Unified Planning Work Program Fiscal Year 2016 - … TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION OF SOUTHERN NEVADA...

Regional

Transportation

Commission of

Southern

Nevada

Unified Planning Work Program Fiscal Year 2016

REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION OF SOUTHERN

NEVADA

DRAFT

UNIFIED PLANNING WORK PROGRAM

FISCAL YEAR 2016

The preparation of this report has been financed in part through grant[s] from the Federal

Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration, U.S. Department of

Transportation, under the Metropolitan Planning Program, Section 104(f) of Title 23, U.S.

Code. The contents of this report do not necessarily reflect the official views or policy of the

U.S. Department of Transportation.

Approved by Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration

on June 24, 2015

Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada

600 S. Grand Central Pkwy. Ste. 350

Las Vegas, NV 89106-4512

p. 702-676-1500

f. 702-676-1518

www.rtcsnv.com

Table of Contents

Preface……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………Page 1

Introduction……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………Page 2

MAP-21…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Major Accomplishments………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….Page 8

Development Approach………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Page 16

Budget…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Page 17

Task 101………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Page 20

Task 201………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Page 30

Task 202………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Page 47

Task 301………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Page 57

Task 302………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Page 84

Non-UPWP Studies………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Page 87

Appendix……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….Page 89

FY2016 Unified Planning Work Program Page 1

PREFACE

The Fiscal Year 2016 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) was developed by the

Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Department of the Regional Transportation

Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC). The UPWP identifies transportation related planning

activities scheduled for the one-year period beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30,

2016 within the Las Vegas metropolitan area.

The UPWP plays a central role in the RTC’s federally-mandated responsibilities as the state-

designated MPO to ensure a comprehensive, coordinated, and continuing transportation

planning process for the Las Vegas urbanized area. To this end, the UPWP has been

assembled in consultation with the local, state, and federal agencies involved in supporting

the area’s multi-modal transportation system. The projects identified in the work program

foster comprehensive planning and support the goals and objectives of the Regional

Transportation Plan.

This document includes information related to project description; functional (agency)

responsibilities; project budget; project time line; and the corresponding products expected

with completion for each of the planning activities identified in the 2016 UPWP.

The UPWP for Fiscal Year 2016 was prepared in April, 2015; adopted by the Board of the

Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada on June 11, 2015; and approved

by the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration on June 24, 2015.


1: Introduction

The Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) identifies transportation planning activities to be undertaken in the

Southern Nevada region using funding allocated by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the

Federal Transit Administration (FTA).

The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) is the agency designated by the state of

Nevada to act as the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for Clark County. As the MPO, the RTC

coordinates transportation planning activities with member agencies within the metropolitan planning area.

The planning process brings together the RTC, local government agencies, transit operators, local public

service organizations, and the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) to discuss regional priorities and

to select and program planning activities for inclusion in UPWP.

The RTC receives annual federal allocations from the FHWA and the FTA for metropolitan planning activities

identified in the UPWP. The UPWP also includes planning tasks that are state or locally funded.

The planning tasks included in the Fiscal Year 2016 UPWP are organized into two general categories of

activities:

Core planning activities that address basic MPO requirements for meeting federal certification of the

metropolitan planning process, including research and data gathering.

Studies that evaluate regional planning priorities. Using the planning study approach, solutions and

alternatives are produced, which may later become the basis for projects funded for implementation in the

Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP).

The 2016 UPWP covers the one-year period from July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016.

Regional Planning Prospectus

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) requires that a metropolitan planning agreement be developed

between the various parties involved in the regional transportation planning process. This agreement must

clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each party in cooperatively carrying out the transportation

planning process and must include specific provisions for cooperatively developing and sharing information

related to the development of financial plans that support the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), the

Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), and development of the annual listing of obligated projects.

In response to this federal requirement, the RTC has coordinated with the Nevada Department of

Transportation (NDOT) and the local jurisdictions to develop the ‘Southern Nevada Regional Planning

Prospectus’. This document, which is included as an Appendix to this FY 2016 UPWP, outlines the specific

roles and responsibilities of the RTC, NDOT, and the local agencies in carrying out the federal transportation

planning process in the Southern Nevada region.

The Metropolitan Planning Area

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Planning Area is often referred to as ‘Southern Nevada’ to distinguish the activities

of regional agencies from the jurisdictional functions of the Clark County government.

The U.S. Census Bureau estimates a population of 2,069,681 for Clark County, Nevada, which comprises more

than 72 percent of the state’s population. Most of the people of Southern Nevada reside in the Las Vegas

Valley, which is the name given locally to the urbanized area that includes the following jurisdictions:

The City of Las Vegas (pop 603,488)

The City of Henderson (pop 270,811)

The City of North Las Vegas (pop 226,877)


The unincorporated areas of Clark County that are within the urban Land Disposal Boundary designated by

the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) under the Southern Nevada Public Lands Management Act of 2002.

The total population of the unincorporated areas within the Las Vegas urbanized area is approximately

850,000.

Communities outside the Las Vegas Valley urban area include the cities of Boulder City (population 15,189),

which adjoins the Las Vegas Valley to the southeast; and the City of Mesquite (population 16,439), located in

the northeastern corner of Clark County. The unincorporated community of Laughlin, in the southern part of the

County, is home to a population of 7,323. A similar number of people live in the various communities of the

Moapa Valley, which lies halfway between Las Vegas and Mesquite.

The remainder of Clark County is sparsely populated desert environment, much of which is protected from

development under various federal, state, and local statutes and policies.

Southern Nevada Strong

In late 2011, the U.S. Department of Housing and

Urban Development (HUD) awarded a $3.5 million

grant to the Southern Nevada Regional Planning

Coalition to develop a comprehensive region-wide

sustainable communities plan. Approved in early

2015, this plan provides an integrated and

coherent framework to guide community

development in Southern Nevada over the next 20

years. Recommendations developed through this

planning effort include strategies for improving

access to transit; making neighborhoods more

pedestrian and bicycle friendly (Figure 1-7); re-orientation of land use and development patterns to reduce

VMT and lessen dependency on single occupancy vehicles; and strategies to nurture neighborhood cohesion

and public engagement.

The effort will also include application of the concepts developed by Southern Nevada Strong to four

opportunity sites: Maryland Parkway; Boulder Highway; Downtown North Las Vegas; and the Las Vegas

Medical District. The overall goal of the plan will be to ensure the continued prosperity of the Southern Nevada

economy while respecting and preserving its unique desert environment and improving the quality of life of its

residents and the long-term integrity of its communities.

Development of the Southern Nevada Strong Regional Plan was led by the City of Henderson. The

implementation phase is being led by the RTC.

Air Quality

Air quality is monitored by the Clark County Department of Air Quality and Environmental Management

(DAQEM). The RTC does conduct studies that ultimately have a positive impact on air quality in the region

through providing reduced congestion, and multi-modal options for users of the transportation system. In the

FY16 UPWP these projects include:

201-3640 Bicycle and Pedestrian Counts

201-9000 Clark County School District Walk Audits

202-3710 Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning

301-1720 Regional Schools Multimodal Transportation Study

Figure 1: Walkable Neighborhoods


301-9010 Spencer Greenway Transportation Trail and UNLV Campus Bike Plan Study

301-9025 Rural Streets Standards Study

301-9035 Transit Ridership and Transit Oriented Development Study

302-7206 Traffic Signal Timing Strategies

302-9045 Traffic Efficiency Study

Further detail on the scope of work for these studies is provided in the task sheets section later in this

document.

RTC Board of Commissioners

The RTC governing Board of Commissioners is composed of elected officials appointed from each of the local

jurisdictions in Clark County.

The Director of the Nevada Department of Transportation serves as an ex-officio member of the RTC Board for

participation in matters pertaining to planning.


2: MAP-21

On October 1, 2012, a new federal transportation funding authorization bill, known as ‘Moving Ahead for

Progress in the 21st Century’ (MAP-21) took effect. MAP-21 includes many important program changes,

including consolidation of the previous ‘Transportation Enhancements’, ‘Safe Routes to School’, and ‘Scenic

Byways’ programs into the new Transportation Alternatives’ program.

One of the most significant changes in focus with the MAP-21 program is a transition to performance based

planning and programming. Federally funded transportation improvements in Southern Nevada will be linked

to quantifiable performance targets to create an outcome–based investment strategy. While specific

transportation performance targets are still under development at the time of this writing, a set of seven

overall national goals were established in the MAP-21 legislation to guide the process of developing more

specific performance targets:

Freight Movement and Economic Vitality: To improve the national freight network, strengthen the ability of

rural communities to access national and international trade markets, and support regional economic

development.

Transportation Safety: To achieve a significant reduction in traffic fatalities and serious injuries on all public

roads.

Congestion Reduction: To achieve a significant reduction in congestion on the National Highway System.

Environmental Sustainability: To enhance the performance of the transportation system while protecting

and enhancing the natural environment.

System Reliability: To improve the efficiency of the surface transportation system.

Infrastructure Condition: To maintain the highway infrastructure asset system in a state of good repair.

Reduced Project Delivery Delays: To reduce project costs, promote jobs and the economy, and expedite the

movement of people and goods by accelerating project completion through eliminating delays in the project

development and delivery process, including reducing regulatory burdens and improving agency work

practices.

MAP-21 retains the eight planning factors developed in the previous transportation legislation. These eight

transportation planning factors, listed below, will continue to be taken into account by the RTC in developing

regional transportation plans and programs for Southern Nevada.

Support the economic vitality of the metropolitan area, especially by enabling global competitiveness,

productivity, and efficiency;

Increase the safety of the transportation system for motorized and non-motorized users;

Increase the security of the transportation system for motorized and non-motorized users;

Increase the accessibility and mobility of people and for freight;

Protect and enhance the environment, promote energy conservation, improve quality of life, and

promote consistency between transportation improvements and State and local planned growth and

economic development patterns;

Enhance the integration and connectivity of the transportation system, across and between modes, for

people and freight;

Promote efficient system management and operation; and,

Emphasize the preservation of the existing transportation system.


Planning Emphasis Areas

The FHWA and the FTA issued Planning Emphasis Areas (PEA’s) for inclusion in the FY 2016 UPWP. The RTC

has addressed these PEA’s throughout this document as detailed below.

MAP-21 Implementation

The transition to performance based planning and programming is underway, beginning with the development

and implementation of a performance management approach to transportation planning and programming

that supports the achievement of transportation system performance outcomes.

The RTC is implementing the performance based principles mentioned above through various means. One of

the tasks from the previous FY15 UPWP (202-3325-15) is Performance Based Planning. This task will be

continued in the current UPWP and is dedicated to analyzing, researching, and documenting our work as well

as determining the best measures to help guide the RTC’s work in a progressive and innovative manner.

Models of Regional Planning Cooperation

The guidance from the FHWA and FTA is to promote cooperation and coordination across MPO boundaries and

across State boundaries where appropriate to ensure a regional approach to transportation planning.

In February, 2015 the RTC accepted the role as lead collaborator and administrator for implementation of the

Southern Nevada Strong Regional Plan. One of the main purposes of the plan is to think and act regionally.

The RTC, as the MPO for the Southern Nevada Region, has the ability to provide a forum for cross-jurisdictional

cooperation on many levels. The implementation process is underway and many of the examples can be found

in the task list provided later in this document.

The RTC also participates in the Planning Executive Group (PEG). The PEG meets on a monthly basis and is an

opportunity for planners from all of the MPOs in Nevada to meet with the Nevada DOT, FHWA, and FTA.

Discussions center on improving communication, building better working relationships, ensuring compliance

with rules and regulations, and sharing best practices and lessons learned on projects. A key deliverable

accomplished in FY2015 was the completion of the Nevada Unified Transportation Plan Preview in which the

MPOs and NDOT worked collaboratively to identify long term funding needs. These entities will continue to

work together to synchronize messaging and draw attention to the transportation needs in the state.

Ladders of Opportunity

The intent of emphasizing Ladders of Opportunity is to offer access to essential services as part of the

transportation planning process and to identify connectivity gaps in access to these services.

The Southern Nevada Strong Regional Plan focuses on providing connections between employment, education,

and housing through providing multiple transportation options. The plan was completed in early 2015 and is

now in the early phases of implementation. The implementation of the goals of the plan will be consistent with

the Ladders of Opportunity goal of providing access to essential services as part of the transportation process.

Additionally, the RTC completed an update of the Public Participation Plan during FY15. This plan incorporates

many new strategies for conducting public outreach. These new methodologies are an extension of Southern

Nevada Strong as well, as the Southern Nevada Strong process involved many new and innovative methods of

reaching out to the public, including traditionally underserved populations. The RTC anticipates utilizing these

new outreach strategies in all aspects of our work, including the development of the next Regional

Transportation Plan, which is currently underway.


3: Fiscal Year 2015 UPWP Major Accomplishments

Most of the projects completed in FY2015 were originally funded in FY2014 as multi-year projects. The

majority of these multi-year projects wrapped up in FY2015 and are described below:

Public Participation Plan Update (Task 101-1500-15)

In preparation for the next Regional Transportation Plan, the Public Participation Plan (PPP) was updated to

provide guidance on the methodology to engage the public on MPO and Transit activities and documents. In

an effort to improve readability, the Public Participation Plan was reformatted to clearly differentiate which

processes apply to the RTC in its capacity as the MPO and the transit agency. The document also streamlined

some public comment processes to better align with the RTC's committee schedules. Lastly, the PPP identified

new tools and methodologies inspired by Southern Nevada Strong to more effectively engage the public.

FY2015-2019 Transportation Improvement Program (Task 101-3200-15)

The RTC develops a new Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) every other year to show how federal

funding is programmed in Southern Nevada. Notable improvements were made to the FY2015-2019 TIP to

improve the transparency of project details and the flexibility of the document. Transparency was improved by

updating project tables to show local match on all projects. Additionally, all project tables now show project

costs by funding, by phase, by year. This enables the public and policy makers to quickly identify how much of

the project costs are dedicated to preliminary engineering, right-of-way, and construction.

Another notable change to the FY2015-2019 TIP is the addition of a fifth illustrative year (2019). This

illustrative year affords the RTC and project sponsors added flexibility to make adjustments to regional

priorities beyond the mandated four year horizon of the TIP. The illustrative fifth year will also enable the RTC

to maintain an active four year list of projects for two consecutive years without having to develop a new TIP.

This will be accomplished by a TIP amendment at the end of FY2015 which will turn the illustrative 2019 into

the programmed year.

Travel Demand Model Enhancements and Validation (Task 201-2230-15)

All tasks will be 100% complete by 6/30/2016. By the end of FY15, this project will be about 60% completed.

This is a three-year project to support the development of the 2017-2040 RTP.

Major data gathering activities are essential requirements to support the model enhancements. These data

gathering activities include:

The recently completed freight data collection study.

2014/15 Household Travel Survey described elsewhere in this UPWP.

2014/15 On-Board Transit Survey described elsewhere in this UPWP.

2014/15 Hotel and Visitor Travel Survey described elsewhere in this UPWP.

2015-based projection of regional population extending out to 2040 and the corresponding projection

of parcel-level land use data, leading to the development of the 2015-2040 Planning Variables.

In FY15, all the above listed surveys and data gathering tasks will be completed and the Model Enhancement

tasks on the survey data quality checks, analysis and process will be completed. Additional travel time data

has been collected by separate contractors, this travel data along with FAST and RTC data will be processed

into the input for the validation of the model.


Traffic Micro-simulation Modeling Phase 2 (Task 201-2510-15)

The project developed a tool that provides a simple conversion method from RTCSNV regional travel demand

model data (TransCAD & macroscopic) to micro-simulation model data (Synchro & microscopic). This

conversion is completed through a Dynamic Traffic Assignment model (DTA and mesoscopic). NeXTA/DTALite

was selected as the DTA tool. The project wrapped up in June 2015.

The project provides the RTC with a tool to convert the regional Travel Demand Model (TDM) to a micro-

simulation model, and the ability to perform micro-simulation analysis.

Household Travel Survey (Task 201-2520-15)

The completed project provides very comprehensive statistical data on the number, length, purpose, mode,

time of day activities , and trips made by persons within the sample households during a specific 24-hour

travel day. Other datasets may also be collected and basic household information is also included. The survey

data can be used in the following steps of the travel demand forecast modeling process:

1. Trip production rates by trip purpose;

2. Trip distribution by time of day;

3. Trip length frequency distribution;

4. Modal share of travel;

5. Auto occupancies;

6. Vehicle operating speeds; and

7. Household vehicle ownership

The completed project will be very useful in validation and improvement of the travel demand model and for

the development of RTP and TIP. The data is also valuable for a more thorough understanding of regional

transportation patterns to assist regional and corridor transportation planning and analysis.

2014 Origin & Destination On-Board Transit Survey (Task 201-2530-15)

The completed project provides very comprehensive statistical data of passenger ridership patterns for the

entire RTC transit system. The data emphasizes origins and destinations, transfer locations, access and

egress modes, and other information. The survey data will be used for the validation and improvement of the

travel demand model and for the development of the RTP and TIP. The data is also valuable for a better

understanding of transit patterns, supporting enhanced transit operations and route planning, regional and

corridor transportation planning and analysis.

