. It was revealed. 10 I walked along it. It was incredible. There were 11 throngs and throngs of people. There's 12 schoolchildren. There are art events happening. It 13 was extraordinary. 14 We -- okay, so here's a compromise. We 15 can't do that, but we really do need to have this slow 16 down. We want this to be more comprehensive. Really 17 disappointed that it's not the entire 198. Looking at 18 especially at the connection with Niagara Street, we 19 have those ramps that go down to the street and it is 20 a nightmare. It's really almost impossible to get 21 around that area. 22 We are seeing, as you probably know, a 23 whole reconstruction of Niagara Street. And how -- 24 the fact that this is part of it is being ignored is 25 really, really disappointing.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 The other thing I want to say, by my 3 count -- I don't know -- I think we're about 47, 48 4 speakers, and I think maybe 5 were speaking against, 5 you know, slowing the traffic and that kind of thing. 6 And someone from that group even said that, you know, 7 this is a minority. This is not a minority. This was 8 well-publicized. I saw it everywhere. So where are 9 those people? 10 So thank you. 11 MR. CIRILLO: Karen Stanley Fleming. And 12 on deck is Anthony Henry. 13 MS. STANLEY FLEMING: Good evening, 14 everyone. I'm Karen Stanley Fleming from Restore Our 15 Community Coalition. And just why do we need to 16 restore our community? Because it was divided. And 17 we appreciate -- let me first say, we do appreciate 18 the opportunity for community dialog with the DOT. We 19 thank you for this opportunity. We now challenge you 20 to take in what we're asking. 21 What we're asking is not only to heal the 22 park, and we certainly support the Olmsted Parks, but 23 also to heal the community, to readmit the community. 24 And really my comment is more about the scope of the 25 project.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 There is another parallel project, many of 3 you have probably heard, to look at Humboldt Parkway, 4 to look at the area between Ferry and Best. These two 5 projects are both laudable, but if we leave out the 6 middle, which is from Ferry to Parkside, we really do 7 a disservice, especially to those in the Trinidad 8 neighborhood where it is so dangerous at the Main and 9 the Humboldt intersection. 10 So it seems late in the game to change the 11 scope, but better late than never. And so from 12 Restore Our Community Coalition, which includes 13 organizations such as the Olmsted Parks Conservancy, 14 the science museum, the Hamlin Park Community and 15 Taxpayers Association and other individuals and 16 businesses, the Black Chamber of Commerce, we do urge 17 you to consider this one road. 18 Thank you. 19 MR. CIRILLO: Anthony Henry. And on deck 20 is Mary Lou Lenahan. 21 MR. HENRY: Hello. I don't want to start 22 off on a morbid note, but I do wish to amend something 23 that a gentleman said earlier. And he listed some 24 reasons why -- you know, there's a certain family who 25 is potentially especially anxious this evening because
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 of the loss of a family member. And there's no reason 3 for that loss other than the fact that somebody 4 slapped this major thoroughfare in the middle of, 5 like, a public park. It's very simple. So this is 6 one thought of mine. 7 But I think we should go back to 1953. 8 Alex Osborn, living in Buffalo, goes to a state 9 college -- I think it was a teacher's college at that 10 point -- most popular for being the individual who 11 coined the term "brainstorming." And you can go 12 there, take one of their Basic 101 Intellectual 13 Foundations courses, like the Basics of Creative 14 Thinking, Creative Problem Solving, very simple, and 15 teach you about brainstorming, how to solve problems 16 creatively. 17 And it's divergent thinking and it's 18 convergent thinking. So you divergently think, so you 19 think about all the options. How do we -- we've got 20 this road here. We can make it bigger, smaller. 21 We've got all these options, limitless. You make a 22 list. You don't even cut yourself off. You just make 23 a huge list, any ridiculous thought. We can put a 24 4,000-square-foot rubber duck in the middle of that 25 road. Any thought; you do that.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 Then you've got to put on your thinking 3 cap and you start looking around, all these ideas and 4 say, "Oh, wow, a rubber duck. What was I thinking? 5 Get rid of that." And you keep going through, keep 6 going through, and you figure out the most fully 7 thought out, the best options. You put them and you 8 put them in a separate list, throw the other list in 9 the garbage. 10 And then you start, you know, figuring out 11 which ones work, which ones -- you start considering 12 weighing the options, etcetera. And I think that 13 that's where we are at right now. 14 I think there has been a big list. This 15 option is maybe one of the options that was pulled out 16 of the divergently thinking list, and it's slapped on 17 a list, okay, maybe we'll consider this. And I think 18 there are so many other options to consider -- I mean, 19 if we were to go back to that 101 course at Buffalo 20 State College and say the project was "Figure out an 21 alternative to this roadway," I think that this plan 22 largely -- I mean, they've got some excellent 23 professors, I was in the program. Some very great, 24 very smart thinkers. 25 I think that plan, as of right now, if you
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 were to do your final project on this and come up with 3 the plan that has been presented, I think you would 4 fail the project essentially. It's not fully thought 5 out. It's just not the right approach. 6 I think we are in the middle of 7 convergently thinking. And we need to consider the 8 majority, not the minority. We need to make sure 9 we're considering bicycles, we're considering 10 pedestrians, we're considering healthy lifestyles, 11 we're considering the future of reducing carbon 12 footprint, we're considering handicapped pedestrians, 13 considering the minority of the community that I 14 represent right now, the community that I live in that 15 is opposed to this failed plan as it stands right now. 16 That's it. 17 MR. CIRILLO: Is Mary Lou Lenahan here? 18 No Mary Lou. 19 Douglas Funke or Funke. On deck is Mike 20 Nowak. 21 MR. FUNKE: My name is Doug Funke. I'm 22 President of Citizens for Regional Transit. We're a 23 transit advocacy organization. I wasn't planning to 24 speak, but I decided I would get up anyway and just 25 make a point.
