Reagan Transit Corridor Project” Is a Proposed Surface Transportation Infrastructure Project in the City of Dixon of Lee REAGAN County, Illinois

“The Reagan Transit Corridor Project” is a proposed surface transportation infrastructure project in the City of Dixon of Lee REAGAN County, Illinois.

The $12,861,224.00 proposal will construct a new pedestrian multi- TRANSIT use bridge over the Rock River on abandoned railroad piers and track, develop 2.75 miles of multi-use pathways and reconstruct and CORRIDOR widen East River Street, a high volume arterial road. As a rural project not required to provide matching non-federal funds, project developers of this application nevertheless have PROJECT secured $2.896 million in local non-federal funds; representing 22.52% of the entire budget.

168 short-term construction jobs will be generated by the project, with the potential of adding 578 long-term positions through new commercial development.

The benefit cost analysis overall for the “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” is 2.69 (3% discounted) and 1.96(7% discounted). The project has significant local support of the City of Dixon, Lee County, TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application local fire and law enforcement, healthcare and private industry.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DESCRIPTION Page # Table of Contents 1 1. Executive Summary/Key Findings 2 2. Project Overview 2 3. Public Benefits 2-3 4. I. Project Description 3-4 5. - Transportation Challenges 4 6. - Transportation Strengths 4-5 7. - Components of the Reagan Transit Corridor Project 5 8. 1. East River Street project 5-6 9. 2. Eagle View Bridge project 6-8 10. II. Project Parties 8-9 11. III. Grant Funds and sources/Uses of Project Funds 9 12. - Committed Non-federal Funds 9-10 13. - Component Project Budgets 10 14. 1. East River Street Project budget 10-11 15. 2. Eagle View Bridge budget 11-12 16. IV. Selection Criteria 12 17. a. Long-term outcomes 12 18. i. State of Good Repair 12-13 19. ii. Economic Competitiveness 13-14 20. iii. Livability 14-15 21. iv. Sustainability 15-16 22. v. Safety 16 23. b. Job Creation and Near-Term Economic Activity 16-17 24. c. Innovation 17 25. d. Partnership 17-18 26. e. Results of Benefit-Cost Analysis 18-20 27. V. Project Readiness and NEPA 21 28. - Legislative approvals and state/local planning 21 29. - Technical Feasibility 21-22 30. - Financial Feasibility 22 31. VI. Federal Wage Rate Certification 22

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY/KEY FINDINGS The City of Dixon is proposing a multi-modal project (“Reagan Transit Corridor Project”) for consideration under the Fiscal Year 2013 TIGER Discretionary Grants program in the amount of $12,861,224. This project will include the construct a new pedestrian multi-use bridge over the

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 2 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application Rock River on abandoned railroad piers and track, develop 2.75 miles of multi-use pathways and reconstruct and widen East River Street, a high volume arterial road. This project qualifies as a rural initiative and is located in an economically distressed county. While no match is required under the guidelines of the FY ’13 TIGER program, the City of Dixon and its partner organizations have been able to secure $2,896,920 in non-federal funds to offset 22.52% of the associated costs of this project.

PROJECT OVERVIEW 1. FY ‘13 TIGER funds will enable developers of the Reagan Transit Corridor to make necessary and lasting upgrades to the surface transportation infrastructure that will support economically sustainable operations for at least the next 20 years. Funds received from FY ‘13 TIGER will re-construct and/or widen one high volume main arterial roads (East River Street) and develop 2.75 miles of bike and multi-use pathways. 2. The “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” meets all Primary Selection Criteria (State of Good Repair, Economic Competitiveness, Livability, Environmental Sustainability and Safety) and Secondary Selection Criteria (Innovation and Partnership) in the FY ‘13 TIGER application including Job Creation and Economic Stimulus. 3. This project will provide economic stimulus to the City of Dixon and Lee County. The county is an Economically Disadvantaged Area, with an unemployment rate of 8.0% (April, 2013). The area designated for the Reagan Transit Corridor is commercially viable. 4. The project will be ready to build, and has the firm and enthusiastic support of the City of Dixon, Lee County, local and state agencies, and elected officials at the federal, state and local level. 5. As the administrator of this project, the City of Dixon has a proven record of successfully administering federal- and state-funded transportation projects.

PUBLIC BENEFITS As a rural project and even though not required to provide matching non-federal funds, project developers of this application nevertheless have secured $2.896 million in local non-federal funds; representing 22.52% of the entire budget. Quantifiable, conservatively estimated public benefits of the Reagan Transit Corridor are:

• The “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” during the first 20 years will generate total benefits of $11,211,118, for a benefit/cost ratio of 1.96 at a 7% discount rate. The public benefits at a 3% discount rate during the same time period will be an estimated $20,383,132 for a 2.69 benefit/cost ratio.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION TIGER NON- BCA BCA FUNDS FEDERAL (disc. 7%) (disc. 3%) East Reconstruction/widening of East $3,309,304 $ 846,920 2.79 3.95 River River Street; addition of bike/multi- Street use path; replace sanitary/storm lines

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 3 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application Eagle Construction of bike/ multi-use $6,655,000 $2,050,000 1.59 2.15 View pathway

• Create 164,625 recreational user trips of the two (2) multi-use bike pathways. Health benefits are over $699,949 per year for the region with the expansion of the bike paths. • Create 168 new construction jobs that will last 1.5 years, in an Economically Distressed Area – Lee County. Conservatively, an additional 578 jobs could be created as a result of the “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” through new commercial developments. • Reduction of traffic having to be diverted from East River Street during annual flooding of the Rock River.

I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” will be located in rural Dixon, Illinois, in Lee County, Illinois and encompasses the City of Dixon, the county seat. Lee County is identified by the U.S. Census Bureau as a rural/non-urbanized area and a Micropolitan Statistical Area. Located 100 miles west of Chicago, Lee County has a population base of 36,031 (U.S. Census, 2010), while Dixon has 15,733 residents, 43.6% of the county’s population. Lee County is aging, with a median age of 42 years. The 2010 Census showed that the county’s population was spread out with 21.50% under the age of 18, 7.80% from 18 to 24, 24.90% from 25 to 44, 30.00% from 45 to 64, and 15.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median income for a household in the county was $40,967, and the median income for a family was $48,730. The per capita income for the county was $18,650. About 4.90% of families and 7.70% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.40% of those under age 18 and 8.90% of those 65 and over. Interstate 88 bisects Lee County, while Illinois Route 26 and U.S. Route 52 also run through this section of north central Illinois. Interstate 39 and the Union Pacific intermodal facility in nearby Rochelle, Illinois, are also strong assets as the population moves west from Chicago and its suburban collar counties. The City of Rockford sits 50 minutes to the northeast of Dixon; Peoria is an hour and a half drive to the south; while the Quad-Cities area of Illinois and Iowa is an hour’s drive to the southwest. The City of Dixon, Lee County and other Government entities have initiated collaborative studies to develop a Dixon Presidential Parkway Master Plan (June, 2005) for attracting additional economic development along the Interstate 88 corridor and assessing the potential surface transportation infrastructure needs through 2030. This Master Plan and the Traffic Impact Analysis for the I-88 and Galena Avenue Planned Development District (March,2008) are also planning for the eventual population spread westward from Chicago, its collar counties and western suburbs as urban dwellers look for more affordable housing and good school districts. The “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” is a multimodal expansion project of the surface transportation infrastructure in Dixon, Illinois. The “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” will construct a new pedestrian multi-use bridge over the Rock River on abandoned railroad piers and track, develop 2.75 miles of multi-use pathways and reconstruct and widen East River Street, a high volume arterial road. The construction phase of this project will stimulate economic recovery and create jobs in that sector. The long-term impact will witness the creation of a more desirable climate for business and industry, facilitate a greener climate for the transportation sector and spur additional opportunities for accessing employment.

