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HomeMy WebLinkAboutR-02-0146J-02-107 1/30/02 RESOLUTION NO. 02-w i4G - A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY 'COMMISSION, WITH ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, TO APPLY FOR FUNDS THROUGH A LOCAL AGENCY PROGRAM ("LAP") AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF MIAMI AND THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ("FDOT") AND TO ACCEPT THE SUM OF $250,000 FROM FDOT FOR THE "LANDSCAPING/AESTHETIC IMPROVEMENT" PROJECT (THE "PROJECT") IN THE OVERTOWN NEIGHBORHOOD; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ACCEPT THE OBLIGATIONS OF OWNERSHIP, MAINTENANCE AND LIABILITY OF THE PROJECT AND TO EXECUTE ALL NECESSARY DOCUMENTS, IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY, NECESSARY TO COMPLETE THE PROJECT. WHEREAS, the Florida Department of Transportation ("FDOT") and the City of Miami desire to facilitate Overtown Aesthetic Improvement Projects to landscape and construct aesthetic improvements to mitigate the impact of the highway system to the Overtown neighborhood; and WHEREAS, in June of 2000, the City of Miami received certification in FDOT District VI under the Local Agency Program and is eligible to receive federal highway funding to manage the � T .rw��_�:� CITY COPM14SION MEE'T.rua bF . ch 2602 J�.e:4�itxt4�ry �1TA• 0 -2 J 4 G. 1 0 0 Project and have the "Landscaping/Aesthetic improvement" designed and installed; and WHEREAS, FDOT is designated as the state agency responsible for dispensing of federal highway funds for said plan, with the authority to award grants to municipalities; and WHEREAS, upon execution of a Local Agency Program Agreement with FDOT, the City of Miami will be awarded a $250,000; and WHEREAS, the Local Agency Program Agreement stipulates that the entity that installs devices will be responsible for the ownership, maintenance, and liability; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA: Section 1. The recitals and findings contained in the Preamble to this Resolution are adopted by reference and incorporated as if fully set forth in this Section. Section 2. The City Manager is authorize&i to execute an agreement, in substantially the attached form, to apply for funds through a Local Agency Program ("LAP") agreement between the City of Miami and the Florida Department of Transportation ("FDOT") and to accept the sum of $250,000 from FDOT for the ii The herein authorization is further subject to compliance with all requirements that may be imposed by the City Attorney, including but not limited to those prescribed by applicable City Charter and Code provisions. Page 2 of 3 LJ L� "Landscaping/Aesthetic Improvement" Project (the "Project") for the Overtown neighborhood. Section 3. The City Manager is further authorized to accept the obligations of ownership, maintenance and liability of the Project and to execute all necessary documents, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney, to complete the Project. Section 4. This Resolution shall become effective immediately upon its adoption and signature of the Mayor.� PASSED AND ADOPTED this 14th day of February , 2002. Z ) ANUEL A. DIAZ, MA ATTEST: Syly a Scheider Actincj CityftClerk APPR 1�Q;M AND CORRECTNESS : NDR(Y'VILARELLO ATTORNEY W5973:tr:LB z/ It the Mayor does not sign this Resolution, it shall become effective at the end of ten calendar days from the date it was adopted and passed. If the Mayor vetoes this Resolution, it shall not become effective unless the city Commission overrides the veto. Page 3 of 3 OVERTOWN HIGHWAY AESTHETIC IMPROVEMENT PROJECT LOCAL AGENCY PROGRAM (LAP) APPLICATION SECTION 1 The Federal -Aid Project Funding Request SECTION 2 The State of Florida Department of Transportation Application for the Transportation Enhancement Projects SECTION 3 Resolution for LAP Agreement 21.6 14.4 SECTION 1 The Federal -Aid Project Funding Request 02 -r 146 THE FEDERAL -AID PROJECT FUNDING REQUEST AGENCY: City of Miami PIanning & Zoning and Public Works Departments FEDERAL AID PROJECT NUMBER: FIN PROD NUMBER: FP 4055851 TIP/STIP NUMBER: PROJECT TITLE: Ov rtmvn Aesthetic Improvement Project a J PROJECT TERMINI: 1-95 to the west, NW 20`h Street to the north, N. Miami Avenue to the east, and NW 5th Street to the south. (See Project Vicinity/Location in the 1-395 Aesthetic Improvement Study.) WORK PHASE: This funding request is for one section of the improvement area and will support identification of environmental concerns, concepts & designs, installation and construction of landscaping, tile mosaic on concrete columns and concrete berm underneath 1-395. AWARD TYPE: By contract. ENVIRONMENT DOCUMENT: EIS approved on , and reevaluated on EAIFONSI approved on , and reevaluated on Categorical Exclusion: Programmatic Categorical Exclusion determination on Type I Categorical Exclusion determination on Type II Categorical Exclusion approved on Categorical Exclusion Reevaluation on OBLIGATION DATE: September 2001 DESCRIPTION OF EXISTING FACILITY: Currently, the area underneath the I-395 facility is visually unpleasant and evokes a feeling of apprehension to anyone in the vicinity. Due to the cast -west configuration of the freeway and its single span structure, little sunlight is able to penetrate it. This makes it very dark throughout the entire day underneath 1-395 and uninhabitable for plant life. There is little or no landscaping along the corridor and many areas are in need of maintenance. Garbage litters most of the corridor and panhandlers, homeless people, drug dealers use the space beneath the overpass as a haven. Pedestrian pathways along this corridor are generally unlit and are a safety concern after hours. 02- 146 DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK: Five areas have been chosen as the best candidates for short-term landscaping efforts within the Overtown area. {See Figure 5-1 illustrating these areas.} These locations were determined based on current & future pedestrian/bicycle use, gateway image, current beautification efforts, locations of business, and proximity to schools, parks, and recreational areas. The locations are: • NW 14th Street, just west NW 3rd Avenue to 1-95 • NW 14th Street, from NW Yd Avenue to NW 15t Avenue, along I-395 • NW 14th Street from 1-95 to NW 7th Avenue • Midtown Interchange, just north of NW 14th Street • NW 3rd Avenue at NW 9`' Street Additionally, future applications will include designs for an African -themed park facility to be developed underneath the I-395 facility, and a sound barrier wall to protection the residential areas adjacent to the interchange ramp from 1-395 west to I-95 north. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS: NIA RIGHT-OF-WAY AND RELOCATION: NIA 01. 146 SECTION 2 The State of Florida Department of Transportation Application for the Transportation Enhancement Projects 02- 146 STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION APPLICATION FOR TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT PROJECTS Project Title: Overtown Highway Aesthetic Improvement Project Project Sponsor (municipal, county, state, or federal agency, or tribal council): Cit of Miami De artment of Plannin and Zonin and De artment of Public Works Contact: GregoryD. Gay/ALlrora Badia Title: Urban Community Planner/Asst. Director Public Works Address: Miami Riverside Center 444 S.W. 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33130 Phone: 305.416.1400 or 305.416.1200 FAX: 305.416.2156 Priority (relative to other applications submitted by the Project Sponsor): Yes Name of Applicant (If other than Project Sponsor): Over -town Sector Signage Prosect 1. Qualifying Enhancement Activities: Page I Of 4 Check the enhancement activity that the proposed project will address. (NOTE: Checking all activities possible does not ensure or increase eligibility. Each activity checked must meet all criteria listed for that activity in Appendix A of FDOT Procedure 4525-030-300, Transportation Enhancement Projects). _ Provision of facilities for pedestrians and bicycles The provision of safety and educational activities for pedestrian and bicyclists Acquisition of scenic easements and scenic or historic sites Scenic or historic highway programs, (including the provision of tourist and welcome center facilities) X Landscaping and other scenic beautification Historic preservation Rehabilitation of historic transportation buildings, structures or facilities (including historic railroad facilities and canals) _ Preservation of abandoned railway corridors (including the conversion and use thereof for pedestrian or bicycle trails) Control and removal of outdoor advertising Archaeological planning and research Environmental mitigation to address water pollution due to highway runoff or reduce vehicle -caused wildlife mortality while maintaining habitat connectivity Establishment of transportation museums o. 146 • Page 2 of 4 2. Project Description: Use additional sheets as necessary to respond to the following: (a) What type of work is being proposed? (Check all that apply Planning Activities Project Development and Environmental Studies X Engineering and Final Plans Preparation Work Right of Way Acquisition X Construction Construction Engineering and Inspection Activities (b) Describe how the proposed project is related to the intermodal transportation system by function, proximity or impact. (One or more may apply). The function of this project is to develop and complete final plans for an aesthetic/landscape treatment to reduce the negative visual impact of the highway to the