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 The several speakers who spoke in favor of 3 the highway, the point that we need to have cars to 4 get places because we're a large city, I want to just 5 make the point that that is not the only way we move 6 people. And we shouldn't be talking about moving cars 7 primarily, we should be talking about moving people. 8 The best way to move people, the most efficient way is 9 with public transportation. 10 Cities across this country have expanded 11 their light rail systems, and here in Buffalo, we are 12 expanding our light rail system like many other 13 cities. We are in the process of planning an 14 expansion out to the Amherst campus into the DL&W 15 terminal. We hope that that will lead to expansion to 16 the Buffalo Airport. 17 I know that the NFTA is working very 18 diligently to improve bus service that will link into 19 that public transportation system. So I just want to 20 make sure that public transportation was part of the 21 thinking and the planning as we think about this 22 roadway. 23 As many speakers have pointed out, many 24 cities have gotten rid of their highways in their 25 cities that seemed like that was an impossibility, and
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 low and behold it worked and we didn't end up with 3 ultimate congestion, with nobody to get to where -- 4 people found ways to get there, people used public 5 transportation, used bikes. 6 So I would encourage, as we redesign and 7 rethink this plan, that we also consider the benefits 8 of public transportation as part of the solution. 9 Thank you. 10 MR. CIRILLO: Mike Nowak. 11 Mike Nowak here? 12 No Mr. Nowak. 13 I know you're all upset this will be last 14 card, but Mark Rebmann. 15 MR. REBMANN: Thank you for hearing me. 16 I'm here to speak in favor of a parkway. A parkway is 17 great. We have a number of parkways in the city. We 18 have Bidwell, we have Chapin, we have McKinley. But 19 this roadway is never going to function as a parkway 20 until each end is connected to a highway. 21 To get us to the point that we want to be 22 at, we need to sever the connection at Route 33, we 23 restore what we can at Humboldt Parkway, which we can 24 do from Delavan to Parkside. 25 At the west end of this current highway,
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1 PUBLIC HEARING OF JANUARY 25, 2017 2 we need to get rid of the elevated section west of 3 Grant, make it at grade, make the land that is 4 potentially valuable accessible. Make parks there. 5 We're not going to get that as long as we have an 6 elevated highway there connected to Route 190. 7 We want a parkway. Give us the parkway we 8 deserve not a slightly improved, but basically the 9 same highway, cutting through our city that we don't 10 want. 11 MR. CIRILLO: Thank you, everyone. I 12 appreciate your patience. 13 This concludes the hearing. 14 * * * 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
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1 2 E X H I B I T S 3 Exhibit Description Marked ID'd 4 ------5 1 Scajaquada Legal Notice of Revised Public Hearing 3 3 6 2 Technical Presentation Script for 7 01/25/17 Public Hearing 15 15 8 * * * 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
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1 2 C E R T I F I C A T I O N STATE OF NEW YORK: 3 COUNTY OF MONROE: 4 I, KIMBERLY A. BONSIGNORE, do hereby 5 certify that I reported in machine shorthand the 6 above-styled cause; and that the foregoing pages were 7 produced by computer-aided transcription (CAT) under 8 my personal supervision and constitute a true and 9 accurate record of the testimony in this proceeding; 10 I further certify that I am not an 11 attorney or counsel of any parties, nor a relative or 12 employee of any attorney or counsel connected with the 13 action, nor financially interested in the action; 14 WITNESS my hand in the City of Rochester, 15 County of Monroe, State of New York. 16 17 18 19 20
KIMBERLY A. BONSIGNORE 24 Freelance Court Reporter and Notary Public No. 01B06032396 25 in and for Monroe County, New York
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1 2 ------3 IN THE MATTER OF 4 In Re NYS Route 198 Scajaquada Corridor 5 6 ------7 Public Comment Period in the Above-Titled Matter: 8 9 10 Location: Frederick Law Olmsted School 64 874 Amherst Street 11 Buffalo, New York 14216 12 13 Date: January 25, 2017 14 15 Time: 4:00 p.m. 16 17 18 19 Reported By: TAMMY B. FIGLER 20 Alliance Court Reporting, Inc. 21 120 East Avenue, Suite 200 22 Rochester, New York 14604 23 24 25
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1 2 A P P E A R A N C E S 3 Appearing as Interpreter: 4 Zurisaday Moreno 5 International Institute of Buffalo 6 [email protected] 7 8 * * * 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2017; 3 (Proceedings in the above-titled matter 4 commencing at 4:30 p.m.) 5 * * * 6 (SHAWN PRENATT, 7 361 Knowlton Avenue, Kenmore, New York 14217; 8 phone number: 716-200-9435; 9 email: [email protected].) 10 * * * 11 MR. PRENATT: The Scajaquada is a vital 12 artery during peak traffic hours for those seeking a 13 quick way to get on the Kensington Expressway, I-190 14 north-south or I-90 east-west. What happens with peak 15 traffic congestion early in the morning and later in 16 the afternoon going to and coming from greater 17 Buffalo, the northern and southern tier, is if the 18 Scajaquada Expressway is turned into a boulevard or a 19 30 mile-per-hour parkway, won't traffic congestion 20 result in longer idle time for vehicles near Delaware 21 Park? If the Scajaquada is turned into a boulevard or 22 a 30 miles per hour parkway, alternate routes to gain 23 quick access to the Kensington Expressway, I-190 24 north-south and I-90 east-west, will likely result in 25 higher volumes of speeding traffic down any and all
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 residential side streets during the peak traffic hours 3 that coincide with school-business operations. How 4 will local commerce and commercial trucking operations 5 be affected if the Scajaquada is turned into a 6 boulevard or a 30 miles per hour parkway? Without an 7 uninterrupted system of expressways and thruways for 8 commercial traffic to make its way around greater 9 Buffalo, won't delivery and pick-up times receive 10 significant delays, thus noticeably affecting the rate 11 of commerce within and from our region, especially 12 when operating in the area around the current 13 Scajaquada Expressway? 14 With the residents' support for and 15 against the Scajaquada Expressway, we could entertain 16 the notion of running the Scajaquada Expressway under 17 Delaware Park, 1.1 miles via a four-lane tunnel 18 starting at the Parkside Avenue, removing the 19 expressway entrance and exit here, as well as at 20 Nottingham Terrace and Delaware Avenue, and ending 21 just before crossing over White Lake to allow entrance 22 and exciting from Elmwood Avenue. This would turn the 23 Scajaquada Expressway into a true expressway that is 24 inhibited by one section of traffic signals and 25 another treacherous section onto Delaware Avenue, all
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 the while we will have 1.1 miles of clear area to run 3 a parkway over an underground tunnel section of the 4 Scajaquada Expressway. 5 * * * 6 (LARRONE B. WILLIAMS, 7 232 Humbolt Parkway, Buffalo, New York 14214; 8 phone number: 716-465-3153; 9 email: [email protected].) 10 * * * 11 MR. WILLIAMS: Last year I went to the 12 meeting in Buff State and I talked about some of the 13 iniquities of this project. My parents bought a home 14 on 232 in 1955. So as a child I saw the original 15 Olmsted and what it looked like, and we were there 16 when the changeover came when they instituted the 198. 17 My father lost a tremendous amount of 18 property value because of the construction, 19 subsequently, the neighborhood started deteriorating. 20 I live in a neighborhood that was -- there's been 21 books written about us in Hammond Park. We were one 22 of the very strong black communities in New York 23 State. Then I moved here in, like I said, in 1955 at 24 three years old, and I had an opportunity to go to 25 School 54 on Main Street. I basically have a
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 Main-Street education. I went from 54 to Bennett High 3 School to the University of Buffalo. So I went right 4 down Main Street and then I left. 5 Then I came back over a period of time and 6 I started seeing a deterioration. 7 Anyway, when they started talking about 8 doing this project, I went to the meeting at Buff 9 State and we discussed some of the iniquities that we 10 saw and how this money was being shared, distributed, 11 because we are part of the 198. And if you look at 12 this project, it starts at Main Street. I live on the 13 other side of Main Street. But subsequently through 14 the conversations I have had with the Department of 15 Transportation, mostly Patrick Merdet (phonetic), we 16 began to do some adjustments on the other side because 17 there was a problem that people that live on the 18 western side of Main Street did not see when they 19 reduced the speed limit down to 30 miles per hour. 20 People no longer wanted to travel down 21 there. So they got off at the Sisters Exit where my 22 house is, and every morning, every evening, I have 5 23 to 600, 700 cars go through there every day. And I 24 mean, it's ridiculous. The speed limit was reduced to 25 30 miles per hour throughout the 198. On our side of
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 Humboldt, the minority side of Humboldt, it's not 3 being enforced. When the person going 30 miles per 4 hour down the curb and gets past that last stop sign, 5 guess what he does? He goes through my neighborhood 6 like a bat out of hell and that's all day long. We 7 have people that are going the wrong direction on the 8 198. 9 We asked for enforcement from the city, 10 from the Buffalo Police Department, to help reduce the 11 traffic down. With that I was told that the Police 12 Department didn't believe in the 30 miles per hour so, 13 therefore, they weren't going to enforce it. It's 14 true. They are going to deny it whenever they see 15 this, but that's the truth. But on the other side 16 they have the police officers, every officer, 17 stationed everywhere. 18 Within that, then, on Main Street there's 19 a triangle. It's Kensington, Main and Humboldt that 20 runs in a triangle. In the last year and a half, 21 based on this overabundance of traffic getting off 22 there at the Sisters Exit, there has been a serious 23 spike in accidents. My neighborhood is an older 24 neighborhood. I'm kind of like a teenager, and I'm 25 64. Within there, there are people that have fears
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 for their lives because we have people speeding 3 through there trying to get where they got to go. 4 They're getting off at the 198; they get to Main 5 Street, and they make a turn and "boom." You see the 6 amount of accidents that's been there. 7 We requested the statistics on the amount 8 of accidents happened in the area. Subsequently that 9 was a year ago. We haven't gotten them yet. I'm 10 getting ready to have a meeting with a gentleman by 11 the name Mike Flynn that is working with us with this 12 project. They had a meeting last week. I didn't 13 attend the meeting for certain reasons, but within 14 this what I want to express is that in this 12 years 15 of them not being able to come to compromise and, 16 subsequently, the actions that were taken to reduce 17 the speed limit -- they're not the only neighborhood 18 in the city. I mean, as a kid I grew up wanting to 19 play in the Delaware Park flying kites and going to 20 the zoo and the whole nine. 21 But within it, to me, there's a 22 selfishness that's being generated in this. It's like 23 the Rolling Stones' tune that says "You can't always 24 get what you want." I don't know if you guys know 25 anything about the Stones, but at some point we have
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 to come to a compromise. I don't want to die. I'm 3 64. This has been 12 years. I was 52 when this 4 started. I'm 64 now. I have great-grandchildren, and 5 I would like to see this project come through to a 6 finish. 7 The one last thing I would suggest, in 8 high school one of my teachers asked me to read a play 9 by Samuel Beckett, and it's called "Waiting For 10 Godot." In the opening line, the man is standing at 11 the fork in the road and a gentleman walks up to him 12 and says to him, "What are you doing here?" 13 He says, "I'm waiting on Godot." 14 The last statement at the end of the play, 15 his last comment was, "I'm waiting on Godot." My take 16 from that was he was the Godot but he had to make a 17 decision. He allowed his self to believe outside his 18 self to make a decision about which direction he could 19 go in his life. So all the time when all the rest of 20 the people were going and doing what they had to do, 21 continuing with their life, he was still waiting for 22 Godot. 23 This project is very similar to that. You 24 can't always get what you want. At some point there 25 has to be a compromise between the DOT and the other
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 people that are involved in the other taxes. I have 3 suggested that there is a possibility to do a layer 4 project. $70 million is already allocated for this 5 project. They need another 50 million. Within this, 6 our new president -- we don't know where the heck this 7 is going. He doesn't know and we don't know either. 8 We are along for the ride -- but the bottom line is he 9 talks about roads and bridges. So there may be 10 $50 million left whenever he gets around to do the 11 roads and bridges project for the American people. 12 But at the same time, why isn't it 13 possible for them to create the layered progressive 14 plan where you start and take the 70 million and do 15 what you got to do, and over a period of time go back 16 and complete the project where everybody gets what 17 they want and we stay within fiscal responsibility. 18 Because what we're being faced with is the 19 governor talking about -- he's talking about sending 20 children from the State of New York to college for 21 free. It costs money. Within it there's going to be 22 a whole bunch of developments. He may have to pick up 23 Medicaid and some of these other programs. The 24 governor may have to fill in. Where is all this money 25 going to come from?