2014 Hotel Visitor Survey (Task 201-2540-15)

The completed project provides a better overall understanding of the people who visit the Las Vegas Valley,

where they go once they arrive, and the modes of transportation they utilize to navigate the region. The survey

gathered information on visitor trip origins and destinations, modes of travel, and actual trips that visitors

make for meals, business meetings, entertainment, and other recreational destinations. The data collected

will be used to better understand visitor travel and is very useful in validation and improvement of the travel

demand model and for the development of RTP and TIP.


Regional Traffic Counts (Task 201-2680-15)

Beginning in April 2014 and completed in December 2014, this project collected traffic counts for 205

locations in the Las Vegas area. The results were submitted to NDOT for AADT calculation and NDOT Annual

Traffic Report. The NDOT also uses the traffic counts to track traffic condition changes on the roadways. The

RTC will utilize the results to validate and calibrate the RTC travel demand model.

The RTC collects the counts for these locations on an annual basis following the standard set by the FHWA

Traffic Monitoring Manual. The next counting cycle is July 1, 2015 – June 30, 2016. Any count location

changes would be determined by NDOT.

Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Counts (Task 201-3640-15)

Completed in December 2014, this study helped fill a critical data gap that had existed in understanding the

current levels of bicycle and pedestrian activity in Southern Nevada. The study was designed to help the RTC

achieve two objectives, 1) establish a preferred count collection methodology to document bicycle and

pedestrian use, and 2) collect counts at 24 selected locations that would reoccur in future years and be used

as a baseline to establish trends over time.

A preferred count strategy identified and recommended by this study was to quickly and relatively inexpensively

deploy automated counters to best determine peak hours for a particular location, and then subsequently use

manual counts (either live or video) to gather the most accurate data during those peak hours.

This study provided a reproducible baseline of multi-modal count data for the locations selected. While bicycle

and pedestrian volumes vary greatly throughout the region, they are highest close to schools and parks, as well

as downtown and in commercial districts with numerous destinations easily accessible without an automobile.

Future tracking of the changing levels of bicycling and walking in Southern Nevada can use this data as a

baseline for comparison.

Coordinated Public Transportation/Human Services Plan (Task 202-3480-15)

The RTC brought together stakeholders at a workshop held in October 2014 to discuss how transportation

providers and human service providers could synchronize services to address the transportation needs of the

community, especially for the elderly and disabled. The workshop assessed the needs of the community and

the strategies for meeting those needs identified in the 2008 Coordinated Public Transit – Human Services

Transportation Plan and made suggested changes. The Coordinated Transportation Plan was developed as a

result and this document guides how certain federal transit funding should be prioritized in the region. The

document brought before the advisory committees of the RTC for review and was adopted by the RTC Board in

March 2015.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning (Task 202-3710-15)

The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) secured federal Partnership to Improve Community Health (PICH)

grant funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Included in the grant was an RTC

proposal to update the Regional Bicycle Pedestrian Plan and the RTC worked closely with the SNHD to develop

an interlocal contract. In support of a federal Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance (RTCA) grant received

by Southern Nevada Strong (SNS) from the National Park Service (NPS), the RTC facilitated the creation of an

inter-agency planning team to evaluate the feasibility of establishing a shared-use path and other community

enhancements along the Nevada Energy Spencer Utility Corridor. RTC staff also participated in Safe Routes to


Schools (SRTS) workshops in December 2014 and January 2015 to assist the Clark County School District

(CCSD) with developing action plans for ten elementary schools to improve student walking and bicycling to

school.

Southern Nevada Transportation Safety Plan (Task 202-3715-15)

The Transportation Safety Plan (TSP) has evolved from NDOT’s goal of “Zero Fatalities” and through the active

participation of the RTC and other relevant agencies in development of the Nevada Strategic Highway Safety

Plan. This plan will provide a project development processes focused on safety that can be used by the RTC

and its member agencies in Southern Nevada. The TSP evaluated what needs to be done to reduce the risk of

death and serious injury to all road users in Southern Nevada. The TSP established a vision, goals, objectives,

countermeasures, strategies, and performance measures to improve transportation safety. The TSP will also

identify strategies for addressing new areas of safety planning such as spatial analysis and utilization of

appropriate analytical methods from the Highway Safety Manual. The recommendations from the TSP will

provide input to the Regional Transportation Plan.

At the time of writing, the study was nearing completion but will be carried forward to FY2016 to address any

comments on the final draft.

Washington Avenue Complete Streets Study (Task 301-1470-15)

In close coordination with the City of Las Vegas and additional input from the City of North Las Vegas, Clark

County, and the public, the RTC evaluated Washington Avenue and Owens Avenue/Vegas Drive between Nellis

Boulevard and Rampart Boulevard. Both streets provide unique opportunities because of ample right-of-way

coupled with low traffic volumes. The focus of the study was to determine how retrofits to the existing corridors

could make better accommodations for bicyclists, pedestrians, and transit users. Analysis was performed to

ensure improved there would be minimal adverse impacts to vehicular traffic while making the corridor safer

for other users. The study identified proposed design treatments and planning-level cost estimates.



North Las Vegas Complete Streets Corridor Ranking Study (Task 301-1480-15)

A broad based stakeholder working group was created to identify and help gather information regarding

community and livability indicators that provide insight regarding potential gaps in transportation

infrastructure. Additionally, parallel regional efforts like Southern Nevada Strong and Healthy Communities

were leveraged. The information gathered helped the group develop a set of evaluation criteria to identify

locations where complete street intervention is most beneficial to specific neighborhoods and the community

as a whole. Once locations are identified, potential street treatments will be identified. The study documented

a process that will facilitate future assessment and prioritization of candidate complete street corridors in the

City of North Las Vegas.




Community Mobility Study for Central Las Vegas, Phase 2 (Task 301-1525-15)

Phase 1 of the Community Mobility Study was a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysis which

identified opportunities to improve transportation choices within a three mile radius of the Bonneville Transit

Center. Phase 2 of this study took the analysis to the next level by field checking the Phase 1

recommendations and providing specific design recommendations for all mobility analysis zones.

Recommendations were focused on improving bicycling, walking, transit, and elementary school access as well

as overcoming physical boundaries into and out of the study area. The study identified short and long-term

priorities and planning level cost estimates.



Clark County Parking Study (Task 301-1710-15)

Completed in April 2015, this study examined parking supply and demand, through field surveys, for certain

nonresidential land use categories in unincorporated Clark County. The objective was to evaluate how closely

the County’s parking regulations included in Title 30.60 match actual observed parking demand.

The survey results suggest that minimum parking requirements in Title 30.60 provide more parking than

necessary in most instances. Reducing parking requirements in the Code to better align parking supply with

parking demand is likely to have a positive impact on a variety of social, environmental, economic, and public

health concerns. These benefits are consistent with the smart growth and sustainable development goals and

policies established in the County’s Comprehensive Plan and the RTP.

A potential Clark County Parking Study – Phase 2 is currently being evaluated. Phase 2 would develop and

examine potential changes to parking regulations to better align the Code with parking demand. Any potential

parking policy changes recommended by Phase 2 would be accompanied by a robust public outreach program.

Swenson Street/Twain Avenue Complete Streets Study (Task 301-1715-15)

Swenson Street is a major north–south arterial that has a variety of land uses and major developments. Twain

Avenue is an east-west collector intersecting with Swenson Street. The roadway facilities within these corridors

are primarily for motor vehicles, but are also used by bicycles, pedestrians, and transit users.

The RTC and Clark County have been conducting transportation planning studies in jurisdictions that look into

bicycle, pedestrian, and transit accommodations. Clark County is concerned with 1) what roadway corridors

can achieve transportation design features that place an emphasis to cycling, walking, and/or transit ridership

first before the automobile and 2) what roadway corridors have precedence for automobile traffic, but still

need mobility and safety improvements for bicyclists, pedestrians, and/or transit users.

The Swenson/Twain Complete Streets Study attempts to answer the second concern with regards to Swenson

Street from Harmon Avenue to Sahara Avenue; and Twain Avenue from Paradise Road to Maryland Parkway.

The main goal of the study is to create a plan that recommends design options for increased mobility and

safety consistent with the Complete Streets Design Guideline for livable communities.

Four different alternatives were considered for implementation throughout the corridor:

Alternative A – Wider Sidewalks Both Sides

Alternative B – Wider Sidewalks with Wider Sidewalk on One Side

Alternative C – Buffered Bike Lane Both Sides

Alternative D – Two-Way Cycle Track One Side


After review of the four alternatives, two alternatives were chosen, and a Multi-Modal Level of Service (MMLOS)

analysis was conducted on the two alternatives to compare the two alternatives to the existing conditions

along the corridors. After review of the two alternatives, the Technical Working Group chose to move forward

with Alternative A, and a conceptual design is being prepared for Alternative A.

This study will be carried forward to FY16 in order to address public comments and to complete the final draft.

Regional Schools Multimodal Transportation Access Study (Task 301-17201-15)

Completed in June 2015, this study focused specifically on developing siting recommendations for new school

sites to avoid some of the safety and school accessibility challenges facing Southern Nevada schools today.

The study also included recommendations on what can be done to improve safety and the overall bicycle and

pedestrian experiences adjacent to existing school sites to encourage more parents to walk or bike with their

children to school.

The distance a student lives from school impacts their ability to walk or bike to school. If large schools are

constructed in low density housing areas, most children are likely to live further away from the school. This will

heighten dependence on motorized transportation and force the school to provide more parking and

loading/unloading areas. Alternatively, if schools are relatively small and constructed in close proximity to

higher density housing, children will live nearby and will be more likely to walk or bike to school.

The study reviewed and compared national best practices for school siting with local agencies development

codes and comprehensive plans to identify deficiencies in Southern Nevada. The end result is a clear matrix of

recommended local and regional policies, guidelines and strategies to better identify future school site

locations and to include safe, multi-modal transportation options for students.

Regional Goods Movement Corridor Master Plan (Task 301-1725-15)

The Goods Movement Master Plan builds on previously collected information and studies. The project

assesses the capabilities of the infrastructure, identifies needs, and develops strategies for both near and long

term improvements. The identified strategies and recommendations will be used for further study and

analysis, and as input in the RTP planning process. The final product of this study will be a Regional Goods

Movement Corridor Master Plan that meets the guidelines established in MAP-21 and may inform and/or lead

to capital projects.

Eastern Avenue Mobility and Safety Plan (Task 301-1810-15)

Eastern Avenue is a major north-south arterial that crosses jurisdictional boundaries and has a variety of land

uses and major developments. The roadway conditions on this corridor allow for bicycle, pedestrian, and

transit uses; however, the corridor is widely known for its automobile traffic. Therefore, opportunities existed

for pedestrian mobility and safety enhancements that had not been fully evaluated.

Completed in June 2015, this study created a detailed plan that recommended preliminary design options for

increased non-motorized safety and mobility. An overarching acknowledgement for the study was that Eastern

Avenue is designed to move large volumes of vehicles, but context sensitive designs can improve mobility and

safety for bicyclists, pedestrians, and/or transit users without a significant impact on automobile Level of

Service.

This study was one of the first in Southern Nevada to use the 2010 Highway Capacity Manual’s multimodal

Level of Service analysis to analyze bicycle and pedestrian improvements. Additionally, since Eastern Avenue


is typical of large arterials in this region, the analysis and design template developed for this study can serve

as a useful model for future corridor studies.

Maryland Parkway Demonstration Site Analysis (Task 301-5515A-15)

In conjunction with the federal Sustainable Communities Initiative, the Regional Transportation Commission of

Southern Nevada (RTC) has been working with Southern Nevada Strong to develop a Regional Plan for

sustainable development. As part of this effort, a handful of demonstration sites were identified based on their

potential to be redeveloped into areas that can better integrate housing, transit and jobs. One of the proposed

demonstration sites was the Maryland Parkway corridor, which has been studied in detail by the RTC as part of

an Alternatives Analysis for transportation investment. The purpose of this UPWP task was to conduct a

planning study that considered the strategies identified in the Regional Plan and their potential application to

the Maryland Parkway corridor.

The study was initiated in February 2014 as the Alternatives Analysis report was being finalized. Outreach

activities included a presentation at the Southern Nevada Strong Summit (February 2014), public meeting

(May 2014) and engagement of the Maryland Parkway Coalition, a local group of property owners, businesses,

neighborhood associations and other stakeholders with interest in the Maryland Parkway corridor (May and

July 2014). The work on this study was completed in December 2014 and the final deliverable received was

the Maryland Parkway Implementation Strategy Report.

The findings of the study were presented to the Clark County Board of Commissioners in January 2015. In

response to one of the study’s recommendation, the jurisdiction’s Planning staff was directed to work on

developing an overlay district for Maryland Parkway. The intent of the overlay district would be to create a

common identity for the corridor and enable new, higher density, mixed-use development that is conducive to

more transportation choices like walking, bicycling and taking public transportation. Presentations on the

Maryland Parkway Implementation Strategy Report the process for development of an overlay district are

planned for the next Maryland Parkway Coalition meeting in March 2015. In addition, the study’s finding will

be considered in the upcoming environmental study for proposed transit capital investments in the Maryland

Parkway corridor, scheduled to begin in the spring of 2015.

City of Mesquite Traffic Impact Study Policy Review (Task 301-6307-15)

Completed in November 2014 this project reviewed the City of Mesquite policies related to Traffic Impact

Analysis (TIA) requirements, and made recommendations for improvements to the policy based on a review of

best practices, conditions specific to Mesquite, and input from primary stakeholders.

Recommendations include four levels of traffic impact study requirements, which are: no study required, letter,

TIA-Local, and TIA-Regional. This provides the benefit of multiple levels that are developed based on

stakeholder input, comparison to other jurisdictions, are fair and consistent for developers. Additionally, the

letter requirement does not require developer to hire Traffic Engineer, and TIA-Local and TIA-Regional protect

the City and regional transportation systems by requiring mitigation measures. The City of Mesquite Planning

Department coordinated with the City of Mesquite City Council for approval and adoption of the recommended

policy language and guidelines in this study.


The ‘Interstate 11’ Corridor.

The 2012 surface transportation reauthorization, known as Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act

(MAP-21) (P.L. 112-141), designated the future freeway connecting Las Vegas and Phoenix as Interstate 11.

The RTC successfully coordinated with NDOT and transportation officials in Arizona to develop short, medium

and long-range plans for this new interstate highway. The ‘I-11 Corridor Study’, which was completed in

October 2014, evaluated potential alignments for a high capacity multi-modal facility that will accommodate

anticipated increases in demand along the corridor for the movement of people, freight, and other

commodities. The RTC will continue to coordinate with stakeholders concerning potential future I-11

alignments that will pass through and north of the Las Vegas Valley.

The Boulder City Bypass, which will be the first section of I-11 constructed, will provide a safer and faster

option for drivers who want to avoid stopping in Boulder City, Nevada. Current traffic congestion in Boulder City

will be reduced and mobility into and out of Southern Nevada will be improved. Development of the entire I-11

facility, along with the Boulder City Bypass, has the potential to allow for significant expansion of commerce,

tourism, and international trade opportunities to Southern Nevada and across the western United States.

As shown in the map below, the RTC is leading the effort to complete Phase 2 of the Bypass from Silverline

Road to the new Nevada Interchange, which was completed in October of 2010 as part of FHWA’s Hoover Dam

Bypass Project. Phase 1 includes improvements from Railroad Pass to Silverline Road, which is being

designed and constructed by the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT).

The passage of fuel revenue indexing in Clark County in 2013, which ties the sales tax for gasoline to the rate

of inflation, has resulted in $700 million in additional revenues to fund surface transportation infrastructure in

Southern Nevada. The Boulder City Bypass is now fully funded as a result of this new funding mechanism, with

the RTC earmarking approximately $52 million of fuel revenue indexing funds for the Bypass. Additionally, the

fuel revenue indexing funds will allow the RTC to Advance Construct Phase 2, with local funds used for the

initial construction repaid at a later date with Federal-aid highway dollars.

RTC’s total estimated construction cost for Phase 2 of the Bypass using a Design-Build project delivery method

is approximately $225,000,000. The RTC will fund construction of the Design-Build Project with

$213,750,000 in Federal-aid highway dollars from the Surface Transportation Program to be repaid in later

years. Construction of both Phase 1 and Phase 2 is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2015.


4: Fiscal Year 2016 UPWP Development Approach

The UPWP budget for FY 2016 includes RTC costs associated with the development and implementation of

core regional planning activities and project management of professional services contracts for planning

studies. During the development of the FY 2016 UPWP the RTC received a total of 15 proposals for

consideration from the local jurisdictions, including those studies arising from the RTC’s own assessment of

regional transportation needs.

MAP-21 encourages metropolitan areas to improve regional mobility through the provision of safe, efficient,

and convenient transportation systems. The federal legislation also requires the development of performance

measures to allow quantitative evaluation of regional transportation investments. The FY 2016 UPWP will

continue to achieve the goals of MAP-21 through a focus on the fulfillment of the RTC vision to “provide a

convenient, safe, and effective regional transportation system that enhances mobility and air quality for

citizens and visitors.”