adjacent residential community. This was a recommendation of the Historical Impacts of Transportation Projects on the Overtown Community, a study prepared by Florida International University (FIU) for the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). The purpose of the study was to identify areas of the Overtown community where mitigation of the negative impact that transit and transportation system could occur. The proposed project will construct the landscape treatment in one section of the project area. (c) Where is the project located (and what are the termini, if appropriate)? Include location map. See Project Vicinity/Location in the 1-395 Aesthetic Improvement Study. (d) Summarize any special characteristics of project. Provide typical section drawings for appropriate projects. See Project Description in the 1-395 Aesthetic Improvement Study. (e) Describe the project's existing right of way ownerships. This description shall identify when the right of way was acquired and how ownership is documented (i.e. plats, deeds, prescriptions, certified surveys). All of the right -of way is owned by the Florida Department of Transportation. (f) Describe any proposed right of way acquisition, including expected matching fund source, limitations on fund use or availability, and who will acquire and retain ownership of proposed right of way. There are no proposed right-of-way acquisitions at this time. Future acquisitions will depends upon future highway development and/or improvements. (g) Describe any related project work phases that are already complete or currently underway. N/A ©2. 146 Page 3 of 4 (h) Other specific project information that should be considered. The City of Miami has included this pro �ect in its Capital Improvement Projects �CIP) landscaping and other aesthetic improvements for NW 3 Avenue from NW 8h Street to NW 20 Street. The Florida Department of Transportation is also considering exits from northbound 1-95 to NW 14`h Street and from NW 10 Street to southbound 1-95. 3. Project Implementation Information: Attach documentation as exhibits to this application. (a) Describe the proposed method of performing (i.e. contract or in-house) and administering (i.e. local or state) each work phase of the project. if it is proposed that the project be administered by a governmental entity other than the Department of Transportation, document that this entity has the fiscal, managerial, environmental and engineering capabilities to manage the work phase of the project consistent with federal requirements. See attachments. (b) Describe any public (and private, if applicable) support of the proposed project. (Examples include: written endorsement, formal declaration, resolution, financial donations or other appropriate means). See attachments. Overtown Advisory Board (OAB), Overtown Empowerment Zone Assembly, Dr. Marvin Dunn — Professor FlU (c) Describe the proposed ownership and maintenance responsibilities for the project when it is completed. The Right -of -Way is owned by the FDOT, the City of Miami is responsible for the maintenance. The City of Miami and, will develop a JVP maintenance agreement with the Overtown community, through the numerous CDCs and CBOs to be responsible for the new landscaping and other amenities. The CDCs and CBOs may include, but not limited to; Overtown Advisory Board, Overtown Empowerment Zone Assembly, Overtown Optimist Club, Douglass Elementary School, Booker T. Washington High School, Saint John CDC, BAMS CDC, Mount Zion CDC, Saint Agnes CDC, Dr. Marvin Dunn - Professor of FTU and his student volunteers, and others. (d) Describe source of matching funds and any restrictions on availability. RIM (e) Other specific implementation information that should be considered. NIA ©2— 0 0 Page 4 of 4 4. Project Cost: What is the total estimated cost of the work requested to be funded as an enhancement project through this application? Planning Activities. Project Development and Environmental Studies. Engineering and Final Plans Preparation Work. Right of Way Acquisition. Construction. Construction Engineering and Inspection Activities. Other: Proposition local businesses, organizations, and agencies to donate plants and landscaping materials to the project. TOTAL: $NIA $NIA $35,000.00 $NIA $200,x00.00 $15,000.00 $In-kind Donations $250,000 + In-kind Services & Donations How will the project be funded? FDOT Enhancement Funds $250,000.00 + Local $In-kind Services = Total $250,000.00+In-kind Services FDOT Enhancement Funds 90% + Local 10% = 100% CERTIFICATION OF PROJECT SPONSOR I hereby certify that the proposed project herein described is supported by the City of Miami (municipal, county, state or federal agency, or tribal council) and that said entity will: (l) provide any required funding match; (2) enter into a maintenance agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation; (3) comply with the Federal Uniform Relocation Assistance and Acquisition Policies Act for any Right of Way actions required for the project, and (4) support other actions necessary to fully implement the proposed project. I further certify that the estimated costs included herein are reasonable and understand that significant increases in these costs could cause the project to be removed from the Florida Department of Transportation work program. Signature Name: Gregory D. Gay Title: Urban Community Planner Date: 02- 146 Attachments Application for the Transportation Enhancement Projects 02— . 6 Final Report The Historical Impacts of Transportation Projects on the Overtown Community Prepared by Institute of Government Florida International University March, 1998 for the Metropolitan Planning Organization (NIPO) of Miami -Dade County Principal Investigator: Milan Dluhv. Ph.D. WIPO Project Coordinator: Clinton Forbes Project Staff: Peter Cattan. Ph.D. Keith Revell. Ph.D. Jill Strube. B.A. Sidney Wong. Ph.D. Consultants: Harvey Averch. Ph.D. . an Bly. A1CP Ken Lipner. Ph.D. The Blurk.-Irchivt.,. Hbaory & Re NLVI'Ch Fvr(rulutinjr 01'.South Florida. lir"'.. w0cr le,lilersltip of Dr Dorotlry Ankins T*iehk urc hiVist (tail hi.vtoricr,r. CorrcltrrNd tht: (,rill hi. 11".4 c'(,rrrl�(,arcrrt swnnturt o1 t1.,'.%L- inteTt'le IVS iV e'r 110inecl in Chulner 4. A i*yped Ir rtrscril)t Ofe(101 irrtc'r+-ie ll is available for fu►Yherstudl ctt 111L!BhlL-k.-1A'hi%VS Fot(jtckttion. 54011 N. (I', 2211clAve- dostq)h C'411eh Center Bldy" C,-, Suite 1 o 1, Miami, Horicla. 1 hr transcri.pts urs also iirclrukd us a , cJ:p trufr Appf,nclix to this Report. 02- 146 Executive Summary and Major Recommendations Prepared hi• Jfilan D1uht• 1. Background The objective of this study was to assess the extent to which the Overtown area has been historically affected by major transportation projects and to suggest possible mitigation nnrt I nOM IJTJ;ty in t ICLIZP ICa Lildti tiruulu the future. An interdisciplinary team ofpublic administration/public policy analysts. economists. historians and planners from FIU in conjunction with a szib-contractor. the Black Archives, L:ompleted a comprehensive analysis. The team reviewed and evaluated all previous studies of Oyerto,.vn and government documents and newspaper stories related to transportation projects affecting Overtown dating back to 1950. In addition. we collected and analyzed historical census and business information on Overtown. The project team also interviewed key decision -makers involved in the policy process connected to these projects. The Black Archives intervie,-ved 56 former and current residents of Overtown to document the public's perception of the impacts. Finally. the project team completed a less comprehensive revie%v of the impacts of transportation projects dating back to 1,950 in Atlanta. Jacksonville. Nashville, New Orleans and Tampa in order to compare the experiences of these areas with Overto%vn. Z. Conclusions The major conclusions of the study are indicated below but the reader is encouraged to read the individual Chapters in the Report for a more detailed discussion of the key points. 1I Transportation and L7rban Renewal Pro�ects had a Major Impact on the Decline of the Overtop% n Community. The historical revievv presented in this study of 1-95. SR 83611-395. Nletrorail. Metromover. and Urban Renewal demonstrates that these projects taken together have had a devastatim., impact on the Overto\%n area and largely destroyed a once viable and stable At'rican A7-,ierican Community. At the tirne most of these projects were being implemented (the period of 1965-70), the laru,:r community thought that these projects Were positive and progressive. For example. many outside of Oyertown believed that these projects %WLIld revive the downtown area. eliminate some of the worst housing in Nliami-Dads County. speed workers and tourists to and from the downtown central business district. and allu�ti the downtown business area to expand (see Chapter 4). V,hile many of these changes clivi take place. the larger South Florida community has never acknowledged to any great extent the damage done to Overtown because of these projects. Until recently. there has been little interest in taking corrective action even though numerous studies completed back, to ol t A 6 reached its lowest point sometime in the early 1970s. a bottom from which it has still not recovered. While Overtown rniot have declined very slowly artyway -without the transportation and urban renewal projects. it is clear that the magnitude L}fthe impact over such a short period of time did not allow the community the chance to rttollify the adverse impacts of these