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 4 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application This project is estimated to cost $12.06 million with $9.737 million in FY’13 Tiger funds being requested while project developers have secured $2.323 million in local non-Federal being committed for this rural initiative. The “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” is designed to mitigate current challenges the area faces, as well as enhance its many strengths, as outlined below and found on the City of Dixon website – www.discoverdixon.org

TRANSPORTATION CHALLENGES Antiquated infrastructure. East River Street, a federally designated highway route, running along the south bank of the Rock River between Illinois Route 2 and the Galena Avenue (Route 26) bridge is a main cut across road for many local traffic and small to medium sized trucks heading north on Galena (Route 26). Unfortunately a stretch of East River Street – from Ottawa Avenue to Illinois Route 2 (to the east) – is in dire need of reconstruction and widening. This portion of East River Street is littered with potholes, remnants of abandoned railroad tracks, and antiquated sanitary and storm lines (more than 75 years old) inhibiting this important corridor from realizing its full potential. East River Street is prone to regular flooding – mainly because of the old sanitary and storm lines – closing off the road to vehicle traffic altogether for multiple days. Attracting new business and industry. Lee County, including the City of Dixon, is an economically distressed area and in need of an infusion of new business and industry. During the period of 1999-2009, Lee County lost 1,298 jobs, many in the manufacturing, healthcare and social assistance sectors. In order to be fully prepared for economic growth, the City of Dixon needs to enhance the current surface transportation infrastructure. Dixon is poised to capitalize on one of its key assets, its location within the regional market area. Dixon is likely the most accessible community between Interstate 39 and Interstate 80 along the I-88 tollway corridor. This access component will be important for both industrial and commercial/retail users looking to site their business.

TRANSPORTATION STRENGTHS A classic American City. Dixon has affordable housing, good schools, beautiful parks, the Rock River system, historical sites and excellent roadway connections to the countryside and major metro areas. The city’s downtown and newly re-developed riverfront are located only 1.50 miles from the Interstate 88 interchange. Additionally, Dixon is the front door to all the important agricultural business economy and agricultural tourism interests in a four county area of Illinois. The competition to attract new home buyers to Dixon and Lee County in general is fierce and goes beyond the mere amenities that other cities and counties can offer. A river runs through. The view of the Rock River has been made even more attractive with the development of the City of Dixon’s new Heritage Crossing Riverfront. This venue is an attractive setting for events including weddings and other social gatherings. The Riverfront has served as the backdrop for a Cabela’s King Kat Catfish tournament the past three (3) years and in 2012, was instrumental in bringing Mumford & Sons “Gentleman of the Road” tour to town, an estimated $2 million economic impact. There is growing interest in a landing for boaters who regularly use the Rock River as well as consideration for a future water taxi between Dixon and the cities of Sterling and Rock Falls to the west. Attracting new residents. With a strategic location 100 miles west of Chicago, 50 minutes southwest of Rockford, an hour and a half from Peoria, and an hour travel time

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 5 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application northeast of the Quad-Cities, the City of Dixon is well positioned for growing its population. Within the next 20 years, the population migration westward from Chicago, its collar counties and western suburbs is likely to continue as land values continue to increase, forcing urban dwellers to look for more affordable housing and good schools. Public Transportation. The growing public transportation system, which spans Lee and Ogle Counties, is another attractive resource especially to persons who are conscious about reducing greenhouse gas emissions and those persons who don’t have the financial means to purchase and maintain a vehicle. The current system is expanding at a rate exceeding 10% per year and forecasts are for this growth to continue. Recycling surface transportation infrastructure. The City of Dixon, and Lee County in general, has had a storied history with rail transportation. Illinois Central Rail lines intersect the city on all sides. Only a fraction of these railroad lines are still used. The lines that were long ago abandoned are being used once again for different uses. The Dixon Park District refurbished a stretch of the abandoned railroad lines on the northeast side of Dixon for use by pedestrians and bicyclists. Interest in recent years has grown to refurbish abandoned Illinois Central railroad piers on the Rock River for a new pedestrian path, a situation this project addresses.

COMPONENTS OF THE “REAGAN TRANSIT CORRIDOR PROJECT” 1. Reconstruction and widening of East River Street and development of the “Artesian” bike/ multi-use path The East River Street component of this project calls for the total reconstruction of the street from Ottawa Avenue to Illinois Route 2. This portion of East River Street is on the Federal route system and serves as a significant short cut for traffic from Illinois Route 2. Overall, this stretch of the road is in poor physical condition and littered with pot holes. East River Street is a major connecting route between Route 2 and Galena Avenue (Route 26) especially for local traffic. Small to medium sized trucks are also familiar with East River Street, especially when they are looking to travel north on Illinois Route 26. If this project is not completed the surface transportation infrastructure of this road will continue to deteriorate, threatening the efficiency and safety of this stretch of East River Street for motorists. The frequent flooding of East River Street (as witnessed in the photo to the right) will also subsist if nothing is done; routinely East River Street is flooded with water from heavy rainfall or water backed up from a flooded Rock River. On average east East River Street is closed at least 30 days annually due to standing water, makes it less likely to be taken, causing motorists to detour around a much more circuitous and longer route. East River Street, without much needed infrastructure improvements, will fail in the near term, leading to added flooding concerns and increased maintenance costs. The City of Dixon has agreed to replace the antiquated sanitary and sewer lines prior to the reconstruction and widening of East River Street, with funds secured not through this TIGER application but with other funds secured by the city. Once the East River Street Project (and the sewer/sanitary lines are replaced) the flow of traffic will move along in safer conditions and run off from rainfall will not impede motorists.

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 6 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application East River Street, with about 1,500 feet of frontage along the Rock River is in the Riverfront Development District; so consequently the project includes a pedestrian pathway along East River Street. This secondary component will include the development of the planned “Artesian” multi-use path, which will begin at the pedestrian bridge, continue along the Rock River, through the city’s Riverfront, past the hydroelectric plant, coming to an end at the corporate headquarters of Raynor Manufacturing. The portion of this bike/ pedestrian that will be constructed with TIGER FY’13 funds is from Ottawa Avenue to Raynor Manufacturing. Spanning 1.51 miles, this new pathway will go over abandoned railroad tracks and provide bicyclists, pedestrians with a scenic view of the Rock River. Using conservative estimates, it can be expected that 195 pedestrian trips will occur on this multi-use pathway daily. This estimate is based on two of Lee County’s largest employers – Raynor Manufacturing and KSB Hospital – being located along the bike path, as well as nearby city and county office locations. Collectively these employers have at least 2,017 employees and are supporting a health conscious environment. It is assumed that many of these employees will use the path multiple times a day during breaks and to commute to work. Lighting and safety features are critical components to the “Artesian” multi-use path. The developers of this project have planned for three (3) Code Blue Emergency Stations along the path, which are ADA compliant and have the ability to integrate with a wide array of larger incident response systems, providing first responders with comprehensive tools to offer assistance. Along the path 18 street lights will be installed for the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists and to also increase aesthetics for this stretch of river front. Three (3) bicycle repair stations will be located along the multi-use path. These stations will contain the necessary parts to provide, at a minimum, a temporary fix to a bicycle. Three (3) bike racks will also be spaced periodically along the multi-use path, allowing residents and visitors to stop and visit local businesses or view the river front.