In general, the expectation for the projects and studies included in the UPWP is to enhance the transportation

environment of the Southern Nevada region and expand multimodal options. This program extends well

beyond enhancements to the regional roadway network. Pedestrian, bicycle, transportation safety, and transit

facilities are also considered. Overall, the objective of the UPWP is to facilitate development of a multimodal

transportation system that serves both the Las Vegas urbanized area and the surrounding rural areas of Clark

County. There is an emphasis in the UPWP on conducting studies that will serve to improve both the mobility of

the Southern Nevada residential commuting population and ensuring the efficient flow of freight and

commercial goods that serve our regional economy. This program of projects will also provide mobility and

accessibility benefits to tourists traveling into and around the Southern Nevada region.

The UPWP is developed in consultation with state and local entities according to federal guidelines. Project

proposals are reviewed against eligibility criteria established by FHWA and FTA. Specifically, these criteria

preclude the use of federal planning funds for system operation plans, project development engineering, or

design studies for activities required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).


5: Planning Funds and FY 2016 UPWP Budget

There are two primary sources of federal funding available to support the MPO transportation planning

functions. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) administers funds under the Metropolitan Planning Area

Program (‘PL’), while the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) administers funds under the ‘Section 5303’

Program. Funds appropriated by Congress under these programs are apportioned among the states for

distribution to the MPO areas within the state.

Consolidated Planning Grant

In 2013, the RTC of Southern Nevada entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to participate in

the U.S. Department of Transportation Consolidated Planning Grant program (CPG). Under the CPG

Agreement, FHWA-PL and FTA S.5303 funds are consolidated into a single source to fund the activities

authorized under the UPWP.

NDOT and the four MPOs in the state have also agreed to a formula under which the CPG funds are distributed

between the MPO areas.

FY 2016 funding

The funding expected to be available for the 2016 UPWP is based on three elements:

First, the amount expected to be expended thru the end of June, 2015 and hence the balance of the funds f

that will be carried forward to FY 2016.

Second, it is assumed that CPG funding for FFY 2016 will be the same as for FFY 2015.

Third, RTC is required to contribute at least 5% of the costs of the UPWP program from local, non-federal,

sources.

The result is set out in the table below.

Table 5-1: FY 2016 projections

FFY 2016 Distribution

CPG funds available for FFY 2015 $ 4,334,468

Draw-down thru Dec 31, 2014 <$2,432,741>

Anticipated draw-down thru June

30, 2015 <$1,479,536>

Balance projected, June 30, 2015 $422,190

Expected CPG funds for FFY 2016 $ 2,816,812

Total CPG funds available $3,239,002

Local match (5%) $170,474

Total $3,409,476

Funding Availability

The period covered by the 2016 UPWP corresponds with the RTC and State Fiscal Year starting July 1, 2015

and ending June 30, 2016. Federal CPG funds are apportioned and distributed for the Federal Fiscal Year that

starts October 1 each year.

Therefore the only funds available to be expended during the period thru the end of September are those

carried forward from the previous fiscal year. Likewise, the UPWP always needs to show sufficient balance at

the end of the UPWP period to cover expenditures until the start of the next Federal fiscal year the following

October.


2016 UPWP Task budgets

Initiated with the FY2015 UPWP, the RTC streamlined the budget process in groups of activities to be

performed under the UPWP into five main tasks:

1. Planning Administration, Coordination and Outreach (Task 101)

2. Data Collection and Analysis (Task 201)

3. Long Range Transportation Planning (Task 202)

4. Multi-Modal Transportation Planning (Task 301)

5. Intelligent Transportation Systems Planning (Task 302)

State and Federal agencies will track Consolidated Planning Grant expenditures with reference to the budgets

for these five tasks. This will simplify accounting procedures and also reduce the need for frequent

amendments to respond to minor changes in the budget for individual line items.

Detailed information on the objective, scope and timeline of the various UPWP activities within each task is

presented by sub-task in Chapter 6, as in previous UPWP documents. Budgetary information by sub-task is

presented for information and to assist RTC with monitoring progress.

Table 5-5 on the next page sets out the task and sub-task budgets for FY 2016.


FY 2

016

RTC

Cost

FY 2

015

Prof

essi

onal

Serv

ices

Con

trac

ts

(CA

RRY

OV

ER)

FY 2

016

Prof

essi

onal

Serv

ices

Con

trac

ts

(NEW

)

FY 2

016

Com

bine

d

Prof

essi

onal

Ser

vice

s

and

RTC

Cost

s

FY 2

016

Cons

olid

ated

Plan

ning

Gra

ntFY

201

6 lo

cal M

atch

TASK

101

PLA

NN

ING

AD

MIN

ISTR

ATI

ON

, CO

ORD

INA

TIO

N A

ND

OU

TREA

CH

101-

1500

-16

Gen

eral

Out

reac

h10

,000

$

-

$

-

$

10

,000

$

9,

500

$

50

0$

101-

2300

-16

Stak

ehol

der C

oord

inat

ion

75,0

00$

-$

-$

75,0

00$

71,2

50$

3,75

0$

101-

2310

-16

Plan

ning

Adm

inis

trat

ion

400,

000

$

-$

-$

400,

000

$

380,

000

$

20,0

00$

101-

3100

-16

Uni

fied

Pla

nnin

g W

ork

Prog

ram

30

,000

$

-

$

-

$

30

,000

$

28

,500

$

1,

500

$

101-

3200

-16

Tran

spor

tati

on Im

prov

emen

t Pro

gram

50

,000

$

-

$

-

$

50

,000

$

47

,500

$

2,

500

$

101-

3500

-16

Envi

ronm

enta

l Jus

tice

/Tit

le V

I/La

dder

s of

Opp

ortu

nity

2,00

0$

-$

-$

2,00

0$

1,90

0$

100

$

101-

3600

-16

Mis

cella

neou

s1,

000

$

-

$

-

$

1,

000

$

95

0$

50$

Task

101

Tot

al56

8,00

0$

-

$

-

$

56

8,00

0$

53

9,60

0$

28

,400

$

TASK

201

DA

TA C

OLL

ECTI

ON

201-

2116

-16

Trav

el D

eman

d M

odel

250,

000

$

-$

-$

250,

000

$

237,

500

$

12,5

00$

201-

2206

-16

Ann

ual P

opul

atio

n Fo

reca

st22

,000

$

-

$

12

,000

$

34

,000

$

32

,300

$

1,

700

$

201-

2230

-16

Trav

el D

eman

d M

odel

Enh

ance

men

ts &

Val

idat

ion

-$

-$

500,

000

$

500,

000

$

475,

000

$

25,0

00$

201-

2520

-16

Hou

seho

ld T

rave

l Sur

vey

250

$

2,

000

$

-

$

2,

250

$

2,

138

$

11

3$

201-

2530

-16

2014

Ori

gin

& D

esti

nati

on O

n-Bo

ard

Tran

sit S

urve

y25

0$

2,00

0$

-$

2,25

0$

2,13

8$

113

$

201-

2680

-16

Regi

onal

Tra

ffic

Cou

nts

4,00

0$

-$

230,

000

$

234,

000

$

222,

300

$

11,7

00$

201-

3640

-16

Regi

onal

Bic

ycle

and

Ped

estr

ian

Coun

ts2,

500

$

-

$

50

,000

$

52

,500

$

49

,875

$

2,

625

$

201-

9000

-16

CCSD

Wal

king

Aud

its

2,50

0$

-$

50,0

00$

52,5

00$

49,8

75$

2,62

5$

Task

201

Tot

al28

1,50

0$

4,

000

$

84

2,00

0$

1,

127,

500

$

1,

071,

125

$

56

,375

$

TASK

202

LON

G R

AN

GE

TRA

NSP

ORT

ATI

ON

PLA

NN

ING

202-

3325

-16

Perf

orm

ance

-bas

ed P

lann

ing

50,0

00$

-$

-$

50,0

00$

47,5

00$

2,50

0$

202-

3710

-16

Bicy

cle

& P

edes

tria

n Pl

anni

ng

10,0

00$

-$

-$

10,0

00$

9,50

0$

500

$

202

-371

5-16

Tr

ansp

orta

tion

Saf

ety

Plan

ning

2,00

0$

10,0

00$

-$

12,0

00$

11,4

00$

600

$

202-

9005

-16

Regi

onal

Tra

nspo

rtat

ion

Plan

& V

isio

ning

10,0

00$

-$

150,

000

$

160,

000

$

152,

000

$

8,00

0$

Task

202

Tot

al72

,000

$

10

,000

$

15

0,00

0$

23

2,00

0$

22

0,40

0$

11

,600

$

TASK

301

MU

LTI-

MO

DA

L TR

AN

SPO

RTA

TIO

N S

TUD

IES

301-

1470

-16

Was

hing

ton

Ave

nue

Com

plet

e St

reet

s St

udy

500

$

5,

000

$

-

$

5,

500

$

5,

225

$

27

5$

301-

1480

-16

Nor

th L

as V

egas

Com

plet

e St

reet

s Co

rrid

or R

anki

ng S

tudy

250

$

1,

216

$

-

$

1,

466

$

1,

393

$

73

$

301

-152

5-16

Co

mm

unit

y M

obili

ty S

tudy

for C

entr

al L

as V

egas

, Pha

se 2

500

$

5,

000

$

-

$

5,

500

$

5,

225

$

27

5$

301-

1715

-16

Swen

son

Stre

et/T

wai

n A

venu

e Co

mpl

ete

Stre

ets

Stud

y2,

500

$

79

,000

$

-

$

81

,500

$

77

,425

$

4,

075

$

301

-172

0-16

Re

gion

al S

choo

ls M

ulti

mod

al T

rans

port

atio

n A

cces

s St

udy

1,00

0$

15,0

00$

-$

16,0

00$

15,2

00$

800

$

301-

9010

-16

Spen

cer G

reen

way

Tra

nspo

rtat

ion

Trai

l & U

NLV

Cam

pus

Bike

Pla

n5,

000

$

-

$

15

0,00

0$

15

5,00

0$

14

7,25

0$

7,

750

$

301-

9015

-16

City

of H

ende

rson

AD

A T

rans

itio

n Pl

an5,

000

$

-

$

75

,000

$

80

,000

$

76

,000

$

4,

000

$

301-

9020

-16

Clar

k Co

unty

Par

king

Stu

dy -

Phas

e 2

5,00

0$

-$

100,

000

$

105,

000

$

99,7

50$

5,25

0$

301-

9025

-16

Clar

k Co

unty

Rur

al S

tree

ts S

tand

ards

Stu

dy5,

000

$

-

$

75

,000

$

80

,000

$

76

,000

$

4,

000

$

301-

9030

-16

Nor

thea

st V

alle

y Tr

ansp

orta

tion

Net

wor

k St

udy

5,00

0$

-$

100,

000

$

105,

000

$

99,7

50$

5,25

0$

301-

9035

-16

RTC

Tran

sit R

ider

ship

and

TO

D S

tudy

5,00

0$

-$

150,

000

$

155,

000

$

147,

250

$

7,75

0$

301-

9040

-16

RTC

Truc

k A

rter

ial R

oute

Stu

dy5,

000

$

-

$

15

0,00

0$

15

5,00

0$

14

7,25

0$

7,

750

$

Task

301

Tot

al39

,750

$

10

5,21

6$

80

0,00

0$

94

4,96

6$

89

7,71

8$

47

,248

$

TASK

302

INTE

LLIG

ENT

TRA

NSP

ORT

ATI

ON

SYS

TEM

(ITS

) STU

DIE

S

302

-720

6-16

Tr

affi

c Si

gnal

Tim

ing

Stra

tegi

es in

Las

Veg

as1,

500

$

15

0,00

0$

-

$

15

1,50

0$

14

3,92

5$

7,

575

$

Task

302

Tot

al1,

500

$

15

0,00

0$

-

$

15

1,50

0$

14

3,92

5$

7,

575

$

962,

750

$

269,

216

$

1,79

2,00

0$

3,02

3,96

6$

2,87

2,76

8$

151,

198

$

Tota

l

FY16

Uni

fied

Pla

nnin

g W

ork

Prog

ram


Proposed activities under the 2016 UPWP are grouped under five tasks. Individual activities are described as

sub-tasks with each task.

Task 101, Planning Administration, Coordination and Outreach.

This task covers the core planning activities of the Metropolitan Planning Organization. These include:

The annual development and maintenance of the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP);

The maintenance of the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)

The maintenance of the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP)

Also included are the MPO’s responsibilities for Environmental Justice and for compliance with Title VI

of the Civil Rights Act.

Task 101 includes the RTC costs associated with these core programs, coordination with local, state and

federal partners, coordination with other stakeholders and general outreach.

Any consultant support related to these core activities is covered under other tasks, so the only costs identified

are those associated with RTC staff time and related in-house expenditures.

Specific sub-tasks are:

101-1500, General Outreach

101-2300, Stakeholder Coordination

101-2310, Planning Administration

101-3100, Unified Planning Work Program

101-3200, Transportation Improvement Program

101-3500, Environmental Justice and Title VI

101-3600, Miscellaneous Supporting Activities

Task 101, 2016 Budget

The following costs are included under Task 101:

FY 2016 RTC costs: $568,000

Professional Services Costs: $ 0

Combined costs: $568,000

The source of funds for Task 101 is:

Consolidated Planning Grant: $539,600

Local funds (5% match) $ 28,400


Sub Task 101-1500-16: General Outreach

Purpose: Throughout the transportation planning process, RTC staff performs various

functions concerning the time and materials used for advertising, preparation, and

conducting public involvement activities associated with the development and

implementation of plans and programs.

Previous Work:

Public outreach, meetings and promotion in support of the Regional Transportation

Plan (RTP), the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), the Unified Planning Work

Program (UPWP) projects and studies, and the Public Participation Plan (PPP).

Methodology:

Through both mainstream and innovative means the RTC will develop, coordinate,

and conduct public outreach related to all activities listed in the UPWP. Examples

include: conducting public meetings, participating in “pop-up meetings”, having a

presence at community events, publishing documents, developing press releases,

and addressing and tracking public comments.

General outreach is led by the RTC’s Department of Government Affairs, Media, and

Marketing.

Participating Agencies:

Clark County, City of Las Vegas, City of North Las Vegas, City of Henderson, City of

Boulder City, City of Mesquite, Nevada Department of Transportation, and the

Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Lead Agency)

Budget:

Sub Task 101-1500-16 FY 2016 Budget

Total Project Cost $10,000

Professional Services Contract -0-

RTC Cost $10,000

Funding Sources

Consolidated Planning Grant (95%) $9,500

Local Match (5%) $500

Total FY16 Project Budget $10,000

Schedule and Deliverables:

Report on public outreach activities.

Inventory of display materials in support of RTC public outreach activities.

General Outreach is an on-going activity


Sub Task 101-2300-16: Stakeholder Coordination

Purpose: Stakeholder Coordination covers all activities related to the continued coordination

of the Southern Nevada regional transportation planning process with local agencies,

Nevada Department of Transportation, U.S. Department of Transportation, and also the

coordination of activities with other regional planning agencies on inter-regional issues.

Methodology:

General liaison with the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT), coordination

in development of the State Highway Safety Plan (SHSP), participation in meetings,

workshops, and coordination with NDOT in development of the Southern Nevada

Regional ITS Architecture, participation in activities of the Southern Nevada Regional

Planning Coalition (SNRPC), and inter-regional meetings and workshops.

Stakeholder Coordination is performed by the Metropolitan Planning Organization,

Government Affairs, Media and Marketing, and Executive Management.


Nevada Department of Transportation, Southern Nevada Regional Planning Coalition

(SNRPC), and the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Lead

Agency)

Budget:




RTC Cost $75,000

Funding Sources


Local Match (5%) $3,750



Coordination with local, state, and federal agencies on Southern Nevada regional

transportation planning issues.

Stakeholder Coordination is an on-going activity.


Sub Task 101-2310-16: Planning Administration

Purpose: Activities included under this sub task include the overall administration of the

Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) transportation planning process. These tasks are

on-going activities required to meet federal and state regulations.

Methodology:

Planning Administration occurs through the conduct of various meetings of regional

stakeholders, including the Transportation Access Advisory Committee, Executive

Advisory Committee, Nevada Department of Transportation liaison meetings,

Metropolitan Planning Subcommittee, RTC Board of Commissioners, and multiple

other regional transportation coordination committees and groups. Also included in

this task item is professional development of RTC staff through the maintenance of

RTC staff membership in professional planning organizations.

The Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is responsible for this task.

Expected Products:

Continuous coordination with local agencies and stakeholders, inclusion of feedback and

concepts discussed during committee meetings and other special meetings into the

development and administration of the Southern Nevada Regional Transportation Plan

(RTP), Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), and Unified Planning Work Program

(UPWP), including coordination of modifications and amendments to these documents.

Administration of professional services contracts as outlined in the Fiscal Year 2016 UPWP.