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 My whole thing is that at some point we 3 have to think outside the box. We have to think 4 outside of our individual neighborhoods and think 5 about us as a whole. We're called the "city of good 6 neighbors." People are not willing to compromise and 7 it's hurting neighborhoods that surround it and no one 8 seems to want to heal. 9 In closing, I'm just saying, I'm hoping 10 this evening when I get my three minutes, which I need 11 more than three minutes, but within it I'm hoping for 12 sober minds because one of the things that we ought to 13 realize, the gridlock created, what we have now in the 14 White House -- I don't know, you could be people that 15 support Trump. I'm not a Trump fan. But the deal is 16 that within it in the gridlock of the Republican 17 establishment and the Democratic establishment, the 18 bottom line is nothing got done for eight years. 19 Within it those people were thrown out. They thought 20 they were killing Obama. They actually killed 21 themselves because the people they wanted to be 22 representing the Republican Party, they got washed 23 away. And we have a gentleman that has never done any 24 type of political anything. He has a very long track 25 record of illegalities, and some of them proven and
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 some of them not. But at some point what could have 3 been involved was doing compromise between Obama and 4 the people that were in the Republican Party. 5 My thought is that, in the same vain 6 thinking of this in a smaller scale, if we don't 7 compromise, how long are we going to sit here before 8 people get totally disgusted with this? This has been 9 12 years running, and at some point everybody has got 10 to give something. And people -- DOT may have to 11 give -- but within it we need to get off of that fork 12 in the road and get on down the road. 13 Does that sound sane? 14 * * * 15 (JOSEPH W. ALLEN, 16 97 Briscoe Avenue, Buffalo, New York 14211; 17 phone number: 716-897-3427.) 18 * * * 19 MR. ALLEN: I would like to see the 20 Olmstead Park expanded from where it's being done at 21 the Richardson Complex all the way through the 22 Scajaquada Park and wind around down to the central 23 terminal because the central terminal right now might 24 be our new railroad station if it gets the funding, 25 and I think it would be so nice -- and I think it
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 would definitely attract a lot of tourist attention. 3 Plus it would give a lot of alternative methods of 4 transportation to people who just wanted to ride their 5 bikes, you know, or do whatever in the park system. 6 * * * 7 (JAMES MIGLIORE, 8 1034 Amherst Street, Buffalo, New York 14216; 9 phone number: 716-874-2000; 10 email: [email protected].) 11 * * * 12 MR. MIGLIORE: My comment is the new wood 13 guardrail that they put in recently, and they put them 14 right next to the roadway when it was not necessary to 15 put it next to the roadway. My concern is that when 16 we have a heavy snowfall, they come around and they 17 push the snow, you know, away from the road, but then 18 when they have more time, they come back and they, for 19 lack of a better word, fine-tune it where they lift 20 the snowplow up above the curb and push the top part 21 of the snow bank even further, so then when the next 22 snowfall comes, they have room to push the next 23 snowfall. 24 Also by having the curb right at the 25 street level, if someone skids a few inches, they hit
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 the guardrail. It doesn't give them a little room to 3 skid. If they skid, they hit the guardrail and bounce 4 back to the other car. That is basically it. 5 * * * 6 (PETER SPIRA, 7 171 Cleveland Avenue, Buffalo, New York 14222; 8 phone number: 716-849-3813; 9 email: [email protected].) 10 * * * 11 MR. SPIRA: So I'm opposed to the project. 12 The project seems to be delivering what most people I 13 speak to don't want, and I can only point to the 14 statistics that were sent to me by the DOT that goes 15 over the statistical violations of speed limits on, I 16 think, it was 15 different points on the 198 which 17 range from a low of 34 to, I think, a high of either 18 46 miles per hour or 48 miles per hour, which is over 19 the posted speed limit, which logically only tells me 20 that the people that drive that road, that highway, 21 don't want the speed at 30. 22 I've taken, unfortunately, polls of my 23 neighborhood, which is Cleveland Avenue, and most 24 people I run into, and the vast majority of the people 25 say one or two things when I ask them about the 198.
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 They either say they hate it or they avoid it because 3 it's so cumbersome. 4 We've taken a highway which was perfectly 5 safe at 50 miles per hour and because of a tragedy of 6 a young boy dying, which everyone can say is horrible, 7 and the governor and a few people, as best as I can 8 tell, have capitalized on that and basically given the 9 people what they don't want. They've taken a road, 10 narrowed it; they have taken a road that had entrance 11 ramps and now make people stop, burn more gas, and 12 more of their time. And the arguments have been it's 13 only five more minutes to drive. But that's five 14 minutes of my life and many people that travel it, and 15 people are not looking for spending more time in their 16 car. They are looking at spending more time with 17 family. 18 I look at the price tag of the full 19 project at $100 million which is to be dropped on the 20 taxpayers. We all know that the state spends a lot of 21 money, has a lot of debt, both debt for the general 22 obligations and revenues of the state, as well as 23 unfunded liabilities with pensions and with health 24 care for New York State retirees. And so now we're 25 going to take another $100 million, float a bond, so
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 borrow from institutions and individuals to then pay 3 for what we don't have in the bank. 4 Even when I make these comments my sense 5 is the fix is in. It doesn't matter what people in 6 opposition say. We're going to be given a 30 miles 7 per hour road or street or boulevard when we want a 8 highway. There's not a single east-west road that 9 allows people to drive the city efficiently. The 198 10 is the only one. Inside the city there isn't a 11 north-south street that runs where the lights will be 12 timed so someone can travel efficiently in the city, 13 with the exception of downtown Oak and Elm. Those are 14 the only two streets I know of that, if you drive the 15 speed limit, you will be able to go through green 16 lights throughout. 17 So when you remove the Scajaquada, now 18 you're down to no longer having an east-west 19 thoroughfare. Now you're trapped in a city with 20 streets that are inefficient, lights that aren't 21 timed -- and I've always been told there's no money 22 for it. Well, we certainly seem to be finding 23 $100 million to fix a road that's perfectly 24 acceptable, seemingly to most of the people that drive 25 it, though favored by a very minor number of people
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 that are apparently making the decisions who know 3 better than the people. 4 I'd urge you to revisit this, although as 5 I say it, I don't think it makes a difference. We 6 want a road back at 50 miles per hour. We don't want 7 to spend $100 million to reconstruct a perfectly good 8 road. And by installing a guardrail you avert any 9 other tragedy, yet instead, you decided to do what you 10 want rather than what the majority of the people want. 11 * * * 12 (LYNN SIRADAS, 13 14 Meadowview Place, Buffalo, New York 14214; 14 phone number: 716-359-5721; 15 email: [email protected].) 16 * * * 17 MS. SIRADAS: I've been a resident of the 18 neighborhood that is adjacent to the 198 for 19 approximately 26 years, so I look right at the 198 on 20 a daily basis. It's within feet of my house. In the 21 past maybe six years we've had to pull a man out of 22 his car who came flying off the road and wrapped his 23 car around a tree. Four of the neighbors, myself 24 included, went out to get him out of his car that was 25 completely smashed.