→ Total costs for East River Street reconstruction/widening and the development of the “Artesian” multi-use path is $4,156,224, with the amount being requested through FY’13 TIGER funding at $3,309,304. $846,920 in non-federal funds have been secured for this project. This project will result in an estimated 55 construction jobs, with longer term jobs being developed through new commercial development.

2. Eagle View Bridge and development of the “Dement” Bike/Multi-Use Pathway The City of Dixon currently exhibits a strong local bicycle and pedestrian system with some regional connections in place and others proposed. The recently completed Riverfront in downtown Dixon features new multi-use pathways. These pathways run along the “quad” of the Heritage Crossing Riverfront - on the northern and southern banks of the Rock River and the pathways on the Galena Avenue and Peoria Avenue bridges. The 3.5 mile Lowell Park Bike Path currently acts as a regional connection to areas north of Dixon including the Meadows Trail, Lowell Park, the Village of Woosung and eventually the City of Polo. This TIGER project will involve the construction of two (2) bike/ pedestrian paths. The proposed multi-use pathway along East River Street has been described above. The remaining pathway will include the construction of a bike/ pedestrian bridge over the Rock River and path along the abandoned Illinois Central railroad tracks south to 7th Street. This Eagle View Bridge and adjoining pedestrian multi-use pathway will be a striking addition to Dixon’s Riverfront. The

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 7 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application project will modify the existing abandoned Illinois Central Railway pier structure which spans the Rock River and dates back to the 1890s. The bridge project (as shown to the right) will involve connecting the existing concrete piers with a superstructure of prefabricated steel bridge design approximately 900 feet in length for bicycle and pedestrian traffic across the Rock River. The bridge structure will continue north through Page Park and Dixon High School, ending at Palmyra Street (Illinois Route 2). Entrance and exit ramps will allow pedestrians or bicyclists to continue along Route 2 or enter Page Park. The south side of the multi-use bridge will connect with the southern (“Dement Route”). This southern route will use abandoned Illinois Central Railroad tracks ending at the intersection with 7th street on Dixon’s southwest side. This route will take pedestrians through Dement town and some of Dixon’s oldest neighborhoods. The multi-use path will take pedestrians and bicyclists over three (3) stone arch bridges built in 1854 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places (as of December 2, 1987). The Eagle View pedestrian bridge will also hook up with the eastern (“Artesian Route”) bike/pedestrian path, which is incorporated as part of the East River Street component of this project. Each of the bike/pedestrian paths will be constructed of blacktop, and an aggregate base. The developers of this project would like to add a “green” flavor to the paths and use recycled roofing shingles that have been shredded in the asphalt surface, either as the main component or as a composite mixed in to asphalt. Visible support for the bike/pedestrian bridge and the development of the multi-use paths includes letters from Dixon Main Street, the Riverfront Commission and the Dixon Park District. Plans to expand bike/pedestrian paths through this application align with the Park District’s priority goals of developing more multi- use paths for the city’s residents. An even bolder initiative of the Park District is to tie bike/pedestrian paths to similar paths in northwest Illinois and southern Wisconsin. Based on conservative estimates, it can be expected that the pedestrian bridge and adjoining “Dement” route will have a daily pedestrian census of 281 trips. This figure is based on the expected high volume of use by students commuting to Dixon High School or using the bridge to travel to proposed athletic fields across the Rock River. If the Eagle View project and “Dement” bike/multi-use pathway is not completed the abandoned Illinois Central Railroad tracks and associated piers in the Rock River will continue to deteriorate and be in danger of failing. Additionally, the health of students walking or riding their bike to the high school will be at greater risk because they will need to negotiate traffic. The section of Peoria Avenue from Palmyra Avenue (to the north) to 7th Street (to the south) has witnessed 745 accidents from 1997-present, with 73 personal injuries and 52 incidents of “hit and run”. Additionally if this project is not undertaken, there will be little, if any, increase in property values and the potential for commercial development along the Rock River will continue to be stagnant, affecting the local and regional economy. Like the “Artesian” path, the Eagle View pedestrian bridge (and connecting “Dement” path) have lighting and safety features incorporated into its plan. Project developers have planned for three (3) Code Blue Emergency Stations along the path, which are ADA compliant and have the ability to integrate with a wide array of larger incident response systems,

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 8 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application providing first responders with comprehensive tools to offer assistance. Along this multi-use path and pedestrian bridge, 13 street lights will be installed for the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists and to also increase aesthetics for this stretch of river front. Three (3) bicycle repair stations will be located along the multi-use path. These stations will contain the necessary parts to provide, at a minimum, a temporary fix to a bicycle. Three (3) bike racks will also be spaced periodically along the multi-use path, allowing residents and visitors to stop and visit local businesses or view the river front.

→ The construction of the Eagle View pedestrian bridge and adjoining bike/multi-use path (1.23 miles of trail) will cost $8,705,000. This proposal is requesting $6,655,000 in FY ‘13 TIGER funds, while the remaining $2,050,000 is being covered with non-federal dollars. This project will result in an estimate 113 construction jobs, with longer term jobs being developed through new commercial development.

II. PROJECT PARTIES The grant recipient of this project will be the City of Dixon, which has fiscal and administrative oversight of all components proposed. Secondary parties are Lee County, Illinois Department of Transportation, Dixon Park District, Lee-Ogle Transportation System (LOTS), Dixon Township and local industry. The City of Dixon will be responsible for the daily oversight of this project, including all fiscal and administrative duties. Jim Burke, Mayor of the City of Dixon, has been directly involved in the conception and development of this project, along with Dan Langloss, Police Chief for the City of Dixon and Special Assistant to the Mayor. The supervision of this project is expected to be a main responsibility of the City Administrator for Dixon, with financial fiduciary oversight being the responsibility of Paula Meyer, Director of Finance. Ms. Meyer currently has oversight of an annual budget of $7.0 million, is responsible for the investment activities of all funds under its jurisdiction, and charged with protecting the principal, diversifying the city’s investments to avoid unreasonable risks, and maintaining a portfolio that is sufficiently liquid to meet all operating costs. Engineers Jeff Reis, P.E., P.T.O.E and Geoff Smith, P.E. from the firm of Willett, Hofmann and Associates have provided consultation to this project through its development and will have a role moving forward upon awarding. The City of Dixon has experience in managing large projects including federally funded initiatives. In 2009, the City of Dixon completed the $5.0 million dollar Riverfront project, which was funded through $2.4 million in federal Transportation Enhancement funds, with the remaining funds being generated through public and private partnerships. In 2002, the reconstruction of the Galena Avenue Bridge over the Rock River was completed with state highway and federal dollars. Three years later (2005), the Peoria Avenue Bridge, also spanning the river downtown, went under a similar reconstruction, with city and federal dollars being secured for this project. A secondary party for this proposed project is Lee County. Both Lee County Board Chairman Rick Ketchum and vice-chair John Nicholson have expressed their support for the project as it benefits both the city and county. A letter of support from the County is on file. The Illinois Department of Transportation, through both the Division of Highways and the Division of Public and Intermodal Transportation (DPIT) has lent their support to this project and will be involved. DPIT aims to enhance Illinois’ transportation network by providing