Boulder City, City of Mesquite, Clark County Department of Air Quality, Nevada

Department of Transportation, Regional Transportation Commission of Southern

Nevada (Lead Agency), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and the Federal

Transit Administration (FTA).

Budget:




RTC Cost $400,000

Funding Sources






Planning Administration is an on-going activity.


Sub Task 101-3100-16: Unified Planning Work Program

Purpose: The Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) includes coordination of transportation

planning activities in the Southern Nevada region during the fiscal year.

Previous Work:

The UPWP is updated annually and previous work includes the development,

administration, and amending of the document.

Methodology:

RTC staff will, though stakeholder communication and the oversight of RTC

committees develop, administer, amend, and implement the UPWP as required.




Boulder City, City of Mesquite, Nevada Department of Transportation, Regional

Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Lead Agency), Federal Highway

Administration (FHWA), and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).

Budget:




RTC Cost $30,000

Funding Sources





The development of the Fiscal Year 2017 UPWP and amendments/modifications to

the FY 2016 UPWP.

The FY 2017 UPWP will be completed by May, 2016 while amendments and work

related to the UPWP are on-going.


Sub Task 101-3200-16: Transportation Improvement Program

Purpose: Activities included under this sub task include administration and maintenance of

the current FY 2015-2019 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), including processing

of modifications and amendments. The activity also includes the development of the FY

2017–2021 TIP.

Previous Work:

Development and maintenance of the TIP is an on-going activity. Most recently The

FY 2015-19 TIP was approved by the RTC of Southern Nevada Board of

Commissioners on August 14, 2014.

Methodology:

Determine that sufficient federal, state, and local revenue sources are available to

fund projects programmed in the TIP.

Ensure that all non-exempt projects included in the TIP and subsequent amendments

come from a conforming Long Range Transportation Plan, as required under the

Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990.

Ensure that the TIP gives priority to eligible Transportation Control Measure (TCM)

projects as identified in the air quality State Implementation Plans.

Utilize the RTC Project Evaluation and Prioritization Process to select projects for

inclusion in the TIP.

Coordinate administration and maintenance of the TIP program with the Statewide

TIP (STIP) by NDOT to ensure subsequent integration of the Clark County TIP into the

STIP.

Provide reasonable opportunity for public comment in accordance with the RTC

Public Participation Plan and federal regulations.

Incorporate Environmental Justice and ADA considerations, as appropriate.

Prepare modifications and amendments to the TIP.

Coordinate modifications and amendments of the TIP program with the Statewide TIP

(STIP) by NDOT, to ensure subsequent integration of changes to the Clark County TIP

into the STIP.

Participate in the development of eSTIP.




Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Lead Agency)


Budget:




RTC Cost $50,000

Funding Sources





Process amendments & administrative modifications to the FY 2015-19 TIP

FY 2015-19 TIP update

Development of a new FY 2017-2021 TIP.

The TIP is an on-going activity.


Sub Task 101-3500-16: Environmental Justice/Title VI/Ladders of Opportunity

Purpose: Activities included under this sub task include development of products and

procedures to implement Executive Order 12898: ‘Federal Actions to Address Environmental

Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations’, the Civil Rights Act of 1964-

Title VI, and provide Ladders of Opportunity to traditionally underserved populations in

accordance with subsequent USDOT Guidance and Regulations.

Previous Work:

Title VI Program Update Report (2010), Civil Rights Act of 1964-Title VI Program

Report (1998), Title VI Program Update Report (2009), and Title VI Reports for the

MPO and Transit (2013).

Methodology:

Completion of Environmental Justice updates to monitor the effectiveness of the

transportation system in providing Ladders of Opportunity for low-income, minority,

elderly, and traditionally underserved populations as required.






Nevada (Lead Agency), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and the Federal

Transit Administration (FTA).

Budget:




RTC Cost $2,000

Funding Sources





Environmental Justice, Title VI, and Ladders of Opportunity are on-going activities.


Sub Task 101-3600-16: Miscellaneous

Objective: This task item covers all activities related to efficient planning administrative work

as well as to provide for costs associated with planning and administration including but not

limited to travel, membership dues, software licenses, office supplies, copying and printing,

professional licenses, registration, lodging, and meals in support of other UPWP eligible

activities.



Budget:




RTC Cost $1,000

Funding Sources

Consolidated Planning Grant (95%) $950




The activities under the Miscellaneous category are on-going.


Task 201, Data Collection and Analysis

This task covers the gathering of data needed to support the MPO’s planning activities and the analysis of that

data as part of the development of the Regional Transportation Plan and other planning studies.

Activities include:

The maintenance of the regional travel demand forecast model and upgrades to keep up with the

state-of-the-practice;

Execution of model runs and analysis to support traffic and transit studies and the demonstration of

air quality conformity;

Undertaking travel surveys to support the calibration of the model;

Improving the technical capability of the RTC to perform more detailed transportation analyses needed

by RTC, NDOT or our partner local agencies;

Development of population and land use forecasts;

RTC’s participation in a region program of traffic counts; and,

Developing techniques and methods to inventory bicycle and pedestrian activity.

Several of these activities will require extensive professional support from outside consultancies. The costs of

professional services contracts are included under Task 201. Task 201 includes the RTC costs associated

with these data collection and analytical activities as well as the procurement of professional services

contracts and their administrative and financial oversight


201-2116, Travel Demand Model

201-2206, Annual Population Forecast

201-2230, Travel Demand Model Enhancements and Validation Work Program

201-2680, Regional Traffic Counts

201-3640, Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Counts

201-9000, Clark County School District Walking Audits



FY 2016 RTC costs: $ 281,000

Professional Services Costs: $ 842,000

Combined costs: $ 1,123,000


Consolidated Planning Grant: $ 1,066,850



Sub Task 201-2116-16: Travel Demand Model

Objective: Travel Demand Forecasting (TDF) is an essential tool that the RTC employs to

estimate future travel conditions and regional mobility needs. The information generated

from the process provides decision makers with the background to determine future

transportation system improvement needs, which are programmed into the Regional

Transportation Plan (RTP) and Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP).

Previous Work:

RTC 2009 model update.

FY 2013-2035 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) modeling results, including

modifications and amendments.

FY 2013-2016 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) modeling results and

amendments.

Travel Demand Modeling run results for various corridor studies by either consultants

or RTC.

Travel Demand Modeling run results by consultants in coordination with RTC

modeling technical support.

Methodology:

Improve the network structure and coding procedures and qualities (ongoing).

Update the travel demand model network with all highway, roadway, and transit

networks, park and ride facilities, and intersection signal projects with regard to any

amendments to the 2013-35 RTP.

Test and apply the update versions of the RTC Travel Demand Model as they are

developed under UPWP Task 201-2230.

Coordinate with the consultant to resolve any technical issues that may arise during

routine modeling activities.

Research and implement the incorporation of bicycle and pedestrian trips and

‘Complete Streets’ design elements into RTC modeling procedures.

Develop tools to transform data and networks from the TransCAD model to VISSIM.

The work is performed by RTC modeling staff and the project consultant.





Nevada (Lead Agency)


Budget:


Total project cost $250,000

Of which:

RTC Costs (including general staff

support and project oversight) $250,000


Funding Sources


RTC Sales Tax Local Match (combined) $12,500



Updated model inputs, highway and transit networks.

Model results as needed to support RTP amendments or model data needs of UPWP

studies.

VISSIM modeling results for corridors and/or intersections.

Tests of air quality emissions projections using ‘MOVES’.

Report detailing modeling results.

Modeling work is an on-going activity


Sub Task 201-2206-16: Annual Population Forecast

Purpose: To provide long-term population forecasts for the Southern Nevada region.

Results of this task will be used as control totals for development of the RTC Planning

Variables, which are inputs to the RTC Travel Demand Model.

Previous Work:

Annual Population Forecasts are an on-going activity.

Methodology:

Coordinate with local jurisdictions, SNWA, and CBER to develop regional population

projections, report progress, and discuss issues raised during the planning process.

The work is performed by RTC modeling staff and the project consultant.



Boulder City, City of Mesquite, Nevada Department of Transportation, Southern

Nevada Water Authority, Clark County School District, University of Nevada, Las

Vegas, Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Lead Agency)

Budget:



Professional Services Contract $12,000

RTC Cost $22,000

Funding Sources





Population Forecasts: Long-Term Projections for Clark County, Nevada

Completion Date: June, 2016


Sub Task 201-2230-16: Travel Demand Model Enhancements & Validation

Purpose: Travel Demand Forecasting (TDF) is an essential tool that the RTC employs to

estimate future travel conditions and regional mobility needs.

Previous Work:

RTC 2005 Household Travel Survey.

RTC 2006 Hotel/Visitor Travel Survey.

RTC 2009 model update.

FY 2013-2035 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) modeling results, including

modifications and amendments.

FY 2013-2016 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) modeling results and

amendments.

Travel Demand Modeling run results for various corridor studies by either consultants

or RTC.

Travel Demand Modeling run results by consultants in coordination with RTC

modeling technical support.

Methodology:

The current travel demand forecast model relies upon household and transit travel data that

pre-date the recent recession and no longer uses the most up-to-date forms of the basic

software packages for both travel forecasting and emissions analysis.

The RTC is therefore embarking on a multi-year program of model enhancements to support

the development of the 2017-2040 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP).

Major data gathering activities in support of these enhancements include:

The recently completed freight data collection study, UPWP #5260-12/13.

2014/15 Household Travel Survey described elsewhere in this UPWP.

2014/15 On-Board Transit Survey described elsewhere in this UPWP.

2014/15 Hotel and Visitor Travel Survey described elsewhere in this UPWP.

2015-based projection of regional population extending out to 2040 and the

corresponding projection of parcel-level land use data, leading to the development of

the 2015-2040 Planning Variables.


The Model Enhancement and Validation task will take these new data sets and other

software updates to produce the 2015 Travel Demand Forecast Model. That model will be

calibrated to observed travel conditions and validated according to current best practices.

The final stage of this task will support the execution of model runs for the 2017-2040 RTP

and associated air quality conformity analysis.

Update model code to TransCAD 6.2.

Develop methodology for utility programs to use TransCAD output and the output from

the emission model ‘MOVES’ to produce statistics for conformity analysis.

Research and utilize the Las Vegas freight data collected in 2012/13 into the model.

Research and process the NDOT truck traffic data by truck type and utilize the data to

improve the freight element in the travel demand model.

Research and process the transit stop data and utilize the information to refine the

transit coding and procedures in the travel demand model.

Research and implement bike and pedestrian trips into the model.

Refine the TAZ system to create smaller TAZs around major transit services and future

high growth areas.

Improve the network structure and coding procedures and qualities, which is an on-

going task.

Use new data from household survey, transit on-board survey, visitor survey, and

counts to calibrate and validate the travel demand model (FY15-16).

Test and apply the new updated version of the RTC Travel Demand Model (FY15-16).

Research and develop procedures for validation and post processing of the modeled

link speed against real data (FY15-16).

Incorporate and implement any new elements into the travel demand model as new

requirements arise (FY15-16).

Coordinate with the RTC Information Technologies department to maintain and

update the Modeling Group personal computers to maintain compatibility with Travel

Demand Model software.

Additional task elements:

o Select a sub consultant to update/compile input to run MOVES version 2014.

o Develop/update the utility program to automate MOVES v2014 running

procedures and for Conformity Analysis

o Process additional household survey data due to the survey sample size

increased from 4,000 to 7,000

o Additional efforts to evaluate the utilization of the new visitor survey data

collected in a nontraditional alternate way.


o Process the AirSage travel time data by aggregated travel zones (started in

FY15)

o Process and use HERE data for roadway travel time calibration

o Supporting work to graphic and statistic work for all survey data.

o Update all utility programs to work with new model and develop procedures to

incorporate performance based measure element in TransCAD utility

programs



Boulder City, Clark County Department of Air Quality, Nevada Department of

Transportation, Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Lead

Agency)

Budget:




RTC Cost -0-

Funding Sources





Enhanced transit and freight structures in the model.

Utility programs to pipeline TransCAD model results with the U.S. EPA ‘MOVES’ model.

RTC 2012 Travel Demand Model calibrated and validated with new data.

Updated highway and transit network.

Report detailing the modeling results.

Completion date: June 30, 2016


Sub Task 201-2520-16: Household Travel Survey

Objective: Traditionally, the most important building block for development of urban and

regional travel demand models has been the household travel survey. In a household travel

survey, respondents are contacted in their homes and are queried about their household

characteristics, the personal characteristics of members of the household, and about recent

travel experiences. The travel survey provides data that can be used in the following steps

of the travel demand forecast modeling process:

1. Trip production rates by trip purpose;

2. Trip distribution by time of day;

3. Trip length frequency distribution;

4. Modal share of travel;

5. Auto occupancies;

6. Vehicle operating speeds; and

7. Household vehicle ownership.

The travel survey process can be divided into five general stages: Survey planning, survey

design, field implementation, data preparation, and data analysis. The 2015 Household

Travel Survey is an eighteen month project with two phases. The survey will start with the

first phase and will focus on survey planning, survey design (including a pilot survey), and

field implementation. This second phase included in the Fiscal Year 2015 UPWP and will

focus on data preparation and data analysis. The first phase of the project was completed

in FY 2014 and included tasks 1-4 detailed below. The second phase will be completed in

FY 2015 and includes tasks 5-7.

The survey will collect data on the number, length, purpose, mode, and time of day activities

and trips are made by persons within the sample households during a specific 24-hour

travel day. Other datasets may also be collected. Basic information shall also be included

about the households. Ideally, the survey data collection should be completed before the

end of the school year and a sufficient number of households should be sampled.

Previous Work:

2005 Travel Survey

1996 Travel Survey

Task Elements:

Task 1 – Issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) and select a consultant (or consultant

team):

o Use of an RFP process to select the consultant is appropriate given that

household travel surveys require specialized skills and experience. RTC will

follow standard agency procedures for issuing the RFP and selecting a

consultant.


o The study’s organization includes defining communication links and finalizing

the scope of work and project schedule.

Task 2 – Survey Planning: The scope and goals of the travel survey will be refined

during the survey planning stage. This stage consists primarily of researching

existing successful household survey projects, identification of issues that have

arisen since the previous survey (e.g., has development in the suburban fringes of

the region affected commute to work patterns?), and hypothesizing about

relationships that may affect future modeling requirements (e.g., expectation to see a

higher transit mode share for residents of transit-oriented development districts).

The survey planning stage is the time to consider model development needs and the

resulting survey data requirements. This step also includes review of the existing RTC

travel demand model structure and input requirements, assessment of model

development and improvement needs, and development of recommendations for

survey data to be collected.

Task 3 – Survey Design: Once the goals for the new travel survey have been

identified, three tasks should be performed:

1) Compile useful background information for the survey effort.

2) Design the overall survey effort based on recognition of data needs and

available data sources.

3) Organization of the survey team and survey resources.

Decisions made during the survey design process allow the survey team to develop a

sampling plan and the preliminary survey instruments. The survey will cover the

model area, comprising the urban Las Vegas Valley and the adjoining community of

Boulder City. The survey will not cover the outlying parts of the region.

Task 4 – Survey Pre-test: As part of the survey design, a survey pre-test will be

conducted and the results will be evaluated. The survey pre-test allows the survey

team to rethink survey design issues, including the overall design of the survey, the

survey sampling procedures, and the survey instruments. In addition, the pre-test

can identify areas where additional fieldworker training would be helpful.

Task 5 – Finalize the survey instrument and define the sample frame.

Task 6 – Conduct survey field work and quality control.

Task 7 – Implementation and completion of household survey data collection.

Expected Products:

Survey instrument

Travel survey data to update the travel demand model


Completion Date: June 2015

Financial Responsibility: Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada

Functional Responsibility (Staffing):

Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Project Manager)

Project Consultant



Nevada Department of Transportation

City of Las Vegas

Clark County

City of North Las Vegas

City of Henderson

City of Boulder City

Budget:



Professional Services Contract

(includes unexpended funds previously

included in 2014 & 2015 UPWP)

$2,000

RTC Cost $250

Funding Sources





Sub Task 201-2530-16: 2014 Origin & Destination On-Board Transit Survey

Objective: This project will carry out a comprehensive survey of passenger ridership patterns

for the entire RTC transit system. The project will emphasize origins and destinations,

transfer locations, access and egress modes, and other information. This survey will be

conducted on all existing RTC transit routes.

Previous Work:

Transit Origin and Destination On-Board Survey (2006-2007)

Before and After Studies for RTC Transit (On-Board Survey on Boulder Highway and

Sahara Avenue)

Maryland Parkway Alternative Analysis (On-Board Survey for Route 109)

Task Elements:

Task 1 – Issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) and select a consultant (or consultant

team)

Task 2 – Survey Planning:

o Develop scope of work and schedule.

o Develop survey sample size and strategy (Note: the survey will cover the RTC

Transit service area, comprising the urban Las Vegas Valley and the adjoining

community of Boulder City. The survey will not cover the outlying parts of the

region).

o Develop final survey instrument.