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 And just before the little boy was killed 3 that winter before, a car traveling westbound went 4 through the light at Parkside, across the greenway, 5 onto Meadowview, hit a parked car and the car that was 6 parked landed one quarter of an inch from the front of 7 my house. That's how fast it was moving. We, in the 8 neighborhood, have been asking for changes to occur 9 for a number of years. And we're just hopeful that 10 they can remove the road from the middle of the park 11 and either, you know, remove the highway from the park 12 and either turn it into a reasonable road where we 13 don't have to feel threatened by walking out our front 14 door. 15 And even driving 30 now, if you drive 30 16 on that road right now, you can get hurt. People are 17 still moving way too fast. So I guess that's all I 18 have to say. I just really think the road needs to be 19 removed or replaced by a slow parkway, not a highway 20 or expressway. 21 Call it what you will. It's got to slow 22 down, and it's got to be made so that you're unable to 23 speed. It can look pretty, but people are still able 24 to go very fast on the street. 25 * * *
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 (MONICA YURKO, 3 55 Burbank Terrace, Buffalo, New York 14214; 4 phone number: 716-704-9767.) 5 * * * 6 MS. YURKO: I just don't understand why we 7 can rip out the parkway and we can't fix this. We're 8 finally starting to do something. A child has died; 9 more will happen. People are not going 30 miles per 10 hour. No one is policing it. It's not getting 11 better. It's going back to the way it was, and until 12 something tragic happens, I'm afraid nothing will 13 happen and that's terrible. 14 So, no, I'd like it gone. I'm done with 15 the nice median. Let's make a street. No. Get rid 16 of it. I don't think the tunnel idea will work. The 17 gentleman downstairs was saying we should dig a tunnel 18 and bury it. I don't think that's going to work. 19 It's a good thought but -- so I'm afraid I've moved to 20 get rid of it because we live half a block from it. 21 You can see our house from the Parkside intersection. 22 So enough. I'm done. That's all. 23 * * * 24 (MONICA RZEPKA, 25 20 Clayton Street, Buffalo, New York 14207.)
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 * * * 3 MS. RZEPKA: I live in Black Rock and use 4 the 198 to the 33 to get to other parts of Buffalo, 5 like the east side, Lovejoy, downtown, and then also 6 get to the immediate suburbs like 7 Cheektowaga-Lancaster. I've lived here since the '80s 8 using the expressways for everything. It's one of the 9 reasons we moved to Buffalo, because we also -- we 10 could live there and come back to Cheektowaga to take 11 care of my grandparents. 12 The lowering of the speed limit affects me 13 negatively. I thought it was a safe expressway 14 compared to the 190 and the 290 and the 90 because 15 it's not an interstate. There's more trucks on those 16 other expressways and less trucks on the 33 and 198, 17 so that is what I would take when I wanted a safe 18 route and I needed to get someplace in a reasonable 19 time. 20 Since the changes to a lower speed limit, 21 there's been at least three occasions where I've 22 gotten into near accidents because of other people, 23 because you're squished together when everyone is 24 going 30, and without that higher speed limit, you 25 can't spread out legally, so you can spread yourself
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 away from somebody and then just drive distance-wise. 3 I would like to keep the expressway 50 4 miles per hour or keep the 30 miles per hour until the 5 Delaware -- tennis courts, and then put it back up to 6 the 50 miles per hour for the rest of it. It does 7 link other expressways through it, so there is 8 commercial traffic that do need to take it. 9 The 198 is important for me since I live 10 in Black Rock, but it's also important to other people 11 in western New York because a lot of people don't live 12 near where they work. So people in Buffalo have to 13 use it to either get to Cheektowaga for jobs, and vice 14 versa, and I'm concerned that a lot of people who want 15 to change this into an Olmsted boulevard don't even 16 use it, don't need to use it, and it seems unfair. 17 One of the reasons why I take the 18 expressways is because since 2005 I've had a back 19 injury with disk problems, so the roads around Buffalo 20 are too broken up and can damage my back. So I try to 21 take the smoothest rides. And the medical campus, one 22 of the reasons that I think they're moving everything 23 down, including the Children's Hospital, to High 24 Street and the medical campus area, is so that 25 everyone can have access because of expressways. So I
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 hope that's a consideration with the 198 that 3 ambulances, which take it all the time, can use it and 4 be able to get the patients as quick as possible to 5 the hospital down at the medical campus so that people 6 north of Parkside have access to the medical campus. 7 Also I had a chance to read the fire 8 and -- and I'm not in favor of bringing things up to 9 grade on the 198 and putting in traffic circles. We 10 already spent taxpayer money to do the Grant Street 11 bridge. Many people, including me, have to avoid 12 traffic circles because we don't feel that they are 13 safe. I avoid the Delaware Street traffic circle 14 because it's dangerous the way people drive it. The 15 only traffic circles I use is Richmond Avenue because 16 there's no traffic. I avoid the Hamburg traffic 17 circles that were put into Hamburg just because people 18 don't know how to drive on it, and they're not safe. 19 So it would be unfair for me to make Grant Street into 20 a traffic circle and unsafe because of the amount of 21 traffic that comes through there. And the bridges 22 should be left as they are above the traffic. 23 * * * 24 (JOSEPH KASPERSKI, 25 600 Main Street, Buffalo, New York 14202;
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 phone number: 585-278-7504.) 3 * * * 4 MR. KASPERSKI: Just remove the road. 5 * * * 6 (ANTHONY HENRY, 7 290 Commonwealth, Buffalo, New York 14213; 8 phone number: 716-982-5873.) 9 * * * 10 MR. HENRY: It was really just one 11 question to ask in this situation. It's very simple. 12 What business does a major thoroughfare have in 13 Olmsted Park, one of the world's most renowned in 14 Architect City Planners, and the answer is absolutely 15 nothing. There is no reason why a road should be 16 slapped right in the middle of what is potentially 17 Buffalo's greatest asset. The Olmsted Park system is 18 something the majority of cities around the world 19 would pay millions to have as one of their features, 20 one of the things that bring people to the city, keep 21 people in the city, create a sense of community, give 22 a positive environment. I think that I am speaking 23 with the majority. 24 I live in Buffalo. I live in the 25 community that is affected by this whole idea, this
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1 PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD - SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR 2 road, misuse of the park, and I talk to people. I 3 talk to my family, friends, et cetera, and not just 4 people from my own background, but I've spoken with 5 people of many backgrounds. People who don't have the 6 same job as me, who aren't in the same immediate 7 community as me, and no matter the background, I mean, 8 there is nobody that understands why a major 9 thoroughfare would be put in the middle of an Olmsted 10 Park. It is void of Olmsted's original plans, and 11 it's really just detrimental to Buffalo all in all in 12 the long run. Nobody wants it. The large majority 13 does not want it. The large majority wants it to be 14 downsized. The large majority wants it to be 15 multi-use if it has to exist. We want pedestrians to 16 be considered, handicapped pedestrians to be 17 considered, bicycles to be considered, public transit 18 to be considered. 19 * * * 20 21 22 23 24 25
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1 2 C E R T I F I C A T I O N STATE OF NEW YORK: 3 COUNTY OF ONTARIO: 4 I, TAMMY B. FIGLER, do hereby certify that 5 I reported in machine shorthand the above-styled 6 cause; and that the foregoing pages were produced by 7 computer-aided transcription (CAT) under my personal 8 supervision and constitute a true and accurate record 9 of the testimony in this proceeding; 10 I further certify that I am not an 11 attorney or counsel of any parties, nor a relative or 12 employee of any attorney or counsel connected with the 13 action, nor financially interested in the action; 14 WITNESS my hand in the City of Farmington, 15 County of Ontario, State of New York. 16 17 18 19 20 21
TAMMY B. FIGLER 24 Freelance Court Reporter and Notary Public No. 01FI4573724 25 in and for Ontario County, New York
ALLIANCE COURT REPORTING, INC. Video Conferencing and Videography Center 585.546.4920 · www.alliancecourtreporting.net · 800.724.0836 APPENDIX G PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
Newsletters New York State Department of Transportation NYS Route 198 Region 5 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor 100 Seneca Street I•190 to NYS Route 33 Buffalo, NY 14203 PIN 5470.22 Return Service Requested Project News Issue 1 March 2008
The Scajaquada Study Is Underway This is the first in a series of newsletters designed to keep the public informed and The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), involved.