projects. Simply stated, too many people and businesses mo�ed out so quickly that the re -development cycle never had a chance. all those who could move left and others who 4vould not move were forced to. 2.4 Little or No Corrective Action was taken in Overtown or in other Cities with Neighborhoods Similarly Impacted. Chapter 5 demonstrates that the pattern described in Overtown also took place in other large urban areas in the Southeastern U.S. To repeat. the established pattern in Overto�vn was documented by using the census and then contirmin.. the details of the moves with interviews completed by the Black Archives of current and Cornier residents. As early as the late 1940s. the most mobile professionals. business people. and other working and middle class African americans were already moving out of Overtown and into the new and expanding areas north and west. In the 1950s, their place was taken by in -migrants from outside of South Florida who were of lower income and needed less expensive rental housing. \Ithough there was a small percentage of hone ownership in Overtw,�-n. the housing data show that apartments (commonly called "concrete monsters') largely- replaced "shot dun" homes and other sirt,,k:-family homes during the 1950s. The out -migration of the most mobile had already begun and their places were taken by African Americans lower on the economic scale who moved into the newly built apartments. When the expressway and urban renewal projects of the mid 1960s came along. most of the remaining, "shot gun" homes and other older. sub -standard dwellinus were destroyed. Most of the housing units remainingt in 1970 were apartments (concrete monsters) ,which were not attractive to the more prosperous and family oriented African americans who census data show had been already gradually mo -ins out of Overtown. The arra became so unattractive for the more prosperous members of t'ie African American Community that the: sly tcturned to attend church. The area could no lonuer attract the mixed -income population of the old Overtown. circa late 1940s. r When O\ ertown %vas compared to other luw income, minority neighborhoods in other cities inipacted by transportation projects. the pattern was quite similar. The impacted nei;,hborhoods lost a hi;,h percentage or their population and businesses and the disinvestment cycle set in. These areas have never recovered either. The pattern was present in Atlanta. Jackson%ille. Nashville. New Orleans and Tampa. The study also looked at adjacent minority neighborhoods in Miami and the COMparison cities that were not affected directly by transportation projects. These areas can be thought of non -,qui vatent control groups since we matched these neighborhoods as best as \%e could on their demographics. However. the neighborhoods not affected by projects in all of the cities showed the same trends. Their populations were: more stable or gro,.6m,. they hay e had better employment to population ratios. they have had larger percentages of home k)%%nership, and the% have had faster gro%%ing incomes. in short. the unaffected areas do 02- 146 on operating subsidies to attract companies. but on creating: a favorable environment for business and housing especially through upgrading the infra -structure. The implication oCthis vie« is that all levels of government should focus on infrastructure improvements and make the area attractive for re-development,purposes. At the heart of the revived Overtown could be the Folk -life Village (between N.W. 8" and 10'h Streets and 3"' and ) Avenues). but the rest of the area will very likely follow the broader economic development patterns already occurring in Miami. especially the revitalization of the downtown had Brickeii Avenue areas. 3. Recommendations 3.l General Any additional state transportation projects like state project number 87200-133- (SR -836/1-395 from N.W. 17"' Avenue to the ,MacArthur Causeway Bridge) will have to abide by the Environmental Justice gttidelines. Executive Order 12398 signed by President Clinton in 1994 requires each federal agency to develop strategies to avoid disproportionately high and adverse impacts on minority and logy income populations. Although this pending project will have only sonic small and very marginal impacts on Overtown, it would be, helpful to Overtown if transportation authorities in South Florida recognized that previous projects have had some negative consequences and agreed to take some creative action within the limits of their respective resource capabilities. Below are a short list of transportation related projects that. if implemented. would demonstrate to the Overtown Community that the transportation authorities are willing to make up for some of their most serious mistakes of the past. Since expressway projects are almost always going to affect low income, minority communities neaatively. reinvestment or positive intervention should 1 2 taken at the time or shortly after these projects are completed. Allowing negatively impacted communities to (!o decades without corrective action or direct assistance is simply bad public policy. 3.2 Transportation Related Thea recommendations emphasize what the Florida Department of Transportation { FDOT). the Lier,opolitan Planning Organization (MPO). the Miami -Dade County Commission, the City of Miami, and other transportation related authorities and agencies have some jurisdiction over, The overall goal of these recommendations is to improve -the circulation system in Overto,.yn and improve its hvsi�.al appearance so that it becomes more attractive for current and future residents and businesses. The recommendations below are premised on reviving the hub of the commercial and historical community around the Folklife Village and the commercial areas on NAV. 2"' and 3" Avenues and N.W. 141" Street. This area in the future will serve not only the current residents of the area but could also become a destination point for tourists and other people in South Florida. 02- 140 • Connecting the Residential .area in Northeast Overwmn %lore Directiv with Booker T. Washington School. There needs to be a walkway or bikeway andror a pedestrian bridge that will allow residents and particularly children living in northeast Overtown to have more direct access to Booker T. Washington School. Currently. the midtown interchange does not allow this type of north -south access for residents. This recommendation would help to overcome some of the unnatural partitioning= of the community since the interchange was built. + Completing the Metromover Loop. The feasibility of completing the Loop from the School Board Offices either south to the Government Center Station along the FEC tracks or southwest to the Overtown Shopping Center or westward to the Colmer Station should be examined. The purpose would be to folly connect the Metromover system which now excludes the northeastern portion ofOvertown. 'The connection would facilitate the movement ofOvertown workers to downtown jobs as well as to jobs north and west of Overtown. • 1r.iprovinu the Physical Appearance and Safety Underneath the 1-39f Structures. Currently. the area underneath the 1-39-5 structures from the midtown interchangTe to Biscayne Bled. is an ugly and dangerous wasteland. Every effort should be made to develop a plan for either landscaping. tilling (berm). or converting the space into commercial or recreational use. For example. a recent proposal for an African Stone Park is a possibility. Since this land is owned by the state. every -,tempt to make this space safe and productive should be a high priority. Additional landscaping and beautification at the midtown interchange is necessary especially at the major north/south and easCwest arterial routes. • Building More Exit and Entrance Rams into Overtown. The Florida Department of Transportation is currently considering changes to the SR 836!1-395 corridor under state project 87-200-1532_. To improve circulation in Overtown. every attempt should be made to make the Foiklife Village and commercial area more accessible from the express%Nay.:�ccordingly. an exit ramp from 1-9-5 going, north at about NAV. 14" Street and an exit ramp from (-11); going west a! about North Miami AVenue (or further west if feasible) which kkould connect through signage the 14" Street commercial area should be evaluated. An entrance ramp to -95 going north at about NAV, 322nd Street and an entrance ramp from NAV. l'_th Street to 1-395 ;coin<a east should also be considered. Along %,,I ch the mentioned earlier. these changes would improve the circulation system. C'han'ges in ramps would be more problematic according, to F -DOT engaineers for desig=n and safety reasons. + Increasin T Retail Opportunities at the Gilmer and the :gena I lQtro-Rail Stations. Current usage of the Colmer Station is low and the amount of space devoted to empty parking, lots is excessive. This space need,; to be looked at again and other uses explored 7 Or 2. 