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 9 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application technical assistance and financial resources to public transportation providers and rail operators. The Division of Highways offices are responsible for the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the state highway system and the administration of the state's local roads and streets program. The Lee-Ogle Transportation System (LOTS) is a public a transportation system that serves Lee and Ogle Counties. Public transportation is open to everyone. LOTS is a collaborative effort between Lee County, the Lee County Council on Aging and Kreider Services. LOTS continues to grow its services, and recently moved into a new transit facility housing the public transportation operation including the county’s vehicles. Named the Reagan Transit Center, the new transit facility was constructed with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding via the Illinois Department of Transportation. The Dixon Park District is located in Dixon, Illinois in the northwest area of the state. The Park District owns over 1,100 acres of land and maintains more than 30 sites along with miles of multi-use recreational trails, a golf complex and a hunting complex along with traditional recreational facilities. The Park District’s future goals include 1) Completion of multi-use recreation paths to link with the state of Wisconsin; 2) State designation of specific high quality natural areas; and 3) community aquatic recreational opportunities. Portions of the project lie not only in the City of Dixon but in Dixon Township as well. The township has lent its full-fledged support to the project. Local corporate support is widespread, as evidenced by the attached letters of support. Of particular note are those from Raynor Manufacturing and KSB Hospital, the City’s two largest employers and anchors of opposite ends of the East River Street multi-use path. Both have expressed support for the project, particularly with respect to its wellness benefits. Additionally, there has been a swell of support from residents of the City of Dixon who have found value in the vision of this project and the enhancements it will provide.

III. GRANT FUNDS AND SOURCES/USES OF PROJECT FUNDS

TOTAL TIGER Non-Federal Project Segment 5 COST Portion Funds East River Street & Artesian Path $4,156,224 $3,309,304 $ 846,290 Eagle View Pedestrian Bridge & Path $8,705,000 $6,655,500 $2,050,000 TOTAL $12,861,224 $9,964,304 $2,896,920 77.48% 22.52%

As a rural applicant for these funds, and in a federally designated Economically Distressed County, the City of Dixon is not required to contribute local non-federal funds to this project. Despite uncertain economic times and in a region suffering from 8.0% unemployment, the following non-federal funds have been secured from the public and private sectors in the amount of $2,896,920. All non-federal funds will be fully committed upon awarding.

East River Street Reconstruction/Widening & Pedestrian Multi-use Path ($846,920) • To support the construction of the proposed pedestrian multi-use path, private cash donations in the amount of $700,000 have been secured.

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 10 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application • Raynor Manufacturing has agreed to donate river front acreage along the pedestrian multi-use path. This property is valued at $30,000. • The City of Dixon has donated riverfront acreage at the intersection of East River Street and Illinois Route 2. This river front property is valued at $30,000. • The remaining $86,920 represents donated engineering services from the City of Dixon.

Eagle View Bridge & Bike/Multi-use Path ($2,050,000) • The City of Dixon has secured $450,000 for the Eagle View Bridge and multi-use pathway through the “Build Illinois Bond Fund” of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. • The remaining $67,500 will be provided through other local non-federal funds of the City of Dixon. • Commonwealth Edison has donated 8.6 acres of riverfront work an assessed value of $1,532,500.

BUDGETS OF PROJECT COMPONENTS 1. Reconstruct and Widen of East River Street & Development of Pedestrian Multi-use Path Project: ROAD / PEDESTRIAN PATH Route: EAST RIVER STREET Section TIGER FY ‘13 County: Lee County, IL

DESCRIPTON: SEGMENT INCLUDES THE RECONSTRUCTION OF E RIVER STREET FROM CRAWFORD AVENUE EASTERLY TO ILLINOIS ROUTE 2 AND A MULTI-USE PATH FROM CRAWFORD AVENUE TO 0.6 MILES EAST OF THE EAST RIVER STREET AND ILLINOIS ROUTE 2 INTERSECTION

For a total distance of: 1.51 MILES Net improvement 1.51 MILES Type ROAD / MULTI-USE PATH Width 31 FEET / 12 FEET Thickness ------Shoulders ------Average Haul ------Maximum Grade %

Item Unit of Qty Unit Price % of Total Cost Measure Cost EARTH EXCAVATION CU YD 5,620 $ 20.00 2.70 $ 112,400.00 REMOVAL AND DISPOSAL OF UNSUITABLE MATERIAL CU YD 560 $ 15.00 .20 $ 8,400.00 AGGREGATE SUBGRADE IMPROVEMENT TON 1,150 $ 22.00 .61 $ 25,300.00 TREE REMOVAL ACRE 0.4 $ 10,000.00 .10 $ 4,000.00 PAVEMENT REMOVAL SQ YD 11,375 $ 15.00 4.11 $ 170,625.00 CURB AND GUTTER REMOVAL FOOT 7,870 $ 10.00 1.89 $ 78,700.00 INLET REMOVAL EACH 17 $ 400.00 .16 $ 6,800.00 STORM SANITARY REMOVAL FOOT 910 $ 2.00 .04 $ 1,820.00 INLET SPECIAL EACH 45 $ 3,500.00 3.79 $ 157,500.00 MANHOLE EACH 12 $ 4,000.00 1.15 $ 48,000.00 SUB-BASE GRANULAR MATERIAL 12-INCH SQ YD 11,375 $ 15.00 4.10 $ 170,625.00 COMBINATION CONCRETE CURB AND GUTTER TYPE FOOT 7,870 $ 23.00 4.36 $ 181,010.00 B6.18 ASPHALT PAVEMENT TON 4,230 $ 100.00 10.18 $ 423,000.00 PAVEMENT MARKING FOOT 17,310 $ 1.00 .42 $ 17,310.00

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 11 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application STREET LIGHTING EACH 18 $ 15,000.00 6.50 $ 270,000.00 SEEDING AND FERTILIZER ACRE 1.70 $ 10,000.00 .41 $ 17,000.00 TRAFFIC CONTROL L SUM 1 $ 100,000.00 2.41 $ 100,000.00 STORM SEWER FOOT 3,600 $ 50.00 4.33 $ 180,000.00 TRENCH BACKFILL CU YD 1,228 $ 30.00 .89 $ 36,840.00 MANHOLE ADJUSTMENTS EACH 15 $ 1,000.00 .36 $ 15,000.00 UTILITY ADJUSTMENTS EACH 5 $ 5,000.00 .60 $ 25,000.00 TEMPORARY SURFACE OVER TRENCH CU YD 566 $ 24.00 .33 $ 13,584.00 BYPASS PUMPING L SUM 1 $ 10,000.00 .24 $ 10,000.00 DEWATERING L SUM 1 $ 50,000.00 1.20 $ 50,000.00 MULTI-USE PATH INCLUDES PAVEMENT, DRAINAGE, FOOT 8,050 $ 100.00 19.37 $ 805,000.00 EARTHWORK PORTLAND CEMENT CONCRETE SIDEWALK, 5 INCH SQ FT 15,500 $ 7.50 2.80 $ 116,250.00 DETECTABLE WARNINGS SQ FT 64 $ 40.00 .06 $ 2,560.00 PORTLAND CEMENT CONCRETE DRIVEWAY PAVEMENT, SQ YD 2,000 $ 60.00 2.89 $ 120,000.00 7 INCH HISTORIC SIGN PANELS EACH 3 $ 2,500.00 .18 $ 7,500.00 CODE BLUE EMERGENCY STATIONS EACH 3 $ 5,500.00 .40 $ 16,500.00 BIKE RACKS EACH 3 $ 1,500.00 .11 $ 4,500.00 BICYCLE REPAIR STATIONS EACH 3 $ 2,000.00 .14 $ 6,000.00 PHASE I DESIGN L SUM 1 $ 240,000.00 5.77 $ 240,000.00 PHASE II DESIGN L SUM 1 $ 270,000.00 6.50 $ 270,000.00 CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING L SUM 1 $ 205,000.00 4.93 $ 205,000.00 PLAT PREPARATION L SUM 1 $ 20,000.00 .48 $ 20,000.00 LAND ACQUISITION ACRE 2 $ 30,000.00 1.44 $ 60,000.00 CONTINGENCY L SUM 1 $ 160,000.00 3.85 $ 160,000.00 TOTAL ESTIMATED COST OF WORK INCLUDING ALL LABOR, MATERIALS AND ENGINEERING 100 $ 4,156,224.00 TIGER REQUEST $ 3,309,304.00 NON-FEDERAL PROJECT FUNDS $ 846,920.00 All Non-Federal Project Funds listed will be fully committed and available when the project is awarded.