is assisting the NYSDOT in conjunction with the Federal Highway Administration with studies and design (FHWA), has begun a study that will build upon past work In This Issue for the Scajaquada Expressway Corridor. conducted by the City of Buffalo and result in the publication Introduction 1 Project News of an Environmental Impact Statement (see page 2 ) for the NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor Project. NEPA, EIS, & Purpose and Need 2
Built in the 1950's and running through the middle of the Project Timeline 2 historic Olmsted•designed Delaware Park, the Scajaquada Alternatives Overview 3 Contacts What's in the Works? Expressway is an Urban Principal Arterial Expressway and part of the National Highway System. This divided highway, with Contact Information 4 The NYSDOT is coordinating with the GBNRTC to obtain traffic grade separated interchanges, carries between 39,000 and Write: projections from the regional travel demand model. This is a tool 80,000 vehicles per day at speeds at or above 50 miles per Mr. Darrell Kaminski, PE used by planners and engineers to forecast traffic volumes and hour between Interstate 190 and New York State Route 33 Regional Design Engineer patterns into the future. The results are based on actual traffic counts, (The Kensington Expressway) each day. NYSDOT Region 5 population changes, land use patterns, and more. The GBNRTC is updating their model based on new traffic counts taken after the 100 Seneca Street This study will examine the feasibility of transforming the physical removal of toll barriers from I•190. The most up to date Buffalo, NY 14203 information will be used to evaluate alternatives for the Scajaquada Scajaquada Expressway into a feasible and prudent principal Attention: Mr. Craig Mozrall, PE Expressway. We are also refining the Purpose and Need Statement urban arterial (non•expressway) facility that is more in and beginning the cultural resources review process. harmony with the surrounding community character and Call or E•mail: natural environment. The reconfigured facility shouldThe study area covers 3.3 miles of the Stakeholder Group Members: Our next meeting Mr. Craig Mozrall, PE Scajaquada Expressway between the Interstate is planned for spring 2008. Looking forward to provide improved visual and functional connectivity between Assistant Regional Design Engineer 190 and Route 33 interchanges. No work is seeing you there! the various features and adjacent resources for motorists, planned on these interchanges as part of this NYSDOT Region 5 bicyclists and pedestrians. Those resources include Delaware 100 Seneca Street The Scajaquada Corridor project will offer many project. The viaduct at the project’s western Park, Forest Lawn Cemetery, and Scajaquada Creek. end recently underwent rehabilitation and Buffalo, NY 14203 opportunities to learn more about the study and separate work is planned for a bridge provide input through public meetings, stakeholder (716) 847•3033 connecting eastbound NYS Route 33 (the [email protected] consultation, and other means. Stay informed by Kensington Expressway) to NYS Route 198. signing up for our mailing list (see contact NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF Scajaquada Project News www.NYSDOT.gov/scajaquadacorridor information at left) or visiting us online at ... TRANSPORTATION 1 Issue I 4 March 2008 www.NYSDOT.gov/Scajaquadacorridor. Project Timeline Who is involved?
You— The Public! March 2007: Ongoing: Data Fall 2008: Establish 2010: Complete 2011: Publish Final 2013: Complete 2014: Begin Study Begins Collection and Purpose & Need preliminary engineering Environmental Impact Detailed Design Construction The New York State Department analysis. studies and designs. Statement of Transportation (NYSDOT) and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) are joint lead agencies. Don’t forget your umbrella: Scajaquada: 2007 in review Watching the cars go by NEPA, EIS, & Purpose and Need Other local transportation March: Study gets underway agencies include the Greater NEPA stands for the National · A recommended course of Buffalo Niagara Transportation April: Data collection efforts begin and Environmental Policy Act of 1969. action based on the benefits Council (GBNRTC), City of Buffalo project website goes online. It requires an interdisciplinary and impacts identified by the Department of Public Works, and approach to the planning and study in relation to theMay: Project Stakeholder group is formed and Erie County Department of Public decision making process for any Purpose and Need. meets for the first time Works.. action that would adversely June: Project team attends environmental kick•off meeting. At the heart of an EIS is a Agencies such as the New York impact the environment. The Initial field traffic data collection completed. statement of the project’s State Department of process is designed to help Purpose and Need. This statement August: A traffic forecasting plan is put in place for the Environmental Conservation and decision makers quantify the establishes why an action must be Scajaquada corridor the United States Army Corps of benefits • and the impacts • of undertaken and is necessary to Engineers will provide potential solutions to September: Stakeholder group meets to tour the entire study determine what are the environmental review and permit transportation challenges. area reasonable, prudent, and administration. There are also many otherpracticable alternatives. October: Traffic re•counted after physical removal o f toll barriers on I•190. State and local elected Officials Federal and State regulations You can view up to the minute traffic The NYSDOT, FHWA, involved include representatives of the that must be addressed as part of November: First Public Scoping Meeting is held at Medaille conditions on the Scajaquada Expressway agencies, stakeholder group, and Buffalo Common Council and the the project development College at Parkside Avenue and around New York the public will each have an Mayor’s office. process, or in other words, State by going to the following link: “covered by the NEPA umbrella.” opportunity to provide input to Development of Alternatives We have also organized a project the Purpose and Need statement http://www3.travelinfony.com/carsgoogle Stakeholder Group. Over 30 Major transportation projects as it evolves over time. The Alternatives will be developed to evaluate the feasibility of individuals and organizations must begin with an current Purpose and Needtransforming the Scajaquada Expressway corridor, building have been invited to participate Environmental Impact Statement statement for the project on is the area’s historic and cultural character, while meeting first hand in the project process, (EIS). An EIS is a complex available at www.NYSDOT.gov/ the needs of motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. The provide input, and review project document covering: Scajaquadacorridor. Please visit concepts studied by the City of Buffalo and documented in milestones. You can find a the website and send anyits 2005 planning report will be used as a starting point. · Whether there is a complete list of stakeholder group comments you have. transportation need and how The "no action" alternative will be included as a basis for members at www.NYSDOT.gov/ significant it is; Due to the complexity of the comparison of the build alternatives. Build alternatives would Scajaquadacorridor. issues at hand and the number of effectively change the roadway's functional classification, Consulting Parties · The potential alternatives exist detailed studies to be completed, reduce operating speeds, and improve safety between I•190 for addressing the need, the NYSDOT expects to publish and Route 33. In each case, the reconstructed roadway might Are you a member of an organization or including the alternative of the Final EIS for the Scajaquada include new curbs, highway drainage, sidewalks, bicycle an individual well•versed in doing nothing; Corridor in 2011. There will be paths, and shared•use facilities. Lighting, signing, and archaeological or historic resources and many opportunities for the public landscaping would also be enhanced. · The potential impacts that may interested in a more detailed review of to offer input over the next the Scajaquada Corridor project under result from each alternative Today the posted speed limit is 50 miles per hour. The several years. the National Historic Preservation act? If considered; and NYSDOT will investigate alternatives that promote the so, please contact the NYSDOT for more reduction of that speed limit to between 45 and 30 miles per information (see reverse) on how you can hour using geometry and roadside elements. The study will Scajaquada Creek is considered an become part of the Scajaquada team. also investigate the possibility of replacing grade separated important natural resource within 2 interchanges with signalized intersections or modern the project corridor 3 roundabouts. NYS Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor I•190 to NYS Route 33 PIN 5470.22 Project News Issue 2 September 2009
Project Background This is the second in a series of newsletters designed to keep the public informed and The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), involved. in conjunction with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), is continuing our study of the NYS Route 198In This Issue (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor . Background 1
Built in the 1950's and running through the middle of the Contact Information 1 historic Olmsted•designed Delaware Park, the Scajaquada Expressway is an Urban Principal Arterial Expressway and part Interactive Design Workshops 2 of the National Highway System. This divided highway, with grade separated interchanges, carries between 37,000 and 65,000 vehicles per day at speeds at or above 50 miles per hour between Interstate 190 and New York State Route 33 (The Kensington Expressway) each day.