1410 and cleaner place to live. Since about a third of the housing in Overtown is owned by the government or subsidized. the Authority should be encouraged to develop more low cost, owner occupied units. • Su porting; the St. John's Plan „for Overtown. The St. John Community Development Corporation's economic re -development plan for Overtown is the most comprehensive strategy currently available for the area. All interested parties should continue to support the implementation of this plan. • Facilitating Private Sector Housing Development in Overtown. The City of Miami shouia continue to he encouraged to develop more a[toruaole housing and office complexes for the 240 acres east of 1-95, west of the Miami gena. north of the U.S. Post Office. and south of the Folklife Village. The area around Poinciana Village represents one of the few private market developments in Overtown and when this area fills in residentially, new businesses will come as well. These are the kind ofprojects that can re- start the revitalization cycle. The irony of the negative impacts of transportation projects on Overtown is that the oriuinal route for 1-95 in Miami in the early 1950s called for the expressway to follow the FEC railroad tracks and largely by-pass the heart of the Overw%vn community. As resistance to this original route vas mobilized. the Overtown community did not respond with an organized voice and the ultimate route chosen a few }ears later bisected [he community and cut it into parts. This Report should be used as a model for the planning and implementation of future transportation projects. Adverse impacts that transportation projects may have on stable communities need to be taken very seriously. Table 0 1: Selected Characteristics of Overtown. 1950-1990 Characteristic 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 Population _9?_53 3_.665 15.931 10.100 7.961 Percent of huusin, units ok%ned 11.60o 2.200 - )00 3.800 Percent of black residents of `liami 4:.000 23.300 3.400 3.6°o 3.0°0 Daae County k% ins, in 0, erto%tin Percent o(residential land use n. a. 40°o 33"0 23°0 n.a. \'urtiber0CbUSIne$i !itabIishments 339 313 143 -1 ll Ire �,.�iya•.,•w.'►t�; _• '+.ice,+ 1 L"'ZI - _ W�a ! 4 w `,•}.t =i�� .` -� /� �" ��. _•int 7►Pti•A,.�11 -'..i:l'- _ ',ijT ` k All 41 OW IT ltV•t�'r :•!� 1 x +�ri: •k •ii �,., � •�. �;�: <IR•ait3l •-:►.:►+ri �• m t� . r •1� © �u.r - �i•_�Z•-�" I 1• �� \� Kms- �� Y.* •vim i_p.,`I.".' y•/ t./ \ 1.• M� �. •� +' . IA ".�;' ;IYk .r `y^ .. "'a ��'� �j'i` i•"',0 yai: g� Im "+ "" e' �Y � ►� `rti • �Y;, - � �.. Ko- ''�+r�[" 'er0. .10 r vm�-"?W `_may �� r• r �•.�•-�'�� � •'L���ii,V h •� y' !�����li��++f,9,�:yiti+"r.. �`;�{4�'(.�._.1'•� .['i r.•� �;� '�` 7! :.fes Kme 1 . - : k 1���� .�ah�l..1eS •. fi �,;' �, "' l u - i, � ��4 4 ..�• #�y� i -� �► Y` T '--�*'•• ,� ;� .��;�,. �: eke 1" T ; �; .�•�•�� s'�I�i �Ya i w .. '1.��Y ii'�rsFL•- yi !yF� Y1 r n.R.� � S � •�ti� ���-��,'� � 4 .� �1 1 Feasibility Analysis proposed Overtown In,1w,rov-n,-1P%w Pnftv%w tc )une, 1998 Prepared for Florida Department of Transportation by Dames az Moore 02- 146 y` • Executive Summary Introduction • Proposed overrawn Improvements Pursuant to direction provided by the Florida Department of Transportation and the Miami -Dade Metropolitan Planning Organization, a feasibility analysis was conducted for proposed improvements to the Overtown area. Each Improvement was analyzed within the perspective of satisfying one or more of the following Improvement objectives: • Entry Sign/Internal Circulation • Beautification • Interstate Highway Ramp Access The following proposed improvements were analyzed for feasibility and are marked on the attached Figure 3. Generally, the proposed improvements were referenced in "The Historical Impacts of Transportation Projects on the Overtown Community" (Miami -Dade County MPO, 1998). The numbers below correspond to the numbers on Figure 3; and are found to the right of the decimal In the lower left corner of each analysis page In the Appendix. The number to the left of the decimal refers to the camera number. I Entry Sign at N.W. 7th Avenue and N.W. Sth Street 2 Entry Sign at N.W. 7th Avenue and N.W. 1 Ith Street 3 Entry Sign at N.W. 7th Avenue and N.W. 14th Street 4 Entry Sign at N.W. 7th Avenue and N.W. 17th Street 5 Entry Sign at N.W. 7th Avenue and N.W. 20th Street 6 Entry Sign at N.W. 3rd Avenue and N.W. 20th Street 7 Entry Sign at N.W. 2nd Avenue and N.W. 20th Street 8 Entry Sign at N.W. 2nd Avenue and N.W. 17th Street 9 Entry Sign at N.W. 2nd Avenue and N.W. 6th Street 10 Entry Sign at N.W. 2nd Avenue and N.W. 5th Street I 1 Entry Sign at N.W. 3rd Avenue and N.W. 5th Street 12 Entry Sign at N.W. 3rd Avenue and N.W. 6th Street 13 Entry Sign at N.W. 8th Street and 1-95 14 Proposed Southbound N.W. 3rd Avenue Access at 1-95 15 Beautification on N.W. 14th Street at 1-95 Underpasses 16 Beautifrcadon on N.W. 14th Street at 1-95 Underpasses 17 Beautification on N.W. 14th Street just west of N.W. 3rd Avenue 18 Beautification on N.W. 14th Terrace west of N.W. 3rd Avenue 19 Beautification on N.W. 14th Terrace east of N.W. 3rd Avenue 20 Beautification on N.W. 2nd Court at 1-395 21 Beautification on N.W. 1 st Avenue at 1-395 Page 1 02- 146.. • • Proposed Qvertown Impravements 23 Internal Circulation at N.W. 17th Street EB Deadend at FEC Rail Tracks 24 In* -anal Clrculat;^n at N.W. 17th Deadend at FEC Rail Tracks 25 Internal Circulation at N.W. 16th Street WB Deadcnd at FEC Rail Tracks 26 Internal Circulation at N.W. 15th Street WB Deadend at FEC Rail Tracks 27 Beautification at N.W. l 3th Street at I-395 Underpass 28 Internal Circulaton with Metromover Extension at Terminus at N.W. 15th Street 29 Internal Circulation with Bike/Ped Xing (No. 17 on aerial) 30 incemal Circulation with Bike/Ped Xing (No. 22 on aerial) 31 Internal Circulation with New proposed N.W. 14th Street Bike/Ped Corridor 32 Internal Circulation wlth New proposed N.W. 3rd Avenue Bike Path 33 Beautification at N.W. 2nd Avenue and N.W. 14th Street 34 Access Ramp to/from 1-95 and N.W. 14th Street 35 Trailblazer Signs at SB/NB I-95, and EB/WB SR -836 Of the total 34 total proposed improvements, 14 are entry/trail blazer signs, two are interstate ramp access improvements, nine are beautification improvements, and nine are internal circulation improvements. Number 22 was omitted because of its redundancy with Number 21, Beautification on N.W. Ist Avenue at 1-395. Feasibility Analysis Analysis criteria and respective considerations are listed below. Analysis Criteria Considerations Improvement The extent to which the proposed improvement satisfies any or all of Objective the following conditions: • Interstate Ramp Access • Internal Circulation • Beautification Plan Consistency 1. The extent to which the proposed improvement is consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the comprehensive plan of the City of Miami. 2. The extent to which the proposed improvement is consistent with the Transportation and land Use Elements of the City's comprehensive plan. 3. The extent to which the proposed improvement is consistent with neighborhood plans and community redevelopment plans within Overtown. 4. The extent to which the proposed improvement is consistent with the Miami-pade Long Range Transportation Plan. Page 2 C� p:. Proposed Overtown Improvements Analysis Criteria Considerations Environmental/ 1. The extent to whir;t a parkland, .chuoi, currur unity facility is Social Impacts dissected. 2. The extent to which the proposed improvement reconnects already isolated and spilt nelghborhoods. 3. The extent to which an historic site is Impacted as a result of a taking, or a visual/audible consequence. 4. Effect of flyovers and aerial structures. 5. The extent to which an improvement improves public safety. Environmental Disproportionate impacts or improvements to certain neighborhoods, Justice e.g., areas with distinctly low property values and lower income housing, and areas with distinct ethnic, elderly, and handicapped populations. Engineering and 1. The extent to which FDOT sign standards and the City's sign Design Criteria ordinance can be followed. 1.3. 2. The extent to which existing ramp structures do not obstruct the Improvement. ROW acquisition requirements. 4. The extent to which the proposed improvement corrects an existing deficiency. Estimated Costs Minimal (s $100,000 Moderate (5 $500,000} } L$$ J;x ensive ( > $ 500 o00) • Entry/Trail Blazer Signs In accordance with the Final Report of The Historical Impacts of Transportation Projects on the Overtown Community (FILI, 1998), key points of entry into Overtown were targeted for entry signage improvements. These entry points are marked on Figure 3 from Numbers 1 through 13 and Number 35. A number of the proposed signs are located along N.W. 7th Avenue, a designated business district for Overtown. Even though these signs should be business -oriented, the entry sign design should be consistent with surrounding land uses, in particular residential land use, and will need to conform to the standards in the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices and other applicable Florida Department of Transportation standards. The entry signs on N.W. 2nd Avenue and N.W. 3rd Avenue at the southern boundary of Overtown are key entry points from the City of Miami's Central Business District. They are also in close proximity to the Arena and institutional facilities, e.g., the Miami Police Station and the U.S. Post Office. These southern key entry points are also in close proximity to Overtown's Folklife Village. Landscaping Improvements would also Page 3 02" 14-6 0 11 Proposed Overtown Improvements recommended to be Implemented In conjunction with all of the proposed entry signs. The proposed tralibla.zPr signs would he piir^f on 1-95 and 1-395/SR-836. Because these signs would be placed on interstate highways and state roads, it would be recommended that a reference be made to Overtown's regional significance, e.g., historical Folklife Village, and/or the Institutional facilities and the Miami Arena. • Interstate Ramp Access Improvements There are two proposed interstate ramp access improvements within Overtown. The .first Is located on N.W. 3rd