2. Construction of Eagle View Pedestrian Bridge & Adjoining Bike/Multi-use Path Project: PEDESTRIAN MULTI-USE PATH Route: EAGLE VIEW Section TIGER FY ‘13 County: Lee County, IL

DESCRIPTION: SEGMENT INCLUDES MULTI-USE PATHWAY FROM SEVENTH STREET NORTH TO THE ROCK RIVER,A CONTINUOUS PATHWAY ACROSS THE ROCK RIVER UTILIZING EXISTING CONCRETE PIERS BY ATTACHING A PREFABRICATED STEEL BRIDGE DESIGN INCORPORATING LAMINATED TIMBER DECKING, THE PATHWAY WILL THEN CONTINUE NORTH TO PALMYRA STREET

For a total distance of: 1.23 MILES Net improvement 1.23 MILES Type BIKE/MULTI-USE PATH Width 12 FEET Thickness ------Shoulders ------Average Haul ------Maximum Grade %

Item Unit of Qty Unit Price % Total Cost Measure of cost

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 12 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application PREFAB STEEL PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE (FURNISH & DELIVER) FOOT 900 $ 1,745.00 18.04 $ 1,570,500.00 END ACCESS RAMP L SUM 2 $ 600,000.00 13.79 $ 1,200,000.00 BRIDGE AND RAMP INSTALLATION L SUM 1 $ 975,000.00 11.20 $ 975,000.00 BRIDGE LIGHTING L SUM 1 $ 300,000.00 3.45 $ 300,000.00 SUBSTRUCTURE REPAIRS L SUM 1 $ 320,000.00 3.67 $ 320,000.00 MULTI-USE PATH INCLUDES PAVEMENT, DRAINAGE, FOOT 5,280 $ 100.00 6.07 $ 528,000.00 EARTHWORK HISTORIC SIGN PANELS EACH 3 $ 2,500.00 .09 $ 7,500.00 CODE BLUE EMERGENCY STATIONS EACH 3 $ 5,500.00 .19 $ 16,500.00 STREET LIGHTING EACH 13 $ 15,000.00 2.24 $ 195,000.00 BIKE RACKS EACH 3 $ 1,500.00 .05 $ 4,500.00 BICYCLE REPAIR STATIONS EACH 3 $ 2,000.00 .07 $ 6,000.00 PHASE I DESIGN EACH 1 $ 395,000.00 4.54 $ 395,000.00 PHASE II DESIGN EACH 1 $ 450,000.00 5.17 $ 450,000.00 CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING EACH 1 $ 340,000.00 3.90 $ 340,000.00 SURFACE PARKING LOT L SUM 1 $ 517,000.00 6.02 $ 524,500.00 LAND ACQUISITION ACRE 4 $ 200,000.00 17.7 $ 1,532,500.00 CONTINGENCY L SUM 1 $ 280,000.00 3.90 $ 340,000.00 TOTAL ESTIMATED COST OF WORK INCLUDING ALL LABOR, MATERIALS AND ENGINEERING 100 $8,705,000.00 TIGER REQUEST $6,655,000.00 NON-FEDERAL PROJECT FUNDS $2,050,000.00 All Non-Federal Project Funds listed will be fully committed and available when the project is awarded.

IV. SELECTION CRITERIA

The primary designed outcome of the “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” is to establish the Rock River corridor as a main livability and transportation component for developing economic growth, capturing more tourism dollars, establishing a greater quality of life for residents and improving pedestrian and traffic safety along the boundaries of this project. This corridor, along the south bank of the Rock River, and each component of this project aligns very well with the primary and secondary criteria of the FY ’13 TIGER grant program. a. Long-term Outcomes i. State of Good Repair The overall objective of the “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” is to build upon existing plans for improving the livability and safety components of the surface transportation infrastructure in the City of Dixon, and reduce adverse impacts on the existing corridor while creating a healthier environment for its citizens. East River Street along the Rock River is one of Dixon’s oldest streets and clearly is in a serious state of decline. While not currently part of either Illinois’ State Transportation Improvement Plan or Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP/TIP), this project needs to be included especially with the numerous pot holes and 75 year old sanitary and storm lines that are antiquated and in dire need of replacement. As a municipality of under 50,000 population, Dixon is not a part of a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) nor is it required to be a part of the State STIP or TIP. The plans will be submitted to the state contingent on funding. East River Street is a major connecting route between Route 2 and Galena Avenue (Route 26) especially for local traffic. Small to medium sized trucks are also familiar with East River Street,

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 13 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application especially when they are looking to travel north on Illinois Route 26. If this project is not completed the surface transportation infrastructure of this road will continue to deteriorate, threatening the efficiency and safety of this stretch of East River Street. The frequent flooding of East River Street will subsist. Other impacts should this project not move forward is the loss of potential commercial development along the river. This section of Dixon, which resides in a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district of the city, has potential for development for restaurants, stores and other businesses especially within view of the Rock River, which lies at the heart of the City of Dixon. The on-going maintenance and operation of East River Street will, as it is currently, be the responsibility of the City of Dixon. As mentioned previously, the funding for the completion of the sanitary reconstruction will be facilitated through a low-interest loan secured by the City of Dixon through the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. The development of additional multi-use pathways (across the Rock River and along East River Street) is outlined in the City of Dixon’s Riverfront Master Plan, the Dixon Presidential Parkway Master Plan (June 2005) and the Traffic Impact Analysis for the I-88 and Galena Avenue Planned Development District. The Riverfront strategic vision for developing the Riverfront in downtown Dixon called for the creation of the multi-use pedestrian bridge over the Rock River, as proposed within this TIGER Project. The other two studies proposed pedestrian and bicycle facilities throughout the development districts, especially as a means of tying together residential and commercial areas of the city. The “Dement” (southern route from the multi-use pedestrian bridge) and “Artesian” (east along East River Street) are reclaiming abandoned railroad tracks that have not witnessed rail traffic for nearly 30 years and have otherwise become overgrown and unattractive to the neighborhoods they intersect. The pier structures in the Rock River, which date back to the 1890s, have been inspected and found to be structurally sound. Without a sustainable plan for using the abandoned railroad tracks and piers, the city and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers would likely have to develop plans for their removal. Fortunately that is not the case, and the reclamation of these resources will enhance the surface transportation infrastructure, providing residents and tourists alike with a new series of bike/pedestrian paths for their enjoyment. The City of Dixon and the Dixon Park District will have joint responsibility of maintaining these paths. Commercial opportunities adjacent to these paths including the securing of naming rights by local businesses will be considered as a way to supplement the on-going costs associated with their maintenance. ii. Economic Competitiveness As an Economically Distressed Area, the City of Dixon and Lee County stand to see an improvement in the local economic competitiveness, as well making an impact on the global markets. Economic competitiveness involves not only the dollar cost savings involved in a project, but reliable and timely access to employment centers, educational opportunities, services and other basic needs of workers, and expanded access to markets. The Reagan Corridor Project addresses these and more through the following:

• Reliable and timely access to employment centers – The extensive network of multi-use pathways proposed will offer alternative methods and routes for people adjacent to them to get to work. Bike/pedestrian commuting by some will alleviate congestion for others travelling to work by more traditional methods. As one of the routes travels

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 14 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application directly adjacent to the area’s two largest employers, it is anticipated that this will create additional commuters using it. • It is also important to note that students of Dixon High School are also expected to be high volume users of the planned Eagle View pedestrian bridge to commute to school; a safer option then having to navigate across busy morning and afternoon stretches of Peoria Avenue. Additionally, equipping public transportation busses with bicycle racks will enable some to use Public transportation in conjunction with cycling to work.

• The number of jobs created through the “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” is in spendable salaries in to the county and regional economy. • As an Economically Distressed Area, the City of Dixon and Lee County stand to see an improvement in the local economic competitiveness, as well making an impact on the global markets. This project will improve the efficiency of getting goods to market more efficiently, quicker and through the use of less fuel.

• The improvements to the surface transportation infrastructure as proposed in this project will allow business and industry located along Illinois Route 26 to save time and operating costs. iii.Livability There are clear benefits of developing multi-use pathways - they make towns attractive; provide safer routes for bicyclists, pedestrians and children going to school; and increase property values and taxes. The pedestrian and bike pathways, like those proposed in this project, are clear indicators to business and industry, who want to locate in the same kinds of communities that home buyers want to live in: communities that are safe, attractive, with opportunities to walk and cycle. According to the National Association of Homebuilders, bike and pedestrian trails are consistently the number one amenity sought by prospective homeowners looking to locate in a new community. In addition to improving the value of homes and making the community more attractive for commercial development, multi-use paths also benefit health and fitness, quality of life and the environment. This is especially critical for improving the neighborhoods on the southwest side of Dixon where the “Dement” multi-use path will intersect. The property values in these traditionally lower income neighborhoods have lagged behind other sections of the city. This project and the infrastructure improvements will conservatively increase property values by 2.5% for the homes in these neighborhoods during the lifetime of this project. This improvement aligns with environmental justice strategic plans and principles of the U.S. Department of Transportation including the principle to “avoid, minimize, or mitigate disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental effects, including social and economic effects on minority populations and low-income populations.” For the “Reagan Transit Corridor Project,” the focus of livability is one those residents of the City of Dixon and Lee County highly value. One of the key tenets of the Department of Transportation (DOT) Livability principles is providing more transportation choices for residents

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 15 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application and visitors. This project addresses this in several ways. The two and three-quarter miles (2.75) of additional bike/multi-use paths is perhaps the most obvious. Conservative estimates show that up to 682 persons will be accessing these paths on an average weekday, with up to 55 pedestrian using the path network to commute to and from work. The “Artesian” pathway network (as part of the East River Street Project) travels proximate to the area’s two largest employers, for whom bike/pedestrian commuting will become an attractive and health conscious option. More than 2,017 employees work at those two employers and nearby offices of the City of Dixon and Lee County. The addition of both bike workstations and Code Blue emergency call boxes will make this an even more attractive option for local citizens. There will also be a significant impact on students using the “Eagle View” path and pedestrian bridge as a safer way to commute to Dixon High School. Another aspect of the DOT principles state that a community becomes more livable when economic competitiveness is enhanced. This program addresses this as the project is part of a cohesive, comprehensive plan to integrate an existing network of multi-use pathways that will create in the central city a complete healthy, safe and desirable form of recreation and functional pathways. This, in turn, will attract enviro-tourism, especially with the beauty of the new path crossing the Rock River and traversing historically significant architecture in the form of the 100+ year old railroad piers and the three 1854 vintage arches over the street level. iv. Sustainability “The goal of sustainable transportation is to ensure that environment, social and economic considerations are factored into decisions affecting transportation activity” (MOST, 1999). The “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” addresses the issues of sustainability in several ways: • Multi-use pathways encourage the use of transportation alternatives to autos, etc. • Arterial reconstruction encourages business growth which, in turn leads to people staying home more to shop rather than travelling long distances by car • Equipping public transportation buses with bicycle racks encourages commuting even for those not immediately proximal to bike paths. The development of two (2) multi-use pathways, the creation of 2.75 miles of additional multiuse pathways incorporated in this project plan will have a significant impact on the greenhouse gas emissions in our area. In the 2006 study, “Many Pathways from Land Use to Health”, researchers report that a 5% increase in neighborhood walk ability is associated with:

• 32.1% more minutes devoted to physically active travel • About one-quarter point lower BMI (0.228) • 6.5% fewer vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per capita • 5.6% fewer grams of Nitrogen Dioxide per capita • 5.5% fewer grams of volatile organic compound (VOC) emitted per capita

This project develops unused, abandoned rail beds to develop pathways through the heart of our downtown neighborhoods and provides ready access to the downtown area and anew, pedestrian/bike friendly crossing of the Rock River. The “Artesian” Route passes directly adjacent to the town’s two largest employers, Raynor Manufacturing and KSB Hospital. If only

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 16 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application a small percentage (10%) of the workforce of these two employers (more than 2,000 employees combined) choose to commute to work by bike or on foot, the savings in gas emissions will be significant. The street reconstruction and widening project along East River Street will similarly have an effect on greenhouse gas emissions. East River Street is an often used as a “shortcut” for commuters and visitors’ from Illinois Route 2 to the downtown area. It’s highly deteriorated state, with multiple low spots and potholes, as well as the fact that it is closed frequently (30 days annually) each year due to standing water, makes it less likely to be taken, causing motorists to detour around a much more circuitous and longer route. This stretch of East River Street is also located in one of the City of Dixon’s Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts, which would be attractive to potential commercial developers, but not if East River Street is closed on a regular basis because of uncontrolled flooding. v. Safety The reconstruction of East River Street will allow for safer passage of motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians. First of all the development of specific lanes along the shoulder of this main connector between Routes 26 and 52 will provide a larger buffer area for bicyclists, joggers and other pedestrians who use this stretch of road; they won’t feel squeezed off to the side by motorists driving by. Another safety improvement associated with this project is the flooding concerns with East River Street. On average East River Street floods three or four times a year to the point where the street needs to be closed completely by the city. The reconstruction of East River Street, which includes the replacement of the 75 year sanitary system from Crawford Avenue to Route 2, will mitigate these flooding concerns, according to Dixon’s City Engineer. The funding for the sanitary replacement on East River Street will be covered by the City of Dixon through the application for a low interest loan from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and a flood mitigation grant through the Illinois Emergency Management Agency. Along each of the bike/pedestrian pathways, developers of this proposal have included the cost for “code blue” safety systems and the bike fix-it centers, both of which will provide a measure of comfort for individuals using the path. The “code blue” systems will be wired into the City of Dixon’s police and fire departments, emitting a strong blue strobe light that should be easily detectible to public safety individuals responding to calls. b. Job Creation & Near-Term Economic Activity This project with a construction budget of $19,636,438 will create job opportunities for qualified professionals as well as blue collar workers. This multi-modal project is broken into two (2) components: 1.) The reconstruction (widening) of East River Street, a federally identified arterial taking traffic from Route 2 to Galena Avenue; 2.) The development of two (2) multi-use pedestrian pathways. The estimated number of full time equivalent, short-term construction jobs that will be created through the “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” is 168. This figure was arrived at by using a metric from the Executive Office of the President Council on Economic Advisers stating that it takes a little more than $76,923 of spending to create one (1) job – year. This metric from the Council was used to estimate the number of jobs created through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 17 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application The project component that will allow for the largest creation of jobs is the development of the bike/pedestrian bridge across the Rock River and the adjoining pathway to the south (“Dement”). . The components of the Reagan Transit Corridor and the associated jobs created are detailed below.