The project team is examining the feasibility of transforming the Scajaquada Expressway into a feasible and prudent principal urban arterial (non•expressway) facility that is more in harmony with the surrounding community character and For More Information natural environment. The reconfigured facility should provide improved visual and functional connectivity between the various features and adjacent resources for motorists, Call or E•mail: bicyclists and pedestrians. Those resources include Delaware Mr. Craig Mozrall, PE Park, Forest Lawn Cemetery, and Scajaquada Creek. Assistant Regional Design Engineer NYSDOT Region 5 100 Seneca Street Buffalo, NY 14203 (716) 847•3033
NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF www.NYSDOT.gov/scajaquadacorridor TRANSPORTATION 1 New York State Department of Transportation Region 5 100 Seneca Street Buffalo, NY 14203 Return Service Requested
Public Workshop Series Begins September 16th
You’re Invited to a series of interactive design improve safety, connectivity, and to bring the workshops that will help shape the future of the facility into better harmony with the surrounding Scajaquada Corridor. community character and natural environment.
The project team has held a series of stakeholder At the conclusion of the breakout session, groups group meetings, including a walking tour of the will report back. There will also be time for Scajaquada Expressway, gathered public input, discussion, to identify common points, and to conducted field work, and collected databuild consensus. throughout the corridor. With a preliminary understanding of the study areas’ physicalEach meeting will focus on a segment of the context, issues, and opportunities, its time to corridor, allowing us to probe the issues and begin collaborating on the development ofopportunities unique to each area and to tap the alternative solutions. experiences of those who live, learn, work, and play in the immediate vicinity. These workshops present an opportunity for the community to take an active role in guiding the The first two workshops have been scheduled for: future of the Scajaquada Expressway Corridor and to provide immediate and dynamic feedback on Interactive Design Workshop Number 1 conceptual solutions. The goal is to developFocus on I•190 to Elmwood Avenue usable outcomes, responsive to the community’s Wednesday September 16, 2009 needs , that will inform the project team as we 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM move forward with preliminary design. Burchfield Penney Art Center 1300 Elmwood Avenue Each meeting will begin with a brief presentation Buffalo to the group as a whole. This will help familiarize those who may not have participated in theInteractive Design Workshop Number 2 project before with its purpose and need. Focus on Parkside Avenue to NYS Route 33 Wednesday November 4, 2009 Attendees will then break into smaller groups for 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM a “thinking session,” each facilitated by a member St. Mary’s School for the Deaf of the project team. Each group will brainstorm 2253 Main Street ideas, talk about concepts, and proposeBuffalo improvements that work close up (for pedestrians and bicyclists) and far away (for motorists,We look forward to seeing you there! commuters, and trucks). We will look for ways to
The study area covers 3.3 miles of the Scajaquada Expressway (NYS Route 198) between the Interstate Scajaquada Project News 190 and NYS Route 33 interchanges. Phased Issue 2 construction is planned to begin in 2015. September 2009 2 www.NYSDOT.gov/Scajaquadacorridor. APPENDIX G PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
Press Releases FOR RELEASE: IMMEDIATE CONTACT: Susan Surdej Tuesday, October 23, 2007 716•847•3239
NYSDOT TO HOST A SCOPING MEETING ON SCAJAQUADA EXPRESSWAY PROJECT Wednesday, November 28 at 6 p.m. at Medaille College Lecture Hall
The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) Regional Director Alan E. Taylor, in cooperation with the Federal Highway Administration, today announced that an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will be prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)/SEQR on the NY Route 198 (Scajaquada Expressway) Corridor project in the City of Buffalo, Erie County.
NY Route 198 is an Urban Principal Arterial Expressway on the National Highway System connecting Interstate 190 and NY Route 33 (Kensington Expressway), with traffic volumes between 34,000 and 54,000 vehicles per day, a design speed of 55 mph, and grade separated interchanges. The Scajaquada Expressway is subject to congestion and higher than expected accidents rates. There are also areas of poor pavement conditions and failing drainage systems. The expressway facility is at odds with the context of the surrounding culturally rich community resources, including a nationally renowned art gallery, an historic Olmsted•designed park, an historic cemetery, historic buildings, higher education institutions and residential neighborhoods. The Scajaquada Expressway acts as a barrier, dividing the park and hindering the use of these resources by the community, including pedestrians and bicyclists. A transportation facility is needed that balances the need to be in harmony with the surrounding community character with the need to provide safe and efficient transportation service for all modes of transportation through the affected area.
The range of alternatives will include no action and give consideration to design components derived from a previous study that investigated changing the expressway character of the existing facility by eliminating grade separated interchanges and providing design elements appropriate to an arterial, including at•grade intersections with signals or roundabouts. Alternatives studied may include rehabilitation of the existing roadway, as well as full reconstruction including new curbs, highway drainage, sidewalks, bicycle paths and shared•use facilities, improved highway lighting and signing, and landscape enhancements. Areas of concern emphasized in the study will include potential environmental impacts upon the adjacent
•more• neighborhoods, parks, cultural resources, air quality and surface waters from construction, traffic and traffic noise. Additional input from Participating and Cooperating Agencies, and from the public, will be necessary before a final decision will be made regarding the full range of alternatives to be studied.
A series of public information meetings will be held in the City of Buffalo between November 2007 and February 2010, including a public hearing. Public notice will be given of the time and place of the meetings and hearing. The Draft EIS, when prepared, will be available for public and agency review and comment.
A formal NEPA scoping meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 28, 2007, between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. at Medaille College Lecture Hall, located at 18 Agassiz Circle in the City of Buffalo. The meeting will be an informal open house with a brief formal presentation at 6:30 p.m. Department of Transportation representatives will be present to receive comments and answer individual questions.
For further information, or to request a sign language interpreter or assistive listening device system, please contact Craig Mozrall, Assistant Regional Design Engineer, at (716) 847• 3033.
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Contact: Susan Surdej, (716) 847-3239 Release Date: September 11, 2009
NYSDOT TO HOST PUBLIC DESIGN WORKSHOPS ON SCAJAQUADA EXPRESSWAY PROJECT
Wednesday, September 16 at 6:30 p.m. at Burchfield Penney Art Center The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), in conjunction with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), will host two public design workshops on the continuing study of the NY Route 198 corridor, Scajaquada Expressway, in the city of Buffalo, Erie County.
The project team is examining the feasibility of transforming the Scajaquada Expressway into a non-expressway facility that is more in harmony with the surrounding community character and natural environment. The public is invited to a series of interactive design workshops that will help shape the future of the Scajaquada Corridor.
The first workshop will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2009, between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. at the Burchfield Penney Art Center, located at 1300 Elmwood Avenue in the city of Buffalo. It will focus on the segment of the corridor from Interstate 190 to Elmwood Avenue, allowing the project team to probe the issues and opportunities unique to each area, and to tap the experiences of those who live, learn, work, and play in the immediate vicinity.