Avenue at N.W. 8th Street. The purpose of this improvement Is to facilitate northbound 1-95 access for southbound 3rd Avenue traffic. The recommended access Improvement Is a partial loop access ramp that would tie into the existing northbound access ramp from 3rd Avenue. Additional right-of- way may need to be purchased to accommodate the new ramp. Further review would may also be needed to ensure sight distances are protected. The historic Mt. Zion Church is located north of the proposed ramp improvement, and north of commercial buildings that are located adjacent to the improvement. It was also recommended that, in conjunction with this improvement, that the northbound only travel pattern on 3rd Avenue south of 8th Street be converted to two-way traffic, i.e., northbound and southbound. Traffic volumes and levels of service for peak hour traffic should be reviewed to ensure that capacity exists for this conversion. The other proposed access improvement is located at N.W. 14th Street for northbound and southbound 1-95. f=urther review would be required for this improvement because of potential conflicts with existing SR -836 and 1-395 overpass structures, and with Gibson Park. It is questionable, also, if the proposed ramp improvements can be located within existing Florida Department of Transportation right-of-way. This proposed improvement also potentially conflicts with other proposed improvements, e.g., bicycle facilities and landscaping, and could further compound the lack of visual aesthetics in this area with the abundance of interstate overpass structures. These proposed ramps should have extensive engineering and cost studies for: meeting interstate interchange spacing criteria, operational issues that may result from new ramps, "rough" cost estimates based on the amount of right-of-way needed, safety issues related to converting 3rd Avenue to two-way traffic, and review of traffic volumes and levels of service. Page 4 o- W • • Beautification Improvements C� Proposed Overtown Improvements Generally, the proposed beautification Improvemonts are located along N.W. 14th Street, N.W. 14 Terrace, and N.W. 13th Street within the vicinity of the overpasses of 1.395, SR -836, and 1-95. There are nine total proposed locations that could be combined as contiguous landscaping/beautificadon improvements. The sight conditions that exist within the overpass areas are sterile, present at best an "industrial" look, and are gloomy In nature. The types of improvements that have been recommended include the painting of the concrete structures, Xeriscape landscaping for "shady" areas, decorative walls, landscaped earthen berms, and lighting. In some areas, Le., N.W. 2nd Court at 1-395 (Number 20), the Installation of playground and recreational equipment would be appropriate. It should be noted that the Overtown Neighborhood Partnerships Project (City of Miami, 1995), proposes an African Stone Park for N.W. 14th Street between N.W. 2nd and N.W. 3rd Avenues. This plan addresses the ultimate application of landscape and art improvements under the entire span of 1-395. These proposed beautification improvements also aid in the mitigation of highway noises associated with 1-95 and SR - 836/1 -395. All proposed landscape Improvements should be studied for potential impact to sight distances, and for projected maintenance costs. • Internal Circulation Improvements Internal circulation improvements are associated with the deadend streets created by the FITC Railway, i.e., at N.W. 15th, 16th and 17th Streets, both eastbound and westbound, and bicycle/pedestrian paths to connect neighborhoods and community activity centers dissected by the interstate overpasses. The crossings associated with the FEC Railway may require close coordination with the FEC in order to acquire the requisite permits. if not permitted for vehicular traffic, then pedestrian crossing improvements are recommended. Worn foot trails exist at the crossing at i 7th Street. Dorsey Park is located on the northwest corner of the FEC Railway and 17th Street. Improvements to this crossing would also facilitate access to/from Overtown and the Omni International Mail. The proposed bicycle/pedestrian paths recommended by Florida international University in the Historical Impacts of Transportation Projects on the Overtown Community (FILL, 1998), are located either in close proximity to the interstate overpass structures or traverse the overpass structures. In lieu of improvements in these locations, it is recommended that bicycle/pedestrian facilities be located along N.W. 14th Street and N.W. 3rd Avenue. Both corridors appear to have sufficient right-of-way to construct bike paths that could be used not only by school children, but also by adults as an altemadve means of transportation. For school children, of course, the paths create a link between neighborhoods and schools. The proposed bicycle path on14th Street can be constructed in conjunction with the proposed landscape improvements, and if appropriate, traffic calming techniques, e.g., landscape median, Page 5 02— 1146.. Proposed OVWQWn ImpMemears speed humps and narrow travel: lanes. In addition, these two corridors can be. joined together as a continuous bicycle/pedestrian route. Further study of these proposed corridc,-s will Identify :-?gin and end pont; ar,.; vehicular traffic volumes. In addition, bicycle safery criteria wlil be applied to the proposed corridors to determine degrees of safety,e.a., paridrig, driveways, traffic volumes. Detailed analyses for each Improvement are contained In the Appendix. Page 6 02- 146 .'•r a i. - +T�f4M - - ; 4 •r '.. ' ti..�,}r„J. " f I -A �MAw.:, j.•7�, '- tam Ali Wil •. yrn �i'' �'�` ��. + :moi sa +.r - .r: J�uIn�� ;I��9 i am 4' rvvv, Vc s � R ...°;1 f,,.,_( - .w�rr: rwrwaw w '� 5. _ ••���xa.FF"""" h \.��i"7. r. • AN 0'2- 146 - _W I-395 Aesthetics' Report 1. Executive Summary Several locations have been evaluated along the I-395 corridor from the Midtown Interchange to the MacCarthur Causeway for potential aesthetic improvements. The main objective of this study was to determine what aesthetic improvements could be accomplished along the I-395 corridor within the mid to lona term range. The second o>v;ectiti �t"as to ' -"("`-v •--'j"-• vaayraJ ftLy41111 Llll. l/Y41LVVYii aicainctuaing what type of trees, plants, and shrubs would be best suited for this area. 411ij, This study was conducted in response to The Historical Impacts of Transportation Projects o,; t;,e Ove:-tu wry Co?nmunhy, a study prepared by Florida International University (FIU) for the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). In its report to the MPO, the study asserts that major transportation projects within the Overtown area, such as the construction of I-95 and I-395 during the 1960's and 1970's, had a detrimental effect on this once thriving community. The Florida Department of Transportation has initiated several studies in order to evaluate the recommendations in FIU report and come up with new concepts to correct the adverse impacts of these projects. The stMtdies include the provision of additional access points, beautification, bicycle/pedestrian paths, and signage along the I-395 corridor. The Department of Transportation has agreed to provide landscaping within the Overtown area and has programmed $250,000 for such improvements. However, the Department has requested that before these improvements are initiated, that the City o f Miami agree through a resolution to provide for all maintenance for such improvements. Project Vicinity / Location 1-395, a east -west facility falls within the Overtown area between approximately NW 1 Ith Avenue / NW 8th Street Road along SR -836 up to the FEC Railroad on NW 1S= Ave. The 1-95 north -south facility also traverses Overtown from approximately NW 20th Street to NW lt'i,Street including the entire Midtown Interchange. Figure 2-1 illustrates the project ocation. Existing Conditions Currently, the area underneath the I-395 facility is visually unpleasant and evokes a feeling of apprehension to anyone in the vicinity. Due to the east -west configuration of the freeway and its single span structure, little sunlight is able to penetrate it. This makes it very dark throughout the entire day underneath I-395 and uninhabitable for plant life. There is little or no landscaping along the corridor and many areas are in need of maintenance. Garbage litters most of the corridor and panhandlers, homeless people, and drug dealers use the overpass as a haven. Pedestrian pathways along this corridor are generally unlit and are a safety concern after hours. Page I 02- 144 I--395 Aesthetics Report Conclusions & Recommendations Five areas have been chosen as the best candidates for short-term landscaping efforts within the Overtown area. Figure 5-1 illustrates these areas. These locations were determined based on current & future pedestrian/bicycle use, gateway image, current beautification efforts, location of businesses, and proximity to schools, parks, and recreational areas. The locations are: • NW 14" St. just west NW 3" Av. • NW 14`h St. from NW 3`d Av. to NW 1St Av, along 1-395 ,rilutiv vvn Intc, ,u,U.,,, ju.,, hill Lil va L vv i r Jb. • NW 31 Av. and NW 91 St. The cost of these landscaping improvements is approximately $250,000 with maintenance costs being estimated at $25,000 to $37,500 per year. Preliminary recommendations have been included which could be implemented within mid to long-term range and when additional funding has been appropriated. These improvements included the addition of colored pavers at crosswalks and lighting underneath and along 1-395. The results of the study are summarized in Section 5, Conclusions & Recommendations, of this report. For reference purposes, photographs of the project site are included in Figure 4-2 and Figures 5-1 through 5-9 of this report. Page 2 02- 146 1-395 Aesthetics Report 2. Introduction The Florida Department of Transportation, District VI, has initiated this study at the request of the Overtown community and the MPO. The community has been targeted by various agencies over the past years as an area for potential revitalization. Overtown is located just northwest of Downtown Miami and has been seriously affected by previous transportation projects constructed in the 1960's and 1970's such as I-95 and 1-395. Figure 2-1 illustrates the project vicinity map. The proposed improvements were previously referenced in The HistoricalImpactsof Transportation Projects on the Overtown Community, a study prepared 1„• C'1nr;r7� T„+o.nn+inn�1 TTni.wrcit.