Task 3 - Surveying: Based on direction from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA),

the data collection method for the main survey is being changed from paper

method originally scoped to person-tablet method. In addition to the main

survey, On-To-Off data collection will be added and conducted on 20% of the

system ridership.

o Implement to On-to-Off Survey.

o Pretest the survey instrument.

o Implementation of the on-board survey.

o Implement stop survey.

o Carry out survey monitoring and quality assurance.

Task 4 – Data Creation:

o Develop survey database, including a Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

database.

o Carry out internal and external survey validation activities.

Task 5 – Report Development:

o Develop final report, data analysis, statistics, and graphics.

o Develop final database and GIS database.

o Present report to RTC committees and the RTC.


Expected Products:

Final report that includes the methodology, survey results, data analysis, statistics,

and associated graphics.

Database of survey results.





Project Consultant



City of Las Vegas

Clark County


City of Henderson


Budget:





included in 2014 & 2015 UPWP)

$2,000

RTC Cost $250

Funding Sources





Sub Task 201-2680-16: Regional Traffic Counts

Purpose: To collect traffic counts for approximately 270 locations in Clark County area to

validate the RTC Travel Demand Model, augment existing Nevada Department of

Transportation (NDOT) traffic counts program and provide supporting information for traffic

operational improvements in Southern Nevada.

Previous Work:

Regional Traffic Counts is an on-going task.

Methodology:

Specify count locations in Clark County with the assistance of NDOT.

Determine optimal counter tie points and document locations.

Prioritize count locations according to greatest need for supporting data.

Collect volume counts at the specified locations under the standards prescribed in

the Federal Highway Administration Traffic Monitoring Manual.

Prepare a report documenting the process and the results.

Transmit the collected data to NDOT for inclusion in their Annual Count Report.

The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Project Manager) and

a project consultant complete the regional traffic counts.


Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Lead Agency) and the


Budget:




RTC Cost $4,000

Funding Sources





Monthly reports that document the process and traffic count information for counted

locations in that month.



Sub Task 201-3640-16: Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Counts

Purpose: The purpose is to conduct bicycle and pedestrian counts to be able to identify

existing demand and determine specific tangible benefits of proposed improvements when

applying for project funding. The data collected in this study will help quantify bicycle and

pedestrian demand trends over time.

Previous Work: The original count program collected data at 24 locations, additionally

the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) has collected trail usage data and prepared

reports for five discrete trail sections. Data was collected using infrared sensors and

validated with manual counts.

Methodology: Collect bicycle and pedestrian counts at the same 24 count locations from

the original study – and add new data collection locations. Counts will be performed during

the scheduled K-12 school year. All counts at each location will be performed for 12

continuous hours (7:00 am – 7:00 pm) during one weekday (Tuesday – Thursday) and one

Saturday.

Specific tasks to be performed by a consultant team and managed by RTC staff include:

Collecting counts using either of the following methods:

o Manual counts; or

o Video technology.

Ensuring collection methodology and data gathered is consistent with the original

count program and National Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Project (NBPD)

methodologies;

Identifying preferred count locations for new sites. Consideration for new sites

should include:

o Existing and proposed bicycle/pedestrian facilities (including off-street multi-

use paths);

o Transit access; and

o Stakeholder recommendations, including the SNHD, the Clark County School

District, the Regional Open Space and Trails Work Group, and the Pedestrian

Safety Task Force.

Participating Agencies: Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Lead

Agency)


Budget:




RTC Cost $2,500

Funding Sources





Data and analysis to be provided to the RTC should include:

Data sheets in Excel format

Develop and apply sidewalk factors as they relate to the percentage of bicyclists

riding on the sidewalk

Analyze and segregate bicycle volume variations by the type of bicycle facility present

on the roadway

A summary report that includes methodology, maps, and trends

Completion Date: June 30, 2016


Sub Task: 201-9000-16 - School Walk Audits

Purpose: Expand the Clark County School District (CCSD) Safe Routes to School (SRTS)

program efforts in providing school communities with technical assistance and tools to

improve safety and to encourage more walking and bicycling to and from school.

Previous Work:

CCSD Previous SRTS Walk Audits and School Action Plans, SNS Regional Plan, RTC

Regional Schools Multimodal Transportation Access Study, Southern Nevada Strong

(SNS) Regional Plan, City of Henderson Comprehensive Plan, City of Las Vegas

Master Plan, City of North Las Vegas Comprehensive Master Plan, Clark County

Comprehensive Plan

Methodology:

Convene kick-off meeting and at least two SRTS Advisory Committee meetings

Schedule walk audits at up to 15 schools identified by the SRTS Coordinator in

coordination with relevant school and jurisdictional representatives

Conduct up to 15 walk audit field investigations within one-half mile of each school to

identify existing conditions, barriers, opportunities, and safety issues, including an

assessment of adjacent intersections, sidewalks and bicycle facilities, sight distance

and visibility conditions, traffic control devices (signs, signals, and pavement

markings), and student drop-off and pick-up areas

Prepare a written and illustrative SRTS walk audit report summarizing each walk

audit findings and priority recommendations for infrastructure (engineering and

maintenance) improvements and other program (education, encouragement, and

enforcement) strategies

Develop planning level cost estimates for recommended engineering/infrastructure

improvements at each school

Prioritize recommendations resulting from the 15 walk audits within the existing

project prioritization matrix

Coordinate with the relevant jurisdictional representatives, including CCSD Facilities,

to update the SRTS improvement recommendation priority list from the first 50 walk

audits

Implement a strategy to update 47 SRTS school action plans

Assist the 47 schools in filling out a one-page SRTS Achievement Level Program

partnership form and remit to the SRTS Coordinator


Clark County School District (Lead Agency), City of Henderson, City of Las Vegas, City

of North Las Vegas, Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada


Budget:




RTC Cost $2,500

Funding Sources





New SRTS Walk Audit Reports (including field review forms, maps, and photos)

New Data Gathering and Evaluation Report (including meeting summaries, updated

priority recommendations, and cost estimates)

Updated SRTS School Action Plans

Completed SRTS Achievement Level Program Partnership Forms



Task 202, Long Range Transportation Planning

The next update of the Regional Transportation Plan will need to address a number of issues in more depth

than is supported by current knowledge, data and policies.

This task covers a number of key issues, some related to the provisions of MAP-21, some related to issues

raised in the 2011 MPO Certification Review, and some related to matters of local concern that RTC wishes to

address more extensively in the next RTP.

Activities include:

Development and application of visioning techniques as part of efforts to engage the community in

RTP development;

Creation of a framework for performance-based planning in accordance with MAP-21;

On-going coordination of transit with human services;

Development of policies and proposals related to bicycle and pedestrian planning;

Development of policies and proposals related to the various aspects of transportation safety

planning.

Some of these activities will require professional support from outside consultancies but the greater part of the

work will be performed with RTC resources. The Task 202 budget reflects this.


202-3300, Regional Transportation Plan & Visioning

202-3325, Performance-Based Planning

202-3710, Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning

202-3715, Transportation Safety Planning



FY 2016 RTC costs: $ 72,000

Professional Services Costs: $ 160,000

Combined costs: $ 232,000


Consolidated Planning Grant: $ 220,400



Sub Task 202-3300-16: Transportation Visioning and RTP Development

Objective: In 2011, the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration

conducted a Federal Certification Review of the planning process for Southern Nevada. The

report, which was received in October of 2012, identified several recommendations on how

to improve the planning process. One of those recommendations states, “The public should

be given the opportunity to actively influence the direction of plans and programs as they are

developed rather than just reacting to a draft after major decisions have been made. The

RTC should seek out opportunities to use innovative approaches to gain public

involvement”.

To address this recommendation, the RTC will implement an outreach effort to engage the

public on development of a transportation vision for Southern Nevada. The Visioning

Process will gauge public sentiments on the transportation priorities for the region. It is

anticipated that the results of the Visioning Process will influence development of the next

Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).

Additionally, the results are anticipated to influence the processes by which the RTC will

prioritize projects for funding as well as measure their performance.

It is important that the Visioning Process employ innovative approaches to engage a broad

cross section of the public. Special efforts should also be made to engage environmental

justice (EJ) populations including those that are low-income/no income, minority, limited

English proficiency, elderly, or disabled.

Different strategies are anticipated to be warranted to reach-out to disparate populations.

These may include general public and stakeholder meetings, community charrettes, paper

or digital surveys, and use of social media. It is important to demonstrate public buy-in to

the methodology and the results of the visioning process because of the influence it will play

in future transportation decisions.

Previous Work:

RTC Regional Transportation Plan for FY 2013–2035 (2013)

RTC Transportation Improvement Program for FY 2013–2016 (2013)

RTC Public Participation Plan (amended in 2012)

Task Elements:

Task 1 – Develop Stakeholder and Public Participation Methodology: The Visioning

Process must be multi-jurisdictional and address key transportation planning issues

and needs. This task will involve the following components:

o Develop procedures, practices, and strategies to obtain the opinions of

stakeholders and the public throughout the Visioning Process (methods should be


developed to ensure engagement of a diversified stakeholder audience including

EJ populations);

o The internet, including social networking tools, should be considered to expand

the audience and opportunities for input;

o Outline performance measures to demonstrate engagement by a diverse cross

section of stakeholders and gauge the effectiveness of public outreach;

o Create a schedule for the completion of all public engagement activities

associated with the overall task;

o Formulate techniques for analyzing and statistically quantifying stakeholder

comments and input;

o Identify facilitation techniques that utilize visualization or interactive tools to

foster dialogue and educate stakeholders about complex issues; and

o Develop strategies for linking the results of the Visioning Process to the regional

transportation planning process.

Task 2 – Develop Branding Scheme, Marketing Plan, and Marketing Templates: The

marketing plan is essential to effectively educate members of the public about the

overall Visioning Process, the importance of their input, and their role in the various

stages of the process. This task will involve the following components:

o Create a branding scheme for the Visioning Process which can be applied to the

Regional Transportation Plan. This includes the creation of titles, logos, slogans,

and visual themes;

o Prepare templates for outreach materials in both English and Spanish for use

online and in print using the branding scheme; and

o Develop a marketing plan for public outreach and education during the Visioning

Process.

Task 3 – Implement Stakeholder Outreach: The consultant will be expected to

implement an array of public education and engagement techniques. This task will

involve the following components:

o Facilitate and/or assist with the facilitation of community outreach meetings,

workshops, charrettes, or other public participation opportunities;

o Facilitate and/or assist with stakeholder meetings targeted at project sponsors

which may include local and state agencies; and

o Prepare materials for public outreach in both English and Spanish including text

and graphics on the website, online and/or printed surveys, agenda materials,

media releases, topic papers, fact sheets, and mailings.

Task 4 – Develop a project prioritization Process: The consultant will be expected to

synthesize the results of the visioning process as well as information from key

stakeholders to develop a project prioritization process. This task will involve the

following components:

o Review and incorporate federal requirements, especially those related to

performance measures;

o Seek consensus on a project prioritization process that addresses public and

stakeholder feedback;


o Work with RTC staff to prioritize the use of federal funding controlled by the RTC

Task 5 – Develop the RTP: The consultant will be expected to pull in the different

elements of the project prioritization process to the final draft of the RTP. This task

will involve the following components:

o Develop and implement an innovative strategy for public engagement for the RTP

and TIP;

o Incorporate the feedback received into the final draft of the document;

Expected Products:

Interim report on task elements

Final report detailing the methodology and results of the Visioning Process





Project Consultant




City of Las Vegas

Clark County


City of Henderson

City of Mesquite


Budget:




$150,000

RTC Cost $10,000

Funding Sources





Sub Task 202-3325-16: Performance-Based Planning

Purpose: Advancing the current practices in data management, documentation, monitoring,

and analysis to meet the performance management goals and objectives of Moving Ahead

for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21).

Previous Work:

Transportation Improvement Impacts (Appendix 4) to the FY 2013-2035 Regional

Transportation Plan (RTP)

Las Vegas Valley Arterial Development Study (2009)

RTC FAST Dashboard

NDOT Crash GIS database

Methodology:

Research federal statutes, regulations, and guidance related to performance

measures.

Research examples of performance measure objectives and targets implemented by

other regional transportation planning agencies.

Coordinate with NDOT, RTC Transit, and RTC FAST on goals, objectives, and targets to

meet required U.S. DOT performance measure regulations.

Document existing RTC performance measures and objectives by category; such as

highway, arterial, transit, multimodal, safety, freight, and sustainability.

Analyze baseline conditions, trends, and expected system performance.

Identify and analyze potential alternative transportation scenarios to meet

performance measure objectives and targets.

Analyze performance outcomes based on anticipated funding levels.

Identify additional data in Southern Nevada that is readily available to support

supplementary performance measures and objectives.

Develop, update, and maintain a database of the selected performance measure

objectives and targets as part of an on-going, long-term effort.

Develop and document best practices for monitoring and evaluation procedures and

standards.

Monitor system performance relative to identified targets.

Evaluate observed impacts of investments and strategies.

Develop statistics and graphics using the performance measure objectives and

targets.

Present the selected performance measure objectives to selected RTC committees.

Develop recommendations regarding linkages between the selected performance

measures, the Congestion Management Process (CMP), and project prioritization

processes.




Boulder City, Nevada Department of Transportation, Private sector freight industry

partners, and the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Lead

Agency)

Budget:




RTC Cost $50,000

Funding Sources





Analysis of performance-based planning and programming approaches implemented

by other regional transportation planning agencies nationwide.

A report documenting the establishment and integration into the RTC metropolitan

planning process of a performance-based approach to transportation decision-

making in support of national goals.

Database of the selected performance measure objectives and targets.

Recommendations for performance measure linkage to the CMP and RTC project

prioritization processes.

Performance Based Planning is an on-going task.


Sub Task 202-3710-16: Bicycle & Pedestrian Planning

Purpose: This task includes planning activities related to the continued efforts in the

development and expansion of an interconnected regional bicycle and pedestrian

transportation network, and the evaluation of the key role these networks play in the

development and implementation of the Southern Nevada ‘Complete Streets’ strategy.

Pedestrian safety has become an increasingly critical concern in the region, and training for

improved pedestrian safety and awareness is included in this task item.

Previous Work:

Complete Streets Study (2012), Alternative Mode Transportation Master Plan, Bicycle

and Pedestrian Plan (2008)

Methodology:

Develop the Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, which includes:

o Creation of a working group composed of various stakeholders.

o Update the goals, objectives, and strategies for the regional bicycle and

sidewalk system.

o Coordination on planning studies and activities (including several tasks

described in the FY 2014 UPWP) that aim to improve regional bicycle and

pedestrian networks.

o Revision of existing and planned bicycle lane, bicycle route, and shared-use

path numbers as necessary.

Development of a new regional bicycle map to update the existing bicycle network

and include new segments. Update the bicycle map format, information, and

graphics.

Update the RTC website to include new bicycle and pedestrian information and

coordinate with RTC Communications staff on improving the RTC Regional Bicycle

Network web page.

Continue development of the Southern Nevada ‘Complete Streets’ initiative, which

includes:

o Coordination with the jurisdictional planning/community development

departments in supporting their Complete Streets planning efforts and

incorporation of Complete Streets policies into their plan documents.

o Coordination with multiple stakeholders in development of an RTC Complete

Streets Funding Program, which targets set-asides for certain fund sources

and determines project eligibility.

Development of a regional pedestrian safety and awareness training program.





Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Lead Agency)

Budget:




-0-

RTC Cost $10,000

Funding Sources





Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning is an on-going activity.


Sub Task 202-3715-16: Transportation Safety Planning

Purpose: Completion of the Southern Nevada Transportation Safety Plan (TSP)

Previous Work:

RTC Pedestrian Safety Action Plan (2009), RTC Regional Transportation Plan for FY

2013–2035 (2012), RTC Non-Motorized Alternative Transportation Mode Master

Plan (2005; ongoing), RTC Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (2008), Various planning

studies under previous Unified Planning Work Programs.

Methodology:

Task 1 – Review Current State of Transportation Safety in the Las Vegas Valley:

Conduct a review of the current state of road safety in the Las Vegas Valley

including fatal and injury crash statistics, overall crash trends, as well as safety

trends for subgroups such as pedestrians, bicyclists, young drivers, and older drivers.

This task will also include a review of funding available for transportation safety.

Task 2 – Establish Regional Vision and Goals for Transportation Safety: Facilitate

stakeholder workshops to establish a regional transportation safety vision statement

and develop safety goals for the Las Vegas Valley.

Task 3 – Emphasis Areas: Evaluate the applicability of the five existing Nevada

Strategic Highway Safety Plan emphasis areas to the Las Vegas Valley. Evaluate the

effectiveness of the program within the Las Vegas Valley, availability of relevant data,

and effectiveness of performance measures in Southern Nevada. Make

recommendations, if appropriate, on improving the effectiveness of the NV SHSP in

the Las Vegas Valley.

Task 4 – Project Selection: Develop a project prioritization method to select safety

projects in Southern Nevada under performance measures developed in Task 3

which can be utilized by RTC in developing the next Regional Transportation Plan.