A second workshop, focusing on the segment of the Scajaquada Expressway corridor from Parkside Avenue to NY Route 33, Kensington Expressway, will take place Wednesday, November 4, 2009, between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s School for the Deaf, located at 2253 Main Street in the city of Buffalo.
These workshops present an opportunity for the community to take an active role in guiding the future of the Scajaquada Expressway Corridor, to provide immediate and dynamic feedback on conceptual solutions and help develop usable outcomes that are responsive to the community’s needs.
For further information, or to request a sign language interpreter or assistive listening device system, please contact Craig Mozrall, assistant regional design engineer at (716) 847-3033 or write to the New York State Department of Transportation, 100 Seneca Street, Buffalo, New York 14203 and reference Project Identification Number 5470.22.
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FOR RELEASE: IMMEDIATE CONTACT: Susan Surdej Wednesday, October 28, 2009 (716) 847-3239
NYSDOT TO HOST SECOND PUBLIC DESIGN WORKSHOP ON SCAJAQUADA EXPRESSWAY CORRIDOR PROJECT Wednesday, November 4 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s School for the Deaf
The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), in conjunction with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), will host the second in a series of public design workshops on the continuing study of the NY Route 198 corridor, Scajaquada Expressway, in the city of Buffalo, Erie County.
The project team is examining the feasibility of transforming the Scajaquada Expressway into a non-expressway facility that is more in harmony with the surrounding community character and natural environment.
This workshop will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2009, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.at St. Mary's School for the Deaf, located at 2253 Main Street in the city of Buffalo. It will focus on the segment of the corridor from the Parkside area to the NY Route 198 interchange with NY Route 33.
The public workshop presents an opportunity for the community to take an active role in guiding the future of the Scajaquada Expressway Corridor, to provide immediate and dynamic feedback on conceptual solutions and help develop usable outcomes that are responsive to the community’s needs.
For further information, or to request a sign language interpreter or assistive listening device system, please contact Craig Mozrall, assistant regional design engineer, at (716) 847- 3033, or write to the New York State Department of Transportation, 100 Seneca Street, Buffalo, New York 14203 and reference Project Identification Number 5470.22.
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Contact: Susan Surdej, (716) 847-3239 Release Date: April 04, 2014
PUBLIC MEETING ON SCAJAQUADA EXPRESSWAY PROJECT SESSION SET FOR WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9 AT 5 P.M. AT BUFFALO STATE COLLEGE
NYSDOT TO HOST PUBLIC MEETING ON SCAJAQUADA EXPRESSWAY PROJECT Session Set for Wednesday, April 9 at 5 p.m. at Buffalo State College
The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) ), in partnership with New York State Assemblyman Sean Ryan, will host a public meeting on Wednesday, April 9, 2014, to discuss a proposed project to transform NY Route 198, the Scajaquada Expressway, from an urban expressway to an urban boulevard in the city of Buffalo, Erie County.
The information session will run from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Bulger Communications Center at Buffalo State College, located at 1300 Elmwood Avenue in the city of Buffalo. The meeting will include informational displays and a formal presentation on the project, which will start at 6 p.m. Department representatives will be present to receive comments and answer individual questions.
The purpose of this project is to transform the Scajaquada Expressway into a functional urban boulevard that operates in a safe manner, and is in greater harmony with the surrounding community character and natural environment. This involves providing improved visual and functional connectivity between the various features and resources throughout the adjacent area. Vehicular, bicycle, pedestrian and public transportation would be better connected to provide additional opportunities for public access.
The purpose of the meeting is to obtain comments on the transportation alternatives being studied from individuals, groups, officials and local agencies.
For further information, or to request a sign language interpreter or assistive listening system, please contact Frank Billittier, assistant design engineer, at (716) 847-3222, or write to the New York State Department of Transportation, 100 Seneca Street, Buffalo, New York 14203, and reference Project Identification Number 5470.22.
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Contact: Susan Surdej, (716) 847-3239 Release Date: August 31, 2015
STATE DOT TO HOST PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING ON SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR PROJECT
Session Set for Wednesday, September 16 at 5 p.m. at Frederick Law Olmsted Public School 64, Buffalo
The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) will host a public information meeting on Wednesday, September 16, from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to discuss proposed project alternatives to transform New York Route 198 -- the Scajaquada Expressway -- from an urban expressway to an urban boulevard that is in harmony with the surrounding community in the city of Buffalo, Erie County. The meeting will be held in the auditorium at Frederick Law Olmsted Public School 64, located at 874 Amherst Street at Lincoln Parkway in the city of Buffalo.
The meeting will include an informal open house with displays about the proposed project. A formal presentation and panel discussion about project objectives and the alternatives being studied is scheduled for 7 p.m. State Department of Transportation representatives will be available to receive public comments and answer questions.
NYSDOT has conducted a thorough analysis of several options to reconfigure the Scajaquada Expressway Corridor, engaging elected officials and the community. The Department presented its findings at a public meeting in April 2014. At that meeting, state and local elected officials and community representatives asked that NYSDOT consider two additional alternatives. The new alternatives would reduce the Scajaquada Corridor to one lane in each direction with a 30 mile per hour speed limit or completely remove the Scajaquada Corridor between Elmwood and Parkside Avenues. NYSDOT has completed its evaluation of those proposals and will present its findings at the upcoming public meeting.
An overview of the safety and traffic calming improvements being implemented on the corridor this year also will be presented.
Governor Cuomo ordered NYSDOT to reduce the speed limit on the Scajaquada Corridor from 50 miles per hour to 30 miles per hour on May 31, a day after a 3-year-old boy was killed and his 5-year-old sister was seriously injured when a car jumped the curb and struck the children inside Delaware Park. Additional safety improvements are scheduled to be implemented during this construction season and completed this year.
NYSDOT also has initiated the process to change the functional classification of the roadway as a “principal urban arterial – expressway.” The new classification will be determined through study and discussions with elected officials, the public and other stakeholders. The classification helps determine the role of the roadway, its design, speed limits and future development. The reclassification is intended to help bring the roadway into harmony with Delaware Park and other adjacent properties.
Additional safety improvements implemented this year include:
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◾ Guide rail was installed in June to separate vehicle and pedestrian traffic. A permanent guide rail system is being designed that will be more in keeping with the aesthetics of the Frederick Law Olmsted-designed Delaware Park. ◾ To calm traffic, the roadway was restriped in August to create narrower lanes, hatched striping on wide areas of the shoulders was added to provide additional visual cues to motorists, and “stop” signs were installed to replace “merge” signs at ramps. ◾ Temporary, flashing speed notification signs were installed in June. Permanent “Reduced Speed Ahead” signs with flashing beacons will be installed this fall to provide advanced warning of the lowered speed limit. ◾ New signal controlled pedestrian crossings with raised, high visibility crosswalks will be installed this fall. New pathways also will be constructed connecting these signalized crossings to existing pedestrian and bicycle paths inside of Delaware Park.
For further information, or to request a sign language interpreter or assistive listening system, please contact Craig Mozrall, regional special projects manager, at (716) 847-3238, or write to the New York State Department of Transportation, 100 Seneca Street, Buffalo, New York 14203.
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https://www.dot.ny.gov/portal/page/portal/news/press-releases/2015/2015-08-31 8/17/2016 The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) Invites all interested individuals to join us at a Public Information Meeting Scajaquada Corridor (NY Route 198) Project Project Identification No. 5470.22 Wednesday, February 10, 2016 7:00 to 8:30 PM
Buffalo State College Bulger Communication Center (Bulger North Hall) 1300 Elmwood Avenue Buffalo, NY 14222 1300 ELMWOOD AVENUE BUFFALO, NY 14222 Doors will open at 6:30 PM. The formal presentation will begin at 7:00 PM. If you need a sign language interpreter or have special needs, please contact the NYSDOT Special Projects Manager, Mr. Renjit James, at 716-847-3238 before February 8, 2016. DELIVER TO:OPENHOUSE/SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR ADVERTISER: NYS DEPTOFTRANSPORTATI START DATE:05/12/16 SALES PERSON: BU41 SIZE: colX 5.387X5 in ID: BU-1226575 (100%)
BU-1226575 2017-08-02 Page 1 of 3
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Contact: Susan Surdej, (716) 847-3239 Release Date: August 02, 2017
NYSDOT TO HOST PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING ON SCAJAQUADA CORRIDOR PROJECT
Session Set for Tuesday, August 8 at 5:30 p.m. at Buffalo State College
The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) will host a public information meeting on Tuesday, August 8, 2017, between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. to present the proposed project to transform NY Route 198, the Scajaquada Expressway, from an urban expressway into an urban boulevard in the city of Buffalo, Erie County.