(�'TT Tl fnr+lea hRP+rnnnl;+.,n Planninn firn�ni•ratinn Ti,a 1; DO T had initiated a preliminary feasibility study to review all the recommendations contained in this report . The study, prepared by the firm Dames & Moore, entails a preiiminary review of the feasibility of the many improvements proposed by FIU including access, beautification, and signage iSSUeS. Pro'ect Description This study consists of expanding upon the aesthetic components of the Dames & Moore study and recommending specific improvements which could be implemented within the Overtown area. In addition, a preliminary list of sites has been identified for immediate landscaping efforts within Overtown. The eastern segment of I-395 extending from the FEC railroad corridor from the west to Biscayne Bay has also be evaluated for possible aesthetic improvements. Specific sites for beautification which were mentioned previously in the Dames & Moore report are shown on Figure 2-2 and listed below. NW 14' Street at I-95 Underpass NW I4” Street just West of NW 3' Avenue NW 14" Terrace west of NW 31d Avenue NW 141" Terrace east of NW 3rd Avenue Page 3 NW 2nd Court at I-395 NW IS` Avenue at I-395 NW 13`" Street at I-395 Underpass NW 2"d Avenue and NW 14" Street 02- 146 r; lai ir.nuu� �. 1 I-395 Aesthetics Report The African Heritage Display Facility The goal of this facility is to transform the desolate areas underneath I-395 into a cultural center for the residents and tourists consisting of public art and landscaping. • Local artists will provide art work depicting some aspect of African life, history, and culture. Its vision is to serve as a site for various community activities which will attract visitors to "Historic Overtown", The initial site will be the western -most section under the elevated highway at NW 141 St, between NW 311 Ave. and NW 211 Ave. The project is currently in the planning phase and landscaping plans have been produced. These plans are included in Appendix A or this report. Overtown Neighborhood Bicycle lPedestrian Facilities Pro ram Dames & Moore Group has recently concluded its bicycle / pedestrian study within the Overtown community. The study addresses the needs for such types of facilities and has recommended.improvements which facilitate the use of these modes of transportation. One of the corridors which has been evaluated is NW 14" St. This roadway serves as a major arterial to the Overtown community and has several key land uses. The study has recommended several Class I and Class II Bikeway facilities and a pedestrian overpass structure at the Midtown Interchange. For reference purposes, the recommendations of the Dames & Moore study are included in Appendix B of this report. Overtown Access Study A study has been completed by Metric Engineering which has determined that additional access points to and from I-95 and I-395 within the Overtown area would be feasible. The feasible access points are located at (1) NW 101 St. and NW Yd Av. to northbound 1-95, (2) NW 3" Av. and NW 8" St. to northbound 1-95, and (3) Miami Ave. accessing I-395. There seems to be no current conflicts between the aesthetic and access study. The conclusions of the viable alternatives are included in Appendix C of this report. I-395 Reconstruction Metric Engineering has finalized an analysis of the proposed reconstruction of I-395. Three alternatives have been presented and evaluated. It was determined that the alternatives were not feasible as presented by Joaquin Wagner & Jorge Espinel. Should any of the alternatives be implemented, they would require the demolition and/or reconstruction of I-395 from the Midtown Interchange to the McCarthur Causeway. Such reconstruction would seriously affect the conclusions in this report. Coordination efforts are underway between Metric Engineering, Inc. and Dames & Moore Group in order to integrate the Bicycle/Pedestrian, Access, and Aesthetic studies into a comprehensive plan for the Overtown community and avoid any potential conflicts. Page 7 02- 146 I-395 Aesthetics Report 3. Project Need Justification for Study Prior to the construction of I-95 and I-395, the Overtown community contained 45% of the Dade County African American population with approximately 33,000 residents and 320 businesses. Upon completion of these projects, Overtown lost more than half of its residents. Business in the area was seriously damaged due to the abrupt out -flux of residents in addition to the disrupted access and internal circulation due to construction. The area along the facilities decayed rapidly and today is generally considered as isolated and desolate with little or no aesthetically pleasinc, acrnectc. _although these transnnrtation rrnJ?ctc traversed and bisected the Overtown community, there were few provisions for aesthetic features such as decorative walls or other elements to mitigate the adverse visual impacts of these facilities. The underpasses of 1-3 95 have become a haven for undesirables and are in general disarray. Landscaping is nearly non-existent and trash lines most of the corridor. The proposed improvements which were suggested, mainly in FIU's study, would improve the aesthetics of the Overtown community reducing the "blighting" effect along the I-395 corridor. Alternatives include adding decorative walls at key locations, provisions for landscaping, streetscape elements, lighting, fencing, signage, and public art. It is believed that the improved aesthetics would serve as catalyst for socio-economic recovery by making the area more attractive and safer to local businesses and tourists. Project Objectives The objective of this report is to expand upon previous studies regarding aesthetic improvements to the 1-395 corridor, with emphasis on the Overtown area. This study recommends specific aesthetic improvements along with their components. Construction, maintenance costs, and preliminary schedules are provided in the Conclusion section of this study. We have also to identify specific landscaping opportunities which could be implemented in the short term within the Overtown area. The budget for these landscaping improvements is $250,000. Page 8 02-- I-395 Aesthetics Report Establishment of Visual Objectives The establishment of visual objectives was performed taking into account local community and agency concerns. This consists of improving or enhancing visual quality along the I-395 facility and the surrounding communities. The visual objectives chosen for this project include the following: s Create safe, low maintenance attractive landscaping within the project right-of-way reinforcing positive views and screening negative views. • Create interest, usefulness and beauty for the pleasure of viewers. • Maximize the visual compatibility (integration) of the adjoining roadway taciiity with the Overtown community and their cultural/historical environment Page 9 02n 144. 0 I--395 Aesthetics Report 5. Preliminary Conclusions & Recommendations We have summarized the results of our preliminary findings and possible mitigation items on the following figures. Each figure represents one or two of the locations which have been previously identified on Figure 2-2 and in the report prepared by Dames & Moore. Aesthetic c«omoonents which could be implemented in the short term include cleaning underneath the expressway, landscaping, and painting of the columns and steel girders along the 1-395 corridor. If painting proves to be a viable and desirable option, careful consideration should be taken so that colors chosen represent the character of the community. The sites chosen for short-term landscaping improvements are shown on Figure 5-1. A preliminary plant list is included on the following page. Preliminary Cost: NW 14'h St, just west NW 31' Av. $ 16,747 NW 14'h St, from NW 31 Av. to NW l st Av.