Reagan Transit Corridor construction cost $9,964,304.00 ÷ $76,923 (spending to create one job) = 130 job years created $2,896,920.00 ÷ $76,923 (spending to create one job) = 38 job years created

Other long-term job creation could also come from the development of the two (2) bike paths of this project. Although harder to quantify how many jobs could be created, the City of Dixon has expressed interest in developing commercial and residential settings along the Rock River and near the “Dement” and “Artesian” bike/pedestrian pathways. The City has interest in developing an aggressive marketing plan that would tie the bike/pedestrian pathways to restaurants, hotels and other related commercial outlets. c. Innovation This project incorporates several innovative elements, starting with the large number of partnerships brought together to bring the various elements together. Governmental units such as the City of Dixon, Lee County, Dixon Township, and the Dixon Park District are joined by Community Development groups such as the Lee County Industrial Development Association, Dixon Main Street and the Chamber of Commerce as well as private companies including large concerns such as Raynor Manufacturing and KSB Hospital. The Lee-Ogle Transportation System also supports the effort and will be equipping its busses with bicycle racks to accommodate transporting riders from one area of the bike paths to the others. The multi-use paths will be constructed over abandoned railway right of way. While this aspect has now become firmly established and can no longer be called “innovative,” there are some unique aspects to this proposal. As funds permit, it is planned to use recycled, ground up, asphalt shingles, as a green initiative, to either comprise the path bed or to supplement it. The southern, Dement, route will travel across the Rock River utilizing extant railroad piers built in the 19th century. Farther south this same route will travel over a series of three stone arch bridges, each built in 1854 when the Illinois Central Railroad first came through town. d. Partnership The City of Dixon has firmly embraced partnerships as a way of being more cost and time efficient. TIGER FY ‘13 has allowed Dixon to collaborate with partners as small as civic organizations and as large major corporations. Bringing together Dixon and South Dixon Townships, City of Dixon, Dixon River Front, Dixon Park District, nonprofit organizations like Kreider Services, Lee County Council on Aging, private industry such as Raynor Manufacturing., has brought partnership to a new level. All letters of support reflect an excitement to begin on a Project that is going to benefit so many citizens of our area, not only socially, economically, and most importantly encouraging a healthy life style.

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 18 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application 33 letters of Commitment for the “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” are attached to this application and include the following: U.S. Representative Adam Kinzinger; U.S. Senator Mark Kirk; Illinois Senator Tim Bivins; Illinois Representative Tom Demmer; Illinois Department of Transportation; Lee County Board; Lee County Tourism Council; City of Dixon – Mayor James Burke; City of Dixon – Commissioner David Blackburn; City of Dixon – Commissioner Colleen Brechon; City of Dixon – Commissioner Dennis Considine; City of Dixon – Commissioner Jeff Kuhn; Dixon Fire Department; Dixon Police Department; Midland States Bank; The Next Picture Show; Mid-Northern Management; Ehrmann, Gehlbach, Badger, Lee and Considine: The First National Bank in Amboy; Blackhawk Snow Blazers; Raynor Garage Doors; KSB Hospital; Kreider Services, Inc.; Lee County Council on Aging, Inc.; Illinois State Historical Society Advisory Board; League of Illinois Bicyclists; Dixon Riverfront Commission; Dixon Public Schools #170; Lee County Industrial Development Association; Dixon Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Dixon Main Street; Western Illinois University/Rural Transit Assistance Center; Dixon Park District; and, Willett Hofmann & Associates.

e. Results of Benefit-Cost Analysis The cost benefit analysis, which includes individual analyses for the East River Street and Eagle View project components, was developed with the assistance of Brian Alstadt of TREDIS (Transportation Economic Development Impact System). Mr. Alstadt developed the benefit cost analysis over the past two months in consultation with project partners. A second party, Joel Youngs, Director of Black Hawk College/Illinois Small Business Development Center, confirmed the accuracy of the benefit cost analysis. The “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” during the first 20 years will generate total benefits of $11,211,118, for a benefit/cost ratio of 1.96 at a 7% discount rate. The public benefits at a 3% discount rate during the same time period will be an estimated $20,383,132 for a 2.69 benefit/cost ratio. The individual benefit cost analysis for each component of this project follows, with a summation of the analysis and a look at what will happen if the project is not funded through TIGER FY ‘13.

Project Description TIGER FUNDS NON-FEDERAL BCA BCA (disc. (disc. 7%) 3%) East Reconstruction/widening of East $3,309,304 $ 846,920 2.79 3.95 River River Street; addition of bike/multi- Street use path; replace sanitary/storm lines Eagle Construction of bike/ multi-use $6,655,000 $2,050,000 1.59 2.15 View pathway

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 19 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application 1. EAST RIVER STREET RECONSTRUCTION/WIDENING and DEVELOPMENT OF “ARTESIAN” BIKE AND MULTI-USE PATHWAY Current Status/ Baseline & Change to Population Tab Problem to be Baseline/ Type of Affected by Economic Summary of Reference in Addressed Alternatives Impacts Impacts Benefit Results BCA Local high volume Reconstruct Improved Number of Monetized Estimated “East River arterial road is and widen vehicle vehicle and value of dollar value of Street Setup” deteriorating with road efficiency and truck drivers Vehicle vehicle TAB of Excel 75 year old sanitary traffic safety with diverted Efficiency efficiency , and spread-sheet and storm lines, Addition of a traffic time improved resulting in bike and Monetized safety benefits “East River frequent flood multi-use Improved Reduced value of Street BCA” issues; mixing of pathway; health of path accidents and improved TAB of Excel bicycle/joggers/ users fatalities per safety spread-sheet runners with Replace year vehicle traffic. sanitary and Increase in Monetized storm lines property Reduced O/M value of values costs and reduced O/M degradation of costs and Reduced traffic route increased operating and property maintenance values costs

The East River Street component of the “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” will call for an investment of $3,715,938 in funding for the reconstruction and widening of East River Street and the addition of the “Dement” bike/multi-use pathway. This includes an investment of $1,006,290 of non-federal, local funds. A benefit cost analysis of the East River Street project shows that it will, at a minimum, yield a 2.68 return on those funds ($5,360,454, discounted at 7%) and at the very best a 3.76 return ($8,805,716, discounted at 3% discount). These returns are on improved vehicle efficiency and safety; improvements to property value in this area with the development of the new bike/multi-use path; and improved health benefits from pedestrians using the pathway. If the East River Street project is not developed it is reasonable to assume that this major arterial road will continue to worsen and achieve a “state of failure” in the near term, resulting in less efficiency for motorists who use East River Street on a daily basis. Additionally, the antiquated sanitary and storm lines, currently overburdened by run-off from rain water and flood water from the Rock River, will also fail in the short-term leading to even more frequent closure of East River Street. The failure to implement the “Dement” bike path will have an impact on the health of employees near to this community resource, mainly because they won’t have a separate, safe path on which to walk, jog or bike. These individuals will be mingled with vehicle traffic, resulting in either a reduced number of individuals exercising altogether or an increase in potential hit and run incidents along the East River Street corridor.