The public information meeting will be held in the Bulger Communications Center at Buffalo State College, located at 1300 Elmwood Avenue in the city of Buffalo. The meeting will be an informal open house with displays for the proposed project. A presentation on the evolution of the proposed project design will take place at 6:00 p.m.
After years of hard work and community discussions focused on creating a roadway that considers all users, enhances safety and better fits with the character of historic Delaware Park, the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the project was issued in November 2016.
Last January, NYSDOT presented the proposed design alternatives from the DEIS at a formal public hearing. The project design has been further refined after considering comments received from stakeholders since the release of the DEIS. The Buffalo community has significantly shaped the project.
The purpose of the meeting is to present the current project design for the Scajaquada Corridor to the community, before the Final Environmental Impact Statement is issued.
For further information, or to request a sign language interpreter or assistive listening system, please contact Renjit James, assistant regional special projects manager, at (716) 847-3238, or write to the New York State Department of Transportation, 100 Seneca Street, Buffalo, New York 14203, and reference Project identification Number 5470.22.
For further information, including project updates, please visit the project website at www.dot.ny.gov/scajaquadacorridor.
Follow New York State DOT on Twitter: @NYSDOT and @NYSDOTBuffalo. Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/NYSDOT.
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https://www.dot.ny.gov/news/press-releases/2017/2017-08-02 9/20/2017 APPENDIX G PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
Legal Notices Notice of Rescheduled Public Hearing New York State Department of Transportation Project Identification No. 5470.22 NY Route 198, Scajaquada Corridor Project
In accordance with the provisions of Title 23, U.S. Code, Section 128 and Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 1500 to 1508: a design public hearing will be conducted by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) for the NY Route 198 (Scajaquada Corridor) project. The hearing originally scheduled for December 14, 2016 has been rescheduled to January 25, 2017 at Fredrick Law Olmsted Public School 64 Auditorium, 874 Amherst Street at Lincoln Parkway, Buffalo, NY 14216, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The project would provide geometric and operational improvements to NY Route 198 in its current location from the Grant Street interchange to the Parkside Avenue intersection, including the segment through Delaware Park. These improvements would be made while maintaining local connectivity and a critical transportation link between Interstate 190 and NY Route 33 (Kensington Expressway) while providing enhanced compatibility with adjacent land uses. The total length of the project is 2.2+/- miles, all within the City of Buffalo.
Design plans for the project have been developed by NYSDOT after coordination with federal, state, local agencies and the public, and will be available for inspection at the public hearing. Department staff will be on hand at 4:30 p.m., one hour prior to the start of the hearing, to discuss the project and answer any questions. Tentative schedules for right–of-way acquisition and construction will be discussed. No relocations are anticipated with this project.
Maps, drawings and other pertinent information developed by NYSDOT, and comments received as a result of the coordination with federal, state and local agencies, is available for public inspection and copying at the Office of the Regional Director, New York State Department of Transportation, 100 Seneca Street, Buffalo, New York, 14203.
The documents are also available electronically on the project website: https://www.dot.ny.gov/scajaquadacorridor.
All interested persons will be given the opportunity to express their views concerning the design plans, their impact on the environment and their consistency with the goals and objectives of such planning as has been promulgated by the community. The proceedings will be recorded. Persons may file written statements and other exhibits in place of or in addition to oral statements made at the public hearing. Written statements submitted at the hearing, emailed to [email protected] or mailed and received before February 08, 2017 at the Regional Director’s Office will be made part of the record.
Those property owners who may subsequently wish to challenge condemnation of their property via judicial review under the Eminent Domain Procedure Law (EDPL) may do so only on the basis of issues, facts and objections raised at the hearing.
Please advise this office if a sign language interpreter, an assistive listening system, or any other accommodation will be required to facilitate your participation in this public hearing. Our contact person is Mr. Renjit James, whose telephone number is 716-847-3238.
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Non-TDD user to TDD User- 1-800-421-1220 TDD User to Non-TDD User- 1-800-662-1220 Notificación sobre Reprogramación de Audiencia Pública Departamento de Transporte del Estado de New York (New York State Department of Transportation) Identificación del Proyecto NO. 5470.22. NY Route 198, Proyecto del Corredor Scajaquada
De conformidad con las disposiciones del Título 23, Código de los Estados Unidos, Sección 128 y Título 40, Código de Reglamentos Federales, Partes 1500 a 1508: El Departamento de Transporte del Estado de New York (New York State Department of Transportation, NYSDOT) llevará a cabo una audiencia pública sobre el diseño del proyecto NY Route 198 (Scajaquada Corridor). La audiencia originalmente programada para el 14 de diciembre de 2016 ha sido reprogramada para el 25 de enero de 2017 a partir de las 5:30 p.m. en el Auditorio de la escuela Fredrick Law Olmsted Public School 64, en la siguiente dirección: 874 Amherst Street at Lincoln Parkway, Buffalo, NY 14216. El proyecto proporcionaría mejoras geométricas y de funcionamiento a NY Route 198 en su ubicación actual, a partir del intercambiador en Grant Street hasta la intersección con Parkside Avenue, incluyendo el segmento a través de Delaware Park. Esas mejoras se harían manteniendo la conectividad local así como un crítico enlace de transporte entre la Interestatal 190 y NY Route 33 (Kensington Expressway) suministrando a la vez una mayor compatibilidad con los usos de la tierra adyacentes. La longitud total del proyecto es de aproximadamente 2.2 millas, todo dentro de la Ciudad de Buffalo.
NYSDOT desarrolló los planes de diseño para el proyecto luego de una coordinación con las agencias federales, estatales y locales, y con el público, y estarán disponibles para su inspección durante la audiencia pública. Una hora antes del comienzo de la audiencia, a las 4:30 p. m., personal del Departamento estará a la disposición para hablar sobre el proyecto y contestar cualquier pregunta. Se estudiarán las fechas tentativas para la adquisición del derecho de paso y la construcción. No se prevén reubicaciones con este proyecto.
Se encuentran disponibles mapas, planos y otra información pertinente desarrollada por NYSDOT, y los comentarios recibidos como resultado de la coordinación con agencias federales, estatales y locales, para inspección y copia por parte del público en la Oficina del Director Regional (Office of the Regional Director), New York State Department of Transportation, 100 Seneca Street, Buffalo, New York, 14203.
Los documentos también están disponibles electrónicamente en el sitio web del proyecto: https://www.dot.ny.gov/scajaquadacorridor.
Todas las personas interesadas tendrán la oportunidad de expresar sus puntos de vista con respecto a los planes de diseño, su impacto sobre el medio ambiente y su adherencia a las metas y objetivos de tal planificación tal y como ha sido promulgada por la comunidad. Los eventos serán grabados. En lugar de declaraciones orales hechas en la audiencia pública, o además de ellas, las personas podrán hacer declaraciones escritas u otras presentaciones. Las declaraciones escritas presentadas en la audiencia, enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected] o enviadas por correo y recibidas antes del 8 de febrero de 2017 en la Oficina del Director Regional (Regional Director’s Office) serán incluidas en el registro.
Aquellos propietarios que posteriormente deseen impugnar la condena de sus propiedades a través de una revisión judicial de acuerdo a la Ley de Procedimiento de Dominio Eminente (Eminent Domain Procedure Law, EDPL) pueden hacerlo sólo sobre la base de problemas, hechos y objeciones planteadas en la audiencia.
Por favor avise a esta oficina si necesita un intérprete de lenguaje de señas, un sistema de ayuda auditiva, o cualquier otro elemento para facilitar su participación en esta audiencia pública. Nuestra persona de contacto es el Sr. Renjit James, y su número de teléfono es 716-847-3238.
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