(African Heritage Facility) $ 144,353 NW 3a Av. and NW 9" St. $ 32,373 NW 141 St. from approx NW 4'Av. to NW 61 Av. (Bikeway) $ 37,743 Midtown Interchange north of NW 14" St. 18,688 Total Landscaping Estimated Cost $ 2249,904 Maintenance costs have been estimated at 10% to 15% of the implementation costs per year. Sites which have uplighting or walls will require higher maintenance than those with landscaping only. Medium to long range improvements include the installation of lighting, decorative walls, pedestrian pathways, and streetscape items. Due to safety concerns, decorative walls should be limited to a height no greater than 39". Lighting needs to be provided underneath the structure, at the very minimum within pedestrian walkways to provide safety and counteract the dark, barren effect of the current environment. Below are brief definitions of terms used in our report. They should be referenced when reviewing this section of the report. Low Cost: Less than $20,000 Medium Cost: $20,001 to $75,000 High Cost: $75,001+ Page 26 ©2— 146 I-395 Aesthetics Report Light Landscaping: landscaping which consists mainly of small plants and shrubbery with little or no mature trees. Coverage is approximately 300-500 groundcover plants, 300-500 shrubs, and 3-6 ruff-(;iirn C,74 *"n* ,r= }rnnC Cost ran -z, 4�tirliai�a between $5,000 to $15,000. Description Groundcover 6" pots Groundcover I gal. Groundcover I gal. Shrubs 3 gal. Shrubs 3 gal. Shrubs 3 gal Palms 5' Ht. Palms T Ht Palms 12' Ht. Large Canopy Trees Small Trees 1 4VIch cunsi�,t5 of small plants, shrubbery, and the use of mature trees. Coverage consists of 5on-1 non nlnntc. 500-1,000 shrubs, and 7-20 mature trees. Cost range is estimated between $15,001 to $35,000. Preliminary Plant List Common Name Estimated Cost Impatients, Begonias $ 3.00 Purple Queen $ 5.00 Liriope $ 5.00 Red Tip Cocoplum $ 10.00 Xanadu Philodendron $ 10.00 Ixora Miniature $ 10.00 Cascade Palm $ 250.00 Florida Thatch, Royal Palm $ 400.00 Foxtail, Royal Palm $ 600.00 Mahogany, Oak, Green Buttonwood $ 400.00 Geiger, Eugenia, Silver Buttonwood $ 300.00 Page 27 o2:- 14gI I-395 Aesthetics Report Prohibited Species Several aggressive plants have been introduced to the Florida landscape and -have invaded native plant communities, altering the visual landscape and ecological balance. Some of these nlinta have been determined to exist alnna the stt.idv are Mnreover. these plants represent a threat to native species and should be removed in accordance with the guidelines specified in the "Lxotic w oociy Plant uontror' publication. A list of prornoitea species should be provided by the Landscape Architect and these species should not be used in any landscaping design plans. All trees and palms are to be self-supporting at time of planting. Where protection is needed to prevent blow -over during root establishment period, specify proper guying and staking for trees and palms in accordance with FDOT Specification Section S$d. Under no circumstances should stakes remain longer than 12 months beyond installation date. A 3 -to 4 -foot diameter mulch ring should be specified and maintained around all trees to prevent trunk damage from mowers and edgers. PAVEMENT AND STREETSCAPE_ (See Figure 4-4) Pavement and streetscape requirements are used to provide high quality pedestrian -oriented streets and open spaces. These elements beautify streets and create a sense of familiarity for motorists and pedestrians. Specialty paving features should enhance the integrity of the Overto�vn community and its unique history and culture. The use of specialty paving will be limited to cross -street areas pedestrian use and where concerns for pedestrian safety are the highest. The design of pedestrian cross -walks should allow for obvious distinction, either by texture, color, or materials, from roadway paving. This distinction will allow for increased awareness of pedestrian by vehicle users in cross - street areas. Paving materials for pedestrian use, including sidewalks, should be concrete, brick, or asphalt and designed to be durable under urban conditions of high volume and high weight traffic loads. Materials used for streetscape elements, such as benches and trash receptacles, should also be durable for urban use and should be vandal -resistant, of low maintenance, and not allow for removal from the sites. Textures and material of elements should relate to the surrounding structural elements and neighborhood areas. The use of art in the design of paving and streetscape elements could be a way of incorporating the design into the neighborhood context. Page 22 n- 144 1-395 Aesthetics Report The texture of the materials used should be safe for all pedestrians. Sidewalks and pedestrian cross -walks should provide visual and touchable warnings for users when approaching or interacting with vehicular traffic. The use of steps and stairs in pedestrian areas should be discouraged. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) design standards are to be met or exceeded. Guidelines for pavement and streetscape of the 4vertown area are as follows: • Decorative pavements for roads, sidewalks and crosswalks should consist of colored concrete or brick pavers. • Design texture and color of pavement materials should reflect surrounding neighborhoods. • Handicap ramps should be incorporated at all intersections and should be identified with tactile warnings. • Streetscape elements be vandal resistant and require little maintenance. PUBLIC ART Appropriately placed art works in public transportation facilities have played a significant role in the visual quality of projects. The integration of art allows an opportunity for local cultural influences to be incorporated into design elements, reflecting the unique neighborhoods where they are found. Art work should be as vandal -proof and secured as possible to deter its defacement or removal. Art work should also not require more than the usual level of maintenance for urban streetscape situations. The material should also be durable and be able to withstand typical urban use without constant replacement. Page 23 02— 146 INDEX OF LANDSCAPE PLANS -MENEFT NO. SHEET DESCRIPTION LS -3 M SHEET LS -2 SUMMARY OF QUANTITIES LS -3 LANDSCAPE DETAILS/NOTES LS -4 - _ LANDSCAPE PIANS • TEM PLANS HAVE'HEEY PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WIN AND ARE GOVERNED HT THE STATE DP FLORIDA DEPART)M4T OF TRANSPORTATION. 90ADWAY AND TRAFFIC DESTCN SCANDARDS (HOOV= DATED JANUARY, 1909), THESE STANDARDS ARE AN DP[EGRAL PART OF THIS CONTRACT PLAN SET. PLAN SHEET REVIMOE45 STATE OF FLORID a DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PLANS OF PROPOSED STATE HIGHWAY FINANCIAL PROJECT NO. 251627-1-52-01 STATE PROJECT NO. 87200-3548 DADE COUNTY AFRICAN HERITAGE DISPLAY FACILITY UNDER STATE ROAD No. I-395 BETWEEN N.W. 3RD AVENUE AND N.W. 2ND AVEN' I .Pt NOl 0114317 L.ANOSCAPC MANS PREPARED BY. O'LEMW DESM ASSOCIATES PA LMIpWAK NOZWOMM LAND PIANNRNC a525 S.W. 991D XWtEEr. swm C-11 MwAl. HIDROA -"I" (=a)59a-eO9e VENODR Pb-- PaAT�ImI ATTENTION tS DRRECTED TO THE FACT THAT THESE PLANS MAY HAVE BEEN REDUCED sd SIZE BY REPROONCTION. THIS /RUST BE CONSIOERFD MHFA OBTAM4C SCALED DATA. OOVEFNM 5PECWrA0ON5' STATE OF FLOINOk DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, STANOARO SPMFICAMONS, DATED 1996_ SL%PPLEIAFJM AND SPECIAL PRDYMDd tMOZEM F R01E0 k tN[ CONnWT %E=ATID6 FOR INS PFO=. • - NOTE: THIS IS A METRIC UNIT PROJECT REVISIONS DATA DF 'mm LANDS=+AE PLANS LA. OF RECORD. WE: FDOT PROJECT MANAGER : CARLOS GIL—MERA. P.E. u FDOT PROSECT ENGMER . RoX&NAL T. GARCIA. P.E. I N nmAN(7AL PROJECT Nc 251627-1-52-01 ourviiviHti T Ur- wur►iN I i i PAY ITEM NUMBER DESCRIPTION COMMON NAME UNIT QUANTITY TOTAL QUANTITY SIZE KEY 511x_ LS -4 BOTANICAL NAME P F P F 2581-3 4 UTM COWANU? (+ CAL) SETCREASFA PALl]W (PURPLE QUEEN) EA 460 - LUMP SUM 460 T. 2545P.,4 L SEPA 2581-3 GROUNDCOVER 4 UNTAC4eR (i cAL) u= CC URPOPE EVERGREEN CmT (LROPE) EA 204 204 304.emmHT.x3C4.8mm5P..17853 L UEG 2582-2 2 tmER ooNTAe1Qt (3 CAL) ( COOOPLUM) EA 174 174 609_SmmHT.x457.2mm5P»11 t. CHIC 2551-2 2 UTTER CONDINR7 (3 (XNLIZ 1 PH1LODENCIRON) EA 260 260 609.E.nmSP„1135 L PHXA 2584-1 PALMS 1=4m Cr Hr) CKkWAEDCFWA CATARACTUM (CASCADE PALM) - EA 1 1 1524mmHix1524mmSP. CHG 2584-2 PALMS - L13m (Y HL) THRINAx RAMTATHRA (FLOR4)A THATCH PALM) 2554-2 PALMS 363'. (Ir HT.) WOVYEFIA 81EURCATA (FOXTAIL PALM) EA 12 12 x1219mm5P»7219.2mmG.7 Tim 2580--326-3ED CYPRus BAW MULCH2575-1-3 l42 t90 190 SOODW • RAI -11A SM 92 3.74 334 500 *COST OF PLANTING SOIL FmmzE:4, STAKING ANO GLMK_-SUPER-ABSORBENT PULTWv R AND WATER FOR PLANT ESTASLISHNIENT MUST eE INCLUDED IN THE UNIT PRICE OF RELATED 80 MEM. "SUBSTITUTE SHREDOEO 'FLMMULCft' MULCH FOR THIS TTDk NEIREVIATIGN KEY P - PLAN PL - PLANT F - FWAL AS-SULT C.T. - CLEAR TRUNK GAL - GALLON Eco. - EACH HT. - HEIGHT OA - OVERALL HEIGHT SP - SPREAO O.C_ - ON CEN ER M2 - METERS MH - MAN HOURS sm. - SQUARE METERS LS - LUMP SUM mm. - MIUJMiTERS T. - LT1ER E..Si��J• s_-.� L•'SLitSa �L#� R*�"4•LiJ• _ �'Sii�7 - � _ PROJ. NO. 4-4 • 0 rm�a ! PALM PLANTING DETAIL .IawM ALLHAT f+It rt F Mwuat oaAUW AAAA � rtia Mks n..r1Aw!�d�AIR wYrwaW A A.OAIL wwaa mna wac SRR()B / GROUNDCOVER PLAN -TING DETAIL, rxdr PYII RAR. mme10R� � a A.rs QMm a Ac I4RA Amt r.r®wnw a IAS Asv i m w�ia� nrmNAR I"w TREE PLANTING DETAIL Ar;lA 1r- AAa ,RA.A — LANDSCAPE WATERING NOTES 1. RECOk&0IOEO WVM FOR PUNT ANO sm TSTA USw0HT SIWl $ECM MUEDIATELY • AFTER C0MDTTKKV- ACC: 1T;CE Ls tATHOSCAPE RSTNUTEM. tFE 1MTEI> NO PERIOD SHALL BE FOR 12 WEE7L5 AS FtrJ,OrS_ FMST c WEEKS - 9 WATEDNCS / WEEX at TZ UkTUNIGS .`MOND $ WIMM - 2 WAMaOKS / WEER OR 96 WFSWICS PALMS - 5735 111:55 ((11O CIL.) PER APPUCAAMM - TREES - 3733 LITERS (10 GL) PER APPLPrAnM SHRU M - 7.73 LVET$ (Z CAM.) PER APPMATON ti:LRE:l ";U.1; 7NAE PL yr . ..c-+� • h,.L .w�..� ....`c.-�..n�c Lt. 6E PND FOR AND 5 NCWOa; AS PART OF THE PLANTED PRICE FOR LANDSCAPE HEMI. RE LUST OF WATER MTEA FALL ACCfPV= 5 TO 6E INCL00ED NTHE LMT NST OF DE PLANE NArStAL iNOVIOILI L 3. F IN RIS CO,IRSEOi INE (12) WEEK WATERING PERIOD, WWAIMM, NATLA RI ALL OCCURS OR WHO WAIEOIID 5 NOF NECESARY, THE PROTECT MAMACER REMNES THE MCHT -M REDUCE SLSSPEHO, IND/OR i>gUOIRNUE THE TW'FMTY-ECLAT (26) NCREMEMr VATFRNC Es7AB WANT PEBOD. 