Task 5 – Highway Safety Manual Implementation: Conduct a review of the

development of the Regional Transportation Plan, network screening and the entire

project development process. Make recommendations for incorporating the

procedures outlined in the Highway Safety Manual into these processes. This task is

to be consistent with the Nevada Highway Safety Manual Implementation Plan.

Task 6–Safety Countermeasures Report: Review and make recommendations on key

safety countermeasures that will address the primary causes of fatal and injury

crashes in the Las Vegas Valley.

Task 7 – Safety Data Reporting Review: Review current procedures for crash data

collection and dissemination and make recommendations to improve the procedures

in support of this TSP.

Task 8 – Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plan: Update the 2009 PSAP GIS

based crash analysis including spatial analysis and identification of high crash

corridors and intersections. The crash analysis is to include the last three years of

the most recently available data for both pedestrian and bicycle crashes.


Task 9 - Transportation Safety Plan Final Report: prepare an implementation plan

that identifies what needs to be done to carry out the recommended aspects of each

task of this plan.


Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Lead Agency), Nevada

Department of Transportation, City of Las Vegas, Clark County, City of North Las

Vegas, City of Henderson

Budget:




$10,000

RTC Cost $2,000

Funding Sources





Interim report on task elements

Final Transportation Safety Plan

Final Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Action Plan



Task 301, Multi-Modal Transportation Studies

While the primary focus of the planning program in the coming year will be on tasks supporting the

development of the next Regional Transportation Plan update, RTC maintains a robust program of planning

studies to assist RTC and its partner agencies in framing solutions to emerging transportation challenges

across the region.

Activities include:

Studies that support the implementation of “complete street” concepts in various local jurisdictions

and circumstances – often these studies also have a significant safety component;

Working with the Clark County School District to improve the planning of access to schools in the

interests of improving the mobility and safety of students;

Further developing our undertaking of freight traffic and the need for targeted investments to support

freight movement;

Assisting Clark County with a review of the planning process as it relates to parking provision;

RTC has supported a local initiative to develop a more sustainable regional planning framework using

a Grant issued under the Sustainable Communities Program of the US Department of Housing and

Urban Development. The UPWP includes a task to study the potential to implement this framework in

a corridor where possible transportation capital improvements were studied under the 2014 UPWP;

Assisting the City of Mesquite in a review and update of the way it reviews the transportation impacts

of proposed developments.

All of these activities are being undertaken by outside consultancies under professional services contracts with

RTC. The costs of these professional services contracts are included under Task 301. This Task also includes

the RTC costs associated with the procurement of professional services contracts and their administrative and

financial oversight.


301-1720, Regional Schools Multimodal Access Study

301-9010, Spencer Greenway Transportation Trail and UNLV Campus Bike Plan

301-9015, City of Henderson Americans with Disabilities Act Transition Plan

301-9020, Clark County Parking Study – Phase 2

301-9025, Clark County Rural Streets Standards Study

301-9030, Northeast Valley Transportation Network Study

301-9035, RTC Transit Ridership and Transit Oriented Development Study

301-9040, RTC Truck Arterial Route Study




FY 2016 RTC costs: $ 37,050

Professional Services Costs:

Work carried over from 2015 $ 26,250

New work planned for 2016 $ 800,000






Sub Task 301-1470-16: Washington Avenue Complete Streets Study

Objective: Develop a feasibility study to evaluate opportunities along Washington Avenue

and Vegas Drive/Owens Avenue between Rampart Boulevard and Nellis Boulevard for

‘Complete Streets’ treatments. Washington Avenue and Vegas Drive/Owens Avenue are

excellent ‘Complete Street’ candidates as they have ample rights-of-way through most of the

corridor and do not carry high traffic volumes. Analysis of the parallel corridors also provides

an opportunity to explore innovative treatments, especially where rights-of-way may be

constrained. Portions of the corridors include a wide median island that could be narrowed

to accommodate wider sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and/or enhanced transit stops. The study

will also look at connecting existing land uses along the corridor which include several

schools, parks, municipal buildings, and recreational facilities, including Cashman Field.

The study will build upon concepts recently developed in the Regional Complete Streets

Study. Short and long term improvements will be identified to make the corridor more

inviting for transit, bicycle, and pedestrian users. Improvements along the corridor might

include dedicated transit lanes, widened sidewalks, bicycle lanes, landscaping, protected

pedestrian crossings, connectivity with the regional trail system, and enhanced transit stops

where appropriate.

Previous Work:

RTC Transit Mode Options Study

RTC Regional Transportation Plan and Short-Range Transit Plan

RTC Long-Range Transit Survey

RTC Non-Motorized Alternative Transportation Mode Master Plan

City of Las Vegas Community Mobility Study for Central Las Vegas

Task Elements:

Identify and coordinate with any other transportation projects or studies on or

adjacent to Washington Avenue and Vegas Drive/Owens Avenue.

Identify existing right-of-way, land use generators, roadway geometrics, and sidewalk

conditions including ADA compliance.

Identify existing and future roadway traffic volumes and projected growth trends

along the corridor and at all major intersections.

Research existing data and studies that quantify pedestrian and bicycle volumes on

the corridor. Conduct pedestrian and bicycle counts on the corridor if data does not

exist.

Research existing data, studies, and future projections that quantify transit use on

the corridors.

Inventory potential bicycle/pedestrian oriented land uses along the corridor

Review speed restrictions along the corridor, including school zones.

Develop critical roadway alternatives including travel lane configurations, speed limit

analysis, intersection and mid-block designs, and other feasible strategies.


Explore connectivity and possible expansion of each alternative to the regional trail

system, particularly the Bonanza Trail.

Evaluate advantages and disadvantages to each alternative.

Draft report, recommendations, and presentations.

Develop cost estimates for design, right-of-way, and construction of identified

improvements.

Identify possible funding sources to supplement existing local (RTC and/or City of Las

Vegas) and federal funds for implementation of recommended Complete Streets

improvements.

Public outreach activities.

Expected Products:

Draft report, short and long term recommendations, and presentations.

Final report defining and evaluating alternatives, preliminary cost estimates,

description of right-of-way needs, recommendations, description of recommended

project concept and financing mechanisms, and cost estimates for implementation

and operating support.





Project consultant


Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada, City of Las Vegas, City of

North Las Vegas, Clark County

Budget:





included in 2015 UPWP)

$5,000

RTC Cost $500

Funding Sources





Sub Task 301-1480-16: North Las Vegas Complete Streets Corridor Ranking Study

Objective: The goal for the City of North Las Vegas is to have a truly multimodal

transportation network that serves all destinations, transportation modes, and users. All

types of travel mode users are found in North Las Vegas today, including motor vehicle,

pedestrian, bicycle, and transit. Unfortunately, walking and bicycling can feel uncomfortable

for some users and may be perceived as unsafe for others. In an effort to make North Las

Vegas a more sustainable community, a key element is to create a safe and inviting

experience for all transportation users.

Complete Streets are roadways designed to safely and comfortably accommodate all

transportation users. The objective of this study is to identify and assess candidate

corridors for implementation of Complete Street treatments as identified in the RTC

‘Complete Streets Study’. These treatments may include pavement reductions, lane

reductions, roundabouts, completion of bicycle and pedestrian facilities, and other related

multimodal improvements. The study will evaluate existing and planned corridors for

feasibility of Complete Streets implementation, either through new development, or as part

of the City of North Las Vegas maintenance and improvement plans.

Previous Work:

North Las Vegas Major Downtown Area Study (2013)

Community Mobility Study for Central Las Vegas (2013)

RTC Complete Streets Study (2012)

North Las Vegas Comprehensive Trails and Bicycle Master Plan (2012)

North Las Vegas 2006 North Fifth Street Transit Supportive Concept Plan

North Las Vegas Downtown Master Plan & Investment Strategy

North Las Vegas Comprehensive Plan

North Las Vegas Visioning 2025 Strategic Plan

Task Elements:

Task 1 – Collect and review existing information, maps, and relevant studies.

Research best practices for Complete Streets implementation, design and

construction with emphasis on safety and access.

Task 2 – Develop criteria in order to rank and determine the priority of implementing

Complete Streets treatments on various street segment and intersection candidates.

Task 3 – Identify street segments and intersections for Complete Streets

improvements:

o Use the RTC regional model to determine anticipated traffic volumes and

potential for reduction in number of lanes.

o Evaluate current condition of the pedestrian and bicycle environment along

the street and intersection candidates.

o Identify locations where pavement width may be reduced to provide

pedestrian improvements and bicycle facilities.


o Identify corridors that may be restriped in conjunction with pavement

maintenance to provide new or improved non-motorized facilities.

o Develop a map showing locations where improvements to pedestrian and

bicycle infrastructure are needed and classify by 1) priority of need and 2)

type of improvement recommended for each location.

Task 4 – Develop conceptual plans for Complete Street improvements on several

selected locations:

o Evaluate potential impacts to air quality model.

o Recommend methods to manage traffic speeds.

o Identify approximate costs for improvements, whether it is for new installation

or retrofit improvements.

o Evaluate impacts to maintenance activities.

Task 5 – Identify possible funding sources for implementation of recommended

Complete Streets improvements. Recommend changes to current policies and

procedures that inhibit funding opportunities.

Task 6 – Develop a final report and presentation(s).

Expected Products:

Technical memorandum summarizing Tasks 1 thru 3.

Technical memorandum summarizing Task 4.

Public memorandum summarizing public outreach (if necessary).

Draft and Final Report.

The project will be completed by June 30, 2016


Functional Responsibility:


Project Consultant




Budget:

Sub Task 301-1480-16: FY 2016 Budget



RTC Cost $50

Funding Sources





Sub Task 301-1525-16: Community Mobility Study for Central Las Vegas, Phase 2

Objective: Downtown Las Vegas has long served as the hub of the entire Las Vegas Valley

and has a rich legacy of business, commerce, entertainment, lodging, and culture. This

legacy is at risk unless proper infrastructure is developed to address the needs of the

downtown core and mature areas immediately around the core.

Phase 1 of the Community Mobility Study for Central Las Vegas was developed to identify

infrastructure gaps in Downtown Las Vegas and the adjacent neighborhoods surrounding it.

The other major deliverable was a list of recommendations that can improve transportation

deficiencies and maintain/improve the economic viability of the area. Phase 2 of this study

will apply additional analysis to the recommendations developed in Phase 1 in order to

identify specific infrastructure improvements with associated preliminary cost estimates.

Phase 1 established 36 zones, evaluated alternative mode connectivity, and identified

macroscopic and mesoscopic opportunities (through Geographic Information Systems

software) within a three-mile radius of the newly built Bonneville Transit Center to better link

residents and employees to destinations within the study area. This study will take the

analysis further within each zone to identify and prioritize specific infrastructure

improvements, including preliminary cost estimates and measures of effectiveness.

Previous Work:

Community Mobility Study for Central Las Vegas – Phase 1 (2013)

RTC Regional Transportation Plan for FY 2009 – 2030 (2008)

RTC Non-Motorized Alternative Transportation Mode Master Plan (2005; ongoing)

RTC Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (2008)

Las Vegas Downtown Pedestrian Circulation Study (2008)

Downtown Traffic Capacity, Transit, and Parking Needs Study (2007)

Various planning studies under previous Unified Planning Work Programs

Task Elements:

Task 1 – Review the list of recommendations from Phase 1 of the study with the

Technical Working Group and evaluate the list based on feasibility. Feasibility will be

determined by relative importance of the suggested project and initial cost

estimates/right-of-way availability. Develop a final list of recommendations that will

be used for the remainder of Phase 2.

Task 2 – Based on the final list of recommendations, identify alternative mode

improvement opportunities to include (but not limited to) enhanced pedestrian

crossings, sidewalk improvements, crosswalk enhancements, pedestrian access

locations, bicycle facilities (lanes, routes, boulevards, and parking) and transit stop

enhancements.


Task 3 – Develop conceptual designs for each of the recommendations, based on

field review, right-of-way/utility constraints, and other potential implementation

issues.

Task 4 – Determine with the Technical Working Group the preferred conceptual

design for each recommended capital improvement. Develop preliminary cost

estimates for the preferred conceptual design and a benchmarks system to

determine effectiveness.

Task 5 – Conduct public outreach during the study process, particularly between

tasks 3 and 4 and after task 4.

Task 6 – Prepare Draft Final Plan and present to the Technical Working Group for

feedback and comments.

Task 7 – Prepare Final Plan.

Expected Products:

Technical memorandum summarizing Task 1.

Technical memorandum summarizing Tasks 2 thru 4.

Public memorandum summarizing public outreach.

Draft and Final Plan.





Project Consultant




City of Las Vegas

Clark County



Budget:





included in 2014 UPWP)

$5,000

RTC Cost $500

Funding Sources





Sub Task 301-1720-16: Regional Schools Multimodal Transportation Access Study

Purpose: This study will evaluate current conditions of multi-modal transportation options to

schools utilizing data collected from 50 walking audits at CCSD schools, trail usage data

collected by the Southern Nevada Health District, relevant RTC transportation data, and

local agency comprehensive plans. The results of the analysis will provide recommended

regional policies to better identify future school site locations and to include safe, multi-

modal transportation options for students.

Previous Work:

CCSD – Asset Management Supply/Demand Analysis, Southern Nevada Regional

Planning Coalition (SNRPC) – Regional Policy Plan, RTC Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan,

City of North Las Vegas Comprehensive Master Plan, City of Las Vegas

Comprehensive Plan, City of Henderson Comprehensive Plan, City of Boulder City

Comprehensive Plan, Clark County Comprehensive Plan

Methodology:

Review and evaluate existing school policies included in municipal, county, and

regional comprehensive plans.

Review and analyze data collected from walking audits.

Review and analyze trail usage data collected by the Southern Nevada Health

District.

Review and analyze relevant transportation data from RTC.

Evaluate current conditions at five existing schools – one in each local jurisdiction.

Share findings and data with the SNRPC Regional Schools Policy Plan Working

Group.

Recommend policy changes to identify school site locations with improved

circulation and access.

Recommend off-street and on-street improvements that will improve access at

future school facilities.

Develop regional policies for school site identification to promote multimodal

transportation options to future students.

Final report and presentation to SNRPC Board.

The work will be prepared by a project consultant under the direction of RTC staff.


Clark County School District, Southern Nevada Health District, City of North Las

Vegas, City of Henderson, City of Las Vegas, Clark County, City of Boulder City,

Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Lead Agency), Southern

Nevada Regional Planning Coalition


Budget:




Carryover $15,000

RTC Cost $1,000

Funding Sources





Evaluation report of existing conditions and recommended changes/modifications to

existing school policies in local, county and regional comprehensive plans as it

relates to identification of school sites and multi-modal transportation options.

Final report including regional policies on multi-modal transportation options,

accessibility and streetscape design to provide guidance for school site selection.

Final report including recommended improvements for increased multi-modal

access at future school sites.

Completion Date: Fall of 2015


Sub Task: 301-9010-16 – Spencer Greenway Transportation Trail and UNLV Campus Bike

Plan

Purpose: There has been a significant need, which was identified in the Southern Nevada

Strong Regional Plan, to promote multi-modal access between Downtown Las Vegas and the

University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) campus. This project will review the existing Spencer

corridor and associated routes for impediments and barriers to an alt-mode trail between

Downtown Las Vegas and UNLV.

Previous Work:

RTC Regional Transportation Plan for FY 2009–2030, RTC Non-Motorized Alternative

Transportation Mode Master Plan, RTC Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, Regional Bicycle

and Pedestrian Counts Study, Maryland Parkway Alternatives Analysis, Sahara

Avenue Corridor/Bus Rapid Transit Study, East Charleston Boulevard Corridor &

Parking Study, Regional Bicycle Network Gap Analysis, UNLV Multimodal Transit Hub

Feasibility Study

Methodology:

Create a study working group with area stakeholders to determine important goals

and objectives.

Collect data on existing and proposed multi-use trails plans, bicycle plans, and transit

routes in the region.

Review existing ownership, right-of-way and easements along the Spencer alignment

between Charleston Avenue and Katie Avenue.

Conduct outreach event(s) within the regions to gather ideas from the public for

potential improvements related to the trail and greenway.

Based on research and existing conditions, develop alignment alternatives for the

multi-use trail improvements.

Develop concepts and alternatives for a greenway that would enhance the existing

Spencer NVE corridor.

Identify possible funding sources to supplement existing local funds for both the

development and maintenance of identified facilities.

Develop draft and final reports.

Present the findings to the RTC and local jurisdictions.


City of Las Vegas (Lead Agency), Clark County, Clark County School District, University

of Nevada Las Vegas, Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada


Budget:




RTC Cost $5,000

Funding Sources





Draft and final report that details multiple options for development of a greenway

along the Spencer Utility Corridor

Draft and final UNLV Campus Bike Plan

Presentations to the RTC board and local jurisdictions



Sub Task 301-9015-16: City of Henderson ADA Transition Plan

Purpose: The purpose of the City of Henderson ADA Transition Plan is to update and/or

create a new plan to include the necessary assessment of public rights-of-way. Once the

Public Rights-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG) are adopted by the Department of

Justice, they will become enforceable standards under Title II of the ADA. The City of

Henderson wants to take a proactive approach in understanding creating a sensible ADA

Transition Plan that incorporates PROWAG.