2. CONSTRUCTION OF EAGLE VIEW PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE AND DEVELOPMENT OF “EAGLE VIEW” BIKE/MULTI-USE PATHWAY

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 20 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application Current Status/ Baseline & Change to Population Tab Problem to Baseline/ Type of Affected by Economic Summary of Reference in be Addressed Alternatives Impacts Impacts Benefit Results BCA State of good Develop a bike/ Diverted auto Reduced Monetized Estimated Eagle View repair issues multi-use trip benefits personal injury value of health dollar value of Setup regarding the bridge and accidents benefits health benefits, abandoned pathway for Improve improved Eagle View BCA Illinois Central pedestrian and pedestrian Reduced Monetized safety and railroad trusses students safety benefits operation/ value of increased and tracks maintenance improved property values Improved expenses safety mixing of pedestrian bicyclists, health benefits Monetized joggers and value of runners with increased vehicle traffic property values

The development of the Eagle View Pedestrian Bridge and the adjoining “Eagle View” bike/multi-use pathway will cost an estimated $6,715,000. This budget will include $435,000 in non-federal funds that have been secured locally. The benefit cost analysis of this component of the Reagan Transit Corridor shows that the investment of $6.715 million will result in a return, at a minimum, of 1.53 ($9,588,745, discounted at 7%) for every initial dollar of initial investment. The best possible outcome is a return of 2.08 ($13,516,525) for every initial dollar invested in the project. The benefits associated with this component of the Eagle View Pedestrian Bridge and adjoining “Eagle View” pathway is the diversion of auto trips; improved pedestrian safety and improved pedestrian health benefits from using this community resource. If the Eagle View project and “Dement” bike/multi-use pathway is not completed the abandoned Illinois Central Railroad tracks and associated piers in the Rock River will continue to deteriorate and be in danger of failing. Additionally, the health of students walking or riding their bike to the high school will be at greater risk because they will need to negotiate traffic. The section of Peoria Avenue from Palmyra Avenue (to the north) to 7th Street (to the south) has witnessed 719 accidents from 1997-present, with 72 personal injuries and 52 incidents of “hit and run”. Additionally if this project is not undertaken, there will be no increase in property values and the potential for commercial development along the Rock River will continue to be stagnant, affecting the local and regional economy.

V. Project Readiness and NEPA Lee County and partners for the “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” are very familiar with the procedures required to implement projects using Federal funds. In coordination with the Illinois Department of Transportation, projects are brought from ideas to reality. Submittals are made through the local IDOT office in Dixon, who in turn forwards the information to the IDOT Central Office in Springfield, Illinois. The proposed improvement is first identified as a valid project and then a set process of various submittals is initiated. All four segments of this application are ready to be implemented with this process and the following schedule with completion dates is proposed:

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 21 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application SEGMENT East River Street Eagle View PROJECT REPORT Dec. 2013 Dec. 2013 PREL. PS&E Dec. 2013 Jan. 2014 FINAL PS&E Jan. 2014 Feb. 2014 ROW CERT Feb. 2014 Mar. 2014 LETTING Apr. 2014 Apr. 2014 APPROVAL June 2014 June 2014 PRE-CON June 2014 July 2014 CONSTRUCTION COMPLETE Sept. 2014 Sept. 2014

The Project Report and Preliminary PS&E schedule above includes the submittal process for all environmental approvals necessary for the project to proceed to construction. For each segment of this application, Environmental Survey Requests have been submitted online through the Illinois Department of Transportation’s website. The NEPA review has not yet been initiated since prior to the availability of TIGER Discretionary Grant funds, there were no reasonable expectations of receiving Federal funding for these segments. However, there have been a number of projects in close vicinity to these proposed segments and there have been limited environmental concerns.

Legislative approvals and state and local planning These projects are broadly supported by various regional, state and national elected officials, as evidenced by their submittal of letters of commitment to the “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” (see attached letters). Since 2005, the City of Dixon, Lee County, and other government entities have initiated the Dixon Presidential Parkway Master Plan and the Traffic Impact Analysis for the I-88 and Galena Avenue Planned Development District. Both of these planning documents include these proposed projects.

Technical Feasibility The City of Dixon and Lee County have a number of construction projects that are bid out each year. The estimated costs for the two segments listed are based on previous project bids at the local and state level. The City of Dixon has a Public Works Department that handles operation and maintenance daily. The Public Works Department with the City of Dixon includes Street, Water, Waste Water, Public Property, and Traffic Maintenance. These entities maintain over 100 miles of roadway on a continuous basis. Each year there are local projects that include Federal funds that require detailed documentation. Working with the Illinois Department of Transportation, these projects are planned, designed and constructed. An operations and maintenance budget is established each year.

Financial Feasibility This City of Dixon, with an annual budget of approximately $20 million, has the fiscal responsibility of receiving property income and sales taxes from Lee County and the State of Illinois. The City Finance Office is also responsible for the investment activities of all funds under its jurisdiction, and is charged with protecting the principal, diversifying the city’s

“Reagan Transit Corridor Project” 22 | P a g e TIGER Fiscal Year 2013 Application investments to avoid unreasonable risks, and maintaining a portfolio that is sufficiently liquid to meet all operating costs. Paula Meyer, City of Dixon Finance Director, is responsible for securing the investment of city funds. Ms. Meyer has a Masters Degree in Accountancy, a CPA Certification, and has served in the financial sector for the past 22 years. Prior to her appointment with the City of Dixon, Ms Meyer served Sauk Valley Community College, 10 years as Comptroller and 7 years as the College’s Chief Financial Officer. Sauk Valley College has an annual budget of $25 million. During her tenure as CFO the College’s Operating Fund balance increased from $500,000 to over $5 million and the College enjoys exemplary Bond ratings. Ms. Meyer also has spent time in public accounting prior to working at Sauk Valley Community College. Dixon’s Finance Office complies with all regulatory auditing practices including GASB-45. The office was recently restructured, with six persons, including Ms. Meyer, segregating duties between them. In addition, a new computer system for accounting was recently installed. As evidence of the financial condition of the City of Dixon, a list of the City’s assets is provided as an attachment to this proposal. This listing, as well as the experience of the City staff charged with oversight responsibility of the “Reagan Transit Corridor Project”, shows the City’s ability to prudently invest funds for use as needed. Further evidence of the City’s ability to manage a large project involving Federal funds lies in the successful completion, in 2009, of Dixon’s Heritage Crossing riverfront project – a $5 million dollar project funded, in part, by $2.4 million in Federal Transportation Enhancement funds,

VI. Federal Wage Rate Certification The City of Dixon, as the applicant of this proposal, understands the requirements associated with the Federal Wage Rate Certification. A letter, certifying that the city will comply with all such requirements of subchapter IV of chapter 31 of title 40, United States Code (Federal wage rate requirements) and as required by the FY 2011 Continuing Appropriations Act, signed by Mayor James G. Burke, is included in this application as an Attachment. The City of Dixon, by its written agreement, will hold all parties and vendors associated with the “Reagan Transit Corridor Project” to these requirements.

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