4• AE CDNLRIGTOR SHALL SIBIRT 1D THE PMOXCr MANAGER THE NATERING SCHEDULE OIEL) WEEX PRIOR TO BEMOC IMWOEOC SHOW SCHEDLAE DATE OF WATFRLNC IT 8%SED ON FRIEOUQICY PER WEEK AW NLAIBER OF WEDS REOLIlItED FOR PLANT ESTABTLSHIAM. LL ALL WAMONG OF PLANT MATERIAL SHALL COMPLY WEM FOOT RERAATX)NS 14CLUDI C RETAAA)NC AEMCNTES CUIDE RES FOR 'iPAFFIC CONTROL FOR OOMSTRUCION ALR) LMNnEMNKE DPERATIGL' OwmACTOR SHALL SEWRE AND PAY AT HE OWN EID'+E ALL REQLS PERMS WOW APR•CAALE. RL WATUMM SHALL BE ACWNR15Hm M A WORKMAN KE NMRR:R N ACCORMCE WFDR JW BEST 1=)CMZE0 WATENIC PRACTICE OF THE TRADE. 7. DRE PLAINT F+AMW SHALL. BE WATER® 10 COWW SLIFTIOENT M0IST%M AS DETERUM BY THESE SPQWlOL110Ns FOR SRE AND TWE OF PLANT. LLE MOSREIED LUNOMM SHALL DMID TO AT LEAST THE FU.L OWI OF THE RMW ZORE & 'NATER FORCE FROM WELTER TRLICTL SHALL NOT BE APHIED N A MAMIER WHICH WOULD OMLAOE PLAITS. NPR 01 A MARKER W 41CH WOLAD RF)1OME THE SOIL SAUCER RING AND EACH.[" AROUAO EACH PLANT. ANY DNIACE TO PULAR OR OTHER SLrtW71NONC ITEIM ODIEN 6Y WATER FORCE OR M WATER TRDOL 5 HIE RESIOMMIrr OF THE CONTRACTOR TO REPAIR AND/OR REPLACE 9_ TEE 1HEMF-EIGHT (28) IHICREMRM 1WL7ERND PEI00 FOR REALACEWNT PLANTS SKAL BECK/ AT TDE OF REA.ACEAa+T AC1.C)RDfID l0 THE SAME WATE UM REAVAREHENTS PER THM SPECVX%IMPM "Call, Sunshine" welmma In Puri" 1-800-432-4770 CZ) W -W;19 Dnr EW— Y" a9 Sunshine State One Call of Florida, Inc. FIHMOAL PIE6IECT NW.ISMM PIROJ. No. �231627-1-52-01 87200-3548 LANDSCAPE NOTES L. CONTRACTOR is RcsmhsBL -"R OEi Fi;ht R N ( nury l=kmhs lNCLUC*G . F.O.0.T. COMM ANO P1PE ETC.. AND N &UM FAClli1E5 m AS W MM CONFLICT. 2. SFE APPAOPWIZ UOLRY CMPWf S IML BE 117nFIED 9► THE CONTRACTOR AT LEAST 2 WO6L91G DAYS N AMANCE OF ANY EXCAMArCM SO THAT A UERM COLIPANY RFPSESFIH>7M,ME CAN EEC PRESENT. 3, ALL ALAN! MAIMMAIS TO BE ROMA Ndl OR BETTER AS PER FLOMOA DEPT. OF ACRIMLTURE GRACES t SIANUA RS. LA IM HDITTOIA. r rcrrwATE I$L.ANnS ANO PLAHIINC AREAS TO A YIN. OF 16' DEPTH ANO REPLACE WITH PLAUAIr SOP-" rL t" G a.nL TO aE A WLEJ H. 4E =L WE OF SOIL SAND. Sax SOUO WASTE COMPOST AS OOTTYAED N L vp= 17-704 OF THE FAG 62-709-515. MICAMT11) W 0M FROM PL.ANIMG RIs SHALL BE RETCHED FROM Un S All. NEW PLANT MATERIAL MMANTEM FOR 190 OATS. FROM 1PIE OF FINAL ACCEPTANCE OF PWOIECT. ANY PLANT MATUAk NOT M A FILTH[' LRUNINC VDNVOON WNL BE REPLACED 8Y THE CONTRACTOR. AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO FDar, W1FHN (10) DAYS OF NOMKIKON R FOOL. MIEND WARRANTY PEROD AN ADWOE4L (45) DAYS BEYOND THE (766) DAY W RA TY PE7600. FOR ALL REPLACOM177 PLANT MAVERIAL WA1PAm t5 NULL AND TRIO FOR PLANT YATEIRK WHICH 5 OAMACED OR OEs AS A RESULT OF '11[15 OF Gob' UM[iED m HIAL, FIREEZE, L�D1a'N' AfRDL408 E WR4CE ANO WINDS T><[fEDWc ,7aL1A/H (TS IRPRH) u DEFWIm ByTHE Awry H R FJC0E CENTER. ALL TREES THAT LENT OR ARE M.DWII aYEL CANISED V RANDS LESS THAN 73 MPH. WILL BE RE-5ET ANO $RACED BY THE CONTRACTOR AT NO ADOMvX LUST 1D FOOT. 6. APPLY 76mm In OF FLORMILZIa LANDSCAPE WASH LN"tMLY 96=00 AND FREE FROM FDREIo+ IAATrEiR TO ALL TREE PUNWO AREA!; . MLA To BE PROS EINWELY FROM THE TELALE]G1 (9771 HARD *6IER WOW AQ = ORDER SAR* AND 1MNE A Gf9NWOEE DW THERE WRL NOT BE ANY CMNATION W IIELA.EUCAI SEED PWESEfT N THE MXC L 7. CONTRACTOR TO COMPLY WITH ALL. SM AQ LOCAL CODE REMAR ALCM B. WHERE THERE 5 A DISCREPANCY EITHER AI OIAERTFE.4. PLANT NAMEL SM OR SPECTICKOON5 $EM3DW ALE PLAN OR PLANT I.W. THE RAN UXES PRECEDQ4E. 9. FERTILIZER USED FOR PLA TM RK*XL ADNOCRIRE SHALL BE (21) DRAM AOIPORM PVMTM TNXM USED AT A RATE RECOMMENE7 8! THE KVWACRNFR. NQLIDE TUFA-SOTN W -:R AesDRsm POLTIIER M amwLL FOLLOW wArACrWOrS REOOMMFNOAIR)F5 FDR AMOLNT_ 10. THE SLX=SSFUL 9CM VALL FL Vaf TO THE FOOT A UNIT P (AEAKOONI FOR ALL WER14LS_ THE FOOT WY, AT LYS OIS<WMN. INT ADO To OR DELETE FROM SHE MATERKS UT9am THE LINK Pom BREAKDOWN RIBWTTe. Tl. NO PANTS WILL $E ACCEPTED VCWM EVIDENCE OF CABLE: CHAIN MAtl0. eawwI IIT ;HAIRS. OR ODERWSE DAMAGED, 12, PLANT MATM& WILL AAT BE ACCEPTED WHEN THE BALL OF EARTH SUWK WOAWO T'S ROOTS TMS BEER CRACXM BROMM OR OTHISWISE DWCM 13. RODT-PRUNE ALL SA wavA1 OF (6) REEDS PTMDR TO PLAMRIIG 14. NCTE 512E OF PLANRNC PUS ON SSP a TREES AND PALM PLANTING DUM- M CONTRACTOR 5 RESPO SEI E FOR HROPULLINO OF 1IEEG5 AND OTHQt INVASIVE LNOEMOBIE VD,T<TAHOL WITHIN PLANTING ARM ONCE PER TIM. tWM FILIAL ACCEPT GE. id. MAOaMANCE SHALL BEGIN IMMEDIATELY AFTER EACH PLANT TS PLANTED AND CCPITME t*M TAW_ ACCEFTA'ICE D65 MNME7YWCE BALL INCLUDE WATEWR• PRUMNO, WEEDING MULCHNF AE-SEnm OF TARS. UTTEIR RDAVAL. LEPLACEI va OF 'SIM 09 DEAD PLANT, AND ALL OTHER CARE 1RXQUtRp F09 PROPER G;K WT.I 17. ALL ow WILL BE PERFORMED M ACMR DANCE TAM TME FOOT VANDAM BOE CMUTRLACTIOW DATED 1496 AND STPPIENEIMS SPECWICITIO15 FOR ADAC ANDIO MAY AH TNEHEM AND THE-ROAOO TRAFFIC OEPM STA90AR05' DATED 1998. AL LANDSCAPING TO BE N COMPLIANCE WM F.D0T. INDEX 516 LINO 700. J&ALL WASTE 091EC1?O AHIE MATEIM. NO E7Rk55 FLL SHAT -1 BE ROAOYED AND OrSK SED OF. OI A DAILY BASKS. AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO THE PDG[ 19. CONTRACTOR SHILL STALE ALL TREES ANO MALARS AS PER THE APPROPRIATE OETAL. COHTWICRAR 5 R>=9aNSOLE FOR THE MAINTE.NATICE ANO/OR HEPAR OF ALL S'TAIVIC - D1M4 THE WARRNRTT PERIOD. M•ale=fON� MIAMM -am >_-�. t:9mommHHH�Tx_.w- B r• FAFNDN- PRU �. R .� 251627-1-52-Oi 87200-3548 aei NORTHWEST 14TH TERRACE to I 1 Q - LOT 2 LOT 1 o LOT 7 T 6 a RETAIN EX. TREES HIC p •sr M LOT - �`" .w LOT 3 174 E3 Lo K 1 = LOT 11 LOT 12 0 3 0 Z 0 m GATE f LOT 8 T" LOT 10 LOT 13 � i z m GATE LOT 14 I 192 H .2 ,r GATE EFA „z" comewE soap" UEG 460 a aae� i cvnr 204 RA NORTHWEST 14TH STREET 5 WEUNE 4F SURVEY (�,� vloww oe�aTUMT of PLANTING PLAN f rnw t+trnl o s AFRICAN HERrrAGE MSPLAY FACILITY 9 CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA INTER -OFFICE MEMORANDUM TO: The Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Commission FROM : �as.�Gimc�i� iii City Manager 40 CA -12 DATE : January 15, 2001 FILE: SUBJECT: Resolution to Authorize LAP Agreement Florida Department of Transportation REFERENCES; For Commission Meeting of February 14, 2002 ENCLOSURES: Resolution, Agreement RECOMMENDATION It is respectfully recommended that the City Commission adopt the attached Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute the attached Local Agency Program (LAP) Agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation and for the City Manager to accept a grant in an amount not to exceed $250,000.00 for Overtown Aesthetic Improvements, consisting of $23,200.00 in design and construction document preparation fees, $5,800.00 in budget estimate for construction administration, and the balance as the maximum allowance for direct reimbursable expenses related to the construction of the project, which includes but not limited to Landscaping, Signage, Irrigation and Special Art Features under the expressway. BACKGROUND The Department of Planning and Zoning, with assistance from the City of Miami Public Works Department has prepared the attached legislation and agreement pertaining to the Overtown Aesthetic Improvement project. DESCRIPTION OF EXISTING FACILITY: Currently, the area underneath the I-395 facility is visually unpleasant and evokes a feeling of apprehension to anyone in the vicinity. Due to the east -west configuration of the freeway and its single span structure, Iittle sunlight is able to penetrate it. This makes it very dark throughout the entire day underneath 1-395 and uninhabitable for plant life. There is little or no landscaping along the corridor and many areas are in need of maintenance. Garbage litters most of the corridor and panhandlers, homeless people, drug dealers use the space beneath the overpass as a haven. Pedestrian pathways along this corridor are generally unlit and are a safety concern after hours. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK: Five areas have been chosen as the best candidates for short-term landscaping efforts within the Overtown area. These locations were determined based on a studies conducted by the Florida International University on Mitigating Transportation Impacts in Overtown, a Feasibility Analysis of the Proposed Overtown Improvements prepared for Florida Department of Transportation by the consulting firm of Dames & Moore, current & future pedestrian/bicycle use, gateway image, current beautification efforts, locations of business, and proximity to schools, parks, and recreational areas. 02- 146 �r • The firm of Wallace Roberts & Todd, LLC is recommended to provide design services and project management for this project. Wallace Roberts & Todd, LLC (WRT), a non -minority owned firm located in Coral Gables, Florida, has been in business for several years as a design professional and has designed major landscape and streetscape projects throughout the world. This firm as left a previous mark on the Qvertown community, and it is through them design expertise we can continue to improve urban quality of life near transit systems. The desire for more sustainable development patterns is urging many communities - suburban and urban alike - to encourage new forms of public transit. Many communities are using transportation infrastructure as a catalyst for economic development. VWRT's background in urban redevelopment adds important value to transit planning projects by stimulating opportunities and creating synergies between transit and surrounding uses. architect for San Jose's Light Rail 'transit system. pedestrian mall Is a redevelopment project that provides better access to and a lively context for the Metrorail station. They have been pre -qualified to provide services to the City of Miami per Resolution 99-708, as amended on June 14, 2001, for Pre -selected Engineering, Land Survey and Architectural/Landscape Architectural Services. 02- 146