Previous Work: ADA Working Group.

Methodology: Phase I, identify the disabilities of the general population of Clark County

Nevada that affect mobility and public right of way use. Based on impact to the user and

percentage of the population affected create a matrix of type of facility and priority for

modifications. For example, are ambulatory ability or visual acuity disabilities more

prevalent thus prioritizing projects like audible crossing equipment at signals VS. rebuilding

curb ramps.

Phase II, prepare a sample transition plan for 3 or 4 representative areas on arterials and

collectors. For Example the Downtown Water Street corridor, Nevada State College area,

Stephanie Street near the Galleria Mall and 1 TBD.

The work will be completed by a consultant with oversight from the RTC and City of

Henderson.

Participating Agencies: City of Henderson and Regional Transportation Commission of

Southern Nevada

Budget:




RTC Cost $5,000

Funding Sources








RTC Cost $5,000

Funding Sources




Schedule and Deliverables: The study should help the City Henderson in understanding the

disabilities of the general population in Clark County, the items within Public Right of Way

that impact them, and prioritization of the types of improvements. The study is expected to

be completed within 1 year of kick-off.


Sub Task 301-9020-16: Clark County Regional Parking Study – Phase 2

Purpose: Phase two will identify what specific changes need to be made to the County’s

parking regulations in Title 30 to bring parking policies in line with the smart growth and

sustainable development policies and goals in the County’s Comprehensive Plan and the

Regional Transportation Commission’s (RTC) Regional Transportation Plan (RTP).

Previous Work: Phase one of the Clark County Regional Parking Study examined parking

supply and demand, through field surveys, for certain nonresidential land use categories in

selected urban towns of unincorporated Clark County, Nevada. The objective of the study

was to evaluate how closely the County’s parking regulations match actual parking demand.

Results of the study indicate that parking demand is lower than the minimum parking

requirements in all of the nonresidential land use categories except for places of worship.

Therefore, a change in the parking regulations is necessary to bring parking policies in line

with the smart growth and sustainable development policies and goals in the County’s

Comprehensive Plan and the RTP.

Methodology:

Task 1: Utilize results from Phase one of the study to generate proposed changes to

Clark County parking regulations.

Task 2: Utilize results from Phase one of the study and industry best practices to

generate proposed design changes to parking and locations.

Task 3: Create a draft of proposed changes to the parking standards.

Task 4: Form a working group with industry stakeholders to evaluate and provide

input on proposed changes to parking standards.

Task 5: Hold public open houses to provide information to the public and solicit input

on proposed changes to parking standards.

Task 6: Incorporate changes from industry stakeholders and public into proposed

parking standards.

Task 7: Present proposed changes to Clark County parking standards to the Clark

County Board of County Commissioners.

Task 8: Incorporate changes from Clark County Board of County Commissioners into

final changes for parking standards.

Task 9: Present final parking ordinance to the Clark County Board of County

Commissioners for adoption, and present final draft to the Regional Transportation

Board.


Clark County and the RTC of Southern Nevada


Budget:




RTC Cost $5,000

Funding Sources







RTC Cost $5,000

Funding Sources





Final ordinance with new parking design standards and new parking standards for

Title 30.

Draft and final report

The study is expected to be completed by June 30, 2017.


Sub Task 301-9025-16: Complete Streets in Non-Urban Areas

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to determine the various types and locations of multi-

modal facilities in the public right-of-way that will provide alternative modes of transportation

within the rural residential neighborhood bounded by the CC-215 Beltway to the north and

west, Lone Mountain Road to the south and Durango Drive on the east. The County is also

concerned with identifying safety improvements as a component to the design options and

in general with respect to the overall needs of the RNP area.

Previous Work:

Clark County Minimum Design Standards for Non-Urban Roadways (2000)

Clark County Transportation Element (2008)

Clark County Trails Program/SNRPC Trail Program

RTC Regional Transportation Plan 2013-2035 (2012)

RTC Complete Streets Design Guidelines for Livable Communities (2013)

Methodology:

Research existing studies, land use plans, design standards for non-urban roadways,

existing and proposed development-related documentation, and future

transportation plans/projects for the area. Identify and evaluate roadways by width

(60’, 80’, 100’).

Identify existing and future roadway traffic volumes and project growth trends along

east-west corridors of Lone Mountain Road, Ann Road, Centennial Parkway; and

north-south corridors of Hualapai Way, Fort Apache Rd and Durango Drive. Include in

the projections the completion of bridge projects along CC-215.

Monitor and evaluate current pedestrian, bicycle and equestrian volumes. Conduct

counts where data does not exist. Identify opportunities for safety improvements for

all roadway users.

Identify all impacts to users as a result of non-urban design standards, including

roadway and shoulder maintenance, drainage, intersection safety and mobility

including lighting.

Conduct interviews with key staff from Clark County Departments impacted including

Comprehensive Planning, Public Works, Commission District Liaison and Town Board

members.

Solicit public participation and input on study utilizing methods including but not

limited to a Town Board presentation, community and business outreach meetings,

social media, and online surveys featuring visual preference selection of any

proposed design standard alternatives.

Participating Agencies: Clark County and the Regional Transportation Commission of

Southern Nevada


Budget:




RTC Cost $5,000

Funding Sources





Prepare Draft study and evaluation plan presented to Clark County before proceeding

with study.

Prepare Final Draft Plan for feedback and comments.

Technical memorandum summarizing each task.

Public memorandum summarizing public outreach.

Draft and Final document.

Compete the study by December 2016


Sub Task 301-9030-16: Evaluate Northeast Valley Transportation Network Study

Purpose: The Northeast region of the Las Vegas valley is poised to develop large amounts of

warehouse and industrial park projects. The Apex Industrial Park, the Speedway industrial

area, the auto auction properties, and Nellis AFB growth will contribute to the increase in

road congestion. These changes will have a cumulative impact on the existing

transportation network. In anticipation of further growth, a study to evaluate and program

future transportation projects in the Northeast region is warranted.

This study will evaluate current conditions of the transportation network and model what the

network looks like when the industrial develops are completed. The baseline would utilize

data collected from relevant RTC transportation data, and local agency comprehensive

plans. The results of the analysis will provide recommended regional policies to better

identify future road projects.

Previous Work:

Southern Nevada Regional Planning Coalition (SNRPC) – Regional Policy Plan

City of North Las Vegas Comprehensive Master Plan

City of Las Vegas Comprehensive Plan

City of Henderson Comprehensive Plan

City of Boulder City Comprehensive Plan

Clark County Comprehensive Plan

Methodology:

Review and evaluate existing policies included in municipal, county and regional

comprehensive plans

Review and analyze relevant transportation data from RTC

Evaluate current conditions along current high traffic areas

Share findings and data with the SNRPC Regional Transportation Working Group

Recommend policy changes to identify improved circulation

Develop regional policies and project to meets the needs of future growth

Final report and presentation to SNRPC Board



City of Las Vegas

Clark County


Southern Nevada Regional Planning Coalition


Budget:




RTC Cost $5,000

Funding Sources







RTC Cost $5,000

Funding Sources





Evaluation report of existing conditions and recommended changes/modifications to

existing transportation network.

Final report including regional policies on transportation options.

Final report including recommended improvements for increased capacity.

Completion expected by June 30, 2017


Sub Task 301-9035-16: TOD Program Development

Purpose: Consultant to provide a national review of TOD incentive programs and develop a

tool to estimate increased transit ridership resulting from increased densities around transit

stations. The project included outreach to private developers and local financial lenders.

The study is in line with the goals and objectives of the Southern Nevada Strong (SNS)

Regional Plan to develop long-term economic success and stronger communities by

integrating reliable transportation, quality housing, and job opportunities

Previous Work: Southern Nevada Strong (SNS) Regional Plan

Methodology:

Task 1: Project Management

Consultant will communicate regularly with the RTC Project Manager and conduct monthly

project management functions to ensure the project progresses according to schedule,

within budget, and that deliverables meet the quality standards expected by the RTC and its

partners. These functions include coordination with internal consultant staff, RTC and

participating agency staff, as well as monthly accounting and invoicing.

Task 2: Community and Stakeholder Involvement

The findings of this study will largely be utilized by the RTC to assess the feasibility of a TOD

subsidy program. The TOD program will likely be both funded and operated by the RTC.

Therefore, outreach to national organizations and other agencies that operate TOD incentive

programs should be emphasized.

Coordination with local agencies with experience in redevelopment planning and zoning

issues will be important to ensure local factors are represented in the study methodology

and final TOD incentive tool.

While SNS identified the challenges to implementing TOD locally and the need to provide

subsidies, further outreach to the development community and local finance institutions is

essential. It is envisioned that this outreach will occur toward the end of the study to allow

for a preview of the software tool developed while also allowing for feedback to be

incorporated into the final study.

The following meetings and outreach activities are anticipated:

Kick-off meeting with RTC and local stakeholders to preview the upcoming study

methodology, and solicit feedback on any potential considerations.

In addition to coordination with peer MPOs and agencies that implement TOD

programs, up to 4 peer exchange meetings will occur to ensure industry best

practices are implemented. These meetings may use technology to enable virtual

meetings.


Up to 2 meetings with the developer community toward the end of the study to

explain the purpose of the study, review methodology, and preview the tool

developed to determine the potential project-level subsidy. These may be one-on-one

meetings.

Up to 2 meetings with local financial lenders toward the end of the study to explain

the purpose of the study, review methodology, and preview the tool developed to

determine the potential project-level subsidy. These may be one-on-one meetings.

Up to 1 presentation to the RTC Metropolitan Subcommittee (MPS) will be made

towards the end of the study.

Up to 1 presentation to the RTC Board of Commissioners will be made towards the

end of the study.

o One-on-one briefings with members of the RTC Board of Commissioners will

be conducted as necessary throughout the project.

Outreach meetings to the general public are not anticipated to be scheduled.

Task 3: National Best Practices Review of TOD Programs

Conduct a national search of exemplary TOD program findings, practices, policies,

processes, standards and incentives. This review will help the RTC understand industry best

practices. Preliminary identification of funding sources for TOD activities will be included,

with special attention on direct financial participation (bonds, loans, grants). The aim of this

review is to find an existing TOD program(s) to utilize as a model for a potential RTC TOD

Program. It is anticipated that any existing program will be adjusted to fit local context.

This review can include the up to 4 peer exchange meetings with other agencies

implementing TOD programs.

Task 4: TOD Incentive Development

The RTC has preliminary identified the Portland, Oregon MPO’s TOD program (Attachment

#2) as a transferrable model to potentially implement in Southern Nevada. The program is

based on an understanding that TOD transit ridership is influenced primarily by density and

proximity to high quality transit – with the program’s focus on how to incentivize density.

Portland TOD projects that receive public funding must have two attributes:

Cost premiums associated with building more densely than the base case

(structured parking, firewall separations, elevators, wider footings); and

Increased transit ridership resulting from more density compared to the baseline

development pattern.


This study seeks to develop a methodology and tool to determine the “transit ridership

delta” in Southern Nevada, and its resulting farebox revenue benefit to the RTC over 30-

years.

The RTC currently does not have the ability to quantify the number of potential transit

trips generated from residential and mix-use. Quantifying transit demand is currently

limited to region-wide survey estimates provided by the U.S. Census Bureau’s ACS, which

only includes commute trips, and the RTC Travel Demand Model, which is a regional

estimate of transit trips based on a Household Travel Survey. Further, data on transit

boarding’s and aligning’s does not identify the trip origin or destination, and surveys of

passengers on transit vehicles do not capture all transit users from a specific

development.

TOD is a scalable concept, meaning the methodology and software tool created for this

study to determine TOD subsidies should be dynamic and able to respond to different

proposed densities and varying transit environments (e.g. transit headways and transit

technology – Streetcar, BRT, LRT, and Commuter Rail).



Project Consultant

Budget:




RTC Cost $5,000

Funding Sources





Monthly progress report and invoice

Meeting agendas, presentations and summaries of all meetings with external

stakeholders.

White Paper: National Scan of MPO TOD Programs;

o Implementation recommendations to the RTC.

Technical Memo: Methodology used to develop TOD software tool.


Software Tool: MS Excel or MS Access (or similar) to dynamically calculate the public

subsidy to incentivize dense, mixed-use private development projects.

Completion date: June 30, 2016


Sub Task 301-9040-16: Truck Arterial Route Study

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to conduct an assessment of safety, operational,

capacity, geometric, and weight requirements of the defined arterial truck routes, and

recommend improvements to ensure they meet minimum requirements to support freight

movement needs.

Previous Work:

Regional Goods Corridor Master Plan, I-11 & Intermountain West Corridor Study,

NDOT Freight Plan (under development), Boulder Highway Bypass Study, Las Vegas

Region Freight Data Study, I-15 Freight Transportation Corridor Study, Analysis of

Alternatives for Accommodating Trucks on Southern Nevada Urban Freeways, Las

Vegas Valley Arterial Development Study

Methodology:

Review and utilize the outcomes from Regional Goods Movement Corridor Plan to

select corridors or bottle necks identified by the plan for further study and perform

the following tasks.

Review and coordinate with the State Freight Plan and other related studies.

Identify additional stakeholders that can be invited to participate in the TAC

chartered for the Regional Goods Movement Corridor Master Plan. Meet with the

TAC at key intervals in the study, and conduct individual interviews as needed.

From crash data, truck volume data and other sources, conduct a safety

assessment, including safety incidents at highway-rail crossings.

Conduct turning movement counts at key intersections identified in the Regional

Goods Movement Corridor Plan, NDOT truck counts, model outputs, observations

from the other data collection tasks, and other available sources.

Identify geometric and operational constraints for truck movements.

Identify other obstacles to truck movements and safety on arterial truck corridors.

Recommend specific improvement and mitigation strategies for improving safety,

operational, capacity, and geometric constraints. Recommend specific wayfinding

and informational signage along defined arterial truck routes to notify all users of

the road that these corridors may experience a larger share of freight traffic than

other corridors.

Develop short and long-term improvement plans for and to preserve oversized

vehicle corridors, defining roadway design standards to accommodate necessary

height and width requirements.

Develop implementation plan, including identification of potential funding and

revenue sources.


Develop an implementation plan that includes cost estimates for the recommended

improvement strategies, and prioritizes them according to a set of criteria supported

by the TAC.

Develop an annual truck spot improvement program to quickly address restrictive

conditions that may exist on major freight corridors.

The project will be completed by a project consultant under the direction of RTC

staff.



Boulder City, Clark County Department of Air Quality, Nevada Department of

Transportation, Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Lead

Agency)

Budget:




RTC Cost $5,000

Funding Sources





Final Report with recommended improvement strategies for selected corridoes and

sites



Task 302, Intelligent Transportation Systems Planning

The RTC, though it’s Freeway and Arterial System of Transportation (FAST) unit has played a major role in the

development of ITS systems in the region. The MPO has provided support to these activities by funding capital

investments in the RTP and TIPs.

The further development of the FAST system is also supported by the inclusion of ITS-related planning activities

in the UPWP.

Activities comprise an investigation of how best to update signal timing strategies to respond to changing

patterns of traffic.

This activity requires extensive professional support from outside consultancies. The costs of professional

services contracts are included under Task 302.

Task 302 includes the RTC costs associated with the procurement of professional services contracts and their

administrative and financial oversight.


302-7206, Traffic Signal Timing Strategies in Las Vegas



FY 2016 RTC costs: $ 3,000

Professional Services Costs:

Work carried over from 2015 $ 150,000






Sub Task 302-7206-16: Traffic Signal Timing Strategies in Las Vegas

Purpose: Conduct state of the art review of existing methods and measures of traffic signal

timing strategies on arterial roadways. Identify these various strategies with costs and

guidelines.

Previous Work:

Traffic Management Center, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Regional

Architecture

Task Elements:

Task 1 – Meet with FAST and local agencies to obtain feedback on existing

conditions and problem areas.

Task 2 – Contact other traffic management agencies to analyze their approach to

similar problems and issues. Conduct a literature review of traffic signal timing

strategies.

Task 3 – Analyze and evaluate two existing 5-mile corridors. Analyze and evaluate

ten existing intersections.

Task 4 – Recommend strategies of mitigating identified problems and issues.

Identify all capital, operations, and maintenance costs for all technologies and

strategies identified.

Task 5 – Develop a plan document and associated presentations.

Work will be completed by a project consultant with oversight by RTC staff.


Freeway and Arterial System of Transportation (Lead Agency), Regional

Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada, City of Las Vegas, City of

Henderson, City of North Las Vegas, Clark County

Budget:



Professional Services Contract (carried

over from 2015) $150,000

RTC Cost $1,500

Funding Sources






Stakeholder agreement on the plan document, including an implementation strategy,

guidelines, budget, and timeline.

Final plan document and any presentations associated with the study.



NON-UPWP PLANNING STUDY

Sponsoring Agency: Southern Nevada Health District

Title: Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan for Southern Nevada

Objective:

The RTC will update and revise the Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. A consultant will

be hired to work with RTC staff and oversee stakeholder engagement, identify best

practices, incorporate findings from complimentary reports from Southern Nevada, perform

analysis, develop the plan, and garner support for final adoption. The updated plan will be

included as an appendix to the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and will help the RTC

identify and prioritize funding for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure and could

influence road design and construction to accommodate such facilities in the future. The

Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan will address how Southern Nevada measures

performance for bicycling and walking in accordance with federal mandates. The updated

plan will support the inclusion of elements that meet the RTC’s Complete Streets Policy and

will help determine project prioritization for regional funding programs.

Previous Related Work:

Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (2008)

Task Elements:

Solicit a Request for Proposal (RFP) and finalize a contract with a consultant to work

with RTC staff and facilitate revision of the Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan.

Prepare Existing Conditions/Data Report to gather and synthesize existing data,

studies, reports, and policies including existing bicycle and pedestrian data, recent

RTC studies, local and regional plans, and recommendations from local jurisdictions

and other stakeholders. Compile recommendations that will be used to inform plan

revisions.

Convene an advisory committee of key stakeholders to help inform and guide plan

development. The advisory committee will meet at least quarterly until the revised

plan is adopted. Prepare and distribute advisory committee minutes.

Attend required meetings and maintain involvement in related coalitions, safety task

forces, and work groups including Partners for a Healthy Nevada coalition.

Develop a Stakeholders Participation Plan to document public and agency

involvement and to identify outreach strategies (project website, public surveys,

stakeholder interviews, etc.) to share plan development updates.


Expected Products:

A Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan for Southern Nevada that encourages and prioritizes

future investments in bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure and influences road design and

construction to accommodate bicycle and pedestrian facilities.


Financial Responsibility: Southern Nevada Health District

Functional Responsibility: Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada

Participating Agencies: Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada

Financial Data: $100,000 (Federal Partnership to Improve Community Health Grant)


Appendix 1

Southern Nevada Regional Planning Prospectus

The purpose of this Prospectus is to outline the roles and responsibilities of the Nevada

Department of Transportation (NDOT) and the Regional Transportation Commission of

Southern Nevada (RTCSNV), as required by 23 CFR Section 450.314. The Prospectus

was first incorporated into the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) in Fiscal Year 2014.

I. General Roles & Responsibilities

RTCSNV will perform the transportation planning process for the Southern Nevada

Metropolitan Planning Area (the region) and develop procedures to coordinate

transportation planning activities in accordance with applicable federal regulations

and guidance. The region is defined as the County of Clark in the State of Nevada and

includes the incorporated cities of Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite, and North

Las Vegas as well as unincorporated areas of the County.

The transportation process will, at a minimum, consist of:

A. Development of an annual Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) that lists and

describes all transportation planning studies and tasks to be completed during the

year.

B. Development and update of a long-range, multimodal metropolitan transportation

plan, known as the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP).

C. Development and maintenance of a short-range regional transportation improvement

program (TIP).

D. Financial planning to ensure plans and programs are fiscally constrained within

anticipated funding levels.

E. Development of planning studies and system performance monitoring, including

highway corridor and intersection studies, transit system studies, application of

advanced computer techniques, and transportation data collection and archiving.

F. Public outreach to the community throughout the transportation planning process,

including the electronic dissemination of reports and supporting information on the

RTCSNV website, and consideration of public comments. Public outreach activities

should take into account the needs of persons with limited proficiency in English.

G. Ensuring low income or minority populations, including the elderly and persons with

disabilities, are not significantly or disproportionately impacted.

H. Development and implementation of a Congestion Management Process (CMP) as

appropriate.

I. Ensuring plans, projects, and programs are consistent with, and conform to, air

quality goals for reducing transportation-related emissions and attaining National

Ambient Air Quality Standards.


II. The Regional Transportation Plan (RTP)

The RTP will be prepared and compiled through a cooperative process between federal

agencies, the Nevada Department of Transportation , RTCSNV (including

RTCSNV in its capacity as the provider of public transportation), the Clark County

Department of Air Quality (acting under delegated authority as the Air Agency for Southern

Nevada), and the local city and county governments in the region.

Responsibilities of the Regional Transportation Commission

A. The RTCSNV will be responsible for preparing and developing the Regional

Transportation Plan (20-25 year time frame). The RTP will be converted into a

format that will allow it to be downloaded from the internet.

B. The RTCSNV may develop an executive summary report for the region that

includes the key issues facing the area and identifies high priority programs and

projects.

C. The RTCSNV will provide opportunities for the public and other interested parties to

provide input during the development of the Regional Transportation Plan, in

accordance with the Public Participation Plan. The draft of each update to the RTP

will be made available for public and agency review and comment. Prior to taking

formal action on the Plan or Plan update, the RTCSNV Board will be informed of the

extent and nature of comments received and the response to such comments.

D. The RTCSNV will develop and keep up-to-date a list of those roadways and transit

facilities deemed to be ‘regionally significant’ in accordance 23 CFR 450.322.

E. The RTCSNV will, in cooperation with NDOT, develop estimates of future inflation to

be used to convert project costs and revenues to a ‘year of expenditure’ basis.

F. The RTCSNV will coordinate with the Clark County Department of Air Quality to assess

air quality impacts and conduct the regional emissions assessment of the RTP.

G. The RTCSNV, acting as the transit agency for the region, will ensure the RTP includes

information on local bus capital projects that are consistent with the transit capital

program. The RTP will also identify future bus needs and services, including new

routes, service expansion, vehicle needs, and operating financial needs.

Responsibilities of the Nevada Department of Transportation

H. The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) will provide the following

information and data in support of developing the RTP:

1. An estimate of federal funds expected to be available over the 20-25 year

time frame of the plan for highway and transit programs. This estimate of

funds will be provided at a time mutually agreed upon by the RTCSNV and

NDOT so that the fiscal limits of the RTP can be determined before project

prioritization begins.


2. A list of projects in Southern Nevada, developed in cooperation with the

RTCSNV, to be undertaken by NDOT over the 20-25 year time frame of the Plan

using federal program funds reserved in the State of Nevada for use

anywhere in the state. The state’s regionally significant project list will be

provided at a time mutually agreed upon by the RTCSNV and NDOT so that air

quality conformity analysis can be performed at the appropriate time in the

course of RTP development.

3. A list of projects in Southern Nevada for which funds have been earmarked or

otherwise designated in federal transportation legislation.

4. An estimate of state funds expected to be expended on transportation

projects in the region over the 20-25 year time frame of the Plan. In the

interests of public information and to assist the RTCSNV in demonstrating

the fiscal feasibility of the Plan, NDOT will also provide information as to

how these expenditures relate to the state transportation revenues

available after allowing for the cost of maintenance, operations, debt

service, administration, and other draws on these fund sources.

5. Traffic count data and other performance indicators for state roads in the

region.

I. For those federal program funds intended to be distributed between various entities

or regions within the state, NDOT will either provide the basis for the allocation

between areas as defined by law, or will work cooperatively with the RTCSNV and

other jurisdictions to establish mutually agreed formulae for the allocation between

areas of such funds for forecasting and financial planning purposes.

NDOT will provide information on projects to be undertaken in Southern Nevada using

transit or other federal program funds allocated to non-urbanized areas of the state, and will

consult with the RTCSNV for selecting such projects.

III. Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)

The TIP will be prepared and compiled through a cooperative process between federal

agencies, NDOT, the RTCSNV (including the RTCSNV in its capacity as the

provider of public transportation), and the local city and county governments in the region.

Responsibilities of the Regional Transportation Commission

A. The RTCSNV will be responsible for preparing and developing the Transportation

Improvement Program (4-year time frame) for the region. The TIP will be converted

into a format that will allow it to be downloaded from the internet. The RTCSNV

will maintain the TIP by tracking changes to projects (schedule, scope, and cost)

made through the amendment and administrative action processes.

B. The RTCSNV, in consultation with NDOT and local city and county governments, shall

develop the list of locally-sponsored transportation projects to be included in the TIP.


1. In the case of the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program (CMAQ) (or any

successor funding program of similar intent), the RTCSNV shall also consult

with the Clark County Department of Air Quality in the development of the list of

projects to be included in the TIP.

2. In the case of the Transportation Alternatives Program (or any successor

funding program of similar intent), the RTCSNV shall also consult with all

eligible project sponsors in the development of the list of projects to be

included in the TIP.

C. The RTCSNV, as the provider of public transportation services, shall develop the list of

transit projects to be included in the TIP.

1. In the Southern Nevada urbanized area, the RTCSNV shall consult with not-for-

profit agencies and other providers of specialized transportation and human

services, in accordance with the Coordinated Public Transit-Human Services

Plan.

2. For Southern Nevada non-urbanized area transit programs, the RTCSNV shall

consult with NDOT and other providers of transportation services to the non-

urbanized parts of the region.

D. The RTCSNV shall develop a comprehensive list of projects for all projects in the TIP.

In order to illustrate the entire scope of the project to the policy board and the

general public, the project list will contain detailed project descriptions,

estimated total project costs at completion, and complete project schedule by

phases.

E. The RTCSNV will develop an estimate of anticipated local funds to be expended on

transit projects identified in the TIP. In the interests of public information and to

assist in demonstrating the fiscal feasibility of the TIP, the RTCSNV will also

document how these expenditures relate to the local revenues available for

transit after allowing for the cost of maintenance, operations, debt service,

administration, and other draws on these fund sources.

F. The RTCSNV will provide information on proposed TIP amendments and

administrative modifications relating to projects sponsored by the RTCSNV or

local entities. Amendments and administrative modifications will include a

project description that provides sufficient detail to explain the proposed changes

to the RTCSNV Board, as well as a justification for the change.

Responsibilities of the Nevada Department of Transportation

G. NDOT will prepare an initial list of NDOT-sponsored projects to be included in each

new TIP. This list will be based on the current TIP and an assessment of which

projects will be obligated for funding before the end of the current federal fiscal year.


H. NDOT will provide information on proposed TIP amendments and modifications

relating to projects sponsored by NDOT. Amendments will include a project

description that provides sufficient detail to allow the proposed changes to be

explained to the RTCSNV Board, as well as a justification for the change.

I. NDOT will provide a list of projects to be undertaken on Native American tribal lands

under the Indian Reservation Roads (IRR) program within the Southern Nevada

region.

J. NDOT will provide a list of projects to be undertaken under the Federal Lands

Highways program within the Southern Nevada region.

K. NDOT will provide a list of projects obligated during the federal fiscal year at the

end of each program year. The annual list of obligated projects should include both

highway and transit projects and should identify the fund source and the amount

obligated in accordance with 23 CFR 450.332.

L. NDOT will provide annually, for each federal fund source, the revenues available

(including both unobligated funds carried forward from prior years and the amount

appropriated during the fiscal year), the total amount obligated, any other deductions

and the balance of funds remaining at the end of the fiscal year.

IV. Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)

A. NDOT will develop a four - year STIP including projects in each MPO and the rural

regions of the state, and will be responsible for securing the approval of the STIP by

the United States Department of Transportation.

B. The TIP, as developed by the RTCSNV, will be incorporated into the STIP

without change, directly or by reference.

C. NDOT, in consultation with the RTCSNV and the other MPOs in the state, shall

develop procedures for the modification and amendment of the STIP. NDOT

shall be responsible for notifying the RTCSNV of the effective date of

modifications and the approval date of amendments.

V. Public Transportation Planning

A. The RTCSNV, acting as the transit agency for the region, will ensure the RTP and TIP

include all transit projects (both capital and operating) that are funded by federal

program funds.

B. The RTCSNV will consult with NDOT to ensure that both the RTP and TIP include

information on transit projects in the non-urbanized parts of the region that are

funded by federal program funds.


C. The RTCSNV will include in the RTP information on the transit system and will outline

the objectives of the RTCSNV in respect to the various types and modes of public

transportation in the region.

D. As part of its outreach activities, the RTCSNV will provide opportunities for other

providers of public transportation, not-for-profits, and providers of specialized

transportation services to be involved in the development of the RTP and TIP. The

RTCSNV will also provide these firms and agencies with advice, information, and

consultation on transportation programs within the region.

VI. Air Quality Planning

A. The preparation of a new or revised RTP will be coordinated with the State Air Quality

Implementation Plan (SIP) and transportation demand management and

transportation system management (TDM/TSM) measures.

B. In accordance with the Clean Air Act and U.S. EPA conformity regulations (40 CFR,

Part 51), the RTCSNV, acting as the regional MPO, makes an air quality conformity

determination on any new or revised RTP prior to Plan approval. Any such new or

revised RTP is also provided to the FHWA and the FTA with a request that these

federal agencies approve the conformity finding.

VII. Public Participation Program

A. The RTCSNV will develop and maintain a Public Participation Plan that sets out the

procedures to include the public and interested parties in the development of the

Regional Transportation Plan, Transportation Improvement Program, and other

elements of the regional planning process, to seek public input and comment, and to

inform decision-makers of the extent and nature of comments received and response

to such comments.

B. The RTCSNV will annually review and evaluate its public participation program.

C. The RTCSNV will maintain a list of interested organizations and individuals who will

receive notices of MPO plans, programs, and projects.

D. The RTCSNV will work to ensure that low-income, minority, and transit

dependent areas are afforded an adequate opportunity to participate in the

transportation planning process, receive a fair share of the transportation

improvement benefits, and do not endure a disproportionate transportation

burden.

E. The RTCSNV will maintain its website to provide clear and concise information on the

regional transportation planning process and provide an opportunity for downloading

reports and documents. This will include developing project and study summaries,


converting reports into PDF or text format, and maintaining a list of available

documents. The website will provide links to other associated organizations and

agencies.

VIII. Fiscal/Financial Planning

A. NDOT will provide the RTCSNV with up-to-date fiscal and financial information and

projections on the statewide and regional transportation improvement programs to

the extent practicable.

B. This will include anticipated federal funding resources by federal aid category by

year for the four years covered by the TIP, and by five-year intervals for the 20-25

year time frame of the RTP for inclusion in the TIP and RTP financial charts.

C. For each federal program for which funds are sub-allocated to Southern Nevada,

NDOT will provide an annual statement identifying:

1. Unobligated funds brought forward from the previous year;

2. Funds appropriated during the year;

3. Fund obligated during the year and any adjustments thereto;

4. Unobligated fund balance.

D. For each federal transit program for which funds are allocated to the Las Vegas

Urbanized Area, the RTCSNV will provide an annual statement identifying:

1. Unobligated funds brought forward from the previous year;

2. Funds appropriated during the year;

3. Funds obligated during the year and any adjustments thereto;

4. Unobligated fund balance.

E. NDOT will notify the RTCSNV when the anticipated cost of a project, regardless of

funding category, has changed in accordance with the agreed upon TIP/STIP

amendment and administrative action process.

IX. Performance Measurement and the Management of Congestion

A. In developing the RTP and TIP, RTCSNV will incorporate the national goals,

measures, and standards of system performance established under the

provisions of MAP-21.

B. RTCSNV will coordinate with NDOT in the establishment of multimodal

transportation system performance targets for the region. These will

reflect national goals and standards as applied to the circumstances and

priorities of the region.

C. RTCSNV will cooperate with NDOT to collect data and conduct system

performance monitoring. RTCSNV will report on progress toward meeting

system performance targets as part of the biennial development of major


TIP updates, and will assist NDOT as needed in meeting state reporting

requirements under MAP-21.

D. To address the national goal of reducing congestion, RTCSNV will gather

and analyze data to define the extent and duration of congestion in the

region, to identify the causes of congestion, and to identify congestion

management strategies.

E. As part of the Congestion Management Process (CMP), the RTCSNV will

develop implementation activities in coordination with NDOT to address

congestion and other performance issues, and will include priority

projects in the RTP and TIP.

X. Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Program

A. The Freeway and Arterial System of Transportation (FAST), a department of the

RTCSNV, coordinates the planning, development, and operation of the Southern

Nevada ITS program in cooperation with NDOT and local agencies.

B. NDOT will maintain the statewide ITS architecture and will work with FAST to

ensure consistency with the Regional ITS Architecture for the Southern Nevada

Metropolitan Planning Area.

C. NDOT, in cooperation with FAST, is responsible for identifying freeway ITS capital

projects and operating strategies for inclusion in the RTP and TIP.

D. Local agencies, in cooperation with FAST, are responsible for identifying arterial

roadway ITS capital projects and operating strategies for inclusion in the RTP and TIP.

Amendments to this Prospectus

This Statement defining t h e Southern Nevada Regional Transportation Planning Process

may be amended from time to time to coincide with development o f the annual UPWP

approval as jointly deemed necessary or in the best interests of all parties, including federal

transportation agencies.

Effective Date

This Statement will be effective after it has been endorsed by the RTCSNV as part of the

Fiscal Year 2014 UPWP, and as soon as that UPWP has been approved by NDOT and the

relevant federal transportation agencies.

No Limitation on Statutory Authority

Nothing contained in this Statement is intended to or shall limit the authority or

responsibilities assigned to signatory organizations under Nevada law, federal law, local

ordinance, or interlocal agreement.

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